Abstract: A system and method are provided for recognizing peripheral devices coupled to a welding power source and changing operational settings of the welding power source based the recognized peripheral. Systems and methods allow for remote recognition of the type and capabilities of a peripheral device using handshake communication signals.

Abstract: A system and method for wireless communication with and among nodes of a welding cell are provided. The system includes a communications device adapted for wireless communication with a welding node provided with a wireless communications interface. The system further includes welding nodes of one welding cell communicating wirelessly with welding nodes of the same welding cell, welding nodes of another welding cell, a customer specific LAN and global factory controls. The invention further comprises methodologies for facilitating wireless communication with and among nodes of a welding cell.

Abstract: A MIG welder and method of controlling a MIG welder which includes a wire speed selector that is used to generate a control signal which controls both the wire feed speed of a consumable electrode and the output current level of the power supply.

Abstract: A wire feeder including a motor driving a set of feed rolls to force a welding wire from a spool through a welding torch to a welding operation. The wire feeder has an input lead to be connected to the output terminal of a remotely located power source having an on condition and an off condition where a welding current is directed to the output terminal only when the source is in the on condition. A weld starting trigger with a weld start position located adjacent the torch closes a switch when the trigger is shifted to the weld position, a circuit senses when the switch is closed, and a transmitter on the wire feeder transmits a start signal to the power source when the trigger switch is closed whereby the power source is shifted to its on condition when the trigger is in the weld position.

Abstract: A system and method for wireless communication with and among nodes of a welding cell are provided. The system includes a communications device adapted for wireless communication with a welding node provided with a wireless communications interface. The system further includes welding nodes of one welding cell communicating wirelessly with welding nodes of the same welding cell, welding nodes of another welding cell, a customer specific LAN and global factory controls. The invention further comprises methodologies for facilitating wireless communication with and among nodes of a welding cell.