Instrumentation & Automation News articles from November 2003

Instrumentation & Automation News archives from November 2003

Pressure controllers.
November 1, 2003... Series 7252 Dual Output Digital Pressure Controllers are designed for test and calibration of pressure sensors, transducers, gauges and other pressure instruments. They incorporate two quartz pressure sensors, each with it's own control output,...

Intelligent Network Conduit.
November 1, 2003... Intelligent Network Conduit[TM] enables industrial Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) to directly communicate with enterprise databases and software applications across an Ethernet network without disruptive installation. It delivers data...

Corrosion sensor.
November 1, 2003... This corrosion sensor offers real-time representation of general corrosion or localized corrosion (pitting). A scalable 4-20 mA signal provides instantaneous updates for monitoring the deterioration of a pipe or vessel, as well as the...

Watertight RTD.
November 1, 2003... Easytemp[R] TSM 470 watertight RTD with integral transmitter consists of a 4-wire Pt100 Class A sensor, available in several different lengths, and a built-in 4-20 mA transmitter. All process wetted parts are constructed of stainless steel....

Astro-Med[R], Inc.(Solutions In Instrumentation, Automation & Control 2003)
November 1, 2003... Astro-Med, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of graphic recorders and data acquisition instrumentation systems, life sciences instrumentation, and label printing systems tot cross-industrial, inter-global applications. Founded in 1969 with a core...

Shifting gears in R&D.(Pool's Reflections)
November 1, 2003... Well, it's time for the folks in Washington, DC to decide on how to spend our tax dollars for 2004. Aside from my selfish personal concern as to where my tax dollars are going to be allocated, I'm concerned about where tax dollars are going for...

Ethernet modem: access to entire Ethernet network.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... This Dial-in Ethernet modern expands remote connectivity to control systems beyond that of a standard serial modern by enabling access to an entire Ethernet network, rather than a single device. It allows engineers to remotely diagnose...

Flow meter: oil field and offshore uses.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Blancett Model 1100 Turbine Flow Meter and corresponding repair kits are directly compatible with other turbine meters, particularly in the oil industry. The unit is specifically designed to with stand severe environments found in oil-field...

Stainless steel enclosures: tempered glass window kits.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A line of stainless steel enclosures is available with stainless steel window kits. These rugged, tempered plate glass window kits are suitable for use in Increased Safety Terminal Enclosures and general purpose NEMA Type 4, 4X, 12, and 13...

Pneumatic valve: three-way operation.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The FBV-3 is a new valve in the Minimatic line of pneumatic components. The fill-and-bleed toggle valve has two poppet valves connected to a single outlet. The operation is similar to a three-way, three-position, center-blocked valve. It offers...

Humidity calibration system: calibrates a variety of humidity sensors, transmitters and instruments.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... The Humilab[TM] line of NIST traceable humidity generators and chambers provides the ability to verify, calibrate and document humidity sensors used in applications in automotive, plastics, chemical, food and pharmaceutical processing and...

Eddy current instrument: designed for component test in production lines; menu-driven.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... The InSite-HT eddy current instrument is ready for basic bench-top or complex, multi-station inline inspection that verifies correct component structure, including: heat treatment, case depth and material mix. Its easy-to-use controls, coupled...

PXI controller card: enhances compatibility with National Instruments test executives in functional test.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... This PXI controller card integrates the ScanWorks boundary-scan test and programming environment into PXI-based test platforms used extensively in functional test operations. In addition a Four-Tap Burlier Pod, which works with both the new PXI...

Precision multi-channel measurements are essential for efficient production.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... The need for precise, repeatable multi-channel electrical measurements is growing along with manufacturing and process control complexity. Using high precision instrumentation ensures operators that unexpected measurement results are caused by...

Flow Transfer Standard: in-line calibration of volumetric and mass flowmeters.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... This Flow Transfer Standard (FTS) is intended for in-line calibration and proving of all principal types of flowmeters and flow metering systems using the actual process gas or liquid. It features the capability of measuring and correcting...

AC/DC milliamp clamp meter: measures current levels more than 10X lower than traditional sized meters.(Test & Measurement, Calibration Equipment)
November 1, 2003... Model 316 portable, battery-powered AC/DC milliamp clamp meter measures current levels more than ten times lower than traditional sized meters, which can only measure current levels down to around five amps, says the company. Designed for...

Embedded code generator: speeds development of complex embedded systems.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... The Embedded Target for OSEK/VDX[R] and Embedded Target for Motorola[R] HC12 are based on this company's Real-Time Workshop[R] Embedded Coder platform and enable software engineers to speed tip the development of complex embedded systems. These...

Single board computer: embedded applications requiring multimedia capability and data processing.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... The ECM-5710 is a powerful 5.25" single board computer aimed at embedded applications requiring dynamic multimedia and data processing capability in a small footprint. Utilizing an Intel Pentium 4/Celeron processor (not included) and SiS 651...

Single board computer: Ethernet connectivity with IEEE 488/GPIB controller.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... The SBC488E single board computer (SBC) features Ethernet connectivity together with a IEEE 488/GPIB controller to satisfy the demand for network-enabled instruments. The board, which packs a TCP/IP stack, is a swap-in replacement for this...

Trends in embedded control.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... One of the popular approaches to implementing complex, high-performance embedded systems today is to utilize a standard bus architecture with a single-board computer, specialized I/O in a single unit, and a real-time standard operating system....

Single board computer: taylored for embedded network applications.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... The MLB-7910 single board computer is specifically designed for critical 24/7 network requirements with a Pentium 4 CPU and five LAN ports on board. The embedded board incorporates a socket 478 Intel Pentium 4 processor with 400 MHz system bus...

PC motherboard: with Watchdog, power and compact flash.(Embedded Control)
November 1, 2003... Thin Client adapts a Mini-ITX motherboard into a flexible computer platform for embedded engineers and OEMs. It operates like a desktop PC with multimedia, operating system and device support, while also providing a power supply, memory options...

All wound up: Ira Griffin paper sizing machine uses new automation technology.
November 1, 2003... In the making of textiles, fiber material is turned into yarn that is then woven into cloth. Ira Griffin Sons, Inc., Charlotte, North Carolina, makes sizing machines that combine fiber ends and apply a chemical to protect the fiber and yarn...

Designing new sensors, one application at a time.
November 1, 2003... As a solutions company, we provide more than just sensor products. Decades of application engineering provide the perspective and experience to quickly prototype, build and deliver your selection of quality level flow and pressure sensor...

Vision sensor: image acquisition as fast as 1.4 msec.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... The F210 vision sensor combines image acquisition as fast as 1.4 msec with advanced measurement algorithms for measurement and inspection applications. It can perform measurement cycles as fast as 3 msec when used with this company's F160-S2...

Machine vision software: now features enhanced OCR, RS14 bar code and self-learning capabilities.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... Sherlock 6.3 is the newest version of this company's Windows[R]-based "point-and-click" software that simplifies machine vision application development. It includes features such as OCRplus and SmartInspect capabilities, as well as support for...

Machine vision system: integrates Camera Link[TM] open standard.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... IMPACT CL[TM] is a new extension of the IMPACT[TM] machine vision micro-system product line that provides connectivity to digital cameras from all major camera suppliers. IMPACT CL combines machine vision micro-system technology with Camera...

Trends in vision sensors: machine vision in process control.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... Machine vision is increasingly being relied upon as a source of process control data in real-time control applications. In the past, for example, a bottler may have used a vision system downstream from a labeler simply to identify product with...

Machine vision system: brings IEEE 1394 Fire Wire connectivity into rugged applications.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... The CVS-1454 compact machine vision system handles multiple camera inputs in a small form factor. It features three IEEE 1394 (FireWire) ports for connectivity to a variety of imaging sensors including Sony and Basler cameras. Developers can...

Infrared camera: ruggedized enclosure; weighs under 120 grams.(Vision/Imaging Sensors)
November 1, 2003... The Omega thermal imaging camera measures 1.35" x 1.45" x 1.90" and is housed in a ruggedized enclosure for stand-alone IR imaging applications or as an OEM core where weight, space and power are important characteristics. Thermal resolution is...

Terminal blocks: ratings increased to 20A, 600V for all industrial environments.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... The X-COM (769 Series) family of terminal blocks is now recognized for 20A, 600V. The increased ratings make this "plug and play" series available for use in all industrial environments. In applications where maximum voltage and current is key,...

IDC connector: for sensors, actuator boxes; IP67 rating.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... HARAX[R] detachable insulation displacement connector system, for heavy industrial use, combines the advantages of connectors and threaded cable glands in a single technology. Easy termination is accomplished by removing the cable insulation,...

Fieldbus connector: with spring technology.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... These Profibus and CANbus series fieldbus connectors now offer a cage clamp connection. The connector contains a latching spring clip, which makes for quick connections. Open the clip, insert the wire or stranded core, and close the clip. A...

Trends in connectors.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... The industrial, rectangular connector has been around for over 50 years and remains the mainstay for power and signal interface from control enclosure to machine and from machine module to machine module. Customer needs for greater versatility...

Fieldbus plug connectors: for harsh environments; IP67.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... The Variosub family of fieldbus plug connectors for harsh environments includes connectors for Interbus, Profibus and CANopen systems. To provide protection against dirt and moisture, these D-sub plug connectors meet protection category IP67....

M16 connector: with molded plug body.(Connectors, Wire, Cable & Terminal Blocks)
November 1, 2003... The 12-, 14-and 19-pin M16 multifast[R] threaded connector comes with a small molded body and can be used for power and signals to factory automation equipment in the automotive, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and material handling...

TURCK changes the shape of sensing.(Solutions In Instrumentation, Automation & Control 2003)
November 1, 2003... Proximity sensor shapes are evolving to better meet the customer's process. With automation equipment becoming increasingly smaller and space at a greater premium, innovative proximity sensor manufacturers have had to rethink their sensor...

Purging system: hazardous to non-hazardous areas.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Series 4000 is a Type X purging system. It is fully automated and transforms Division 1/Zone 1 hazardous areas into non-hazardous areas and purges enclosures up to 250 cu-ft. The system pressurizes the enclosure while the large gauges make...

Position sensor: integrated electronics/IP67 rating.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The CSPI (integrated) magnetostrictive positon sensor incorporates all of its electronics with an IP67 metal housing. This sensor was created for OEM designers who are searching for the reliability and accuracy of magnetostriction without the...

Valve system: for electro-pneumatic automation.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Moduflex[TM] Valve System is an adaptive modular system that offers a new approach to electro-pneumatic automation. Instead of buying pre-assembled or custom valve is lands, users can select from two standard valve sizes and assemble dual...

GO/NO GO indicator: bright red and green led.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The FPS1 1010 is a module designed for applications where a simple "GO/NO GO" indication is required. A user-defined voltage window is programmed into the module and these values are stored in non-volatile flash memory. Using a bright bi-color...

Load cells: calibration grade.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... Th 1800 Platinum[TM] and 1600 Gold Standard[TM] Series loaqd cells are designed as calibration grade load cells with lower load limits of no more than 2% per ASTM E74 Standard for the 1800 Series and 4% per ASTM E74 for the 1600 Series. Both...

Explosion-proof switches: two series meet ATEX directive.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Spectra 12 Series and the 120 Series are hazardous location products that are certified to ATEX Directive 94/9/EC. The Spectra 12 Series is an explosion-proof switch that is suitable where shock and vibration are prevalent since a Bellevue...

Microcontroller: 100MIPS 8051 CPU.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The C8051 F120 microcontroller family offers a 100MIPS (peak 8051 CPU and a two-cycle 16x16 Multiply-Accumulate (MAC) unit making it ideal for mixed signal embedded control applications which require signal processing. The family of devices...

Workstations: for hazardous environments.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The "microOP" series of workstation enclosures offers NEMA 4X-rated stainless steel housings with built-in purge for operation in classified hazardous environments. The units include a 15" or 18" flat panel LCD monitor with a sealed keyboard...

Drain vent: protects enclosed equipment from moisture.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... This composite fiberglass drain vent is designed to protect equipment from moisture and water accumulation from inside the enclosure cavity. It protects electrical equipment housed inside an enclosure by properly draining unwanted moisture or...

Flow sensors: liquid, semi-liquid, air, gas.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The 4115.30 smart flow-captors are self contained calorimetric flow sensors are designed for liquid and semi-liquid applications. They have no moving parts, so that they are not subject to sticking or lockup. Since they are solid state devices,...

Temperature transmitter: for use in hazardous areas.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The THZ SmartHART Temperature Transmitter is suitable for use in explosion-proof and dust-ignition proof hazardous areas. It features a dual-compartment enclosure with an isolation seal that protects the transmitter's electronits from moisture...

Control software: now with motion control.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... TwinCAT PC-based control software now has multi-axis, interpolated motion CNC control added to its package. This version of the software provides a PC-based solution for complex applications with up to 32 axes across 10 CNC channels. With a...

Monitoring fluid level of drilling mud pits and tanks.(Siemens: global network of innovation)
November 1, 2003... Martin-Decker Totco, located in Cedar Park, Texas (USA), produces control and information systems for the high quality oil and gas drilling equipment packages manufactured by its parent company, Varco. M/D Totco has tried various technologies,...

Freestanding enclosure: housing for PLC/main controls.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A multi-purpose large Type 1 freestanding enclosure is designed for use in areas where Type 1 protection is desired. The enclosure is a housing solution for PLC/main control panels, power distribution cabinets, and HVAC applications in clean...

Personal measurement device: USB-based DAQ.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The PMD-1208LSPersonal Measurement Device is a PC-based analog and digital I/O interface for a variety of data acquisition applications. Compatible with USB 1.1 and 2.0, this Personal Measurement Device is ready for use by laptops or dedicated...

High-speed sensor: dual Hall effect sensing.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The HE950 sensor incorporates dual Hall effect sensing and signal processing that make it capable of operating across a broad range of target sizes. A single sensor size can be used for virtually any size target. In addition, its large gap...

Position sensor: 2" to 100" range.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Z115 Cable-Extension Transducer is designed for measurement ranges from 2" to 100". Using a spring-loaded cable reel in tandem with a precision potentiometer, the Z115 makes consistent position measurements without the hassle associated...

Industrial switches: pilot devices for process control.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A new line of industrial switches and pilot devices includes pushbuttons, selector switches, key-locks, joysticks. mushroom-head switches for E-stops, and complete operator control stations. The switches are suitable for all types of industrial...

Pulse amplifier: for tachometer pickups.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... Model JH10159 is a compact, economical pulse amplifier designed for techometer pickups. Two channels are included in its 0.70 wide housing, providing densities of almost three channels per inch. The amplifier responds to inputs as low as 20 mV...

Predictive maintenance sensors: detect leakage areas in plants.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A line of compressed air sensors, designated efector Metris, continuously monitors compressed air systems to identify leakage areas and to improve energy efficiencies. By identifying leakage areas, the sensors can optimize compressed air usage,...

Analyzer/Controller: inline process analytical system.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The IQ500 processLab pH Analyzer/ Controller is an inline process analytical system that uses non-glass probes with silicon-chip sensors. The sensors are derived from medical device technology and overcome many of the frustrations experienced...

Liquid level switch: single- or dual-point versions.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The L90SA "Swing Arm" liquid level switch is a single-or dual-point level switch designed for applications where contamination and particle entrapment is a problem. It is useful in parts washers, plating baths, industrial cleaning systems, and...

Ethernet switch: 10Base-T or 100BASE-TX.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The 5-Port Ethernet Switch ESC 67-10 is suitable for either 10Base-T or 100Base-TX and for operating temperatures ranging from -40[degrees]to +70[degrees]C. The switch is housed in a robust metal housing with protection to IP65/IP67. A variety...

Pressure transmitter: diagnostic capabilities and simulation functionality.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... The DS III pressure transmitter offers diagnostic capabilities that include high- or low-signal limit alarms; peak value registers that store the maximum and minimum values for pressure, sensor temperature, and electronics temperature; and two...

PROFInet products: bring PROFInet a step closer to complete implementation.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... The PROFIBUS Trade Organization has announced the first certified PROFInet products, a PROFInet Gateway from Hilscher, an Industrial Ethernet/PROFIBUS link from Siemens and a PROFInet Communications Processor, also from Siemens. PROFInet is a...

Industrial server: connects to Ethernet network.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... iServer can be used to make an existing serial device a "node" on an Ethernet network with a unique IP address that's accessible from any authorized computer on the LAN, WAN, or Internet. This iServer can be used to create a virtual tunnel on...

Trends in intelligent field devices.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... Today, the following"megatrends" are revolutionizing intelligent field devices: * Devices with floating point co-processors offer increased computational power and measurement speed, * GUI for handhelds provides easier interface and...

Smart temperature transmitter: incorporates HART[R] protocol.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... Smart 2-wire, head-mount temperature transmitter, Model Mp82700H, measures 1/7" diam x 1" high and fits in standard DIN B connection heads. It features HART[R] protocol; universal input (13 TCs, 8 RTDs, voltage and ohms); total isolation (500...

PID temperature controller: integrate into device level networks.(Intelligent Field Devices)
November 1, 2003... TEMPCON PID temperature controller is suited for packaging machine temperature control when thermal cutoff or forming applications are employed. The module is designed as either a stand-alone unit or integrated into a device level network...

Industrial pressure transmitters: solid-state and stainless steel.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A line of industrial pressure transmitters combines the reliability of solid-state design with the durability of stainless steel. The result is a pressure transmitter that provides accurate and dependable pressure measurement in demanding...

Control indicator module: contains SCADA interface.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A versatile control indicator module (CIM) contains SCADA interface for remote control and monitoring of power circuit breakers and reclosers. Switches on the unit's front panel permit manual control when needed. Electroswitch 180...

Profibus transceiver: for industrial networks.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The SN65HVD1176 is a Profibus transceiver that offers low signal distortion while providing improved reliability. Another unit available is the SN75HVD1176. Both provide output transition skew of less than 1 nsec. Texas Instruments Inc....

Dynanometer system: multi-functional, plug-and-play unit.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A new benchtop dynamometer system includes a rotating torque sensor with integrated optical encoder and a multifunction instrument for reading out torque, speed, and horsepower. The system is based on rotary torque sensors. AutoID enables them...

Temperature probes: for small spaces.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The LSMN Mini Series of temperature probes is designed to meet small space requirements in applications requiring fast and precise temperature sensing. A wide range of custom options allows virtually unlimited temperature sensing applications....

RTD limit alarm: TouchCAL[TM] technology.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The WV Series, Model WV118, RTD input dual setpoint limit alarm with TouchCAL[TM] technology is a high density, field configurable DIN rail mount device. It accepts RTD inputs and provides two relay output functions. Eurotherm Action...

Data loggers: battery powered devices.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The ebro[TM] EBI data loggers sense, record, and display temperatures from -40[degrees] to +75[degrees]C and humidity from 5 to 95% rH. These rugged devices are battery powered and have memory capacity to 40,000 measurement points with a...

Flat-panel display: rack mount LCD.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A 170 rack mount flat-panel LCD is an integrated display platform that provides a low profile, plug-and-play monitor solution. The system is suitable for situations that demand extremely high image quality combined with minimal rack space,...

Dual loop controllers: direct connection to transducers.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The HA430/930 Series dual loop controllers have a strain gauge type resin pressure input and 24 Vdc transmitter power supply for direct connection to transducers. One loop is used for strain gauge input, while the other controls temperature...

Transmitter combination: relative humidity and temperature.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The SEMI64 Series is a combination of relative humidity and temperature transmitters. It is suitable for building energy management applications. The transmitters provide 4-20 mA output proportional to both temperature and relative humidity....

Industrial computing platform: operates over wide temperatures.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Relio[TM] Series is an industrial computing platform intended for the OEM. It combines the reliability and design consistency of a PLC with the versatility of an industrial computer. It operates over a wide temperature range with no moving...

PXI instruments: modular instrumentation suite.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A suite of 100 MS/s PXI instruments is designed to increase flexibility and system performance for rapid prototyping and test of mixed-signal devices and systems. The modular instrumentation suite is matched in frequency and capability and...

Data acquisition system: fully isolated and distributed.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The isoLynx[TM] SLZ100 data acquisition system is designed for applications in laboratory, R&D test and measurement, data acquisition and control on factory floor and industrial processes, or machine monitoring. It is an intelligent, high...

Industrial digital gauge: 4-20 mA output and switching option.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The new Ashcroft industrial digital gauge has 4-20 mA output and a switching option of one or two SPDT switches to combine indication, transmission, and switching capability into one durable and economical package. The unit features a 0.25%...

RFID System: pallet-based applications.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The BIS-L Pallet RFID System combines long-range sensing and inexpensive data carriers to fit the needs of a range of pallet-based production operations. Suitable for palletized assembly, the system has a read-write range of 24-100 mm and is...

Industrial PC: factory floor automation.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Katana 150 is a fully integrated, rugged industrial PC specifically designed to withstand the tough factory floor environment. Featuring a powerful Pentium III processor, an integral high brightness LCD display, and stylish membrane...

Thermal printer mechanisms: high-speed for test and measurement.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... A series of 24 V compact and lightweight high-speed thermal printer mechanisms can be used for test and measurement applications. The FTP607MCL103/383 Series includes 20 and 30 diecast metal printer mechanisms and optional automatic cutters....

Combustion analyzer: five meters in one unit.(Product News)
November 1, 2003... The Model CO80 is a portable combustion analyzer. In combustion analyzer mode the CO80 measures boiler efficiency, CO/C[O.sub.2]m ratio, [O.sub.2], C[O.sub.2], and XSAir. As a carbon monoxide detector, it provides real-time readings up to...