30/7/2005

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THEY SAID IT August 2005 "This key acquisition extends Emerson's portfolio and leadership in process measurement products and services." John Berra, President, Emerson Process Management "We don't comment on the Jim Pinto weblog." John Fisher, Fisher Marketing, on behalf of Rockwell Automation "We're the only vendor that offers its customers comprehensiveness and consistency of services support." Paul Orzeske, VP and General Manager, EMEA, Honeywell Process Solutions "OPC is not appropriate." Scott Hillman, Marketing Manager, Safety Management Systems, Honeywell Process Solutions "The only true upgrade available for users of ActiveFactory version 8.5 and earlier." John Nichols, COO, DataWorks Systems Don't miss this incisive commentary on automation every month!

Calibration to BS EN ISO376 Grade 1 and Grade 0.5 enable the CCD Load Cells to be used as reference cells - The CCD range of high capacity compression load cells from Applied Measurements are now available with an accuracy of 0.1% enabling them to be used as reference standards. Calibration to BS EN ISO376 Grade 1 and Grade 0.5 have enabled this range of load cells to be used as reference standards for on-site load cell calibration and verification.

Compact 250 watt ac-dc power supplies - Artesyn Technologies has introduced a new series of compact 250 watt ac-dc power supplies that are ideal front-end conversion solutions for systems with distributed power architectures. The new NLP250 series power supplies provide a choice of 12 V, 24 V or 48 V outputs to simplify system integration, backed by extensive control and monitoring features to satisfy a wide variety of dc supply requirements. For distributed power applications, the 24 V and 48 V models are suitable for feeding on-board isolated brick or intermediate bus converters, while the 12 V model can be used to directly power boards fitted with multiple non-isolated point-of-load (POL) dc-dc converters. In addition to the main output channel, each power supply also provides an auxiliary 'always-on' 5 Vdc output for applications that require standby operation, as well as a 12 V output for powering fans.

To focus on components - In order to further develop their market leading range of EMC safety components and maintain their position as world leader in the EMC Safety market, Schaffner is to seek buyers for its test equipment and systems businesses. The Components Division of Schaffner achieves global success in the automotive, industrial electronics and telecommunications markets with its strong product offering of components and modules that ensure the efficient and safe functioning of electronic devices. Paul Dixon, Managing Director of Schaffner Ltd. comments, "70% of our business is component sales and we need to continue to invest in new products and processes to maintain our market leading position for the long term. We have had a very positive response to this decision from our major test equipment customers and while we find the best partners for our Test Systems Division to join it will be 'business as usual" for sales, support and service."

Compact logic analyser operates to 100 MHz - The TA320S logic analyser from TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has been updated to integrate with the company's new range of bench instruments. The TA320S is highly compact but has a built-in LCD screen capable of displaying high-resolution graphics or 40-column text. Control and data entry is by a combination of 'soft' keys and an alphanumeric keypad. An RS-232 interface is incorporated which allows data to be sent to (or loaded from) a personal computer.

Leading engineering contractors attend fieldbus event In London - The Fieldbus Foundation held its first engineering contractors' event held today at The Imperial War Museum in London, UK. The event was attended by senior engineers from several leading UK based engineering contractor groups including: Aker Kvaerner Process, CB & I John Brown Ltd, Fluor Ltd, Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd, Jacobs Engineering Ltd, KBR Halliburton, M. W. Kellogg Ltd, Snamprogetti Ltd, Stone & Webster and Teknica.

Two new European distributors appointments - Optical sensing specialist Ocean Optics has appointed two new European distributors. A global leader in optical sensing, display optics and biophotonics technologies the company has appointed Kutay Laboratory Equipment as distributors in Turkey and LAO Industrial Systems in the Czech Republic.

Solenoid control module can enhance valve performance - The newly designed CoolCube solenoid control module produced by Bio-Chem Valve for Omnifit Ltd., enables OEM instrument designers to place an overdrive voltage on a solenoid valve, which can decrease valve response time, increase operating pressure, and allow the use of larger tubing in pinch valves. It also provides a "hit and hold" circuit without producing excessive, coil-generated heat, or consuming excessive power.

Access and control system to install - Unlike gate switches and machine controls, Fortress Interlocks' new eGard system can be installed on machinery guarding in minutes. This provides a huge cost and time saving for OEM manufacturers, machinery guarding suppliers and end users.

Current transducers for earth leakage control - LEM has introduced the CT family of current transducers for use in a range of safety applications including solar installations. The new transducers measure an AC or DC leakage current of 30mA or more (with possible spectral components up to 18 kHz) occurring when a solar panel is coupled to an earthed grid, or in failure modes such as a short circuit or earth fault. The connection of a solar panel to the grid raises concerns about the safety of the system and of any human contact with the system.

Log on for maintenance free remote monitoring - Jekyll Electronic Technology announces the latest versions of Telelog, a simple, maintenance free method of remote monitoring and data logging for a wide range of process applications including flow and level measurement. Measuring instruments with either pulsed of digital outputs can now be connected to the Telelog, allowing a simple but effective approach, allowing data collection, logging, remote interrogation and communications across existing or new infrastructure networks.

New control and safety systems at Offshore Show - Yokogawa is launching its 2005 Road Show and will feature a number of new developments under its Vigilantplatform banner at Offshore 2005 (Aberdeen, Scotland, 6-9 September 2005).

Announcing user conference for 2006 - Following the undoubted success of the 2004 and 2005 Conferences, Profibus UK is delighted to announce that it will be presenting another in 2006.
More on our Fieldbus News Page

The Gold standard! - Wonderware has achieved Gold Certified Partner level in the Microsoft Partner Program.

Real-time performance with super fast gigabit connections - Real-time Performance with Super Fast Gigabit Connections SixNet has launched its newest line of Gigabit-enabled Industrial Ethernet Switches that provide ten times higher data throughput. Choose from Gigabit Ring Switches or Gigabit Managed Switches with numerous combinations of RJ45 and fiber ports including up to three Gigabit ports. These are the first Gigabit Ethernet switches to offer ultra-reliability, even in harsh industrial environments.

New mini clamp and link connectors save time and cost - Following the Abacus Group's recent agreement with 3M Electronics group, the company is introducing new Mini-Clamp and Link connectors to provide fast and simple connections in a more cost effective way than previous solutions. Designed specifically for factory automation advanced networking systems their versatility can be seen in a broad range of markets and applications requiring upto 4 wires using 20 to 26 AWG.

Reliable, deterministic applications - Engineers can use two new National Instruments RT PXI embedded controllers to increase their real-time control rates and data-streaming throughput. The NI PXI-8196 RT controller is the highest-performance real-time controller available. With a 2.0 GHz Pentium M 760 processor, it delivers an average performance improvement of 18 percent compared to the previous highest-performance real-time controller. The NI PXI-8195 RT controller features a 1.5 GHz Celeron M 370 processor.

Process control industry leader dies suddenly - Chris Uehlinger, 49, president and chief operating officer of PAS and a respected member of the process control community for many years, passed away unexpectedly July 20th, 2005. At PAS, Uehlinger helped grow the company and provided leadership and technology vision with a tremendous ability to grasp and communicate technological concepts to a wide variety of audiences.
Uehlinger is survived by his beloved wife, Tracy, three children and five grandchildren. PAS has established a special section on its website where those who knew and worked with Chris may post their commemorative comment.. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Enhanced performance for EtherNet/IP and other control networks - Contemporary Controls’ managed Ethernet switches will now provide new features that greatly enhance their performance in industrial networks such as EtherNet/IP. These features are IGMP snooping, rate limiting, port security, and Quality of Service (QoS) enhancements, also termed Diffserv, IEEE 802.1p and TOS.

Surge arrester gives early warning of potential failures - A new surge-protection device from Dehn incorporates a technique known as pro-active thermo control to give an early warning of potential failures. The new DEHNguard(R) TH275 LI is the first surge arrester to give the user advance warning of failure while still maintaining its full surge-protection capacity. This early warning allows the user to take appropriate action to maximise availability of the electrical system.

New generation of motor management systems - Simocode pro is the new motor management system from Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) for motors in the low-voltage range. The system is part of the Sirius product family, and is the intelligent link between the Automation Platform and the motor feeder. It provides detailed operating, service and diagnostic data, thereby boosting plant availability and generating savings at every stage of implementation: construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance of the plant. Simocode pro is compatible with its predecessor system Simocode-DP.

"Just the job for automated material handling..." - A new range of ultra-low profile, precision rotary stages aimed at automated material handling applications has been launched by Aerotech. The new ACS LP series feature high torque, direct drive brushless servomotors and integrated air operated collet chucks for tube and bar diameters from 0.5 mm to 16 mm. With low inertia mechanics for fast acceleration and with a maximum speed capability that seriously out-performs conventional worm-wheel driven rotary stages, the range is designed for high-throughput production applications such as precision laser machining and micro-welding for medical device manufacture.

Customer value enhancement award - Wonderware has received the 2005 Customer Value Enhancement Award from growth consulting firm Frost & Sullivan for its InTouch 9.0 human machine interface (HMI) software. This is the third award Wonderware has received from Frost & Sullivan for its InTouch 9.0 HMI software in two years.

Certified engineer training programme goes international - South African technology training specialist, Pro Training CC, has been appointed by Mitsubishi Electric Automation Systems Division as the first organisation outside the UK to operate the successful and well-respected Mitsubishi Certified Engineer Programme. They will operate the programme throughout the whole of sub-Saharan Africa, and sees it as an important step in establishing automation training standards for the region, with qualifications that can be compared directly with those achieved in other parts of the world.

Machinery and process monitoring even in the tightest spaces - MiniAmp Type 5030A, the new miniature single-channel charge amplifier from Kistler, converts the charge signal from all piezoelectric sensors into a proportional voltage signal. The rugged, dust and watertight IP65 metal housing, together with its extremely compact design and attractive price, make the new MiniAmp particularly suitable for industrial applications. One of the many possible fields of application of the MiniAmp is machinery and process monitoring in the manufacturing industry, an area in which operating conditions are generally harsh and the available space restricted. The small size and light weight of the charge amplifier allows installation where space is limited, even on moving parts.

Oscilloscopes that combine sophisticated analysis capability with flexibility and cost efficiency - LeCroy Corporation has introduced the WavePro 7000A Series of digital oscilloscopes that combine the analysis capability usually found in specialized, high-end oscilloscopes with the flexibility and cost efficiency of a general purpose oscilloscope. Covering the 1 GHz to 3 GHz bandwidth range, the WavePro 7000A Series features advanced laboratory oscilloscope accuracy and performance in its vertical acquisition system and timebase, and more than 80 standard measurements including timing and jitter, making these oscilloscopes an excellent signal analysis tool for design engineers who measure complex signals.

Serial to Ethernet adapter - With Ethernet becoming ever more prevalent within industrial communications there is a growing need to connect existing serial equipment and devices to these new Ethernet networks. Westermo Data Communications has released a low cost, high specification Ethernet to serial adapter to perform this task. The EDW-100 is a serial to Ethernet adapter providing connection to Ethernet networks for RS-232 or RS-422/485 devices. The unit enables almost any serial devices to interface through a new or existing Ethernet network. It can also be used as an Ethernet terminal server and comes supplied with a free to use com port emulation package for Windows PCs.

New release offers faster processing in redundant CPU configurations and new HART communication-enabled modules - Yokogawa has introduced a number of functional enhancements to its StarDom network-based control system. The upgraded system, Release 1.60, features faster processing in redundant CPU configurations as well as new HART communication-enabled modules.

Standards just published - The following publications on electromagnetic compatibility have just been published by the IEC

• CISPR 16-2-1 Amd.1 Ed. 1.0 (2005-07) Amendment 1 - Specification for radio disturbance and immunity measuring apparatus and methods - Part 2-1: Methods of measurement of disturbances and immunity - Conducted disturbance measurements
• CISPR 16-2-2 Amd.2 Ed. 1.0 (2005-07) Amendment 2 - Specification for radio disturbance and immunity measuring apparatus and methods - Part 2-2: Methods of measurement of disturbances and immunity - Measurement of disturbance power
• CISPR 16-2-3 Amd.2 Ed. 1.0 (2005-07) Amendment 2 - Specification for radio disturbance and immunity measuring apparatus and methods - Part 2-3: Methods of measurement of disturbances and immunity - Radiated disturbance measurements
• CISPR 22 Amd.1 Ed. 5.0 (2005-07) This bilingual version replaces the English version. Amendment 1 - Information technology equipment - Radio disturbance characteristics - Limits and methods of measurement
• CISPR 16-3 Amd.1 Ed. 2.0 (2005-07) Amendment 1 - Specification for radio disturbance and immunity measuring apparatus and methods - Part 3: CISPR technical reports.
These are available through the IEC Webstore

Hall-effect switches and latches feature chopper stabilisation - Allegro MicroSystems Europe is expanding its family of successful chopper-stabilised Hall-effect switches and latches with four new product offerings: the A3241, A3242, A3230 and A3282. These new products mean that Allegro can now offer a complete family of Hall-effect switches and latches in a variety of sensitivity ranges for position, speed and rotational sensing applications in automotive, consumer electronics and industrial applications.

New digital pressure gauge also has built-in data logger - Keller's new LEO Record incorporates a high accuracy pressure sensor, a LCD digital display, plus a sophisticated data logger, all in one battery-operated instrument. The pressure gauge is available in five standard pressure ranges of -1 to 3bar, -1 to 30bar, 0 to 300bar, 0 to 700bar and 0 to 1000bar, all working to an accuracy of +/- 0.1%FS over a temperature range of 0 to 50 deg C.

Everything under control for melt flow indexer - The Davenport MFI-10 melt flow indexer from Lloyd Instruments is an intelligent modular system which allows fully automatic measurement of the melt flow rate of a polymer. Used as a stand-alone unit, or under computer control with the company's NEXYGEN-Davenport control and analysis software, the MFI-10 can be used both by resin manufacturers and processors such as extruders and injection moulders to measure the melt flow rate and melt volume rate of thermoplastics before use in the manufacturing process.

New open and standards-based platform and integrated HMI/SCADA roadmap - GE Fanuc Automation has unveiled a detailed roadmap for the Proficy™ Automation and Production software family, which spans from programming and control, through HMI / SCADA, historian and MES, to a real-time information portal. In 2005, GE Fanuc will deliver a major upgrade to Proficy with a data-model and event-based platform based on the Proficy Historian and Proficy Real-Time Information Portal technologies. The new platform will allow users to standardise on a single manufacturing IT platform for managing real-time operations. The Proficy Platform will include packaged integration with enterprise systems and Proficy HMI/SCADA applications as well as provide an extended library of tools and published APIs for third-party development of applications.

Group expands in Europe - GE Fanuc Embedded Systems is doubling its European sales and support group and seeking new sales channels throughout Europe, Middle East & Africa. The team is addressing the growing embedded market, particularly in the defence, life sciences and automation industries. The acquisitions of VMIC, RAMiX and Computer Dynamics has enabled GE Fanuc to introduce a number of new products, including Reflective Memory and I/O products, single-board computers, embedded switches, network interface cards, and rugged flat-panel industrial monitors and computers.

Board expanded adding accomplished industry executive - Platform Solutions (PSI), the first developer of a new generation of mainframe computers, today announced the company has expanded its board of directors and appointed senior technology executive Larry A. Mueller as a new member of the board.

Technology delivers next-generation performance over a wide flow turndown, resulting in lower installation costs and reduced process variability - Emerson Process Management has announced that its technology is again revolutionising flow metering performance, while reducing process variability and lowering installation costs. Whereas traditional orifice-based DP flowmeters have only been able to maintain accuracy over a narrow 3:1 operating window, the Rosemount 3051S Ultra for Flow can support up to 14:1 flow turndown with better than a 0.5% of reading accuracy. Performance with this instrument is specified as a percent of reading, instead of the traditional percent of span. It eliminates the performance degradation inherent in the nonlinear relationship between flow and differential pressure. Because a 10:1 flow turndown results in a 100:1 DP turndown, a DP pressure transmitter specified as 0.075% of span will only be 7.5% accurate over the entire flow range.

Plug-in interfaces for CAN and LIN bus systems - An enhanced range of plug-in interfaces for CAN and LIN bus systems is now available from Computer Solutions. Some recent additions to the range include a CAN to PCMCIA interface, software for controlling and monitoring a CANopen network and a LIN/CAN gateway and interface.

New temperature and humidity data logger - Pico Technology has announced the immediate availability of the HumidiProbe, a combined environmental probe, analogue-to-digital converter and data logger in a slim, lightweight case. HumidiProbe simply plugs in to the USB port to give instant, highly accurate measurements of temperature and humidity. Up to 4 HumidiProbes can be connected to one PC, allowing you to accurately monitor the temperature and humidity in multiple locations at once.

Adapter to enable machine tester to test machine switch and control gear - LEM has introduced an adapter that allows its MT204 machine tester to carry out tests on machine switch and control gear in accordance with IEC/EN60439. The adapter box connects to the machine tester's output and increases the maximum voltage from 1kV to 2.5kV. This increased measurement range is required during testing of the switch and control gear typically used with the machines. This machine tester performs all the required tests and measurements on the electrical systems of machines, in accordance with EN 60204. The addition of the test adapter makes this tester the most cost effective, versatile machine tester on the market. The simple user interface and inclusion of all the required accessories offers quick and simple machine and switchgear testing. The compact, rugged package makes the MT204 an indispensable tool for any every machine service, commissioning and installation technician or engineer.

Controller Area Network (CAN) communication for in-vehicle data acquisition and control added - National Instruments has introduced the new Controller Area Network (CAN) interface module for its flexible, high-performance NI CompactRIO platform. The NI 9853 module for National Instruments CompactRIO is a two-port, high-speed CAN interface that combines with NI reconfigurable I/O (RIO) technology to deliver the highest-performance in-vehicle measurement and control platform on the market. The NI 9853 module plugs into any CompactRIO chassis to offer a wide variety of capabilities for automotive and industrial applications, including monitoring in-vehicle CAN buses, reading and writing values to CAN devices such as electronic control units (ECUs) and actuators and communicating with industrial devices such as motion drives and motors.

Warranty doubled! - The move recently announced by Boxer manufacturer AAEON to double the length of the warranty is a first in the Industrial PC market, and shows the complete confidence they have in the inherent quality designed and built into these products. This series has proved to be extremely successful since it was originally launched, and has now expanded to five models. They offer a range of processors combined with multiple communication and expansion options, which cost-effectively fill a wide variety of roles.

Additional voltage outputs gives OEMs more choice - Penny + Giles has extended its range of JC2000 joystick options with the launch of new output voltage ranges. Operating from a 5Vdc regulated supply, the JC2000X and JC2000XY versions can now be supplied with 0.5 to 4.5Vdc; 1.0 to 4.0Vdc and 1.1 to 3.9Vdc output voltage spans. These additional ranges give OEMs greater flexibility when interfacing with machine controls, as well as increased sensitivity on the wider voltage ranges.

Forget floating production, take a look at floating instrumentation - Parker Instrumentation is rolling into downtown Aberdeen in a massive 18-wheel US-style truck. Parked by the Offshore Europe exhibition entrance, Parker's array of manifolds, valves, fittings and accessories for offshore instrumentation applications will be on display inside the 50-foot long trailer. Exhibits include the public debut of two newly-completed ranges of high-integrity double-block-and-bleed manifolds and ball valves. Now available in a choice of four bore sizes up to 25mm, Parker's Pro-Bloc and Hi-Pro manifolds and ball valves are fabricated using one-piece and two-piece constructions respectively, to minimise potential leak paths.

IFSA newsletter - This monthly e-newsletter, written by the editors of Sensors & Transducers Magazine, delivers the product and research news you asked for, and updates you on happenings in the sensor science and industry. It is written for all who are interested in the newest information and trends in sensors, transducers, MEMS and sensor instrumentation, including DAQ. The July Issue is on line now.

Emergency power supplies conference - IDC TECHNOLOGIES along with some of South Africa's leading engineers and technicians present - The 2005 Emergency Power Supplies Conference in Johannesburg on the 23rd & 24th November 2005. This two day Conference will cover a selection of case studies and examples of real world, implemented Emergency Power Supplies systems.
Two half day pre-conference workshops on the 22nd November on the latest developments in Power Quality and Earthing (morning workshop) and Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems and Batteries (afternoon workshop) will set the tone for the two day conference.

10 Gbit/s bit-error-rate tester for modular instrument system - Yokogawa has introduced a 10 Gbit/s bit-error-rate tester to the range of modules available for the company's AQ2200 Series modular optical instrumentation system. The new unit integrates a pulse pattern generator, error detector and signal generator - all the essential elements in bit-error-rate measurements - in a compact module. When combined with other AQ2200 Series modules such as optical modulators, receivers, power meters and attenuators, it provides all the facilities required for error-rate curve measurements and optical device characterisation.

Acquisition further expands global portfolio of measurement technologies and services for process industries - Emerson has announced it has acquired Solartron Mobrey from The Roxboro Group in Britain. Solartron Mobrey whose measurement technologies include level, density, viscosity and flow computer products will be renamed Mobrey Measurement and become part of Emerson Process Management. Complimenting the established Emerson measurement brands, which include Rosemount, Micro Motion, Brooks, Saab Rosemount and Daniel, the acquisition includes all Solartron Mobrey technologies, services, manufacturing facilities and employees.

Road construction SIG develops standard for easy system integration - CAN in Automation (CiA) has established the CANopen Special Interest Group (SIG) for road construction machines. The group is going to develop specifications that define interfaces between logical sub-systems and virtual devices in road construction machines networked via CANopen. The specification will simplify the job of system designers of integrating electronic devices into construction machines. Device manufacturers will encounter less proprietary interfaces, making their job easier, and machine builders will be able to source products from different manufacturers and use off-the-shelf CANopen configuration and service tools.

New all-in-one controller provides Embedded Ethernet, CompactFlash,Web server, PLC, HMI and I/O, all in one single product - The NX Innovation from Horner APG is a low-cost, high-performance all-in-one controller with embedded features such as Ethernet, CompactFlash and Web server. It uses their APG's industry-recognised Cscape software and it's the fastest model in the company's OCS (Operator Control Station) product range. It's able to control many different types of machines and processes‹from medium to large applications‹which require an operator interface, controller, I/O and networking. It is is part of their next generation OCS and TIU (Human Machine Interface) product line.

New infra red carbon dioxide ambient air monitor - The new IR80-CO2 transmitter, just released by Monicon features a digital display, analogue output and two volt-free relays. Annual calibration and a 10-year sensor life (MTBF) provides for reduced operating costs. Housed in a robust metallic enclosure, the 24Vdc operated IR80-CO2 is "the perfect solution to ensure compliance with Health & Safety requirements".

Crimp tool for industrial connectors - A ratchet-based crimp tool has been introduced by Harting to speed the installation of the company's Han range of industrial connectors. An important feature of the new tool is that it incorporates a locator that can be used with Han C, D and E connectors, eliminating the need for the user to have separate locators for each type. The ratchet mechanism ensures constant crimp quality by preventing the tool from closing before the crimping jaws are fully opened or opening before the crimp cycle is fully completed.

New data-centre products and systems - The AMP NETCONNECT Division of Tyco Electronics has introduced a new range of data-centre products and systems: a combination of high-density optical fibre and copper solutions with intelligent management capabilities that meet the specific needs of data centres and storage area networks (SANs).

Irish technology to be implemented on International Space Station - Irish technology is playing a major role in a NASA space project for the first time ever. Irish company Skytek has developed technology to guide astronauts on the International Space Station through tasks, from putting on a space suit to preparing for docking the shuttle. The system, called iPV (International Procedural Viewer), was developed in partnership with EADS Space Transportation and United Space Alliance (Boeing and Lockheed Martin) for the European Space Agency and was adapted by NASA in 2003. It is being carried on the launch of the NASA space shuttle Discovery, and will be installed on the International Space Station on Discovery's arrival, becoming live in August. The electronic manual software system, which currently carries over 3,000 procedures authored by NASA, is integral to how astronauts will operate and perform procedures in space. Paul Kiernan, Skytek's Technical Director, said, "This is a huge endorsement for Irish technology. This product improves the daily safety and efficiency of the astronauts and we have worked in close proximity with them to refine the procedures further. In addition, this software stands on its own merits and its adoption by the world's leading space pioneers is the ultimate seal of approval". The company also uses the technology's capabilities in non-space environments.


Professional Ireland - Issue No.505

SCADA event notification software Is now TAPI-compliant and enables device-independent compatibility - Wonderware announces that it has released version 6.0 of its SCADAlarm event notification software. SCADAlarm 6.0 software enables real-time intelligent alarm and event notification, data acquisition and remote control from telecommunication devices. This issue software includes support for TAPI (Telephony Application Programming Interface) hardware. TAPI support enables the SCADAlarm software to be device-independent and enables users to choose standard off-the-shelf, inexpensive modems that are readily available on the market.

USB 2.0 Devices Deliver High-Speed Data Acquisition, Interactive Driver Software - National Instruments has expanded its USB-9000 series of industry-leading, high-performance USB data acquisition (DAQ) devices with the release of eight new USB 2.0 Hi-Speed DAQ devices. With sampling rates up to 800 kS/s, these new devices not only offer the fastest data acquisition speeds currently available for USB-compatible data acquisition devices, but they also simplify system setup and programming with powerful measurement services software. In addition, the new USB 2.0 Hi-Speed devices include free interactive data-logging software for analysis that can log data and export it to spreadsheet applications such as Microsoft Excel.

Tough Display provides instant instrumentation for diesel engine equipment - TeleflexMorse has added the SAE J1587 protocol to the communications capability of its universal automotive- and industrial-grade display, CANtrak. The introduction makes it simple to create instrument displays for diesel powered plant and equipment such as pumps, compressors, generators and drilling rigs - especially for the many suppliers of refurbished engines who need to interface to data using the older J1587 protocol. Users also have the option of interfacing using CANtrak's existing CANbus port and J1939 communications capability.

First Ever DIN Mounted UPS - Sudden power failure or supply voltage transients can cause serious disruption to the control systems that manage today's automated industrial processes. Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) can help alleviate this risk. But until now, OEM's have been forced to adapt proprietary UPS units to make them suitable for use in industrial environments. Rockwell Automation has partnered with APC, a global leader in UPS systems, to produce its exclusive family of 1609-U DIN mounted, line interactive Uninterruptible Power Supplies, designed to protect industrial processes from the potentially disastrous effects of power disruptions - the only UPS specifically designed for industrial applications.

Process Control Forum - ExperTune has just announced a new process control forum moderated by world renowned Greg Shinskey and the engineers at TOP Control. Mr. Shinskey will field questions from control engineers and offer advice on solutions. The forum is open to all engineers.

Enhanced flash programming support- Ashling Microsystems has announced enhanced flash programming support for the TC1796 and TC1766 TriCore based microcontrollers from Infineon. They are the latest members of Infineon's AUDO-NG family. They offer 150MHz system speed at full automotive temperature range, TC1766 has 1504KBytes for Program Flash and 32KBytes for Data Flash. TC1796 has 2MBytes for Program Flash and 128Kbytes for Data Flash. The new 32-bit TriCore-based microcontrollers are ideally suited for use in demanding automotive and industrial control applications that require real-time performance combined with DSP capabilities and very fast interrupt response times.

New 1.55 Micron Interferometer Announced - Precision-Optical Engineering has announced the availability of a new version of its INTERFIRE II infra red interferometers, operating at 1.55 microns. This new instrument has been designed to meet the needs for testing the increasing numbers of optical systems operating at this wavelength. By utilising a CCD camera with NIR conversion optics, it has been possible to design a new interferometer using glass lenses and mirrors rather than the III-V material lenses and mirrors that are normally used in IR interferometers.

Advancing engineering education in Central Texas classrooms - National Instruments continues its commitment to enhancing science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education by collaborating with the University of Texas College of Engineering to present the eighth annual DTEACh RoboLab Summer Institute. Since 1998, more than 250 K-12 teachers have visited the UT Austin campus to participate in this programme and learn innovative ways to integrate technology into their curricula.
The Design Technology and Engineering for America's Children (DTEACh) RoboLab Summer Institute introduces teachers to innovative hands-on tools, including RoboLab and the LEGO Mindstorms Robotics Invention System, for teaching STEM concepts. The RoboLab software is based on the National Instruments LabVIEW graphical development environment used by professional engineers and scientists worldwide in a variety of industries. NI and UT kick off the second 2005 DTEACh session, after which they will have trained 50 new teachers on how to develop their students' critical problem-solving skills through building and programming robots with RoboLab.

New Premier Solution Provider programme aligns company with qualified SI partners - GE Fanuc Automation Solutions Europe is expanding its Professional Services Group servicing the EMEA region. The investment is designed to maintain the recent rapid growth of the company's project-based industrial automation business, particularly in the large, multinational automotive, food and beverage, and life sciences market sectors. It can now offer its own application development and project implementation and support throughout all stages of the lifetime of a project, as well as recommend the services of a qualified systems integrator partner, recognised through GE Fanuc's rigorous, new Premier Solution Provider (PSP) programme
The Professional Services Group (PSG) of GE Fanuc Automation Solutions Europe has been developed to offer complete industrial automation project support to customers regardless of size or location. The services build on the Automation and MES applications offered by the Proficy family of Automation and Production software with its open solutions that provide real-time connectivity between the plant floor and the complete enterprise. Based in Britain, Andrew Ballard, Leader of the PSG, explained: "In just the past 2 years we have grown our revenues by 300%. Following an initial assessment, our team and/or that of a recommended Premier Solution Provider system integrator, can go into a customer, provide a new design study or carry out a 'health-check' on the existing system, deliver a solution, and support the entire application on a 24/7/365 basis throughout its lifetime. Multinational companies have the reassurance of local support throughout the world from GE Fanuc and its PSP partners."

PC Oscilloscope now available, featuring four channels, USB connectivity and 12-bit resolution - Pico Technology, the market leader in PC Oscilloscopes, is pleased to announce the immediate availability of the new PicoScope 3424 PC Oscilloscope. The four-channel oscilloscope has 12-bit resolution, 20 MS/s sampling rate and a large 512k memory buffer. The addition of a USB 2.0 connection makes connecting and installing the oscilloscope easy, and enables rapid display updates. The USB 2.0 interface also powers the unit, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

New semiconductor test tutorial handbook - Keithley Instruments has published a semiconductor test reference handbook titled Overcoming the Measurement Challenges of Advanced Semiconductor Technologies: DC, Pulsed, and RF-From Modeling to Manufacturing. The 140-page handbook describes emerging measurement challenges for semiconductor manufacturers as they move into the 65nm technology node and beyond.

New, convenient way to suggest standards projects - ISA has implemented a new, convenient way for professionals to suggest standards projects. Through a web interface, users can provide suggestions on new consensus industry standards that can be promulgated through the ISA development processes.

Leading global user groups work together on device integration enhancements - The Fieldbus Foundation has also announced that it has signed an addendum to its agreement with the HART Communication Foundation (see below), ProfiBus Nutzerorganisation e.V. and OPC Foundation to further develop Electronic Device Description Language (EDDL). The leading global user groups have formed a joint maintenance team to expand support for EDDL technology enhancements.
(see also our Fieldbus News page High-current PCB connector for 76 A - With the new connector family Power Combicon PC 16, Phoenix Contact is leading the market with PCB-pluggable high-current connectors. Using a 16mm_ conductor, the PC 16 connector system offers a current carrying capacity of 76 A with a maximum voltage of 600 V (UL), with a pitch size of only 10.16 mm. The DFK-PC 16 feed-through version completes the product family and together with the inverted version, offers the same connection possibilities as the PC16 standard connector. The advantage of this connector is that it makes it easy to connect a PCB through the unit housing. Secure fastening within the housing is achieved using either screws or the time saving snap-in mounting that does not require any extra tools.

Fibre optic sensing systems are now available following deal - Specialist sensor supplier, Sequoia Technology, has increased its instrumentation product range with the addition of Fiso Technologies to its portfolio. These sensors, which can measure temperature, pressure, strain, refractive index, load and displacement, are immune to the effects of RFI/EMI and magnetic fields and are intrinsically safe making them ideal for use in the Aerospace and Defence, Medical, Scientific, Civil Engineering and Energy application areas.

Leading manufacturers announce plans for implementing EDDL enhancements in host systems - The HART Communication Foundation (HCF) has announced significant progress among its member companies in implementing enhancements to the Electronic Device Description Language (EDDL). During the recent HCF General Assembly Meeting in St Petersburg, Russia, Emerson Process Management, Siemens and Honeywell individually announced plans to fully support the EDDL enhancements in their host systems. The EDDL enhancements provide new capabilities to benefit users in taking full advantage of the intelligence in millions of smart HART-enabled measurement and valve actuator devices.

Highly-sensitive modular spectrometer offers flexibility in Raman and other low-light level applications - Ocean Optics has introduced the QE65000, a highly-sensitive modular spectrometer. The QE65000 can achieve up to 90% quantum efficiency (defined as how efficiently a photon is converted to a photoelectron) with high signal-to-noise and rapid signal processing speed. It is ideal for Raman analysis and other low-light level applications such as fluorescence, DNA sequencing, thin film reflectivity and astronomy.

Magnetic bargraph; hermetically-sealed level indicator eliminates moisture and corrosion problems - K-TEK, manufacturer of state-of-the-art level instrumentation for liquid measurement now celebrating 30 years of manufacturing excellence, today announced the KM26 Magnetic Bargraph, a rugged, liquid level indicator designed for corrosive, flammable, and toxic environments. Part of their KM26 Magnetic Level Gauge family, the Magnetic Bargraph features a true hermetic seal that ensures no moisture ingress or build-up, both of which can significantly hinder indicator movement.

Nnew range of pluggable solid state relays - Carlo Gavazzi's new range of pluggable solid state relays allow control panels to be designed smaller and assembled faster and more cost-effectively than previous alternatives. The modular plug-in system allows technical staff to pre-wire the cable harness outside the panel, reducing the time and skill necessary to complete final panel assembly. They will be highlighting thm and their popular control and sensor families at the PPMA 2005 show.

New advanced packaging and interconnect centre gathers more than 30 partners - IMEC launches its advanced packaging and interconnect center, APIC, which is committed to play a central role in bringing together the different players in the IC food chain around joint research programs for future packaging and system-integration technologies. Focus lies on bridging the 'interconnect gap' between circuit and system, heterogeneous integration of RF-components and thermal management in high-power density devices.

Improving the efficiency and quality of cattle feed production using Coriolis flowmeters - Micro Motion Coriolis flowmeters from Emerson Process Management are being used to control the blending of cattle feed mixtures, improving the end product quality and consistency. The ability of the Micro Motion flowmeters to perform reliably with the varying viscosity of the molasses feedstock, and tolerate the resulting slurry conditions, has improved plant availability and reduced maintenance costs compared to the original nutating disc (wobble plate) positive displacement meters.
The Micro Motion flowmeters are used to blend molasses with various nutritional additives and water, all supplied at varying temperatures and viscosities: but these variations have no effect on the meter accuracy. The Micro Motion units provide precise and consistent mixtures, to which dry grain from a belt weigh conveyor is added, followed by hot animal fat. Both the on-line live density and flow measurement of the heated mixture are used as process control inputs, to assure the delivery quantity, and the quality of the feed. This improved quality control has been recognised by the farmers, who know they can rely on this brand of cattle feed to bring their cattle to the optimum slaughter weight in the prescribed time. The result has been an increased sales demand.

Instrumentation supply for Kashagan - Parker Instrumentation has signed a framework agreement for the supply of the instrumentation valves, manifolds and tube fittings for the giant Kashagan oil project in Kazakhstan.
In what is believed to be a first for the oil and gas industry on a major project like this, all the manifolds are required to include a unique Parker technology known as PTFree which integrates A-LOK compression tube fittings. This eliminates the need for taper threaded connections, and the liquid or tape materials that are required to get a good seal. The result is a connection system that is less prone to leakages and problems, and one that typically has fewer potential interconnection points and therefore potential leak paths.

Free, comprehensive product overview - Technosoft presents a new, comprehensive Product Overview for its Intelligent Drives and Motors. Free to download, this catalogue displays the Technosoft embedded intelligence products based on the latest MotionChipTM DSP Control Technology. These drives and motors are software configurable to drive brushless, step, DC or linear motors from 25 W to 640 W and they embed motion control, drive, PLC functionalities, motor (with intelligent motors) in a single compact unit.

Ultrasensitive Hall-effect switches are drop-in higher-performance replacements for earlier versions - The new A120x family of ultra-sensitive bipolar Hall-effect switches from Allegro MicroSystems Europe are next-generation drop-in replacements for their popular A313x family. This family, produced using Allegro's latest BiCMOS technology, comprises continuous-time devices which feature fast power-on time and low-noise operation. These devices are programmed after packaging, at final test, providing tighter switchpoint ranges than the earlier A313x line of bipolar switches. All devices in the A120x family are identical except for the magnetic switchpoint levels.

New fittings on flowmeter - The design and materials of construction of Blue-White's F-460 Series Variable Area Flowmeters, makes them well suited to applications where no metals can enter the fluid path (Ultra Pure), and for highly corrosive applications. No metals are used for the F-460 Series wetted parts, such as the float and float guide. The float is guided by precisely engineered Polysulfone ridges, which are molded into the meter body. This means no metal contaminants in the fluid path. F-460 Series Flowmeters are now available equipped with Socket Fusion Fittings constructed of Natural PVDF (Kynar) or Polypropylene. Fittings are offered in Pipe Sizes: 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1-1/2", and 2".
Blue-White Industries supports the Instrumentation Signpost through advertising on our home page

Partnership to Integrate Best-in-Class Plant Performance and Alarm Management Tools - Alarm Management and Performance Monitoring have until now, been independent software applications. TiPS and ExperTune have leveraged their respective expertise to develop a combined solution that offers even more targeted insight into opportunities to improve plant performance and gain competitive advantage.

New batch modules help reduce regulatory compliance costs - To help manufacturers with regulatory requirements and improve productivity, Rockwell Automation has announced enhancements to the modules within its batch processing software, Rockwell Software RSBizWare Batch. These new features can improve security, audit capabilities and productivity with the ability to build signature templates, the addition of command verification policies and expanded functionality for process parameter limits.

Making reporting simple and inexpensive! - Rounding out the Axeda Supervisor suite as the industry's most complete tool box for control and information, Axeda has launched WizReport XL. Their new award-winning software has been designed with the user in mind. "It is the most easy-to-use, cost-effective, flexible reporting product on the market today. Simply set up your report templates in Excel, browse your real-time and/or historical tags, and let WizReport XL do the rest automatically. It's that easy!" WizReport XL's powerful scheduler automatically performs all the workbook and worksheet management, applies powerful analysis to the data and then distributes the completed reports to printers, fileservers, web servers, PDF, XLS, HTML, email and much more.

THEY SAID IT July 2005 "The DTM does not replace the eDD but picks up where the DD leaves off." Gareth Johnston, ABB "Conventional PAM (Plant Asset Management) systems are . . . designed to work to maximum effect when the user selects the field devices, automation system and asset management software from the same supplier." Ludger Fuechtler, Endress+Hauser Control in the Field "will certainly become available in Profibus networks." Mike O'Neill, Moore Industries- International "The vision is that wireless is the default choice in industrial control and automation." Konstantinos Koumpis Sira Technology, "Customers are getting smarter." Roger Payne, Automation Systems, Mitsubishi Electric Don't miss this incisive commentary on automation every month!

PC-based data-acquisition system with new dual-save feature and powerful software - Yokogawa has enhanced its MX100 DAQMASTER PC-based data-acquisition system with the addition of a new dual-save feature and the powerful MXLOGGER software package.

Push/Pull Power connector for high-current applications - The new Harting Push/Pull Power interface has been specifically designed for high-current industrial, transport or telecommunications applications where IP65/67 protection is required in a small connector format. The new device is based on the innovative push/pull locking mechanism which has already been used for the Harting RJ Industrial Interface family. The connector is assembled with four newly designed power contacts and can carry up to 16 A current simultaneously on all four contacts, yet measures only 33 mm on the device side.

Dynamic web analysis and reporting now available - Wonderware has released SuiteVoyager 2.5 Web-based analysis software for production and performance management. SuiteVoyager software enables companies to improve production and performance through dynamic analysis and reporting of key performance and production indicators to make proactive decisions that improve profitability and efficiency.

Industry's first ultra wideband protocol analysis solution - The UWBTracer protocol analyzer was developed by LeCroy's Protocol Solutions Group (formerly Computer Access Technology (CATC)), the market leader in USB protocol analysis tools. The UWBTracer is capable of capturing and decoding WiMedia and WUSB protocols. By capturing traffic between a MAC and PHY, the user can display protocol traffic from boards currently in the design phase. The analyzer software can logically organize and display the protocol hierarchically at the WiMedia and WUSB levels. The CATC Trace software display not only shows the protocol, it also includes information about the WiMedia and WUSB specification. This allows engineers to concentrate on completing their design. Real time statistics provide additional insight into the product's operation and performance.

New 5A current clamps ideal for power quality measurements - Fluke has introduced a new set of three current clamps which complement the Fluke 430 Series 3-Phase Power Quality Analysers. Capable of measuring up to 5A, they are ideally suited for use on secondary circuit transformers. The new i5sPQ3 AC Current Clamp pack contains three current clamps fitted with 2.5m flexible cables. With CAT III 600V safety ratings, they are designed to concurrently measure the three phases running in conductors up to 15mm in diameter. They will measure AC currents from 10mA up to 5A at frequencies between 40Hz and 3kHz.

Version 9 - Wonderware, has announced the release of version 9.0 of its popular ActiveFactory trending and analysis software, which leverages the ArchestrA software architecture to integrate with the broadest possible set of existing industrial data sources and applications.
Pantek represents Wonderware in Ireland and Britain

"Yesterday I was in America and I am the first man in Europe ever to say that..." (Lt Arthur Brown) - Clifden, "Capital of Conamara", was the scene of the landing of the first trans-atlantic flight in June 1919, when John Alcock and Arthur Brown came down in their Vickers Vimy on the bog close to the town. Yesterday less that a mile away on the 8th fairway of the Clifden Golf course an exact replica of this plane landed having made the same flight from Gander in Newfoundland in around the same time of sixteen hours. The heros this time are Stev Foster and Mark Rebholz and the only differences betwen the plane they flew and the one on 1919 was the type of glue used to stick it together (which was changed to adhere to FAA regulations) and an extra fuel tank. Clifden will be en fete for the week in celebration!

Programmable Wi-Fi and IDE bridges extend processor flexibility - QuickLogic Europe has two new bridge devices which provide intelligent power-saving PCI or IDE interfaces for Intel XScale PXA2xx processors.

Function generator offers improved frequency stability - The TG550 function generator from TTi has been re-engineered to give greater frequency stability and improved sensitivity for the built-in external counter. Housed in a new 2U high bench-top case, the TG550 is a 5 MHz analogu function generator which incorporates a digital measurement and control system to lock the frequency to a reference. The generator provides simultaneous digital display of frequency and level. A large LCD display shows frequency in the left-hand half and output level in the right-hand half.

Strategic appointments - Global flow control group FCX has announced two key new management appointments which it believes will help drive the group forward and continue its impressive growth.
Yves Cuyvers has been appointed Director and General Manager of IMF with immediate effect. Yves joined FCX Truflo Rona in 1988 as an Engineer and became Production Manager in 1991.
Dave Whitfield has also been confirmed as Operations Director. After 25 years of working for the company, Dave's experience and expertise is almost unrivalled.

DFP dual display PMC adaptor - Concurrent Technologies has announced their latest dual display graphics PMC adaptor. The IO PMC/DG1 is a high performance low power adaptor supporting two video graphics engines enabling two display connections to be driven simultaneously with different resolutions and refresh rates. The output of these engines feed three display connections - an analog RGB (to CRT) interface and a digital TMDS (to DFP) interface available via a front panel DVI-I connector and a second DVI-D compatible TMDS interface available via the rear P4 connector.

When you crash is it smart? - Smart crash may sound like a contradition in terms but read on! The SmartCrash digital measuring system introduced by Kistler in 2004 is used to measure forces in up to three directions during vehicle crash testing. The new variant of SmartCrash, with analog signal output, is compatible with existing data acquisition systems and permits simple cost-effective exchanges with force elements from earlier generations.Various bus designs for cross connecting the digital SmartCrash elements in a barrier, as well as compatibility with standard vehicle crash control and analysis programs, permit tailor made solutions to customer problems and interoperability with all modern crash facilities.

New Industrial PCs - Formula is the new range of industrial PCs from Nematron. Formula combines flexibility, functionality, superlative quality and elegant design.

Miniature manifold-mounted pivot valves - Flow control specialist Bio-Chem Valve (part of Omnifit) has introduced a more compact version of its inert, solenoid-operated pivot valve for controlling high purity or aggressive fluids. The 039H Series Miniature Manifold-Mounted Solenoid Pivot Valve is available in the UK and Europe from Omnifit. It has the same footprint as the 079H Series, but the smaller solenoid allows it to be mounted directly side-by-side, reducing the centre-to-centre dimension from 22.2mm to 12.7mm.

Customer support services organization achieves SCP certification for the third consecutive year - Wonderware, a business unit of Invensys Systems, has announced that its corporate customer support services organisation that provides customer technical support has achieved certification from the Support Centre Practices (SCP) certification program for the third consecutive year. This year, Wonderware exceeded the SCP compliance requirements as well as the SCP community benchmark average.
Woderware products are sold and supported in the Britain and Ireland by Pantek

Managed Switches Increase Network Performance - Sixnet has enhanced its line of Industrial Ethernet Managed Switches. The various models of the ET-9MS are designed for the toughest industrial environments and ensure the reliability of your network with automatic switchover on detected failure (ring topology). From the start, they offered QoS, RSTP, SNMP, and much more. Now, they are even more capable than before, supporting IGMP and VLAN.