The International Society of Automation (ISA), a leading professional organization in the field of automation, has announced the release of the fourth edition of A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge.
The newly updated Fourth Edition of A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge is the only officially authorized book covering ISA’s body of knowledge core competencies. This revised guide provides an overview of important automation concepts and processes, while also describing the technical skills required to implement them in today’s industrial environment. The book enables readers to effectively study for the ISA Certified Automation Professional® (CAP®), ISA Certified Control Systems Technician, and/or Professional Engineer (PE) Control Systems Engineer (CSE) exams.
Edited and written by nearly 30 leading experts from all aspects of automation, A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Fourth Edition includes information on:
- Process and analytical instrumentation, discrete control, continuous and batch control, control valves and final control elements
- Basic discrete, sequencing and manufacturing control, advanced control, process modeling and digital twins, digital and analog communications and data management and system software
- Networking and cybersecurity, safety and reliability, system checkout, testing, start-up, troubleshooting and project management
- Manufacturing operations management, automation justification and performance analysis, motors and drives, electrical systems, asset management and maintenance, motion control and vision systems and control systems including PLCs, DCSs and SCADA
“What makes this guide so valuable is its focus on the fundamentals — the core concepts and skills that every automation professional needs to master, regardless of how quickly technology trends shift. This edition ensures that grounding remains strong, giving professionals a lasting foundation they can build on throughout their careers.”
– Rick Zabel, managing director of ISA publications
A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge is widely known as an indispensable text for automation engineers, managers, technicians, control systems integrators, students and educators. The Fourth Edition is now available for purchase through ISA’s publishing partner, Wiley, as an e-book and print version.
In addition to A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, Fourth Edition, ISA’s roster of new book titles published through Wiley in 2026 includes:
- Successful Instrumentation and Control Systems Design, Third Edition by Michael D. Whitt
- Loop Checking: A Technician’s Guide, Second Edition by Harley M. Jeffery and Paul M. Franklin
- Calibration: A Technician’s Guide, Second Edition by Michael P. Cable and Alan W. Bryant
- Data-to-Information Handbook: Building Effective Display Systems for Refining Processes by Ike Brackin, Mark J. Nixon and Dave Strobhar
The International Society of Automation (ISA) is a non-profit professional organization established in 1945 with the goal of advancing automation and contributing to a better world through innovative technologies. Its mission is to support and strengthen the global automation community by promoting industry standards, professional knowledge, and collaboration. ISA develops internationally recognized standards and conformity assessment programs, offers professional certifications, and delivers education and training opportunities. It also publishes technical books and articles, organizes conferences and exhibitions, and provides valuable networking and career development opportunities to members and professionals worldwide.
