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Measurement, Control and Automation Resources throughout the World
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News
Date of last update as at the top of the list (d/m/yy).
Press releases from your company may be sent to any of the addresses shown on our Contacts Page.
See Archive Page for earlier news.
31/10/2005
Laboratory PSU meets offers 400 W from compact size - The EX2020R, new from TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments), is a high-current single-output bench power supply capable of currents up to 20 A at voltages up to 20 V. The 400 W output power capability is achieved despite the unit's highly compact case style which has dimensions of only 140 x 160 x 195mm. Weight is just 3.6 kg.
New DIN rail power supply is 90% efficient - PULS Power Supplies, one of the largest manufacturers of DIN-Rail power supplies in the world announces the introduction of the new QS3, 80watt model. Part of the space saving Dimension series, nominal output is 24V at 3.4A continuous load. Standard features include 100–240VAC universal input with power factor correction to EN61000-3-2, EMC filtering to EN55022-B, safety agency approval to EN60950-1 and UL508 for industrial applications and also UL1604 for hazardous locations. Up to 3 QS3 units may be connected in parallel for higher power or N+1 redundancy applications and up to 150VDC output may be achieved by serial connection.
There's money in instruments! - National Instruments reported third quarter revenue of US$142 million, an increase of 13 percent compared to the third quarter of 2004. This represents the highest quarterly revenue in the company's history, fueled by new product revenue and record revenue from strategic PXI and modular instruments platforms. GAAP fully diluted earnings per share (EPS) for Q3 were $0.18 with GAAP net income of $14.4 million, up 81 percent from Q3 2004.
Improved availability and reduced operating costs follow upgrading steam flow measurement at major Shell Chemicals ethylene plant - Vortex flowmeters from Emerson Process Management have improved the reliability of steam measurement for the Shell Chemicals ethylene plant in The Netherlands. The Rosemount 8800CD dual vortex meters provide two flow measurements on the main steam lines, one for plant process control plus another separated measurement for the plant safety instrumented system (SIS). For Shell, this vortex metering technology delivers more reliable steam flow measurement, enabling better operation and helping to increase plant uptime. Further, the plant operators have a better, more accurate steam flow measurement, which allows them to optimise production performance.Shell Chemicals at Moerdijk has one of the largest ethylene plants in Europe: this naphtha cracker process mixes accurate proportions of Light Distillate Feedstock (LDF) - such as naphtha or ethane - and steam, and heats these to a high temperature in a furnace: this cracks the LDF into basic feedstocks like ethylene for use in downstream processes, but also creates some carbon and coke deposits which are re-circulated with the process water.
RFID technology to monitor surge arresters - Dehn has developed a new device known as LifeCheck which uses RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology to monitor and control the operational status of lightning and surge arresters equipped with the appropriate additional circuitry.
New and improved website launched - ISA announced that it has launched its new and improved website. The site is built around ISA's core competencies (standards, certification, education and training, publishing, and conferences and exhibits), and was redesigned based on Member and customer feedback. In response to research results, ISA focused on improving the navigation of the site, reducing complexity, prioritizing content, and enhancing the search capabilities. The design of the site is consistent with the new graphic and communication standards being employed by ISA.
Get to the areas, and take the readings that other temperature sensors can't! - The MLE infrared temperature sensors from Calex Electronics are designed to be used in areas that are not accessible to other temperature sensors. These two-part units have small separate sensing heads connected to their larger electronics modules by a flexible cable. This allows the heads to be used in confined spaces, where many infrared sensors cannot fit. Thanks to their ingenious design, these small heads can also move relative to their electronics modules, without interference to their readings. This allows them to be used on moving arms and machinery, to get to the areas, and take the readings that other temperature sensors cannot.
Workshop calibration equipment at paper mill - Beamex was recently awarded the contract to supply workshop calibration system for plant maintenance and operation for UPM/Shotton Paper Mill in England. The contract includes MCS100 calibration bench systems and other related equipment and services. This is a major turnkey project for Beamex and also another big step in Beamex's continued success in delivering calibration solutions to the Pulp and Paper industry. Both UPM and Beamex have their Head Office located in Finland.
UPM is one of the world's leading forest products companies. The company has production in 15 countries and an extensive sales network comprising over 170 sales and distribution companies. UPM's turnover in 2004 was close to EUR 10 billion and the group employs approximately 33,400 people.
Teaching aids for process engineering - Pignat a leading company in the manufacture of process-engineering teaching equipment, has launched a very broad range of teaching aids. These can be used for conducting concentrated, reliable practical projects over a limited period for all staff levels - operators, technicians and engineers. About a hundred standardised apparatuses are delivered on a turnkey basis along with teaching handbooks. They cover the study of fluid dynamics, heat transfer, chemical engineering, control and regulation, automation and supervision (DCS, SCADA). For instance, the Human Resources Departments of gas and oil companies which need to train operating personnel can take advantage of a package covering several trades and qualifications. The company can also provide halls for initial or continuing training on a turnkey basis.
UK expansion for calibration instruments - Ametek Calibration Instruments has opened a direct sales outlet in Britain. With a newly-appointed UK Sales Manager, Ian McPhie, the organisation will operate as part of Ametek Lloyd Instruments, based in Fareham, Hampshire. "Ian has been responsible for the sales of Ametek Calibration Instruments temperature, pressure and signal calibration products through distribution for the past seven years and has excellent product and market knowledge."
DIN rail mounted power supplies - PULS now offer an incredible new range of DIN rail mounted power supplies. DIMENSION is an entirely new concept in switch mode power supply technology, providing features that no other power supply on the market offers. What is most noticeable about that the new PULS DIMENSION range is the small size. Improvements in efficiency means that it has been possible to reduce the size to half that of their predecessor's and competitors, freeing more space on the DIN rail or allowing the use of smaller cabinets.
PULS are marketd in Ireland through Hanley Automation Networks
New guided wave radar level transmitters feature all-digital design and integrated graphic display with waveform screens - K-TEK, has announced at ISA 2005 the new MT5000 Series of Guided Wave Radar Level Transmitters. Designed for use in a variety of harsh environments, such as oil & gas processing and power generation, the series includes the MT5000 Liquid Level Transmitter and the MT5100 Level and Interface Transmitter. Both devices feature an integrated graphic display for quick and easy viewing of waveform screens.
More from ISA Expo'05
Autosampler for atomic absorption spectrophotometer - A new autosampler has been introduced by Hitachi High-Technologies for the Z-2300 flame-only atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The SSC-230 will accommodate up to 80 test tubes. With random access autosampling, the SSC-230 reduces sample measurement times and minimizes sample consumption.
New pump management relay increases efficiency - Carlo Gavazzi is expanding its portfolio of products for the water treatment market with the introduction of a new pump change-over relay. The new compact, smart relay will successfully manage up to three alternating pumps, reducing maintenance costs and increasing efficiency. The DLA71 features a rescue function to manage overflow effectively and a delay setting to limit in-rush current overloading the system. The new relay is ideal for applications such as water treatment and HVAC systems where space is at a premium and two or three pumps need to be managed simultaneously.
"The spectrometer for performing spectral measurements with superior results - Horiba Jobin Yvon has introduced the new iHR320 imaging spectrometer. This spectrometer offers a unique combination of spectral quality, flexibility, robustness and ease of use that makes it the ideal general purpose spectrometer for performing spectral measurements with high precision. The iHR320 has a 0.32m focal length and is designed for superb image quality, for spectral measurements and has the capability to perform multi-tracking with up to 20 fibre inputs. Stray light and re-diffracted spectra are reduced to almost zero using an asymmetric Czerny-Turner design in conjunction with our patented on-axis grating drive system. The iHR320 has two entrance and two exit ports available. Each exit port can be configured for use with either an array detector, such as a CCD, or with a slit for use with a PMT. Built from a single-piece cast aluminium housing, the unitis robust for making even the most difficult measurements with unprecedented repeatability.
Networking resource - To make the most of every inch of space of your ARCNET system, Contemporary Controls has published a new ARCNET tutorial and product catalog entitled "ARC Control ARCNET for Control." Whether you're a networking professional or someone who needs to review the technology, this 88-page resource tool will help you to better comprehend the technology and to choose the "correct" product for your application. Get your free copy.
Latest generation of DAQstations offer higher performance, new display and storage capabilities and expanded communications functions - The new DAQstation DXAdvanced Series from Yokogawa are integrated data-acquisition and browsing stations which extend Yokogawa's expertise in paperless recorders by offering exceptional levels of performance, new display and storage capabilities, and expanded communications functions.The two new instruments in the range, The DX1000 and DX2000, offer extended multi-channel acquisition at high sampling speeds and expanded internal memory capacity. Enhanced network functions include powerful Web facilities plus Modbus/TCP and SNTP/DHCP communications, while the inclusion of a USB interface and the AddDataBrowser function from Yokogawa's DAQWORX software suite provides flexible browsing capabilities.
Wireless technology company ranked 92nd in US - Inc. magazine has just released its 24th annual Inc. 500 ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the USA. Industrial wireless technology company, MaxStream, ranks 92nd on the list, with three-year of sales growth amounting to nearly 1000%. MaxStream was recognized for its accelerating growth and innovative technology that serves a wide variety of markets and applications. The Inc. 500 can be found in the November issue.
"All thats cool in instrumentation and control engineering!" - The current issue of ICENewsincludes a variety of announcements of the continuing industry trend of alliances between key suppliers strengthening their relationships. Also included are the usual tidbits on fieldbus, mergers, and useful tools to help you with your work.
Yeast to the mill!... A Memorandum of Understanding that recognises Mitsubishi Electric as its first choice supplier of automation equipment and systems has been signed by Roberts Bakery of Northwich (GB), to support major expansions to its plant now underway. "We've worked with Roberts for many years," says Roger Payne, Divisional Manager for Mitsubishi Electric. "The new agreement refreshes our relationship, putting it on a flexible and responsive footing suitable for today's competitive market. It encompasses not just hardware and software supply, but also other technical and human elements needed to keep a production plant at the forefront of modern technology."
Centralised location to improve pneumatic and electric actuator service throughout Europe - Manufacturing of core pneumatic and electric actuators and associated control products has been centralised at Hoerbiger-Origa's Filderstadt HQ near Stuttgart in Germany. Manufacturing for air-preparation equipment and proportional pressure control valves will continue at the Austrian facility in Wiener Neustadt. A combined senior operational management team has been formed and the sites are harmonising their procedures. Products will be stocked at the central logistics centre in Filderstadt to optimise pan-European deliveries.
New product systems integrator appointed - Tyco Electronics has appointed iCom Technologies of Dublin as a NetConnect Systems Integrator for the AMP NetConnect range of network cabling products. The new appointment - the highest level of business relationship made by Tyco Electronics - means that iCom can not only sell the AMP NETCONNECT range of copper and fibre cabling solutions, but can also work together with approved contractors to implement systems which are then covered by the company's full warranty on installation.
Installation recomendations published - ProfiBus International (PI) is publishing a three-volume manual with installation recommendations for ProfiBus. The trilogy covers planning, cabling, assembly and commissioning of systems, neatly summarising the existing ProfiBus installation guidelines in an easy to read, practical format. Focusing on practical application in the field, the installation recommendations are authored in simple and straightforward language with numerous illustrations.
More on this and other fieldbus news
Time testing Xbox 360 Controllers improved by 50% - National Instruments has announced that Microsoft Corp. selected an NI LabVIEW and PXI-based test solution for its Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system controllers. The virtual instrumentation solution, originally developed in Microsoft's design validation lab, was recently deployed to the production line for the functional test of every Xbox 360 controller.
"National Instruments hardware and software give us both the performance and flexibility that is critical in meeting our time-to-market demands for the upcoming Xbox 360," said Rob Walker, Development Manager, Xbox Accessories. "With an industry-standard platform based on Microsoft Windows, PXI and NI LabVIEW, we developed a high-performance, low-cost test solution that resulted in a 50 percent reduction in our overall test time."
Miniature isolated USB oscillopscope offers up to 8 'snap-in' channels - Elan Digital's new miniature PC oscilloscope, the USBScope50 is a single-channel module but when you snap two or more of the modules together you can make up to 8 channels at will. Elan's proprietary synchronisation system ensures tight Oscilloscope channel-to-channel matching and concurrent triggering. Each module is powered via its USB port. Each USBScope50 module has a BNC connector supporting any standard scope probes.
Industrial affiliation program launched - As part of IMEC's centralized research platform for sub-45nm CMOS technologies, the new IMEC industrial affiliation program (IIAP) on Analog/RF-CMOS for the 45nm era defines its goals to keep conquering the ITRS challenges. The program aims to develop process modules and device architectures to achieve RF CMOS performance at the 45nm node and to provide the necessary models for active and passive devices. The potential of the technology will be assessed through the benchmarking of circuit demonstrators.
Home partnership joined - Ashling Microsystems has joined the Philips Nexperia Home Partner Program. The Nexperia Home Partner Program offers leading ISVs and Integrators a complete set of technical tools and information so that manufacturers of products can be offered complete solutions that include hardware, complete software stacks and support.
Ashling supplies a range of high performance development tools supporting Philips Nexperia Home semiconductor system solutions including the PathFinder Source Debugger and the Vitra, Genia and Opella hardware emulators. Ashling's tools provide non-intrusive run-time control together with real-time code execution and data trace.
Passive component support boosted by new recruit - Abacus ECD, one of the Britain's leading broadline distributors of electronic components, with a portfolio of over 60 semiconductor, electromechanical and passive franchises, have recruited Wendy Bolsover as a northern-based Passive Specialist, working with Account Managers to support customers in identifying solutions to their design challenges and resolving technical, commercial and logistical issues.
Transmitter enhanced by upgrading ATEX approval to FISCO fieldbus compliance - Emerson Process Management has upgraded the Rosemount Analytical 5081 transmitter, to achieve full FISCO intrinsically safe approval for use in potentially hazardous areas. The Model 5081 offers a loop powered display and transmitter, in an IP65 rated housing, suitable for use with all the liquid measurement sensors available from Rosemount Analytical, for monitoring pH/Redox, contacting and inductive conductivity, dissolved oxygen, ozone or chlorine.
FISCO (Fieldbus Intrinsic Safety Concept) compliance enables more power to be made available in each fieldbus segment, allowing the connection of further devices in the hazardous area. The advantage to the plant engineer is a simplified installation and less documentation needed to show the safety of the installation.
Modbus Conformance Test Laboratory opens in China - Modbus-IDA and the Instrumentation Technology & Economy Institute (ITEI) announce the opening of ITEI's Modbus Conformance Test Laboratory in Beijing. As part of its expanding Conformance Test Program, Modbus-IDA is contracting with organizations in locations around the world to offer conformance testing and certification of Modbus devices.
Measure AGA gas flow calculations - SixNet has created AGA-3 orifice plate and AGA-7 turbine meter flow measurement calculations that can be added to any of their IPm RTU controller. This add-on application is ideal for anyone who needs gas flow calculations as part of a flexible SCADA or control application. This is also the perfect solution for any application that needs a flow computer with secure Ethernet or Internet access or any of the many powerful capabilities of the truly open Linux-based IPm product family.
New general manager appointed for Britain and Ireland - Emerson Process Management has announced that Mark Dutton was promoted to General Manager, United Kingdom and Ireland with effect from 1st September 2005. Dutton continues to be based at the company's UK Stockport offices where he was previously Sales Director, Instrumentation. Since joining Emerson in early 1999, Dutton has taken on increasing responsibilities in the UK and Ireland sales organisation. In addition to his Emerson tenure, Dutton was recently President of the U.K. Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society (ISA).
"Building a successful implementation practice in a changing world!" - Pantek has announced that its Certified System Integrator (CSI) Conference and the Wonderware & Microsoft Solution Provider Conference is to be held at Old Trafford, the world famous Manchester United Football Ground, on November 17th 2005.
The Wonderware & Microsoft Solution Provider Conference / Pantek CSI Conference, has been designed and formatted to provide attendees with the opportunity to learn how to improve the overall profitability of their business along with the enhancement of their technical skills. Conference delegates will hear about the latest and best tools and techniques for delivering effective automation and information software solutions, with sessions being focused upon technology or business management.
New brochure revolves around elevation over azimuth positioning solutions - A new 8-page brochure from Aerotech highlights its complete range of gimbals and optical mounts for high-precision elevation over azimuth positioning applications. Aimed at demanding research and manufacturing applications including mirror positioning, beam steering, target/star tracking, inertial gyro calibration and sensor testing, the range includes a choice of drive systems including brushless direct-drive, conventional servomotor or stepper motor drives with geared transmission and manually driven variants.
New offices in Asia to optimize local applications and customer support - Keithley Instruments, a leader in solutions for emerging measurement needs, announced significant expansions of its business presence in southeast Asia with an office expansion in Singapore and the opening of two new office in Malaysia for direct sales and support of its electrical test and measurement solutions.
456 Alexandra Rd
NOL Building #14-02
Singapore, 119962
Phone: +65-6747-9077
Fax: +65-6747-2991
Extensibility language adopted - GE Fanuc Automation has announced plans to adopt Microsoft Visual Studio Tools for Applications as its extensibility language for the company's Proficy suite of production management software applications in future releases. The decision will provide current and future users with powerful extensions to Proficy's capabilities while also helping them to automate the configuration and operation of Proficy-based systems.
 THEY SAID IT
"It is difficult for me to understand how the very concept of 'FDT vs. EDDL' has surfaced since, while complementary, the two
technologies do completely different things. "We're continuing to look at the (61131-3) standard but we believe our approach is better." "As a user, I don't know what they mean by integration." "EDDL will be introduced by Emerson in December. That should be the end of this FDT/DTM nonsense."
Don't miss this incisive commentary on automation every month! |
New visual flow indicators - The new "Rising Ball" and "Spinner" visual flow indicators from Flow-Mon are high quality units suitable for use in any flow or fluid circulation system, whether chemicals, lubrication or cooling fluids. With the Rising Ball unit, the white PTFE ball rises into the reinforced borosilicate glass dome, and is visible when flow exceeds a minimum level. The Spinner has rotating bright yellow spinning indicator, and is suitable for any pipe orientation.
GSM/GPRS modem connects devices to the internet - Westermo Data Communications has released a new GSM/GPRS modem incorporating an enhanced TCP/IP stack that enables remote devices to be connected to the web. Using a fixed public IP address SIM card the GDW-11 modem can provide a direct IP connection to remote devices allowing them to be viewed from anywhere in the world. For increased security a private IP address can be used.
Two new options level sensor - Emerson Process Management has announced availability of a stainless steel housing option and Hastelloy C wetside sensor option for its Mobrey Squing 2 vibrating short-fork level sensor. Both options provide a significant increase in resistance to corrosion and chemical attack for consistent reliable level measurement in aggressive offshore, chemical and petrochemical environments. The stainless steel housing is ATEX Flameproof, FM Explosion-proof and safe area approved, and the Hastelloy sensor is ideal for detection of hostile liquids such as bleaches, chlorines, acids, fluorides and fuel oils.
$99 Five-port industrial Ethernet switch - As a major manufacturer of industrial networking equipment, Contemporary Controls now offers a $99 (ca €75) five-port 10/100 Mbps Industrial Ethernet switch to meet their customers expectations. "We provide value to our customers by offering the Skorpion-5 switch at a very competitive price with an outstanding five-year warranty," says Joe Stasiek, Sales Manager for Contemporary Controls. "The Skorpion-5 has all the features that our customers desire_features that require no operator intervention."
Guide to RF and wireless terminology - Keithley Instruments has
published a free guide to understanding the vocabulary of the wireless industry. "Speaking RF: Wireless Communication Terminology" is a 32-page guide that defines a variety of technical terms and decodes the many acronyms in the RF and wireless industry.
Four-city tour of China - Modbus-IDA and the Instrumentation
Technology & Economy Institute (ITEI) are sponsoring a four-city tour of China. Organized over the summer months, the tour begins in Beijing on October 21, and moves to Chongqing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai, where it completes its circuit on October 28. Eleven worldwide Modbus device suppliers are participating includinginclude Comtrol Corporation, Danfoss Inc., Data-Linc, ECT International, Harting Inc., Hirschmann Gmbh & Co., HMS Industrial Networks AB, Phoenix Digital Corporation, Prosoft Technology Inc., Schneider Electric, and UGS Corp.
High-speed instrument control on the go! - Engineers can now use the National Instruments ExpressCard-GPIB controller for high-speed instrument control on a laptop computer. The new controller is the latest NI product for portable GPIB control, which also includes PCMCIA and USB, and further broadens the company's unparalleled portfolio of instrument control products for the most popular buses and operating systems.
Global preferred vendor agreement - Yokogawa Electric Corporation and Vibration and memory enhancements for shock recorder - Lamerholm Electronics has announced the launch of RD298EO enhanced options packages for its renowned RD298 Shocklog shock recorder. The new upgrades enable users to monitor tri-axial vibration and shock for periods up to one year and new memory management tools offer increased flexibility and ease of use in setting threshold levels. They can be purchased with a new Shocklog or retro-fitted to older units with the correct hardware levels.
Industrial data communications event in England - Westermo Data Communications, is to stage a free-of-charge Industrial Data Communications event focusing on GSM/GPRS, Industrial Ethernet and Wireless Ethernet. The one-day conference, to be held on 1st December 2005 at the Cedar Court Hotel, Wakefield is aimed at OEM’s, system integrators and end users of industrial data communications and will feature a series of technology and application presentations as well as hands on training and practical demonstrations. Places are limited so pre-booking is required.
Managing automation systems - GE Fanuc has just announced the availability of Proficy Change Management Version 5.50, a tool to manage automation systems and protect software and engineering assets. This release provides significant enhancements with a focus on delivering better integration with GE Fanuc products, support for new programs, devices and functionality.
Advanced photo sensors open new doors - New photo sensors and a third-generation photoelectric sensor amplifier family from Carlo Gavazzi are targeting some of the most demanding applications in automatic door and similar applications. The new PE12, PB10 and PB18 ranges of sensor offer ranges up to 15m in compact, highly-integrated housings, including the industry's smallest build-in depth. Complementing these is a range of third-generation photoelectric amplifiers designed for easy installation, set-up and maintenance in harsh environments.
World's first IPv6-ready measuring instrument - The new Datum-y XL100 portable data logger from Yokogawa has a powerful range of communications capabilities, and is the world's first measuring instrument to support the IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6) ready logo. Measuring 155 x 56 x 155 mm and weighing around 800 g, the new instrument is ideally suited to field service and maintenance applications. It features a large TFT-LCD display with a wide viewing angle, and offers up to eight hours of continuous operation from its rechargeable battery. It has a range of serial and parallel communications interfaces including USB, Ethernet, GP-IB, RS-485 and RS-232. It can function as a web server or FTP server or client, and also features an e-mail delivery function.Yokogawa Measurement Technologies is the new identity that has been created for the electronic test & measurement activities of Yokogawa within Europe.
The company has recently restructured its measurement business following the acquisition of Ando Electric Co., Ltd., which has created a major world force in the test & measurement market. The acquisition is the first stage in Yokogawa's plans to become one of the top three test & measurement suppliers in the world by 2008.
MTF vs interferometry a new on-line datasheet - Precision-Optical Engineering (P-OE) has published the latest in its series of on-line Interferometry Technical Datasheets. IF007, "Wavefront Distortion Measurements - MTF vs Interferometry" compares and contrasts the use of dedicated MTF measurement systems and interferometers for testing optical components in the infra-red region of the spectrum. This new datasheet can be downloaded as a PDF file from the Technical Library section on their website.
Quick change artists! - Flow control specialists Bio-Chem Valve and Omnifit now offer manufacturers of scientific and medical equipment a "Quick-Change Customization" service.Beginning with standard, pre-engineered designs and existing tooling, Bio-Chem Valve and Omnifit are able to modify and adapt proven components, such as miniature valves, fittings and assemblies, to create innovative, customised solutions that meet specific design, performance and application objectives.
Materials testers facilitate plywood CE marking - With CE Marking for wood-based panels for construction purposes becoming mandatory in Europe in 2004, it was essential for Malaysia's plywood industry to satisfy the necessary requirements. A number of leading plywood manufacturers in the country have purchased material testing equipment from Lloyd Instruments to allow bending elasticity and bonding strength to be evaluated to the required standards.
Lloyd Instruments' local distributor, Lenny Chiew of Lenniko MTM Systems & Services, said: "A key factor in achieving CE marking is being able to determine the bond quality of veneer plywood by shear testing according to BS EN 314 and determining the modulus of elasticity and bending strength according to BS EN 310. Not only were we able to supply a special jig for the testing, but also the Lloyd Instruments' Nexygen MT materials test and data analysis software and Ondio application builder software ensured that the test could be automated and results presented in the graphical form required by the CE Marking auditor, BM TRADA".
Sophisticated time saving features and security functionality are key performance enhancements to fully integrated solution - GE Fanuc Automation has announced the availability of Proficy Real-Time Information Portal v2.5 providing a web-based solution that integrates on-line and process-based systems with plant-wide connectivity, analysis and visualization components.
Demonstration available - Hitachi High -Technologies has announced that the H-7650 ultra-high sensitivity digital imaging TEM is available for demonstration at its Wokingham Demonstration Unit from September 2005. Demonstrations can be arranged by contacting the Hitachi sales office.
Acquisition of Scottish fluid control company - ProMinent Fluid Controls has become the major shareholder of Proshield. Based in Motherwell, Scotland, Proshield has been a local supplier of ProMinent chemical dosing and water treatment products since 1983. The company also has a significant business as a multi-disciplined manufacturing & engineering contractor and has recently been appointed as one of the Framework suppliers for chemical dosing systems to Scottish Water.
High performance range of spectrophotometer cells - Lambda Advanced Technology has introduced a comprehensive range of high quality sample cells for UV/Vis and Fluorescence spectrophotometers. The cells are available in a wide variety of volumes and path lengths, and conform to international dimensions.
New Intel Pentium M-based CompactPCI single board computer featuring 2 GB dual data rate SDRAM - GE Fanuc Embedded Systems has introduced the CPCI-7808, a single slot CompactPCI single board computer (SBC) that offers low power consumption via Intel's Pentium M and Celeron M processors, while still delivering the high performance and reliability required for demanding embedded computing applications. The CPCI-7808 features a 400MHz system bus and incorporates Intel's 855GME graphics memory controller with up to 2GB Dual Data Rate (DDR) SDRAM, as well as a 1.4GHz Pentium M option for the most power sensitive applications.
Fieldbus end user council event in Prague - The Fieldbus Foundation is holding an End User Council (EUC) meeting in the heart of the Czech Republic at the Top Hotel, Prague, on October 18th 2005. The event is the first of the Autumn 2005 series of end user events coordinated by the Fieldbus Foundation's Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Steering Committee, and follows the successful EUC event held last year in Budapest, Hungary.
Applying digital technology to expand automation of the Broom Offshore Development in the UK north sea - PlantWeb architecture with DeltaV system from Emerson helps integrate expanded platform automation and deliver information for efficient operations. Emerson Process Management has supplied PlantWeb digital automation architecture with the DeltaV system and Foundation Fieldbus (FF) communications technology to expand automation of the Broom development, an oil field located in the North Sea and operated as a subsea tie-back to the Heather Alpha platform, 7km east of Broom, northeast of the Shetland Islands (GB). PlantWeb architecture is a digital automation approach using communications technology like FF on Heather to collect actionable diagnostics and process information from field devices and distribute the information to operations, maintenance and management.
Quality first in Europe - Yokogawa, has gained a much sought after ISO/TS 29001quality certificate, issued by Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, one of the first in Europe. Joey Dreier Gligoor, Manager QHSE, MIS & Facilities at Yokogawa System Center Europe BV (NL) says: "The ISO/TS 29001 quality certificate gives Yokogawa a competitive advantage because the certificate is not well spread among our competitors but is recognized by our customers as very important. Besides this, it proves the added value Yokogawa can deliver and is able to comply
with the high standards within the industry".
Coveted AMEC Award announced - Curvaceous Software, inventors of Geometric Process Control technology, are this year's proud winners of the AMEC Award for Innovation and Excellence in an SME. The Institution of Chemical Engineers presented the award at their annual awards ceremony.
The Award is given annually to the small business that is deemed to have
produced an outstanding technical invention. Curvaceous's Geometric Process Control (GPC) entry impressed the judges by the originality of its approach to long unsolved problems, its invention and implementation of wholly new technology and its successful business application. Over 85 major blue-chip companies are already using GPC to reduce variable operating costs, to increase efficiency and throughput and reduce variability in their product quality. Users are gaining additional benefit from GPC's impact in improving process safety, reducing
environmental damage and saving engineering time.
Order to upgrade power plant in Kuwait - ABB has won a $60million contract from the government of Kuwait to refurbish a steam power plant and help meet increasing demand for reliable supplies of power and water.
ABB support the Signpost with an advertisement on our home page
Smaller, lighter, faster, tougher motor encoders - Zettlex has released a new form of its patented inductive sensor technology. The 'ME' (Motor Encoder) series is aimed at high speed, high precision rotary position measurement. The main application area is high speed encoders for motor winding commutation and motion control. A typical specification for a 22mm diameter unit is 17 bit resolution and speeds up to 20,000 rpm. Other sizes and speeds are possible with the larger diameter versions offering even higher resolutions. Absolute and incremental versions are also available.
More information from Mark Howard
Gaskets provide optimised panel mounting for industrial connector housings Harting has introduced a new range of gaskets for mounting the company's Han B range of industrial connector housings to a panel with reliable
sealing to IP65.
New high durability sensor is reliable in shock environments Penny + Giles has launched a new rotary position sensor. SRH280 uses proven, non-contact Hall effect technology to provide OEMs with reliable and accurate rotary measurement in extreme industrial environments. Unlike potentiometer sensors, the SRH280 can operate in high dither vibration conditions with no deterioration of the sensing element due to the non-contacting operating principle. It is therefore an attractive alternative for applications such as position monitoring of valve, steering and throttle positions on industrial machinery and vehicles.
Industry's first 'closed loop' business performance system for the service industry - Geac, the enterprise software company, is using SME (Service Management Europe (SME) 4-6th October, Birmingham GB) to unveil BlueStream, the first integrated enterprise system to meet the diverse needs of service businesses. Unlike the multitude of point solutions available which are geared to operational efficiency, BlueStream accesses multiple data sources to provide control and feedback on both the operational and financial performance of a service business. BlueStream is also designed to help increase profitability, help plan and execute effectively; ensure compliance; and gain competitive advantage. It has been developed for equipment and facilities service companies that configure, sell, supply, install, maintain or repair equipment used by other businesses.
Co-operation enhances smart cards - Ashling Microsystems, in co-operation with Sharp Laboratories of Europe, announces development support for the new 32-bit SmartMIPS computing platform from Sharp. The new platform is based on the SmartMIPS architecture from MIPS Technology International, and offers enhanced memory and security features for high volume multi-application Smart Cards.
New tools combine to save engineers time and system setup costs - National Instruments has just launched the latest version of NI-DAQmx, its powerful data acquisition (DAQ) driver software and the core of its measurement services software shipped with each piece of NI multifunction DAQ hardware. With NI-DAQmx 8 driver software, engineers using all NI-DAQmx hardware including new PCI Express and USB DAQ devices can take advantage of the powerful upgrades in the NI LabVIEW 8 graphical platform for design, control and test.
ISA releases comprehensive catalogues of upcoming training events - ISA has released its latest education and training course catalogue, divided into three training paths: fundamental skills, continuing education for automation professionals, and technical skills training. The catalogue includes the October 2005 - June 2006 schedule of instructor-led courses and live web-based seminars, including those offered at ISA EXPO 2005 in Chicago, US. The catalogue also details hundreds of CD-ROM, online, web-based, and video courses available.
Introduction to real-time ethernet motion control - Baldor has published a guide to the use of Ethernet in real-time motion and machinery control applications. The free 28-page document is designed for automation engineers and managers, and introduces the technology in a way that contrasts the control approach with conventional system architectures.
The guide is free on request by emailing sales@baldor.co.uk
Transmitter supports up to eight 350-Ohm load-cell transducers, features A/D conversion of over 8 million counts and 0.5-Hz to 300-Hz conversion speed with 0.015% accuracy - Vishay Intertechnology has introduced of the Vishay Nobel WST 3 load cell output converter. The high-performance WST 3, with Profibus DP communication and DIN-rail mounting, provides a convenient weighing solution for food processing and chemicals applications. The WST 3 integrates easily into an instrument control panel to provide local weight or force indications, with set-up and calibration via the front panel.
Recorders offer zero-maintenance solution for nuclear power station - Engineers at British Energy's Hunterston B nuclear power station have standardised on Yokogawa's DX range of paperless recorders as their main control-room recording instruments. The station now has 50 units: a mixture of the 6-channel DX106 and 30-channel DX230 versions. The engineering team selected the Yokogawa recorders after an extensive study into alternatives for traditional paper recorders. 'Basically, we were looking for a zero maintenance solution', says a Hunterston systems engineer, 'which meant going down the paperless route and also avoiding things like touch screens, which can be easily damaged.' These recorders have certainly met this requirement, with not a single failure in the three years since the first unit was installed.
Major release features streamlined distributed system development - National Instruments has just announced LabVIEW 8, a major upgrade to the LabVIEW graphical development platform that improves the productivity of engineers and scientists in design, control and test. This upgrade introduces distributed intelligence a powerful suite of new capabilities for engineers and scientists to easily design, distribute and synchronise intelligent devices and systems. LabVIEW 8 also features a new project-based environment for developing and managing large-scale applications as well as the latest in Express technology for simplified instrument control.
This release also includes significant updates to the LabVIEW Real-Time Module, LabVIEW FPGA Module, LabVIEW PDA Module and LabVIEW Datalogging and Supervisory Control Module.
Radar level gauge overcomes turbulance at plastic manufacturer - Following successful trials which demonstrated a marked improvement in production efficiency, industrial plastics manufacturer Schwartz GmbH has chosen to install two Krohne Optiwave radar level gauges. Based on the performance of these two, the company has since placed orders for additional instruments.
Schwartz, which is based in Germany, is one of Europe's leading manufacturers of plastic components which are used in industry worldwide. Through using these instruments instruments the company has significantly improved level measurement accuracy of raw material which is kept agitated in containers prior to processing.
Two new, handheld insulation testers added to range - Fluke, the world leader in compact professional tools, has added two compact, reliable and cost-effective insulation testers with 600V CAT IV safety ratings to its line of electrical test instruments. The new, rugged Fluke 1503 and 1507 digital insulation testers deliver multiple test voltages and offer new features designed for ease of operation by electricians and technicians for a wide range of electrical installation, troubleshooting, commissioning and preventive maintenance applications.
Starter kit speeds motor control design - Abacus Polar is addressing growing interest in the development of efficient control circuits for brushless DC motors with the launch of a Starter Kit containing a complete, ready to use, motor control application, as well as the tools required to create a custom control application. It is based on the STMicroelectronics ST7FMC microcontroller, a device targeted at this kind of application, featuring a built-in, dedicated motor control peripheral. This peripheral is particularly suited to drive brushless motors (either induction or permanent magnet types). The Starter Kit supports designers in developing real-world motor control applications based on this device.
New control system provides robust performance and operation with powerful features - GE Fanuc Automation has announced the availability of the VersaMax Micro 64 control system. The unit's design and construction provide robust performance and operation that minimize support costs."The VersaMax Micro 64 provides a complete flexible and scaleable automation solution with a wide range of I/O expansion modules and a variety of communications options including Ethernet," said Bill Black, GE Fanuc Controllers Product Manager. "It is ideal for a wide range of packaging, assembly and SCADA applications that require performance at an affordable price."
Level instrumentation offering adds point level switches - Emerson Process Management has added point level switches to the Rosemount level instrumentation products. The new Rosemount 2110 and 2120 level switches are based on vibrating short fork technology, which is suitable for virtually all liquid applications. Their comprehensive features and high reliability make these level switches especially effective in helping process industries improve their bottom line. "The Rosemount 2110 and 2120 are important new products in the expanding line of Rosemount level instrumentation", says Anna Olander, product manager at Emerson: "Our customers will now be able to select state-of-the-art liquid level switch technology from Emerson. This means we can offer more alternatives when engineering the best level instrumentation solution for each application."
Announcing the launch and support of the Sensors Forum at leading British show - Trident Exhibitions is including the Sensors Forum at 
Mtec Sensors, Measurement and Instrumentation which will take place at the NEC, Birmingham (GB) on 15th & 16th February 200, as a series of free workshops.
Sponsored by the DTI the Sensors Forum aims to facilitate and encourage the flow of knowledge and experience between researchers and UK industry. The free workshops will be held on the second day of Mtec 2006 (Thursday 16th February)
As in previous years it is our intention to include a review of this show on the signpost. See the 2005 Show and links to previous reviews. We welcome releases from companies who are exhibiting.
New module offers functionality of four modules in one resulting In less rack space, spare parts and wiring - GE Fanuc Automation is introducing the new PACSystems RX3i Universal Analog Input module which offers the functionality of four modules in one, reducing I/O module space requirements, decreasing the number of spare parts and inventory, and simplifying wiring and configuration.
Digital jitter meter with new features for optical disc measurements - Yokogawa has introduced a new version of its TA220 digital jitter meter with new features designed to aid adjustment and inspection in production-line testing of the next generation of Blu-ray high-density optical discs. New functions incorporated as standard include a data-to-clock high-speed calculation mode, in which the measurement result can be refreshed every 2 ms when measuring the data-to-clock jitter, compared with the normal refresh rate of 50 ms at a gate time of 30ms.
Sensors researcher goews into space -
Fare-paying "space tourist" Gregory Olsen has blasted off on a Russian Soyuz rocket bound for the International Space Station. His rocket streaked into the clear blue sky at Kazakhstan's Baikonur launch site. The US businessman and scientist is taking a 10-day trip to the ISS. Mr Olsen, 60, is the chief executive of New Jersey-based research firm Sensors Unlimited. The company develops and produces high-sensitivity film and photo cameras and works with the US space agency, Nasa. (BBC news item)
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