Welcome to the debut episode of VFD Vibes! In this episode, we’ll dive into a topic that has been revolutionizing manufacturing: connecting Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to a network. We'll be joined by Ed Tom, Yaskawa’s product manager for Communication Protocols, to break down the benefits, requirements, and insider tips for making it happen. Think network connectivity sounds complicated? Think again. We’ll show you how it can simplify wiring, cut costs, and unlock powerful real-time data monitoring capabilities. Plus, we’ll explore pre-engineered tools that make connecting to a control system easier than ever. Ready to take your manufacturing process to the next level? Tune in and discover how networking your drives can transform the way you work.   01:52 Traditional vs. Networked VFD Connections 03:28 Benefits of Network Connectivity 05:32 Data Collection and Monitoring 11:02 Predictive Maintenance and Future Insights 17:38 Best Practices for Network Setup 29:10 Network Security Considerations   Have a topic you want us to cover? Email marcom@yaskawa.com and let us know!