In the last few publications we looked at the newly envisaged mechatronics qualification. We looked at the different groups within mechatronics as was recommended to ECSA, namely: factory automation, process automation and mechatronic devices. We also looked at the various industries where you would find these practitioners.
Johan Maartens.
The next question to consider is: “Which technologies would mechanical professionals work with?” Here is a list of some possibilities: computation systems; data logging and recording; databases; DCS; HMI; industrial computer hardware; microcontrollers; PLCs; OPC UA; scada; single board computers (Raspberry Pi, etc.); traditional PC-based automation; and integrated devices (mobile phones, tablets, etc.).
Together with these hardware technologies, mechatronic professionals would typically be involved in some of the following software platforms: embedded Linux and Windows; historians; modern automation coding languages (C, C#, Python, SCL); laboratory information management systems; and production information management systems.
You will also find them working with the following network technologies: CAN-Bus; fibre; EtherCAT; Foundation Fieldbus; Industrial Ethernet; Industrial Wireless; Modbus; Profibus; and Profinet.
Process control technologies they could be involved with include: alarm management; anti-surge control; control room design and layout; enclosures, cabling and accessories; process measurement (temperature, pressure, level, flow and mass); safety systems and vibration monitoring.
They could also be involved in any one or more of the following: digital enterprise and information technologies: artificial intelligence; augmented reality; cloud storage and services, edge computing and industrial 5G; digital twins; virtual commissioning; and embedded control technologies.
In the next article of this series I will talk about the various outcomes that applicants would need to provide evidence of, and then in the last article I will expand on ECSA. Is it worth being a member? We have not yet had any tangible benefit from being registered with ECSA, so what has changed – if anything?
SAIMC: From the office of the COO SAIMC
SAIMC
The recognition of mechatronics and computer engineering has created both an opportunity and a responsibility. Recognition means little without participation, professional registration without professional conduct, and technical knowledge without the mentorship, implementation and measurable value that industry needs.
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SAIMC
Hendrik Spies of SICK Automation Southern Africa presented at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening on 12 August 2026, covering the digital journey from condition monitoring to predictive maintenance.
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SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban branch hosted S’yabonga Langa, systems performance engineer at eThekwini Electricity, who presented on applying substation automation to improve operational efficiency and service quality in modern power distribution networks.
Read more...SAIMC: Eastern Cape branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Eastern Cape Branch co-hosted a satellite viewing site for ICRA 2026 at Nelson Mandela University, giving postgraduate students, academics and local industry professionals access to premier international robotics and automation keynote sessions.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg Technology Evening SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Johannesburg Branch July Technology Evening, hosted by WIKA Instruments, covered key level measurement technologies and featured live product demonstrations from area sales manager Anthony Terblanche.
Read more...International robotics conference streams live to Africa
SAIMC
The SAIMC hosted five live-stream viewing events across South Africa for the IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation in Vienna, bringing global robotics research and technology directly to local industry and academia.
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