[.ca] Automation Unplugged: Pinto's Perspectives, Pointers, & ... (ISBN 1556178646)

Automation Philosopher:
Jim's collection of essays, many updated for this book, will cause you to stop and think about the state of the automation industry, as well as manufacturing in general, today. He is not afraid to take a stand, and in fact, delights in stirring up readers and getting intelligent feedback. Although many people seem to think that his views are limited to attacks on the Yurko-era of Invensys and predictions of Rockwell's sale, very little of the book concerns those topics. This series of articles touches on technologies and business topics with a wit designed to cut through the clutter of your mind and get you to think. I wish more people were thinking deeply about the business impact of automation these days. Read this book not as a text book of what was, but as a starting point for your own reflections about the state of manufacturing. Pinto will get your "juices flowing." You may find that you care more about the state of manufacturing than you thought.

Automation Intelligence for the rest of us.:
For those of us outside the close knit world of automation, Jim Pinto is at his futuristic best in his poetry and political commentary. He rebels against the trend toward group think and bland commentary. He offers a prismatic view of the industry of automation which is neither too focused nor too general nor, we come to understand, viewed from every angle captured by Mr. Pinto. He has more facets of his intellect to share (perhaps political commentary will make up all or a larger portion of his next book?). Mr. Pinto writes unselfconsciously and without apparent concern for the backlash that might face anyone less well regarded in the industry. In twenty years, Mr. Pinto built Action Instruments from nothing to industry greatness. That is to say, it was a great company until he sold it five years ago. His entrepreneurial success, financial independence, and intellectual prowess are readily evident in his seemingly unguarded and thought provoking views. I found it refreshing to read intellectual commentary from a man with a sense of humor. Wade Lovell President & CEO Ski Tote LLC

Automation Changes Explained:
The articles and contributors to this book represent the story of an industry undergoing significant change and should be read by anyone interested in the impact technology has on them, without their awareness, while also showing how this industry is part of the global investment and economy. Pinto's observations and commentary on the industrial automation world as it enters the 21st century in a state of transition and some say turmoil also provides insight into other industries as well. If you are entering into, departing from, or interested in today's networked world as an engineer, sales person, or investor this book provides a glimpse of how it all relates in a very readable way.