30/6/2005

Direct-drive, high precision rotary stages gets bigger and better as smaller model is introduced - With the introduction of a new smaller sized model, the Aerotech ADRT range of high-accuracy, direct drive rotary tables now offer even more flexibility and choice for high-speed/high-precision angular positioning applications. The new compact but powerful ADRT-100 is built around Aerotech's S-series, brushless, cog-free, direct drive servomotors with high-resolution feedback providing 2000 rpm speed performance with high acceleration and extremely precise positioning characteristics, seriously outperforming conventional worm-wheel based rotary stages. Aimed at demanding high-throughput applications, such as laser machining and wafer inspection, the new ADRT-100 series has a footprint of just 96 mm x 120 mm with a 50 mm diameter rotating platen and a 13 mm aperture for services or product feed-through.

Direct insertion of models into CAD helps equipment OEMs save time and cost - Parker Instrumentation has added 3D models of its manifold, valve and tube fitting product lines to its website - supporting the rapid growth in usage of 3D CAD. Available as direct inserts into a wide range of market-leading CAD systems including AutoCAD, Catia, Inventor, Mechanical Desktop, Pro/ENGINEER, TopSolid, TurboCAD, Solid Edge and SolidWorks, the models can be downloaded via The website.

New software release enables users to easily predict future performance of process and mechanical equipment - Emerson Process Management has released version 4.0 of AMS Suite: Equipment Performance Monitor that enables users to predict future performance of mechanical and process equipment. The new release adds unique Predictive Analyst capability that supports predictive and proactive maintenance strategies, leading to increased plant availability and performance, and reduced maintenance costs. The new release expands the predictive technology that powers Emerson's PlantWeb digital plant architecture. This new Predictive Analyst capability, analyses current performance of equipment as compared with original design, and then predicts how equipment will be operating in future months. The tool determines when degraded performance will occur, enabling users to plan maintenance activities well in advance.

Silent switching - There are a growing number of applications where an audible "click" when a switch is operated is undesirable as an indication of successful operation. In response to these requirements knitter-switch have launched the TR and LTR families of miniature toggle switches where operator feedback is provided by longer actuator travel, tactile "feel" and optional LED indication.

Virtual system administration and performance monitoring - Verano has announced its Reliability Assurance Services, three new support services designed to ensure the reliability and availability of its Real-Time Application Platform (RTAP). Verano's new suite of services comprises Performance Monitoring, System Administration and Technical Product Support. These services provide power generation, utilities, energy, transportation and process manufacturing users with an integrated and comprehensive support system for monitoring and maintaining the efficient operation of revenue generating assets.

Low-cost digital servo drives - Baldor has extended its MicroFlex family of low-cost digital servo drives with the launch of a new model for use with brushless rotary AC servomotors utilising resolver feedback. The drive provides users with a cost-effective means of increasing the speed and smoothness of existing automation through the application of advanced digital control technology, without having to replace the servomotor. It is also likely to prove popular with OEMs and machine builders designing servo-based systems for use in challenging environments, since resolvers are generally considered more mechanically and electrically robust than encoders, especially at elevated temperatures.

A new user - Powerstax PLC have become the latest British customer to buy an Intepro 9000 power supply ATE system from Schaffner. The new ATE system was commissioned to support the growing range of products being produced by Powerstax and the wide range of parameters now required to be tested. The speed, flexibility and ease-of-use of the new ATE makes it an essential part of Powerstax’s integrated manufacturing & test process by providing design characterisation, production test, safety test, and environmental test screening.
The market leading Intepro 9000 system provides fast and effective testing for power supplies and converters and is a modular system for ease of configuration and expansion. Comprehensive test routines and reports are simple to implement using Schaffner’s PowerStar5 software. Custom fixtures, jigs and handling systems may be provided and after sales service is available from a worldwide support network.

Predicted attendance figures to increase substantially at Autumn show - "We have doubled the attendee registrations this year compared to where we were last year at this time," said Dale Lee, Director, Convention, Education and Certification Services of ISA, the Instrumnent systems and automation society.
ISA EXPO is touted as North America's number one educational event for automation and control professionals. The annual event scheduled for 25-27 October at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center in Chicago, Illinois, offers an abundance of educational sessions, most at no charge to the attendee. ISA EXPO features sessions on the latest in standards development, cyber security, wireless systems, networking and much more. With practitioners from over 70 countries, you'll also find the largest and most comprehensive products and services exhibition.

New conversion topology to dramatically increase performance - Artesyn Technologies has launched a new series of ultra high efficiency Typhoon quarter-brick intermediate bus converters (IBCs) that generate up to 50% more useable power than previous generation models. The series includes the IBC38AQT unregulated, fixed ratio DC transformer for computing, and two semi-regulated models with input voltage ranges optimised for telecom (IBC28AQW) and networking (IBC30AQS) applications. All three IBCs employ a new, leading edge conversion topology to maximise efficiency and power density. The unregulated IBC38AQT, for example, can deliver up to 450W of output power - 150W more than its one-quarter brick predecessor - with an efficiency of over 95%, and has a power density in excess of 20W/cm3.
Artesyn Technologies has also published a new edition of its popular 'Quick-select Guide to Power Conversion Products'.

New pressure transmitter for high-end applications - Kistler's new modular K-line pressure transmitter satisfies the needs of chemical and process technology for a pressure sensor that offers high resistance to chemical corrosion. Through the application of its expertise with special materials and processes, Kistler has developed a pressure sensor with a gold plated diaphragm to meet these special requirements. The gold plating resists attack by process media with high concentrations of corrosive gases, including hydrogen, hydrogen sulphide, ethylene and chloride.

Optical torque transducer for high speed use - StrainSense offers the NMB Flange Type torque transducer that can operate up to 15,000rpm. This transducer combines a calibrated torque-measuring flange with an optical transmission method for interference-free measurements. The NMB flange type torque transducer uses a unique digital signal transmission system based on an optical transmission method and sensing element.

Enabling companies to monitor, control and manage remote machines via the Internet - Comtech Holdings , the Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Solution Enabler, has announced the release of the microWEAVE M2M telemetry system. microWEAVE is an "out of the box" M2M telemetry solution enabling companies to monitor, control and manage their network of remote equipment via the Internet. Consider any type of equipment deployed at remote locations where onsite management or network access is not feasible. microWEAVE enables companies to centrally manage these in order to remove dependencies on the end customer for network access and third parties for manual data collection.

Industrial interfacing with power and signal connections - Han-Port from Harting is a new interface device that allows users to connect external devices such as laptops or PCs for set-up, programming and error diagnosis of complete industrial installations directly to the front panel of a control cabinet without opening the cabinet door. The unit is based on a modular design which allows it to be used with a selection of different inserts for power and signal connections.

Pust published - THe IEC advises the latest publication on Control technology - Rules for the designation of measuring instruments is now available. The reference numbers and price is IEC/PAS 62419 Ed. 1.0 (2005-06) Price CHF 49.00

Power-management ICs for low-power SMPS applications - The new STR-A61xx Series of power-management ICs from Allegro MicroSystems Europe are PRC (pulse ratio control) topology devices designed for use in relatively low output power switch-mode power-supply designs with output power up to 20 W at universal input or 24 W at 230 V AC input.

Ultra-miniaturised sensors for tensile and compression forces - The new Kistler Type 9215 piezoelectric force sensor for tensile and compression forces ranging down to a few millinewtons is exceptionally compact. With a front, external diameter of only 5 mm, the Type 9215 is the smallest sensor in its class, complementing the 10 mm external diameter Type 9203 force sensors.

New modules for multi-channel electronic loads - TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has extended the range of modules available for the Dynaload MCL488 10-channel DC electronic load.

Saga of Open Standards - In an interview with Contemporary Controls, Dick Caro tells his story of leading the charge for adopting Ethernet as a fieldbus. He describes the presentation of his landmark paper on Industrial Ethernet in 1998, and the battles and victories that ensued. You can find out more about his interesting career in the automation business, and cutting-edge, computer-control applications dating before the modern digital era.
More in our Fieldbus News Page

"The ultimate high resolution, fast acquisition spectrometer!" - Horiba Jobin Yvon has introduced the new FHR spectrometers series: FHR spectrometers offer a unique combination of high speed, precision, and high resolution, making them the ideal long focal length spectrometers for performing fast acquisitions with quality results.

Designing unique dynamometer - National Instruments has announced that engineers at Computer Controlled Solutions (CCS) used the NI LabVIEW graphical development environment along with NI data acquisition and motion control products to build a dynamometer designed specifically for testing calipers and brakes on Formula 1 high-speed racing cars. With a flexible, virtual instrumentation approach based on National Instruments LabVIEW, CCS engineers designed a testing system that meets unique size and performance requirements and provides more accurate data to help drive decisions for optimal brake design.

Free webcast - Viruses, worms, hacking and other forms of attack on electronic assets continue to escalate annually. With the growth in connectivity between plant control systems and other computers, control systems are no longer immune to cyber attack. Restrictions found in the control environment on patching, loading virus definitions and other protection techniques exacerbate the problem.
On June 28 at the 3rd Annual Processing Technology Expo 2005, online conference and exhibition, the emphasis will be on pharmaceutical processing. Nancy Syverson, managing editor of IMPO magazine, will moderate. From 10:30 to 11:30 AM ET, Al Cooley, director of security marketing at Verano, will present the keynote address, "Industrial Network Security Vulnerabilities and Solutions," discussing common cyber vulnerabilities found in control system environments and exploring the technologies that are available to mitigate these vulnerabilities.
Anyone is invited to attend this free Webcast. You'll have a chance to ask questions at the end of Al's presentation, during a 10 min. Q&A session.

Thermal imaging temperature sensors range extended - Irisys, has announced the release of five new thermal imaging temperature sensors to expand the range of applications available to its well-established and European award-winning IRI 1011 sensor. The family offers premium hardware and software functionality at a fraction of the cost of competitors' products. Based on Irisys' highly successful 16 x 16 pixel array, the sensors are designed to be used in a wide variety of markets and applications.
The family comprises five new temperature sensors with differing temperature ranges, accuracy and measurement angles. The new products being released are;
The IRI 1021 provides certified measurement accuracy over the temperature measurement range of 30oC to 300oC (measured at an ambient of 23oC) of +/-2oC or +/-2%, whichever is the greater. The IRI 1021 is targeted at customers requiring a calibration certificate to meet operational needs, for example to adhere to ISO9000 requirements.
The IRI 1031 measures a higher temperature scale of 100oC to 1000oC (measured at an ambient of 23oC) with an accuracy of ±30oC. This unit is provided with a calibration certificate, and opens up opportunities for applications where high temperature measurement is required in industries such as, Cement, Petrochemicals, Glass, Iron and Steel etc.
The IRI 1041, IRI 1051 and IRI 1061 are respectively identical to the IRI 1011, IRI 1021 and IRI 1031, except for a narrow angle 10º FOV lens in place of the 20o FOV lens. The narrower field of view allows the unit to be placed twice the distance from the object-under-test whilst measuring the same area, or to be placed the same distance from the object-under-test giving double the resolution.

Course helps developers leverage the power of EDDL technology - The Fieldbus Foundation today announced that it is offering a comprehensive workshop helping FF device and system developers leverage new Electronic Device Description Language (EDDL) extensions. The course shows how EDDL delivers the power to integrate field devices to achieve optimum control strategies, and ensures consistency and ease of use when developing human interfaces across multiple systems and platforms.

"A lifetime fluorescence protein analyser!" - Horiba Jobin Yvon, leader in fluorescence spectroscopy, now offers the Protein 280 ex, a lifetime spectrofluorometer that can measure three fluorescence lifetimes in just a few minutes. Ideal for those biologists and biochemists who need to test multiple protein samples fast, this unit uses Time-Correlated Single-Photon Counting, a time-resolved fluorescence technique, to record accurate, reproducible lifetime data. Analytical software then calculates lifetimes based on least-squares fitting algorithms. The system uses the modular Fluorocube, with a pulsed 280 nm UV NanoLED source. NanoLEDs are miniature turn-key light-sources that generate short optical pulses from greater than 100 ps to 1 ns. The 280 nm LED matches the absorption maxima of the naturally fluorescent amino acids tryptophan and tyrosine. Thus, it is well-suited for examining biomarkers and studying the dynamics of protein folding. Tryptophan fluorescence is widely used as a probe of protein structure and dynamics.

New line of flexible OEM lasers - Universal Laser Systems is introducing a new line of CO2 lasers for the OEM market. Unveiled to an international audience at Laser 2005 in Munich, the new lasers are optimized for easy and convenient integration into all types of OEM system configurations.

New intelligent data acquisition devices - National Instruments has announced the release of seven new R Series devices and five CompactRIO modules for embedded digital signal processing and high-speed control. Engineers and scientists can use these intelligent devices to create their own data acquisition and control circuitry through National Instruments LabVIEW graphical development tools.

High current POL converter modules provide ready-to-use power solution for denslely populated populated boards - Artesyn Technologies has launched two new high current point-of-load converter modules that provide highly cost-effective, ready-to-use power solutions for densely populated boards. Occupying a board area of just 13.8cm2, the new PTHxx040W series converters employ an advanced topology to maximise conversion efficiency and current density - and minimise external component count - making it easy for designers to place high-current, low-voltage sources next to the silicon devices they are powering. It has an output current rating of 50A, while the PTH04040W has an even higher 60A rating. Both converters offer a comprehensive set of features, including wide output voltage adjustment and Auto-Track(tm) power sequencing, enabling a broad diversity of applications to be satisfied with just the two models.
More information about Artesyn's POLA products

Mini IR 'pistol-grip' thermometer ideal for plant maintenance and HVAC work - Fluke has introduced a new, entry-level, non-contact infrared thermometer. Designed for quick and reliable surface temperature readings, this compact model complements Fluke's low cost series of pistol grip thermometers for electrical and HVAC/R technicians, and plant and facility maintenance personnel. The new, rugged Fluke 62 Mini non-contact IR thermometer measures temperatures from -30degC to +500degC with single trigger activation. Featuring a single-dot laser sighting system for accurate aiming, it is ideal for quick and reliable surface temperature readings of heating systems and rotating, electrically live, dangerously hot, or hard-to-reach objects at distances up to 1.5m. It offers a dual backlit LCD display with simultaneous readings of the current and maximum temperatures.

One stop solution for complience with new EU Food Law (Regulation EU 178/2002) - Data capture specialist Waveform Solutions and Hand Held Products, supplier of image-based data collection systems, have developed a solution that ensures compliance with new EU Track and Traceability Legislation. The two companies have developed a three stage solution for customers. This a range of mobile and RF (Radio Frequency) solutions that provide full traceability of goods - from arrival through to processing and despatch. These solutions also improve stock accuracy, increase pick rates and reduce errors, and can be fully integrated with an ERP/back office system.

Updated website for popular show - The new and updated Mtec 2006 show website is now online at www.mtecexhibition.co.uk and features a host of information on the event for both visitors and exhibitors alike. The newly updated website includes a floorplan, an up to date list of exhibitors, an overview of what industry areas will be featured at the exhibition, information on exhibiting at and visiting the event plus links to the websites of all the other co-located exhibitions also taking place at the NEC on 15th & 16th February 2006.

Vision body to work more closely with academic research institutions - The UK Industrial Vision Association (UKIVA) is aiming to set up closer links with academic research institutions by making its research membership category free of charge. Research membership is open to any organisation involved in research or training in the area of industrial vision, but if they have commercial activities as well, they would only be accepted as full members.

Major desalination plant produces high quality water for Chinese freight harbour - ProMinent Fluid Controls has installed a water treatment plant featuring reverse osmosis and ozone dosing to treat in excess of 1000 m3 seawater each day at China's Dalian freight harbour. The water is used for drinking, washing, and to ensure that 200,000 tonnes of iron ore for China's steel industry can be unloaded dust-free each day. The water needs to be of drinking water quality both for human consumption and to avoid introduction of any contaminants into the iron ore. The installed plant allows the harbour to run completely independently of the public drinking water network and produces drinking water which exceeds the World Health Organisation standards.

Safety first in HDT/VICAT testing - Testing of plastic material for HDT (Heat Distortion Temperature) and VICAT (a measure of the temperature at which plastic starts to soften rapidly) measurements can now be carried out more safely in the Davenport HDT/VICATPlus instrument from Lloyd Instruments. The tests are carried in a temperature-controlled oil bath, which can rise to a temperature of 300degC. Safety features in the instrument ensure that the operator cannot be exposed to hot oil.

'Supplier of the Year' award for 2004 - MTL Instruments has announced that it has been awarded the coveted "Supplier of the Year" award by Honeywell Process Systems for 2004. Honeywell presented the award in recognition of outstanding performance in delivery, productivity, quality and service. Honeywell integrate MTL Intrinsic Safety interfaces, distributed I/O and Foundation Fieldbus products into their large process control systems such as Plantscape, TPS/TDC3000 and the latest Series C platform. Honeywell has very stringent performance parameters for supplier measurement including quality of product, quality of service, delivery standards and contribution to productivity.

Very compact transducer for high AC and DC currents - LEM has introduced a family of current transducers that combines Hall effect technology and a signal conditioner in a compact case to offer dramatic savings in size (up to 75% compared to other current transducers) for measuring nominal currents up to 1000A true RMS. These new transducers measure only 90 x 70 x 34mm.

Success at Shanghai show - Global flow control specialist FCX believes there are many new opportunities in the Asian market. That's the verdict of the global group following attendance at the first ever Valve World Asia Expo & Conference, held recently in Shangai. "The event was a great success," explained Darren Sheppard, sales director of FCX Thompson Valves. "The exhibition brought a large number of clients from a diverse range of market sectors."

Extreme Ethernet switches withstand temperatures up to 75 degC - Contemporary Controls offers the latest in reliable Ethernet technology with a series of Plug and Play and managed switches designed for extreme environments. "The industrial-grade CTRLink Ethernet switches can withstand heat near a steel mill blast furnace or the frigid cold of an oil rig on the Arctic circle," says Sales Manager Joe Stasiek. "These switches are ideal for conditions in extended temperature ranges. Testing by Contemporary Controls’ engineers confirms the EISX Series of switches and the EISB B-Line Series will operate in temperatures from -40degC to +75 degC."

Data communication company strengthens position in Scandanavia - Westermo, the market leading industrial data communication company, with representatives in over 30 countries, has acquired the majority of the Swedish-Norwegian company Ontime Networks. This Oslo-based company, was established in 2000 and has in that short time developed and marketed a very high quality range of industrial Ethernet products. Ontime Networks has employees both in Norway and in Sweden. Sweden has hosted the development department whilst sales, marketing and administration has been located in Norway. "The acquisition of Ontime is a move of great strategic importance to Westermo. There is a well-established co-operation already between the two Companies. Westermo has been the major distribution channel for Ontime from the early days of the company", says Thomas Andersson the General Manager of the Westermo group.

Lightning current arresters with high follow current limitation - The DEHNbloc Maxi family of lightning current arresters from Dehn are single-pole devices that are ideally suited to use in exposed locations or in harsh industrial environments. These new protection devices are compatible with their existing DEHNguard Red/Line surge arresters, and offer a flexible surge-protection solution independent of cable length and without the need for additional decoupling coils.

Compact bit-error-rate testers for 10-gigabit networks - Yokogawa has introduced two compact, easy-to-use and economical instruments for 10 Gbit/s bit-error-rate testing. The AQ2200-601 is based on the successful AQ2200 modular platform and is suited to both laboratory and manufacturing applications, while the AP9945 is a portable unit which is ideal for field testing.

New connector inserts meet IEC 61984 standard - The new generation Han DD industrial connector inserts from Harting have been specifically designed to meet the new requirements of the IEC 61984/DIN EN 61984 standard, which makes new creepage and clearance distances obligatory from October 2004.

Online shop opened in Britain - TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments), technical distributor for Tektronix products in the UK, has opened an online web store for Tektronix value-line oscilloscopes and their associated options and accessories.

New low-cost manufacturing service for SMEs - Schaffner Ltd. market leader in EMC components and systems are making low-cost manufacturing services available to other OEMs at their own manufacturing facility in Northern Thailand.
Schaffner opened their offshore factory in 1989 to manufacture high volume filter products. With improvements in efficiency and quality spare capacity has become available which Schaffner are able to now share with other manufacturers. "This facility would be ideal for a small or medium sized domestic manufacturer who would like to reduce production costs but doesn’t have the volume to justify their own manufacturing plant or joint venture. They can just buy-in to our existing, proven factory and only have to deal with Schaffner in Europe which simplifies cooperation considerably. " Says Andy Kotas, Schaffner's Marketing Manager.

Quality on the rails...! - One of the most innovative UK consultancies in condition and event monitoring for the rail industry ADT Rail Systems has recently been approved by ISOQAR and awarded the ISO 9001:2000 accreditation.
Through ADT Rail Systems' integrated suite of monitoring products, OnTrack, the company delivers performance data to users on key assets such as power supplies, points operation, level crossings, track circuits and signalling.

New thermal imager for predictive and preventive maintenance - The new Fluke Ti30 Thermal Imager is specifically intended for infrared preventive and predictive maintenance at industrial and large commercial property sites. Infrared thermography is invaluable to any maintenance program because a radiometric, thermal image shows absolute temperatures across a full, two-dimensional picture, making problem identification faster and more effective than with a spot thermometer or other measuring device.

Safety initiative - Artesyn Technologies has announced a new RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) initiative. Through the initiative, the company will substantially reduce the lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, brominated flame retardants, and other hazardous substances used in the manufacture of its telecom products. Artesyn is one of the first OEM suppliers to wholeheartedly embrace RoHS, and is significantly ahead of the directive's introduction in Europe, in July 2006. Artesyn's Communications Products (ACP) division plans to ship its first RoHS-compliant products in August 2005, with the company's Power Conversion division following by the end of the year.

Mass flowmeters enable precise measurement of gases and liquids down to flow rates of grams per hour - Emerson Process Management has expanded the Coriolis range with the new Micro Motion LF-Series, a mass flowmeter family designed for low flow applications. The LF-Series deliver precise mass, volume, temperature, and density measurement for liquids and gases in a flow range extending from 1 g/hr up to 28 kg/hr. With easy installation in small flow lines, and a small footprint (100 x 150mm), the LF-Series is the ideal solution for precise measurement and dosing of catalyst feeds, flavours, fragrances and tints in process applications, and for research or pilot plant scaled processes.

Combustion flue gas analyser expanded to measure oxygen and combustibles - Emerson Process Management has introduced the Rosemount Analytical OCX 8800, an oxygen and combustibles transmitter for analysing flue gases at temperatures up to 1427š C. Accurate measurements of flue gases are essential to optimise combustion fuel-to-air ratios and to ensure safety during the combustion process, in hot water and steam boilers, refinery process heaters and reactor furnaces.

Advancing development of emerging wireless technologies - National Instruments advances the development of emerging wireless communications standards by collaborating with leading software providers to deliver complete RF/communications test and analysis solutions based on modular hardware and software. To test compliance of IEEE 802.15.4 WPAN (ZigBee) and IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) applications, engineers now can use SeaSolve Software Inc. tools that integrate with NI PXI-based RF hardware and the LabVIEW graphical development environment for a flexible and cost-effective solution.

Visual mapping gives peerformance view of entire plant - PlantTriage latest release, from Expertune, includes Visual Performance Mapping. It shows the performance of thousands of assets on one browser screen. With a glance, the Visual Performance Map allows management, engineering, and maintenance to determine how the plant is performing, and where effort is needed for improvement. By drilling down into an asset, engineering and maintenance can view complete diagnosis of problems.

New venue for English show - Trident Exhibitions has announced that Instrumentation North, will be held at the Magna Science Adventure Centre, Rotherham, nr Sheffield on 24th and 25th May 2006 The new venue for ththis show was chosen for its easy access and clear sign posting from the M1 and is within an hour's drive of Leeds, Manchester, Scunthorpe and Nottingham. The Magna Centre is a converted steel works and winner of the RIBA Stirling Prize, the country's Highest Architectural award, which makes it the ideal venue for an industrial event such as Instrumentation North.

Customer specific outputs available - Gresham Power, a power supply manufacturer, has introduced the Telkoor LSE range of high reliability external power adapters. With output power available from 10W to 130W, in either wall mounting or desktop enclosures these power supplies represent the ultimate balance between high quality, price & performance. More than 25 standard models are available with single, dual, triple or quad outputs over the range 5VDC to 28VDC at up to 130W and a number of the higher power units include power factor correction (PFC) as standard. All models have international safety approvals, over voltage, over current and short circuit protection. Typical minimum efficiency is 80% and advanced design ensures low temperature rise, less than 30degC, at the enclosure surface. Optional features include Telecom Specific EMC standards, additional low noise output filtering and input power fail indication.

New, low-cost, pistol-grip IR thermometer - Meterman is offering a new, low-cost, pistol-grip style infra-red thermometer which is ideal for electricians and technicians in a wide range of applications, including plant and facility maintenance and HVAC/R work. Their new, compact IR608 Infra-red Thermometer uses accurate laser targeting for measuring temperatures in a range from ­18degC to +275degC. It is ideal for non-contact measurement of rotating, electrically live, dangerously hot, or hard-to-reach objects.

New series visible light sensor matches eye response - Abacus has introduced visible light sensors that match the response of the human eye more closely than any other device, to simplify circuit design and deliver an improved end user experience. Their TDK BCS series light sensors use amorphous silicon semiconductor thin-film sensor technology, which displays a spectrum sensitivity characteristic almost identical to that of the human eye. The resulting current output closely matches human perception of visibility. The output is also independent of infra red contained in the light source, enabling consistent behaviour under many different conditions including sunlight, incandescent bulbs and fluorescent lighting.

HART to ModBus - Moore Industries' HCS HART Concentrator System converts a HART digital signal to a serial (RS-485) ModBus RTU communication protocol. This permits up to 16 smart HART-capable transmitters and valves to interface directly with ModBus-based monitoring and control systems. The HCS interfaces all HART parameters to ModBus. This includes the ability to monitor primary and non-primary (second, third and fourth) process variables from smart multivariable mass flow, pressure, PH and temperature transmitters; coriolis, magnetic, ultrasonic and vortex flow meters; radar and hydrostatic level transmitters; and valve positioners and damper operators.

High pressure pumps now available In Titanium - Cat Pumps Limited can now offer its high pressure block-style plunger pumps with manifolds made from titanium. Titanium offers excellent chemical resistance and can be used in sea water pumping applications and for pumping sulphurous fluids. It is also light in weight yet its mechanical properties make it ideal for high pressure applications.

Digital counters and timers withstand intensive use - Carlo Gavazzi is introducing a new family of programmable digital counters and timers, ideal for use in industrial applications where users have to frequently change and display pre-determined values. The FMC01-Timer and FKC01-Counter, for flush panel mounting, provide an un-complicated method of measuring from 0.2 sec to 99,999 hours or counting from -99,999 up to 99,999. Both devices measure 48 x 48mm and feature a two line character LCD to simultaneously display the set and current values and with indicators for easy operation and reading.

Versatile strain indicator - The PSD 704 strain indicator from Strainsense combines functions that typically two units are required for. The digital strain indicator can be used as a test indicator for quarter, half and full bridge strain gauge measurements, and strain gauge installations can be checked for resistance, insulation resistance and output. The display can show strain units (me) or mV/V. The indicator is powered by internal batteries or mains supply.

Maintenance management classic reissued - "Written by an industry expert, the book (Maintainability and Maintenance Management, 4th Edition, by Joseph D. Patton, Jr.) speaks to a wide variety of maintenance issues and solutions. It is another example of ISA's commitment to help the market solve difficult problems," noted "Chip" Lee, ISA Director, Publishing Services. This book emphasizes the concepts of preventive, predictive, and reliability-based total maintenance, as well as total quality management and continuous improvement. "Maintainability & Maintenance Management, 4th Edition," a newly revised, comprehensive version of the earlier classic, provides an in-depth look at new technological advances and the cost advantages of investing in maintainability. Topics covered in this edition include maintainability program planning and management; system engineering of reliability, availability, and maintainability; configuration management; and maintainability process.

Low-profile IDC transition connector A low-profile two-row PCB transition connector with an above board height of only 5.4 mm has been added to Harting's SEK range of insulation-displacement connectors.

Interchangeable low-cost, long-range modules for simple, reliable wireless integration - MaxStream unveiled its highly anticipated 802.15.4/ZigBee-ready modules at the Sensors Expo in Chicago. The XBee family of 2.4 GHz ZigBee-ready modules makes it possible for OEMs and integrators to design a wireless network that incorporates interchangeable long-range and low-cost wireless modules.
The ZigBee Alliance is an association of companies working together to enable reliable, cost-effective, low-power, wirelessly networked, monitoring and control products based on an open global standard.

Motion oriented machine controller makes light work of applying decoration to windfow glass - Two novel new machines from partners CADRAM and R&R Sondermaschinen are providing the first automated solutions for applying decoration to window glass, using either lead or bevel-effect 3M Accentrim tape. The machines deliver substantial productivity increases compared with traditional hand-application processes, and offer greater flexibility of patterning thanks to a novel motion control system engineered by Baldor - which includes the option of automatically accepting drawings from computer-aided design (CAD) packages.

Graphical programming for embedded design - Scientists and engineers can now take advantage of the high-level graphical programming paradigm of National Instruments LabVIEW software to save significant time prototyping and deploying embedded applications to 32-bit microprocessors. The new National InstrumentsLabVIEW Embedded Development Module extends LabVIEW to any 32-bit embedded processor, providing scientists and engineers with a graphical approach to algorithm design, simulation, prototyping and deployment of custom designs for embedded systems.

New EMC filters for DIN rail mounting - Schaffner has announced the introduction of the FN 2412 series of DIN Rail mounting EMC Filters. This new family of high performance single-phase filters are will fit industry standard TS 35 DIN rails and offer a simple to use, time saving, cost effective solution to conducted EMC suppression for panel builders and control cabinet manufacturers. The extensive range of current and voltage ranges available mean that even special applications can now be protected with an off the shelf solution.

Free integrator certification program now available - Rockwell Automation has launched the Integrator Certification Program on Controls & Networks. Engineers can check their skill level on the on-line pre-tests on Controls & Networks. This free service is available on Rockwell Automations' global website. The formal assessment process starts with a 4 hour computer based theory test in Controls & Networks. (A minimum of 85% on BOTH pre-tests is recommended, but not required to take the theory test.) Once the theory test is passed, the engineer then undertakes a 4 hour practical project in Controls & Networks. Successful completion of the project will lead to a Rockwell Automation Certification in the Controls & Networks.

Process data on the desktop - For manufacturers who need to analyze process data, OPC Desktop Historian (ODH) is an affordable, easy to install, configure and administer data archiving tool. Unlike enterprise process historians that are designed to manage the needs of the entire corporation, ODH focuses on data collection, not data presentation or processing. It is a lightweight solution for time-based data storage that can stand alone or become part of a total enterprise data historian solution.

New magmeter flow sensor - The Signet 2551 Magmeter from Georg Fischer is an insertion style magnetic flow sensor that features no moving parts. All versions are constructed of corrosion-resistant materials to provide long-term reliability with minimal maintenance costs. Utilizing the comprehensive line of Signet installation fittings, sensor alignment and insertion depth are automatic. The 2551 is a cost-effective solution in conductive liquid applications involving particles, solids, fibers, etc. usually associated with industrial influent or effluent. Due to the lack of moving parts, the Magmeter lowers service and replacement costs dramatically. Installation is eased because the 2551 retrofits into the same sensor fittings used for the popular 515 and 2536 Signet Paddlewheel sensors, mounting the sensor in pipes ranging from DN15 to DN200 (0.5 to 8 in.).

Stepper-motor driver IC with built-in translator - The new A3982 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a bipolar stepper-motor driver integrated circuit featuring built-in translator circuitry that makes it very easy to interface to microprocessor-based control systems in office automation and industrial applications.

New members of data acquisition - National Instruments has announced the NI PCI-6225 and PXI-6225, the newest members of the low-cost M Series data acquisition (DAQ) family that extend available I/O functionality to include 80 16-bit analogue input channels with sampling rates up to 250 kS/s. The new NI 6225 devices provide the most analogue input channels of any NI multifunction DAQ devices and are ideal for applications such as data logging, control and sensor measurements.

Boiler control systems resource - ISA recently announced the release of Boiler Control Systems Engineering by Jerry Gilman. Written for those who work with boilers as utilities managers, power plant managers, control systems engineers, maintenance technicians or operators, this resource focuses on all elements of Boiler Control Systems. The content of Boiler Control Systems Engineering deals primarily with water tube boilers with Induced Draft (ID) and Forced Draft (FD) fan(s) or boilers with only a FD fan. However, the material can apply to any steam generator requiring the firing of fuel.

Flow software available - In a separate release we learn that ISA will offer the latest version of Emerson Process Management's award-winning measurement software, Flowel 4. This is a software application that makes flow element sizing and specification accurate, easy, and fast.
Flowel has provided computer software for flow calculations since 1981, longer than any other PC-based product. Flowel has a long-standing association with ISA.

Compact, all-digital design measures any solid surface at any angle with no beam divergence - ASI Instruments, a leading manufacturer of state-of-the-art instrumentation for level detection and measurement of dry bulk solids, today announced the EasyTrak XP laser transmitter, designed for measuring dry bulk solids, regardless of the presence of surrounding vapor or moderate dust. The device is housed in an explosion-proof assembly with screw-on cover for quick and easy access. The dual-compartment design allows users to isolate the wiring and terminations from the sensing elements and internal electronics. Meeting the requirements for use in hazardous areas (FM and CSA - Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups A,B,C,D), the EasyTrak XP's rugged, powder coated aluminum enclosure is rated for IP67 or NEMA 4X and DIP ratings. This ensures operation even in the harshest of conditions.

New digital servo amplifier brings lower cost to multi axis positioning systems - Aerotech have announced the launch of the NuDrive - a competitively priced, high performance digital servo amplifier with IEE 1394 Firewire interface; designed for use with its A3200 Digital Automation Platform for extremely cost effective multi-axis motion control applications.

Goodbye Mr Chips! - Apple has confirmed that it is dropping IBM chips from its Mac computers in favour of those made by Intel. The first Apple computers with the Intel chips onboard will be on the market by this time next year. "We think Intel's technology will help us create the best personal computers for the next 10 years," Steve Jobs, the head of Apple, said. It ends a decade-long relationship between Apple and IBM, which have recently wrangled over supply problems.
Report from BBC

Gigabit industrial Ethernet switches - The Lynx range of 8-port industrial Ethernet switches from Westermo Data Communications has been enhanced with Gigabit networking capability and received industry standards approval for use in maritime, railway and substation automation applications. They meet the very toughest industrial environmental requirements. High MTBF numbers make them the ideal choice for applications where temperature, vibration and isolation are critical parameters. A military design offers a fuli metal housing, IP40 protection and a wide operating temperature range (-140 to 70 degrees C).

Measuring aromatics in petrol - The amount of aromatics in gasoline is regulated in most of the world. One of the most cost effective, reliable and accurate methods to measure the aromatics is by UV absorbance. This Applied Analytics link shows the absorbance spectra of a number of gasoline samples with different levels of aromatics. The OMA-300 A diode array process spectrophotometer is used for on-line and at-line monitoring of gasoline samples.

More power - Gresham Power Electronics announce the introduction the latest addition to their market leading range of CompactPCI power supplies. Fully compliant to the PICMG 2.11 Power Interface Specification and fitted as standard with a Positronic 47 pin connector the new cPCI power supplies are hot-swap and parallel redundant enabled. Extra-high power density allows up to 40A to be drawn from the +3.3VDC output and 30A from the +5VDC output at 55degC.

New name is another milestone! - Powerstax is the new name announced for the power solutions provider Advanced Power Conversion (GB). Effective from 19th May 2005, the change of name marks another milestone in the Company's development after a period of rapid evolution and growth. "The Powerstax plc name refreshes our branding and strengthens the Company's international identity with a name that is distinctive, memorable and relevant to a high-tech power conversion company" said Chief Executive Officer, Tim Worley. Adding "We received a very positive reaction to the proposed name change from our customers, visitors to Electronica 2004 and from our EMEA and US sales channels. Keeping the same strong colour schemes and product branding has allowed us to demonstrate continuity and make the important point, that only the name has changed".

Chemical dosing skid built for demonstration and training - ProMinent Fluid Controls and George Fischer Sales Ltd have joined forces to produce a mobile chemical dosing skid that can be used by either company for customer demonstrations or technical training. The skid, manufactured by ProMinent features a Sigma precision dosing pump from ProMinent and batch and flow controllers from the Signet range from George Fischer together with standard and air-activated valves.

Advanced device description toolkits leverage EDDL technology extensions - The Fieldbus Foundation (FF) today announced the release of its AT-400 Device Description Tokenizer Toolkit Version 5.0 and the AT-401 Device Description Services Toolkit Version 5.0. These advanced development toolkits enable instrumentation manufacturers to read and generate the Device Description (DD) files necessary for distribution with a Foundation fieldbus device, and take advantage of new Electronic Device Description Language (EDDL) technology extensions in their fieldbus product development projects.
More details on our Fieldbus News page

Top executive appointed - RuleStream Corporation today announced the appointment of Robert Nierman as the company's chief executive officer. Nierman, the former CEO and a founder of Metaphase Technologies, has held top executive positions at SDRC, Engineering Animation Inc (EAI) and UGS. Nierman's appointment accelerates RuleStream's efforts to capitalize on new opportunities that have been created through the emergence and rapid growth of rules-driven product management (RPM)

First radar transmitter to deliver peak performance in all the areas vital to radar level measurement - The Rosemount 5400 introduced by Emerson Process Management is the first radar transmitter to offer peak performance in all three areas vital to radar level measurement: Echosensitivity - the ability to detect weak radar echoes reliably; Echodynamics - the ability to handle weak and strong radar echoes simultaneously; and Echologics - the ability to ignore false echoes. Naming the technology "Radar Echonomics", Emerson guided this innovative development to maximise operational benefits and user cost savings.
"The Rosemount 5400 series marks another milestone in delivering user benefits from Rosemount instrumentation", says Carl Fjelkner, Project Manager for the 5400 development. "Radar Echonomics technology drives these benefits, the 2-wire Rosemount 5400 radar level transmitter provides an extremely accurate surface tracking, beyond that of other transmitters available today."

Leading supplier again - MTL has today announced it has retained the coveted title of number one supplier to Honeywell for March 2005, after initially scooping the top spot in February. The company has been a consistent supplier to Honeywell for many years, especially in the provision of GI/IS (Galvanically Isolated /Intrinsically Safe interfaces for TDC3000 applications, MTL830 Series IS temperature multiplexers for low cost data acquisition in hazardous areas and HART multiplexers.
MTL scored top marks in all areas of Honeywell's stringent measurement criteria including product quality, on-time delivery and customer service. Lynne McClure, Senior Commodity Manager for Honeywell commented, "A quality product line supported by excellent customer service and punctual delivery - MTL understands our requirements and has time and again exceeded our expectations."

Powerful embedded controller is the perfect choice for plant-wide monitoring and control - Display Solutions, a leading distributor and integrator of displays and embedded computers, has announced the availability of Aaeon's AEC-6840 embedded control PC. The AEC-6840 has been designed to give the optimal balance of performance, connectivity, and ruggedness to excel in its main role as a plant-wide monitoring and control platform, as well as a variety of exacting applications.

New heavy duty rotary position sensor is capable of operating in offshore environments - In response to customer demand, Penny + Giles has announced that its popular SRS880 rugged sealed rotary sensor is now available with an optional stainless steel housing. Resistance to corrosion means the sensor, which is larger and more robust than competitive offerings in the market, is suitable for heavy duty position sensing applications in offshore and marine environments where salt water corrosion can be a long-term problem. With an 88mm diameter stainless steel housing and 12mm diameter shaft, SRS880 uses established technology and innovative design features to provide corrosion resistance and maximum performance under extremes of temperature, humidity, vibration and shock.

Everything in photonics - The who's who in the forward-looking field of optical technologies will come together again when Europe's photonics conference, the "World of Photonics Congress," 17th International Conference on Photonics in Europe, will take place from 12 - 17 June 2005 in Munich (D). Professionals ranging from specialists from the field of photonics research and development to those who use lasers in industrial or medical applications will be using the Munich International Congress Center (ICM) as a forum to exchange information on the latest advances in optical technologies in six specialized conferences under the umbrella of the "World of Photonics Congress" - with over 1,800 selected individual and table-talk presentations, technical seminars, prominent keynote speakers, and panel discussions. On June 13th, Edelgard Bulmahn, Germany's Federal Minister for Education and Research, whose ministry subsidizes the event, will officially open the "World of Photonics Congress."