Instrumentation & Automation News articles from January 2004

Instrumentation & Automation News archives from January 2004

Industrial PC.
January 1, 2004... The WAGO-I/O-IPC 785 Series Industrial PC integrates all standard PC functions, including networking and fieldbus interfaces, to seamlessly tie the industrial/process automation and IT worlds together. Decentralized control, sub-networking with...

Motor contactors.
January 1, 2004... AutomationDirect is partnering with Fuiji Electric to carry Fuiji's DUO series line of motor contactors, overload relays, and manual motor starters as well as their Odyssey line of large contactors and overloads. The new offering will provide...

Signal conditioner.
January 1, 2004... The PGA309 is a "smart" programmable analog signal conditioner designed for pressure bridge sensors. The analog signal path amplifies the sensor signal and provides digital calibration for zero, span, zero drift, span drift, and linearization...

Wireless transceivers.
January 1, 2004... The XE900S family of wireless transceivers offers system designer options in choosing communications range, power consumption, and module size. All three models are complete smart transceivers including an embedded communications controller and...

A year later: FDT delivers on its promise.(Pool's Reflections)
January 1, 2004... Cutting-edge technology is the fun stuff. Many of you rely on a combination of cutting-edge technology and tried-and-true automation technology to keep your operations running. I have the fun job of bringing to you every month a combination of...

Liquid level transmitter: with teflon-coated sensor.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Model WW517 is a 316L liquid level transmitter with a 30 diameter opened faced teflon-coated sensor. It's designed for instances when the media is 'chunky'. Large particles can plug standard submesible transmitters, causing the sensor to...

Frame grabber: for high-speed analog cameras.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The MVS-8501 frame grabber is designed for the next generation of high-speed analog cameras that use the latest progressive scan CCD sensor technology. The MVS-8501 joins the high-performance MVS-8500 Series, which also includes the...

Compact PLC series: board-type unit.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The TC7 Series of PLCs is compact, multi-functional, and economically priced. A board-type PLC, the TC7 is available in models as small as 90 x 60 mm, and is easily configured into a variety of equipment. Thermistor inputs, (two inputs come...

Electronics enclosures: for robust handheld designs.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The ABP 2070 ALUBOS enclosures offer custom sizing options for robust handheld designs or small instrumentation devices. ALUBOS is a system of aluminum extrusions in 3 versions (closed, split profile and "U" shaped) with die-cast end caps....

Temperature/process controllers: integrated control of multiple zones or environmental factors.(Temperature Measurement & Control)
January 1, 2004... The E5AR 1/4 DIN and E5ER 1/8 DIN temperature/process controllers allow for integrated control of multiple zones or environmental factors such as temperature, pressure and humidity. A fast sampling response time of 50 msec provides control for...

Temperature sensors: longer wire lengths without lead extensions.(Temperature Measurement & Control)
January 1, 2004... Two new leaded platinum temperature sensors, the FK 422.4 and the FK 310, both feature solderable tape-shaped connection leads in a variety of available lead lengths. The key to these improvements is a new connection technology based on the...

Temperature transducers: HART compatible; for intrinsically safe applications.(Temperature Measurement & Control)
January 1, 2004... This family of loop powered MCR temperature transducers converts temperature signals from RTDs, thermocouples, potentiometers and sensors with linear mV characteristic curves into 4-20 mA analog signals. They are available with HART...

Temperature transmitters: 5 new models configure via a PC.(Temperature Measurement & Control)
January 1, 2004... Five new temperature transmitters have joined this company's line of transmitters. Two models feature narrow-profile DIN rail-mounting, allowing several modules to be stacked in a small space. Model 9100D is HART-compatible and Model 7600D is...

RTD input signal conditioner: field configurable; TouchCAL[TM] technology.(Temperature Measurement & Control)
January 1, 2004... The WV Series, Model WV418, RTD Input Signal Conditioner is a high density, field configurable, DIN rail mount device that accepts RTD inputs and provides an analog output of either voltage or current that is proportional to the input signal...

Measuring light curtains: profile object size and shape.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Infrascan line of self-contained measuring light curtains can be used to profile the size and shape of objects. These precision detection and measuring devices offer resolutions from 1.25 to 50 mm and measuring distance ranges of more than...

Thin client server: 300 MHz Geode processor.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Microbox-5824-ACP is a thin client that has a 300 MHz Geode processor, and comes standard with four serial ports. The compact design is smaller in size than a standard office telephone. The secure, screw-in power supply connector assures...

Data collection software: works with an Ethernet-based PLC.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... DataWorx software is an Ethernet-based PLC data collection and storage software package that works with a full line of PLCs. It connects Ethernet-enabled DirectLogic PLCs or WinPLCs to stand-alone PCs or network servers for simple data logging....

Network linking device: high-speed Ethernet.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The FBUS-HSE/H1 Fieldbus high-speed Ethernet linking device allows industrial engineers to extend plant-wide control applications to include Ethernet capabilities. Using the linking device, engineers can fully integrate sensor, process,...

Magnetic safety switches: safety gate monitoring solution.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The non-contact, magnetic safety switch PSEN 1.1, used in conjunction with electromechanical evaluation devices, represents a new complete solution. Position and safety gate monitoring is also possible in conjunction with safety relays from the...

Temperature measurement: three non-contact methods.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... Three versatile methods for OEMs to build non-contact temperature measurement into nearly any industrial system design are available. The Compact Series MID and CI model temperature sensors and the Thermalert Series TX model sensor replace...

Pushbuttons: wide variety of colors.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... Designed to meet the demanding performance, durability, and safety requirements of most manufacturing applications, the new Allen-Bradley Bulletin 800F pushbutton line offers reliability and protection in a flexible, easy-to-install design....

Electrical test system: insulation resistance/signal routing.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Model 2790-A SourceMeter Airbag Inflator DC Electrical Test System is a commercially available test system that combines all the sourcing, measurement, and signal routing capabilities required for insulation resistance and conductor...

Interactive ups: ultra-slim design.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The new S3K2U is an ultra-slim line-interactive UPS. Available with power ratings of 1000, 1440 and 2200 VA, the S3K2U is built for networking or process control racks, where reliable protection against severe power disturbances is needed...

Data acquisition recorder: real-time 5.7" color touch-screen display.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The Dash 2EZ data acquisition recorder offers a hand-held design. 5.7" color real-time display for waveform viewing and touch-screen control Compact Flash memory, and an integral 3" thermal printer for printing real-time and captured data. The...

Data logger: incorporates into OEM products easily.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The HOBO OEM is a four-channel data logger for measuring and recording temperature, humidity, and other parameters. Designed for integration into a broad range of OEM products, the HOBO OEM can be used in applications ranging from water systems...

Data logging system: simplifies compressed air surveys.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The HLP-10 HyperLogger[TM] PowerPlus[TM] is a self-contained instrument that measures both the power consumption of a compressed air system and the resulting output to provide a simplified compressed air survey. Using the instrument simplifies...

Data logger package: combination data acquisition hardware and data logging software.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The combination VI logger and E Series data acquisition devices delivers a low-cost measurement solution for a wide range of temperature, strain, pressure and voltage measurements. VI Logger is a menu-driven data logging software package that...

Paperless recorder: up to 6 analog inputs; Ethernet connectivity.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The eZtrend paperless recorder offers a 5" color display with simple to understand bar charts, digital values and trends that make it easy to interpret process data and take action. The operator interface provides easy access to the recorder...

Trends in recorders and data acquisition.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... The shift from paper recorders to electronic paperless data recording has intensified supplier and user awareness of data security, operator accessability and data archiving. Electronic data provides tremendous flexibility and power to the user...

Paperless data acquisition system: maximum of 999 total points.(Recorders & Data Loggers)
January 1, 2004... SmartView180 paperless data acquisition system can accept up to 80 direct process signals with the added capacity of configuring and displaying calculated point for a maximum of 999 total points. Process signals include dc voltage, dc current,...

Ultrasonic sensors: for both distance measurement and object detection.(Sensors Product News)
January 1, 2004... The UA Series ultrasonic sensors consists of both M18 and M30 housings and are suited for both distance measurement and object detection. Suited for sensing transparent objects, the sensors are available in analog output types for applications...

Proximity sensors: for sensing ferrous metal components.(Sensor Product News)
January 1, 2004... The PRX+4000 series of steel proximity sensors provides a ready-to-install proximity sensor in applications where the position of a ferrous metal component or ancillary part must be monitored to insure operator safety and productivity, The...

Ultrasonic sensor: microprocessor programming flexibility.(Proximity Sensors)
January 1, 2004... The S18U Series compact ultrasonic sensors feature an advanced microprocessor design, push-button programming and bright diagnostic LEDs located on the sensor housing. Set up takes seconds and the ultrasonic beam is individually adjusted at the...

Proximity sensors: provide a highly linear, accurate continuous feedback signal.(Proximity Sensors)
January 1, 2004... Using Ultralinear[TM] analog prox technology, developed by this company, these proximity sensors combine the prox sensor toughness with a highly linear analog feedback signal, without an external switching device, that is proportional to target...

Trends in proximity sensors.(Proximity Sensors)
January 1, 2004... The proximity sensor technology has been in a continuing state of change over last few years as the market looks for more intelligent sensing devices. A specific trend is getting exact feedback from the sensor as it relates to the target it is...

Part-seated monitor: detects gap distance as small as 0.02 mm.(Proximity Sensors)
January 1, 2004... PS Series part-seated monitor continuously monitors nozzle-to-part distance in applications such as gap detection, work-piece positioning, part present and part distance measurement. Operating on less than 17 psi of supply pressure, the...

Inductive analog sensors: selection of housing styles and functions.(Proximity Sensors)
January 1, 2004... This company is offering an expanded line of inductive analog sensors. The major cylindrical styles (12mm, 18mm, 30mm) are now available with an extended linear sensing range that is up to 100% longer. The series is called analog+. The...

Non-contact level sensors: ultrasonic or radar technology.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... A new line of non-contact level sensors uses either ultrasonic or radar technology. The U Series Ultrasonic Sensors provide continuous level measurement in a range of 0.49 to 909, for a variety of liquids and solids, including foods and...

Solid state relays: with integrated heat sink.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... RJ Series Solitrons are suited to replace electro-mechanical contactors in high switching frequency applications. The Solitrons feature an integral heat sink, and they can be snapped onto DIN-rail or mounted to a back chassis. Other standard...

Flowmeters: install in fluid streams.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... Series 2000 flowmeters install directly in the fluid stream and present flow values on a large, direct-reading dial. The economically priced models measure flows from a few gallons per hour up to 30 GPM. Orange Research Inc. 140...

Basic switches: environmentally sealed.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... SE and XE Series environment-sealed basic switches, both low-cost, high value sensing solutions, are designed for use in applications where the switch must withstand a variety of environmental conditions such as non-pressurized aircraft...

Wireless add-on: high-performance. Low-cost applications.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... A line of low-cost Saver products features the new PressureSaver line. Designed as a solution for applications where performance is a concern but tight budget parameters are a requisite, the PressureSaver is an add-on to wired measurement...

Speed sensor: for DeviceNet applications.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The SpeedTalker DN Sensor is a DeviceNet-enabled speed sensor with speed switch functionality. Enclosed in a rugged, explosion-proof housing, the sensor is designed to operate in demanding, hazardous, and industrial environments. It conforms to...

Load cells: for high capacity needs.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The High Capacity Series of load cells is engineered to provide accuracy and high moment resistance. The load cells use a proprietary strain gage for temperature compensation, high output, and circuit efficiency. The units are tested for moment...

Pressure transducer: thin-film technology.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Model 530 high performance pressure transducer uses sputtered thin-film strain gauge technology. Designed to withstand the extremes of high temperature and high pressures up to 10,000 psi, it is suitable for hydraulic press, load weighing,...

Operator terminal: programmable dimming of the display backlight.(Operator Interfaces & Workstations)
January 1, 2004... The CIMREX series of operator terminals now includes the CIMREX 12 compact operator terminal that features a programmable dimming of the display backlight which allows 0-100% dimming for optimal viewing in all conditions, especially relevant...

Graphics terminal: now with Power-over-Ethernet (IEEE 802.3af) technology.(Operator Interfaces & Workstations)
January 1, 2004... The QTERM-G70 graphics terminal is now offered with an emerging technology called Power-over-Ethernet (IEEE 802.3af.) This technology combines power and data on the same CAT5 Ethernet cable, allowing users to replace older proprietary power...

Touch screen operator interface: starts at $495; 10BaseT Ethernet.(Operator Interfaces & Workstations)
January 1, 2004... The Silver Series touch screen operator interfaces is available in 6", 8" and 10" models and have 10BaseT Ethernet, compact flash interface, real-time clock and printer connectivity. The Series employs the Intel X-Scale[R] 200 MHz processor...

Trends in operator interfaces.(Operator Interfaces & Workstations)
January 1, 2004... "The past two years have brought rapid changes for operator interfaces, and that trend is likely to persist as the pace of technology accelerates. Dedicated HMIs will continue to move beyond typical push-button and indicator functions to take...

Industrial flat panel monitors: now with Near Field Imaging technology.(Operator Interfaces & Workstations)
January 1, 2004... This company's line of industrial flat panel monitors is now available with Near Field Imaging (NFI) touch screen technology components from 3M/Dynapro. This includes all bezel configurations and the Class Division 2 related products. Available...

The ACH550 AC drive line uses an all-new control panel similar in feel to a mobile phone.(January Automation Excellence Awards)
January 1, 2004... The all-new 1-500 hp ACH550 AC drive line was designed with ease of use and installation as design criteria. The line uses an all-new control panel with the look and feel of a mobile phone and features two soft keys, the functions of which...

Pico GFX[TM] controller offers a simple control with HMI functionality.(January Automation Excellence Awards)
January 1, 2004... The Pico GFX[TM] controller displays text, date, time, and even your custom bitmaps. These graphics can be used as an operator interface, or linked to control operations to provide real-time feedback. The controller offers an IP65 display to...

Two companies cooperate to deliver new material transfer control solution.(January Automation Excellence Awards)
January 1, 2004... An new material transfer control solution is being offered that combines Proctor & Gamble's (P&G) predictive adaptive control (PAC) technology with the Mettler-Toledo material transfer controller (matroller). Known as Q.i., this software and...

Rotary position sensors: angles up to 354 degrees.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The GL Series of hollow-shaft rotary position sensors has standard bore sizes of 6, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mm. Other bore sizes are also available. The sensors are developed for accurate measurement with standard electrical function angles up...

Gas risk system: Web server monitoring.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... The Sentry Gas Risk Management System offers digital communication from the sensors to the controller. It also offers Modbus serial communication to other devices. In addition, it offers an addressable output module for remote indication...

Digital camera: intrinsically safe.(Product News)
January 1, 2004... Robust housing and high IP rating make this intrinsically safe digital camera (3.2 Mio Pixel, 4x digital zoom) suitable for use in the hazardous (classified) location. The 20 built-in TFT display shows the resolution, number of remaining...