Automation Fair is a can't miss conference for leading automation, controls, operations and IT professionals.  This year's event will be held in Houston on the 13^thand 14^thof this month at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

As in previous years, this year's Automation Fair will again feature industry forums that present examples and concepts different industrial companies such oil and gas producers and manufacturers have used to increase their productivity and improve the efficiency of their business. As part of our strong strategic relationship with Rockwell Automation, Cisco will once again have a significant presence at this event.

With all there is to see and do at this conference, we suggest a few items that should be on your 'must see' list:

• Stop by and check out the Cisco booth (#1321) featuringdemonstrations such as:  how Cisco Connected Factory enables secure visibility and fast response.  Meanwhile, a simulated integrated control and remote response operations room will also be showcased as well as industrial security solutions. Other demos include location-based services, control room mobility and remote expert solutions.
• Come by the Industrial IP Advantage booth (#1223) where you can see first-hand the benefits that Internet Protocol can bring to Industrial applications and systems.  This online community is a great resource for keeping you up to date with the latest trends, developments, implementation advice and opinions on the use of IP in industrial applications.
• Attend industry forums, executive events and speaking sessions including several featuring subject matter experts from Cisco.

We'll also be providing live updates from Automation Fair via our social media channels, so be sure to follow us on Twitter, "Like" us onFacebook, check out our videos onYouTubeand join ourLinkedIngroup.

Next week, we'll post more details on what Cisco will be showing at Automation Fair as well as some first-person impressions on sessions and forums. And on site at the show, we will be posting videos from the action on the show floor so be sure to come back and check on our Manufacturing blog.  See you in Houston! And thanks for your reading.