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Showing posts from December, 2011

OTT RLS Impulse-Radar Sensor for Non-Contact Water Level Measurements

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The OTT RLS (radar level sensor) is a radar sensor for non-contact water level measurements at surface waters. The sensor uses impulse-radar technology to determine the water level. The RLS is mounted above the water surface e.g.: at bridges or auxilliary constructions. Its solid, relatively light and water-proof housing is easy to install. Its extremely low energy consumption (active: <12mA @12V), the large power supply range and standardized interfaces make the OTT RLS very flexible for different of applications. The RLS covers a measurement range of up to 35m. It is specifically designed for the use in open air locations that have no requirement for mains power supply. The special flat antenna design construction and its minimal energy consumption makes the OTT RLS a economical, practical and reliable alternative to conventional level gauges.

OTT ADC Acoustic Digital Current Meter

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The OTT ADC (Portable Acoustic Digital Current Meter) is designed for point velocity measurements in natural streams, rivers, creeks and open channels. Using the latest acoustic measuring principles and combined with a high end signal processor the instrument provides accurate and reliable data. The instrument is equipped with a built-in pressure sensor that provides automatic depth readings for the determination of both individual vertical depths and prompting the user to set the correct sensor position. The instrument easily attaches to different types of wading rods and features an automatic discharge computation based on the internationally recognized ISO and USGS standards.

OTT Pluvio² Universal Precipitation Gauge Using the Balance Principle for Liquid, Solid, and Mixed Precipitation

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It does not matter whether it is drizzle, sleet, hail or snow, the new OTT Pluvio² reliably and accurately measures both, the amount and the intensity of liquid, solid, and mixed precipitation. It works according to the balance principle, taking account of external factors such as temperature and wind that could distort the results. Both, digital outputs (impulse/0.1 mm and frequency/status) and the serial interface, freely configurable as SDI-12 or RS-485, are available for transferring the data. High-precision technology and robust design provide high accuracy and complete reliability. Load cell and sensor electronics are hermetically sealed against damaging environmental influences. We have designed the carrier, bucket and protective housing parts to be particularly robust and we have ensured the use of high-quality materials.

OTT ecoLog 500 Groundwater Datalogger

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The compact groundwater data logger OTT ecoLog 500 combines three features in one instrument: measurement, data storage and data transmission. The outstanding price-performance ratio is impressive - not only for qualities like longevity, precision and efficiency but also thanks to quick maintenance and comfortable handling. Perfectly protected, all components fit into pipes from 2“. The state-of-the-art pressure probe is equipped with a rugged, ceramic-capacitive measuring cell, a precise temperature sensor and the data logger. The communication unit at the top end of the system holds batteries and data transfer components. The two units are connected with a Kevlar-reinforced cable with pressure compensation capillary. The data telecommunication concept of GSM/GPRS-modem and antenna allows for great versatility (HTTP, FTP, SMS…). In addition to the measured data also alarm- and status messages can be transmitted. A clearly structured operating program with online-help simplifies the

MadgeTech‘s ETR101A Exhaust Temperature Profiling System, Now Available with Additional Features to Address Carb Regulations

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MadgeTech has released a firmware upgrade for the ETR101A, exhaust temperature profiling system. This upgrade enhances the data logger to address the needs brought to MadgeTech by customers using the ETR101A. To comply with CARB emission regulations the upgrade includes: Trigger setting capability: Program the data logger to only record temperature above a certain degree. No more analyzing unnecessary data! An LED alarm: Program the data logger to activate an LED alarm after 24 hours of data has been recorded. Streamlines data collection! Records 14 days of data at a 5 second reading rate. These features are now included in all new ETR101A and TC101A data loggers shipping today. The ETR101A firmware upgrade is FREE, and easy to install from a PC.

MADGETECH’S 101A SERIES DATA LOGGERS LOW-COST, HIGH PERFORMANCE DATA LOGGING SOLUTIONS

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MadgeTech’s new 101A series data loggers are made in the USA and built to provide the highest level of accuracy, reliability and performance, at an economical price. Our research has shown that when compared to similar data loggers in the market, the 101A series exceeds the level of accuracy, memory, and advancement of technological features of other similarly priced devices. The 101A series data loggers are available in temperature, humidity, voltage, pulse, bridge/strain, event, process and state models. These innovative devices are equipped with a multiple start/stop function, up to a 10 year battery life, a 1 second reading rate or faster, ultra-high speed download capabilities, up to a 1 million readings storage capacity, battery life indicator, optional password protection, programmable high-low alarms and more. MadgeTech also offers free firmware upgrades so products in the field can grow with new technological advancements. The devices may be upgraded from any internet conne

MADGETECH, INC. INTRODUCES THE PR140, A HIGH TEMPERATURE, PRESSURE DATA LOGGER

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MadgeTech, Inc., is pleased to announce the release of the PR140, a high temperature, pressure data logger designed for use in autoclave validation and mapping. This rugged device can withstand temperatures up to 140°C and is completely submersible (IP68). The PR140 is built with a precision stainless steel pressure gauge. The device has an accuracy of ±0.03 Bar (±0.435 PSI), which can be achieved over a wide temperature range, from -20°C to +140°C(-4°F to 284°F). The PR140 can be programmed to take readings as often as once per second (1Hz), and has non-volatile memory that can store up to 32,700 measurements. The PR140 is easy to use. Simply place it in the IFC400 docking station, connect to a computer, and the device can be started, stopped or downloaded using the MadgeTech software. Graphical, tabular and summary data is provided for analysis and can be viewed in PSIA, mmHg, bar, Torr and kPa. The data can also be automatically exported to Excel® for further calculations. The

NEW Bridge101A, Bridge/Strain Data Logger

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The Bridge101A is one of MadgeTech’s newest data loggers. It is part of a new series of low cost, state-of-the-art data logging devices. MadgeTech has taken the lead in offering the most advanced, low cost, battery powered data loggers in the world today. The Bridge101A offers a multiple start/stop function, ultra-high speed download capability, 1 million reading storage capacity, optional memory wrap, battery life indicator, optional password protection, programmable alarms and more. The Bridge101A is priced at $499 each and can be delivered from stock now. Our research has shown that the Bridge101A is second to no other data logger when it comes to price and performance. Using the MadgeTech Software, starting, stopping and downloading from the Bridge101A is simple and easy. Graphical, tabular and summary data is provided for analysis and data can be viewed in V, mV and μV. The data can also be automatically exported to Excel® for further calculations. As the leader in low power dat

NEW Intel core i5/i7 Industrial Rack-mount & Embedded Systems

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Amplicon's Industrial Computing division has released their next generation rugged fanless embedded system. The Impact-E 70 series combines high performance Intel Core i5 and i7 class processors within a compact and virtually maintenance free system. Up to 3 times faster than previous models of Impact-E Rugged and fanless so virtually maintenance free Compact size, and wall mountable Remote System Management with iAMT 6.0 Scalable, thread optimized performance with Hyperthreading and Turboboost Technology Wide temperature, and versatile DC input voltage Dual PCI and PCI / PCIe add-on card options As rugged embedded systems are often situated in remote locations, with limited access, Impact-E 70 series systems feature built in remote management, with iAMT and integrated VNC server that enables a level of functionality that would normally only be expected when using the machine locally. This includes full remote desktop control, the ability to power up, reboot and redirec

Saelig Introduces New USB Mixed-Signal Oscilloscope

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Saelig Company, Inc. announces the availability of a new, entry-level mixed-signal oscilloscope – the PicoScope 2205MSO.  This lightweight scope adapter provides a two-channel oscilloscope combined with a synchronous 16‑channel logic analyzer, all in one compact, portable USB instrument.  Analog waveforms and digital data can now be displayed simultaneously on the same screen with the efficient and easy-to-use PicoScope software. PicoScope 2205MSO’s analog bandwidth is 25 MHz and the digital channels can accept signals as fast as 100MHz with a maximum sampling rate of 200 MSa/s. PicoScope 2205MSO is suitable for general-purpose analog and digital circuit design, testing and troubleshooting. Since it is USB port-powered, no bulky AC adapter is required. A 48kSa buffer allows for storage of multiple captures in rapid sequence as little as 2 microseconds apart. The free PicoScope software delivers a high-resolution, uncomplicated visual display, and it incorporates a range of advanced s

Saelig Introduces World’s First iPhone™- based WiFi Spectrum Analyzer and Power Meter

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Saelig Company, Inc. has introduced WiPry-Combo - the world’s first dynamic power meter and spectrum analyzer accessory for the iPad, iPod Touch, and iPhone - offering a modern touch interface not available on PC-based instruments. WiPry-Combo turns an iOS device into an ultraportable spectrum analyzer and dynamic power meter.  WiPry-Combo brings RF power measurements to a graphical interface to show RF waveforms like an oscilloscope - instead of showing voltage, RF amplitude is displayed on an iOS portable device.  Actual power output can be triggered, captured, and recorded for protocol verification or for troubleshooting wireless devices. Data is collected at up to 12 MSa/s, allowing analysis and verification of the smallest protocol level on/off times. WiPry-Combo offers data logging in csv format, while screenshot results can be instantly emailed via the iOS host phone.  In its Spectrum Analyzer mode, WiPry-Combo offers a practical solution for identifying interference or open c

Saelig Introduces New Economical All-in-one Ethernet Module

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WIZ820io is a new plug-in network module that offloads Internet tasks to a mini-board that includes WIZnet’s popular W5200 IC (TCP/IP hardwired chip + PHY), a mag-jack (RJ45 with transformer) and other peripheral logic. Housed in a very small form factor (23mm x 25mm) with two rows of 0.1”-spaced pins, WIZ820io can be used as a ready-made component for Internet-enabling a product or board, and is an ideal solution for users who want to develop networked systems rapidly. WIZ820io contains WIZnet’s hardwired Ethernet stack IC W5200, which supports 8 independent sockets simultaneously, and features a high-speed SPI interface, power-down mode, and Wake-On-LAN function.  WIZ820io handles TCP, UDP, IP, ARP, ICMP, IGMP, PPPoE, and MAC protocols. WIZ820io operates at temperatures from -40 ~ +85deg C on 3.3V/120mA, but is 5V tolerant. The module supports half / full duplex operation, auto-negotiation and auto cross-over detection. Off-loading the burden of the TCP/IP stack into a second perip

NEW STRIPPIT P-1525 CNC TURRET PUNCH PRESS EFFICIENTLY HANDLES LARGE/OVERSIZED WORKPIECES

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LVD Company n.v. introduces the Strippit P-1525, a 200kN cost-effective CNC turret punch press designed to efficiently handle large or oversized workpieces up to 1524 x 2500 mm. Larger sheets can be processed with clamp repositioning. Part of the Strippit P-Series of punch presses, the P-1525 is ideal for the processing of large panels in cellular manufacturing or job shop environments. LVD’s latest turret punch press delivers up to 270 hits per minute on 25,4 mm centers, and up to 600 hits per minute in nibble mode. The machine provides a ± 0,1 mm finished part accuracy and ± 0,05 mm finished part repeatability. It processes material thicknesses up to 3,5 mm mild steel and up to 6,35 mm aluminum. ADVANCED HYDRAULIC RAM TECHNOLOGY A servo-driven hydraulic ram offers control of the ram position to achieve the highest punching rates of any machine in its class. Parameters are easily accessed and changed to provide optimal forming characteristics. The advanced hydraulic drive system red

LVD STONE® PRESS BRAKE TOOLING PROVIDES CONSISTENT FORMING ACCURACY THROUGH PATENTED DESIGN

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LVD Company nv offers precision ground tooling with its patented STONE® radius for all models of LVD press brakes. A special patented compound die radius, STONE tooling (“Shaped Tooling for Optimal beNding without wEar”) is produced with a progressive radius on both sides of the V-opening, allowing the material to flow into the die more evenly and with less drag. The unique design of the V-die reduces the friction between the material and the die encountered when bending by creating a rolling condition as the material enters the die. The STONE radius assures accurate bend angles along the entire bending length. STONE tooling also diminishes marks, nicks and carbon deposits that can occur on the workpiece as the material rolls through the die. Benefits include reduced tool wear, tool interchangeability, reduced residue on stainless steel, improved material control, reduced tonnage requirements and symmetric bending.

Flexible LED UV Curing - Choose Between Spot and Flood in One System

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The DYMAX BlueWave LED DX-1000 is a unique and flexible 385 nm LED curing system that can be configured to operate as either a small-area flood or spot-cure system. In flood mode, up to 1 W/cm² can be delivered over a 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm area. In spot mode, a single or multi-pole lightguide can be installed into optional adaptor to deliver up 15 W/cm² in a high-intensity spot. The BlueWave LED DX-1000 provides all the benefits of DYMAX's advanced LED-curing technology in a system that can adapt to meet your changing business needs. Features: Multi functional - can be used a small-area benchtop flood lamp or spot-lamp (once a lightguide adaptor is connected) Curing area of up to 3cm x 4cm High intensity LED with efficient cooling, offering longer bulb life, instant warm-up and lifelong consistency LED with 385 nm narrow spectrum output, allowing for cooler cures for thermally sensitive substrates Shutter-free design Lower energy consumption than conventional UV lamp Adjustable

Adjustable Spray Valve for Low Viscosity Materials

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The Fisnar SV1000SS spray valve provides close tolerence spray dispensing of fluids up to 1000 cps. The SV1000SS is constructed of a stainless steel to prevent corrosion from volitile materials. With a spray angle of 12° and an operating frequency of 200 cycles/min, the SV1000SS is designed for spraying flux, polyurethane, paint, lubricant, inks and for coating conformal coating applications. Features: Shot rate frequency of 200 cycles/min Suitable for spraying paint, flux, polyurethane, lubricants, inks, coatings Stainless steel construction Stroke adjustment to fine-tune spray area Nozzle design to prevent clogging Designed for materials under 1000cps

New Safety Valve AV919 Protects Against Gas Overpressure

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When the pressure in technical gas systems is to be kept constant, special safety valves are used, these blowing off gas at even the smallest pressure increases. To this end, the German manufacturer WITT has developed the new AV919 with a previously unavailable performance spectrum. Even the smaller AV619 version is impressive. It blows off unwanted overpressure in a very low range from 5 to 500 mbar with the greatest reliability and consistency. As a comparison: Standard valves corresponding to the Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EEC applicable for this product group often only respond after an overpressure a hundred times greater. The new AV919 also masters these low setting pressures, while keeping a blow-off volume ten times greater at 967 m³/h under control. The opening pressure of the new development, still very compact despite being around 90 x 170 mm larger, is set precisely at the factory. The manufacturer can provide a TÜV (Technical Inspectorate Authority) test on reque

KM-Flow - Efficient Packaging with MFC Technology

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KM-Flow is the new WITT gas mixer with digital mass flow controllers (MFC) for packaging using a protective atmosphere in the food industry (Modified Atmosphere Packaging = MAP). Combined with permanent gas analysis, you receive online quality control for optimum packaging quality and reduce your gas consumption by up to 30%. Depending on the model, the KM-Flow mixes two or three gases. The digital mass flow controllers (MFC) meter the selected gas mixture with highest precision and reliability. A highly efficient packaging workflow can be realised with the innovative KM-Flow with MFC technology. In combination with an analysis instrument that continually measures the gas concentration in the packaging during the packing process, the KM-Flow can adjust the gas ratio and gas mixture flow rate to optimize the process. The result: maximization of the packaging quality along with a minimization of the gas consumption. Thus, the WITT gas mixing system helps to reduce costs and at the same

Miniature Bellows Coupling with Half-Shell Clamp, Model MKH up to 10 Nm

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R+W's standard program for its model family MK (miniature bellows coupling) is getting a new member, the model MKH. This new coupling features a half-shell clamp and is designed for torque moments from 0.1 to 10 Nm and shaft diameters of 1 to 28 mm. Because it can be installed radially (made possible by the half-shell clamp), this coupling can be positioned exactly. No complex axial shifting of components is necessary. This coupling's lack of backlash makes it suitable even for highly dy-namic applications and confined installation spaces.. Like every R+W metal bellows coupling, the MKH is stable over its entire service life when correctly assembled and used. With the introduction of this new model, R+W is now able to offer economical, optimally-dimensioned, metal bellows couplings with the advantageous half-shell clamp that cover a torque range from 0.1 Nm to 1500 Nm.

Safety Coupling for Large Drives up to 160 000 Nm

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The use of ST series safety couplings substantially reduces downtime in the aftermath of a machine crash, thereby increasing the availability and production performance of the equipment. Designed for use in shredders, crushers, rolling mills, steel mills, conveyor equipment and extruders, the compact, simple, yet robust design of the coupling makes maintenance-free operation possible throughout its entire service life. In comparison to other couplings currently available on the market, an ST coupling possesses as little as 25% of the mass. The fact that disengagement torque can be very easily adjusted is another advantage. This can be changed simply, without any aids (such as a datasheet for example), by virtue of the force range, marked on the indi-vidual actuation segments.

Miniature Bellows Coupling with Conical Clamp, Model MKS up to 150, 000 RPM

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The company R+W, headquartered in Klingenberg, Germany, presents the new model MKS - the most recent member in its product line of miniature bellows couplings (MK). This coupling's attachment via a special conical hub makes it well suited for very high speeds up to 150 000 RPM. The extremely high speed rating is made possible by pre-centering, by the clamping hub's very smooth running accuracy, by highly precise fabrication of the metal bellows and by the backlash-free principle of R+W couplings. Standard balance quality ratings of 6.3 and 2.5 are possible. The coupling's symmetric structure also permits Q 1 dynamic balancing in special cases. The model MKS is designed for torque loads of 0.1 to 10 Nm and shaft diameters from 1 to 28 mm. R+W, the coupling's manufacturer, has even made disassembly of this new mod-el's conical bushing easy by virtue of an extraction thread as a standard feature.

Lightweight Design for Safety Couplings

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The coupling manufacturer R+W Antriebselemente GmbH in Klingenberg, Ger-many presents a world premier in the field of safety couplings. This innovation combines intelligent lightweight design with high-tech materials and the latest production techniques. The new SL coupling series is fabricated from high-tech materials in combination with uniquely plated surfaces. This permits weight to be reduced by up to 60 % in comparison to a standard series coupling. A coupling rated for a torque limit of up to 160 Nm weighs only 370 gram and has a 0.8 * 10-3 kgm2 moment of inertia. This ratio of torque rating to dimensions and weight is currently unique. There are currently no other comparable safety couplings on the market which can guaran-tee this power density. This series of couplings includes 4 sizes. The series begins with safe torque limit ratings of 5 Nm and extends to far beyond 700 Nm.

IR’s IRS2526DS ‘Mini8’ Ballast Control IC Reduces Component Count, Simplifies Circuit Design and Increases Efficiency in Lighting Applications

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International Rectifier, IR® (NYSE: IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today introduced the IRS2526DS ‘Mini8’ compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) ballast control IC that offers full programmability, and a high degree of accuracy and control for all lamp types. Available in an 8-pin SO-8 package, the new feature-rich IC reduces component count, simplifies circuit design and increases efficiency in a compact footprint. The IRS2526DS features a 600 V half-bridge control circuit working at 50 percent duty-cycle and variable frequency for driving the resonant mode lamp output circuit. The high accuracy oscillator is controlled by a single analog-to-frequency input pin used to set the different operating frequencies of the ballast. Complete fault protection circuitry is also included for protection against such conditions as mains interrupt or brown-out, lamp non-strike, lamp filament failure and end-of-life. The new device also incorporates an internal frequency dither to red

IR Expands Portfolio of Rugged, Reliable, Ultra-fast 600 V IGBTs for UPS, Solar, Industrial Motor and Welding Applications

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International Rectifier, IR® (NYSE: IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today announced the expansion of its portfolio of rugged, reliable ultra-fast 600 V Trench Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) with the introduction of the IRGPS4067DPbF and IRGP4066DPbF devices for uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), solar, industrial motor and welding applications. The IRGPS4067DPbF and IRGP4066DPbF utilize Trench thin wafer technology to offer lower conduction and switching losses. Co-packaged with a soft recovery low Qrr diode, the new devices are optimized for ultra-fast switching (8KHz-30KHz) with 5us short circuit rating and feature low Vce(on) and positive Vce(on) temperature coefficient for easy paralleling. “These new 600 V IGBTs are suitable for a wide range of switching frequencies due to their low Vce(on) and low switching losses while offering higher system efficiency and rugged transient performance for increased reliability,” said Llewellyn Vaughan-Edmund

IR’s IRS2500 µPFC™ Control IC Reduces Noise Sensitivity for Cost Sensitive Electronic Ballast and SMPS Applications

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International Rectifier, IR® (NYSE: IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today announced the introduction of the IRS2500 µPFC™ power factor correction (PFC) control IC for switch mode power supply (SMPS), LED drivers, fluorescent and HID electronic ballast applications. The IRS2500 µPFC controller can be configured to operate in critical conduction boost PFC or flyback configuration. The new device also features a total harmonic distortion (THD) optimization circuit to reduce line current harmonics. The controller has high noise immunity, simplifying design and reducing system cost. “The IRS2500 PFC control IC expands IR’s existing SMPS and general lighting device portfolios. The new device reduces noise sensitivity, eases PCB layout and provides a cost- effective alternative to existing solutions,” said Peter Green, LED Group Manager, IR’s Energy Saving Products Business Unit. Available in an SO-8 package, the IRS2500 also features micro power start up current of les

IR’s IR3553 40A PowIRstage® Delivers High Current in Smallest Form Factor with High Efficiency for Cost-Sensitive Multiphase Applications

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International Rectifier, IR® (NYSE: IRF), a world leader in power management technology, today announced the expansion of its PowIRstage® family of integrated devices with the introduction of the 40A IR3553, optimized for next-generation servers, consumer and communication systems. Utilizing IR’s advanced silicon, packaging and control techniques, the IR3553 integrates a synchronous buck gate driver, benchmark figure-of-merit control, and synchronous MOSFETs and Schottky diode into a small, high density, low profile 6mm x 4mm x 0.9mm PQFN package to deliver a high current density and high efficiency power stage solution that simplifies the design and implementation of high current, high performance multiphase buck regulators. “The previously released 60A IR3550 PowIRstage® is proven to deliver very high efficiency combined with smallest footprint in our customers designs. The new 40A rated IR3553 product extends all the benefits of existing PowIRstage® products into more cost-sensiti

4 New Products from ZMDI for the Signal Conditioning of Piezo-Resistive Bridge Sensors in Automotive and Industrial Applications

ZMD AG (ZMDI), a global supplier of energy-efficient analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, and medical applications, today introduced four smart sensor signal conditioner ICs. ZMDI designed the ZSSC3131, ZSSC3135, ZSSC3136 and ZSSC3138 for the signal conditioning of resistive bridge sensing elements, like silicon or ceramic-based piezo-resistive transducers or thin-/thick-film or gauge-type sensor elements. The devices are ideal for automotive and industrial pressure sensing applications such as HVAC, cooling, pneumatic brakes and other hydraulic systems. “Sensor system designers can select among four pin-compatible products to obtain the best fit in terms of sensor type, system safety and module cost requirements,” states Steffen Huettner, automotive SSC Product Marketing Manager at ZMDI. “The different feature sets allow for applications ranging from under and over pressure switches for hydraulic and pneumatic systems all the way to failsafe, SIL compliant s

ZMDI Launches Highly Efficient Boost Converter to Drive Multiple High Brightness LEDs in Low-Voltage Lighting Applications

ZMD AG, a global supplier of analog and mixed-signal solutions for automotive, industrial, and medical applications, is introducing its first step-up converter with integrated 35 V power switch for high brightness LEDs. It is optimal for driving multiple white LEDs connected in series from a low voltage supply. The ZLED7015 can also drive devices that require a constant voltage and the wide input voltage range of 6V to 30V supports applications with input voltage from multi-cell batteries or regulated 12V and 24V power rails. A low voltage feedback mechanism helps maximize the operating efficiency and the device’s soft-start function and open circuit detection protects the application circuit and extends the LED life. The low voltage, constant current operation makes the ZLED7015 an ideal choice for safety extra-low voltage (SELV) applications with less than 24V in damp environments. The device is also an ideal driver for multifaceted reflector (MR16) lamps, frequently found in resid

SKF Announces Estimated SEK 5.2 Billion Contract with China National Heavy Duty Truck Group Co., Ltd.

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SKF today announced the agreement of a long-term contract with China National Heavy Duty Truck Group Co., Ltd, (CNHTC) one of China's top three truck manufacturers. The contract, with an estimated value of around SEK 5.2 billion, calls for SKF to supply SKF Truck Hub Units, tapered roller bearings, and seals for CNHTC's latest truck models. "China is a key growth market for the SKF Group and we continue to make significant investments in manufacturing, research and development and in our employees. We are committed to supporting our customers in China and the steps we are taking are in line with the relevant priorities in China's 12th Five-Year Plan," says Tom Johnstone, SKF President and CEO. He further elaborates, "We will open yet another new factory in Jinan in early 2012 and it will play an important role in supplying some of our products to China National Heavy Duty Truck Group, as well as other truck and trailer manufacturers in China." "SK

Adept Technology to Debut New Technology for Land, Air, and Sea at IEEE ICRA 2011

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Adept Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADEP), a leading provider of intelligent robots and autonomous mobile solutions and services, announced that their Adept MobileRobots group will be adding new aerial and autonomous underwater robots to round out their portfolio of land-based "wheeled" mobile platforms for the research and education community. These new products will be demonstrated in Booth 25 and 26 at the IEEE ICRA 2011 Conference from May 9 — 13, 2011 at the Shanghai International Convention Center in Shanghai, China. To complement their existing line of terrestrial vehicles, Adept MobileRobots will now make available to their research customers the Maveric™ Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System and AQUA2™ Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV). The Maveric aerial robot is manufactured and supplied by Prioria, a supplier of military reconnaissance technology. The AQUA2 underwater robot is designed and manufactured by Independent Robotics, Inc., a supplier of underwater robot vehicles

Adept Technology Reduces the Cost and Complexity of Automating Packaging

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Adept Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADEP), a leading provider of intelligent robots and autonomous mobile solutions and services, today announced that they will be presenting methods by which the food packaging industry can reduce the cost and complexity of deploying and owning automation at this year's PACK EXPO 2011 show. Adept will demonstrate how their OctoMation Robotic Workforce makes owning and operating robotic packaging automation simple for food packaging companies. The OctoMation Robotic Workforce will be on display in the Adept Technology Booth 5411 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 26—28, 2011. "We are looking forward to continuing our successful campaign of enabling producers to cost effectively automate their primary packaging applications through the implementation of OctoMation," said Rush LaSelle, director of global sales and marketing for Adept Technology, Inc. "Given the tremendous financial pres

Adept MobileRobots Presents Extensive Suite of Robotic Platforms for Researchers and Educators

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Adept Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADEP), a leading provider of intelligent robots and autonomous mobile solutions and services, today announced that the Adept MobileRobots group will be exhibiting at the 2011 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems. The company will have live demonstrations of its portfolio of research and education platforms in Booth 14 at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square in San Francisco, California from September 25-30, 2011. This year, the IROS event is celebrating 50 years of robotics. The Pioneer robot, designed and supplied by MobileRobots for the past 15 years, continues to be the most popular platform in the research community. Adept MobileRobots will be celebrating its position as a leader in research at IROS by displaying its newly expanded portfolio designed to provide the same level of quality associated with terrestrial platforms for air and sea-based research. "Adept is proud to support and participate in IEEE events

Adept Technology Introduces Adept Viper s1700D Robot

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Adept Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq:ADEP), a leading provider of intelligent robots and autonomous mobile solutions and services, today introduced the Adept Viper™ s1700D, a high-performance 6-axis robot. Featuring new motors that are faster and more efficient, the Viper s1700D delivers higher speed motion and increased productivity. Like the previous Viper 1700 robot, the new s1700D offers a long reach and high payload capacity within a small footprint. Designed for applications that require fast and precise automation, the Viper s1700D robot is ideal for material handling, machine tending, packaging, cutting and assembly. The robust and rigid Viper s1700D offers a long reach of 1.7 m and a payload capacity of 20 kg. This newest Viper is seamlessly integrated with Adept's portfolio; interchangeable robots and controllers ease deployment, support and maintenance, including improving parts availability. This robot offers advanced self-diagnostics for proactive monitoring and quick trou

OSIL design ROV triggered water sampling system

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OSIL have supplied a unique water sampling system of innovative design for use in the offshore oil industry. OSIL were approached by a well known oil major to assist with a unique water sampling requirement off the West African coast. The system was required to retrieve multiple samples, with space for a CTD probe (or similar instrument to collect background data), and had to be fitted to and operated by ROV under difficult conditions. The samples were to be collected at fixed depth, and had to be collected in conjunction with other ROV samples. This prevented the use of traditional wire water sample collection methods, due to the risk of entanglements. OSIL used the industry standard Niskin bottle due to its robustness, and designed a sampling system to secure 6 primed 5L Niskin bottles, with space for an AML Oceanographic CTD Plus V2 in the centre of a stainless steel frame, which could then be mounted to the ROV. OSIL specialise in providing cutting edge solutions for marine and e

OSIL Offers Upgrade to MiniBAT Towbody System

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OSIL are delighted to offer a new upgrade to their MiniBAT underwater towbody system. OSIL have fitted a custom-built splashproof housing for the electronic controls. This will now provide a fully wet-mateable system, with all controls in a single, rugged, corrosion proof suitcase. OSIL are also able to provide the same housing for any ancillary systems the MiniBAT have, such as underwater video, or water quality sensors. The OSIL MiniBAT is an extremely lightweight, remotely controlled towed instrumentation platform designed for use with a wide variety of data collection instruments. It provides an extremely flexible profiling system for use in estuaries, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, and is easily deployed by 1 person from virtually any size of vessel. The MiniBAT is software controlled and can be set to undulate over a desired depth range, maintain a constant depth, and can even be programmed to follow the seabed with the MiniBAT automatically altering its depth. With an opera

Polaroid Product Testing with OSIL

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Internationally recognised sunglasses brand, Polaroid, have chosen to carry out product testing using OSIL’s Atlantic Seawater Conductivity Standard. The tests are designed to simulate the ageing of the product, and include various products and chemicals encountered in the usual life of the sunglasses, such as sun lotion and hair products, as well as the stresses imposed on the products when being opened and put on. The sunglasses are subjected to the equivalent of about 2 years worth of use, and are exposed to OSIL’s Atlantic Seawater to replicate the familiar scenario of dropping sunglasses in the sea, swimming in the sea, or sailing. This filtered natural ocean water (S = 35) may be used in a wide range of applications including field probe calibration/checks, chemical analysis, particulate studies, corrosion testing and any other applications which require open-ocean seawater. The label value is quoted in salinity and in specific conductance (mS/cm) with a confidence of ± 0.2%, a

OSIL Offers Scour Monitor Package for Wind Farms

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OSIL are pleased to offer a complete Scour Monitoring and Data Review Package for wind farms and other similar structures. Scour is a significant concern for owners and operators of offshore structures, as erosion of the sediment in the vicinity of a structure can lead to a lowering of the seabed directly surrounding the structure, undercutting foundations and decreasing the stability and lifespan of the structure. Offshore wind farms are now being proposed for, or built in, increasingly hostile hydrodynamic environments, and many candidate sites are located on beds of mobile sediments. In these cases, the interaction of the sediments with the turbine support structure, and the effects of flow- and wave-induced scour of the sediments must be carefully observed. The package available from OSIL comprises an acoustic Scour Monitor, which is then coupled to the clients own data handling system, or to the OSIL Falcon or Falconet Data to Web Logger – which will then permit instant access t

Hamamatsu’s New Compact High-Voltage Power Supply for PMTs Offers Extreme Stability

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Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. has developed a new compact HVPS (high-voltage power supply) for photomultiplier tubes that offers over 100 times less noise and less output fluctuation than conventional compact HVPS from other suppliers. The new unit (part number: C10940) is based on Hamamatsu’s proprietary technology for transformer miniaturization. It is suitable for design into portable instruments, and its exterior shape can be customized. The new compact HVPS will be exhibited at the JAIMA EXPO 2011, one of Japan’s largest trade shows for analytical instrumentation, from September 7 to 9 (Makuhari Messe, Chiba). Sales are scheduled to begin on October 1.

Hamamatsu Develops Instrument for Terahertz ATR Spectroscopy

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Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. has long been studying terahertz technologies as a part of the pursuit of opto-electronics possibilities. As a result, Hamamatsu has developed an instrument for terahertz ATR (attenuated total reflection) spectroscopy that features our original ATR component, in which the terahertz emitter and detector are combined in one piece with the ATR prism. Terahertz ATR spectroscopy can be used for far-infrared analysis of liquid samples, and also to analyze powders without sample preparation. Hamamatsu expects for its new instrument to be used in a wide variety of applications, including pharmaceutical analysis, evaluation of hydrates, and non-destructive spectroscopic inspection of liquids, powders, and solids. Sales of the instrument to research institutes and R&D departments will begin in April 2012. The technology in Hamamatsu’s new instrument, which was developed with the Innovation Promotion Program of the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Or

Hamamatsu Offers New Thermopile Products Featuring MEMS and CMOS Technologies

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Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. has developed three new types of thermopiles for power-saving and security applications, including gas analysis, temperature measurement, and human body detection. The three types of thermopiles consist of area sensors (T11264 series), linear sensors (T11263 series), and dual sensors (T11722 series). Each features CMOS circuitry, and was developed with Hamamatsu’s MEMS technology. Samples will be available to manufacturers of home electronics, industrial equipment, and security devices from October 1, 2011. Product shipments are scheduled to begin from April 2012. From September 28 to 30, Hamamatsu’s new thermopiles will be exhibited at the InterOpto 2011 international optoelectronics show at the Pacifico Yokohama exhibition center (Yokohama, Japan).

Hamamatsu to Release New Scientific CMOS Camera ORCA-Flash4.0 for Fluorescence Microscopy and Other Applications

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Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. has developed a new scientific CMOS camera, the ORCA-Flash4.0, which offers exceptional performance for a wide variety of fluorescence microscopy and other applications. The ORCA-Flash4.0 provides higher sensitivity, higher resolution, faster readout speed with lower noise, and higher dynamic range than previous models. It will be released on December 1, 2012. The ORCA-Flash4.0 will be exhibited at three events in December: at the American Society for Cell Biology Annual Meeting (Denver, Colorado, USA; December 3 to 7), at the International Technical Exhibition on Image Technology and Equipment 2011 (Pacifico Yokohama, Japan; December 7 to 9), and at the 34th Annual Meeting of the Molecular Biology Society of Japan (Pacifico Yokohama, Japan; December 13 to 16).

New Robot EtherNet/IP Interface Option for SD Series

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Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is pleased to announce the release of the new EtherNet/IP (EtherNet Industrial Protocol) option for the SD series of robots. The EtherNet/IP option allows a single cable to connect the robot controller with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), simplifying integration and reducing the cost of required hardware and robot setup. The EtherNet/IP cable easily and quickly plugs into a dedicated port on both the robot controller and PLC, eliminating the need to individually wire and route parallel I/O terminals, resulting in significant labor savings. Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. offers an EtherNet/IP (EtherNet Industrial Protocol) option for its SD series of robots. The new EtherNet/IP option uses a single cable to connect the robot controller with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), simplifying integration and reducing the cost of required hardware and robot setup. The EtherNet/IP cable plugs into a dedicated port on both the robot control

New L Series Temperature Control Modules

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Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. proud to introduce four all new temperature control modules for the L Series controller. These new interfaces are designed to manage multiple temperature control loops and support a wide array of temperature sensors inputs including Thermocouples or Platinum Temperature Resistors/RTDs. These temperature modules are embedded with onboard PID algorithms and unique functions to control everything from heating, cooling and mixed (heating and cooling) operations. These smart modules are ideal for many machine builders and end user facilities that require local or remote temperature control solutions. The L Series is Mitsubishi's newest controller line, donning an innovative and easy-to-expand rack-free design. The single-CPU architecture includes built-in Ethernet and Mini-USB interfaces, a SD/SDHC memory card slot for program storage and data logging, and 24 I/O for positioning and high-speed counter functions. The enhanced CPU also includes a CC-

New iQ Platform Ethernet/IP Scanner Now Available

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Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. proud to announce the availability of an EtherNet/IP Scanner module for the iQ Platform control system. Now customers can easily integrate the Mitsubishi Electric iQ Platform system with other EtherNet/IP connected third party CPUs and directly control EtherNet/IP distributed devices such as I/O (Block or Point), Drives and other devices. EtherNet/IPTM was introduced in 2001 and today is a industrial Ethernet network solution available for manufacturing automation. EtherNet/IPTM is a member of a family of networks that implements the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP™) at its upper layers. CIP encompasses a suite of messages and services for a variety of manufacturing automation applications. Mitsubishi Electric offers an EtherNet/IPTM Scanner for the iQ Platform. The EIP4CCPU allows the iQ Platform to talk with other EtherNet/IPTM connected third party CPUs, such as ControlLogixTM or CompactLogixTM, to share data and to directly control EtherNet/IP

Version Upgrade Announcement for FX3U and FX3UC CPUs

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Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is proud to announce new software enhancements aimed specifically at our FX micro line of controllers included in the latest release of GX Works2 (version 1.62Q). In this release, FX users now have better support for Function Block and Structure Text programming, new solutions for handling Symbolic Information in the FX CPU and the new clever ability to set Password protection for individual Function blocks used in your FX program. Finally, this update includes all new techniques to manage and support multi programs in a FXCPU. Learn more about this update and find better ways to make use of the world's most popular micro controller. The FX3U is the original dual system-bus, high-speed, fully expandable compact PLC designed to seamlessly control communication, networking, analog, and positioning systems. With a maximum of 384 controllable local and networked I/O via CC-Link/AS-i, the FX3U uses its power and flexibility to provide a solution fo

A High-End Nikon Speedlight Offering Simple and Smooth Operation

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Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Speedlight SB-910, the new high-end Nikon Speedlight. The SB-910 is a high-end Speedlight for advanced amateur to professional photographers that offers a number of improvements over its predecessor, the Nikon Speedlight SB-900. Among these improvements are smoother operation, greater illumination precision, and the adoption of hard color filters. The SB-910 fully supports the creative photography of advanced amateurs to professionals who demand the ability to make the most of light to achieve their individual intent.

Release of NSR-S320F, ArF Scanner with the Streamlign Platform

Nikon Corporation (Makoto Kimura, President, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) released the latest ArF scanner, "NSR-S320F," with the concept of achieving high productivity and high accuracy. NSR-S320F ensures early realization of stable operation and high productivity in the customers' fields with its platform proven in Nikon's immersion scanner. VLSI chips, the backbone of the IT revolution, continue to shrink and get denser. The semiconductor industry is transitioning to development and high volume manufacturing of a 20 nm generation process device. The most critical layer is exposed with an ArF immersion scanner, but other critical layers as well as non-critical layers are normally exposed by an ArF scanner or KrF scanner. NSR-S320F is the scanner that responds to the need for such a cutting-edge device. By employing Streamlign Platform, which has been proven in our immersion scanner, early realization of stable operation and high productivity is ensured. Throughput is

Composite Plain Bearings for Wind, Wave, Tidal and Solar Energy Systems

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Renewable energy systems, including solar, wind, wave and tidal power, are ideal applications for composite plain bearings. In solar energy systems, for example, plain bearings are particularly suitable to the operating conditions, which often involve slow swiveling movements with high loads. In addition, plain bearings are also suitable for operation in media such as water (hydro power) and for dry running applications. The Schaeffler Group has a rapidly expanding range of plain bearings for renewable energy systems. In addition to its Metal-Polymer Composite Bearings range, Schaeffler also recently launched its ELGOTEX plain bearings. Metal-polymer composite plain bearings Schaeffler’s metal-polymer composite bearings are particularly effective in oscillating applications, where the bearings achieve a higher basic rating life than conventional bearings. These products are available as bushes, flanged bushes and thrust washers and are ideal for applications where there are very smal

New Sensor Enables Online Condition Monitoring of Grease in Rolling Bearings

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A new, groundbreaking sensor has been developed that enables the online condition monitoring of grease in rolling bearings. The sensor is ideal for monitoring critical plant and machinery located in difficult-to-access areas, such as wind turbines and automated assembly lines. Developed by The Schaeffler Group in conjunction with Freudenberg Dichtungs- und Schwingungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG and lubricants specialist Klüber Lubrication, the new grease sensor incorporates a unique electronic evaluation system, which enables the condition of the grease to be monitored whilst the bearings are operating. The sensor is positioned directly in the rolling bearing immersed in the grease. This is a significant breakthrough, as the schedule for replacing rolling bearing grease can now be planned precisely into maintenance schedules. Any changes in the condition of the grease are detected early, long before any damage can be caused to the bearings. Grease operating life is key to maintenance I