May 2006

Automation.com Real-time Information for the Automation Professional Nov. 21, 2008

Cart

Back to: Home Page > News > News By Month

Automation Portals
Find all the latest information on these topics:
	Automatic Identification
	Building Automation
	Control Panels, Cables & Terminations
	Design, Simulation & Programming Software
	Digital Factory
	Embedded Automation
	Fieldbus Networks
	Fluid Power, Valves & Pumps
	HMI & Operator Interfaces
	Industrial Communications
	Industrial Computers
	Industrial I/O
	Machine Control
	Machine Safety
	Machine Tools, CNC & DNC
	Manufacturing Intelligence
	Material Handling
	Motion Control, Motors & Drives
	OPC
	PLCopen
	Packaging
	Power & Energy
	Programmable Automation Controller (PAC)
	Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
	Process Control
	Process Safety
	Robots & Robot Controllers
	SCADA & RTU
	Security
	Sensors & Instruments
	Test, Measurement & LIMS
	Vision
	Wireless Connectivity

Read about the latest news, products, mergers, and acquisitions in the automation, process control, and instrumentation industries for May 2006.

Choose and click on a headline below to read the entire article:

		Kuka Robotics Provides Robots to Mecano Industrie for Flexible Bottle Depalletizer - 06/01/06 The system will use the KUKA KR 180 PA 4-axis robot and a proprietary end-of-arm tool designed by Mecano that utilizes KUKA servo motors to depalletize layers of bottles reducing customer costs, increasing cycle times and improving overall quality.

		Cognex enhances vision systems - 05/31/06 VisionPro's new interactive tools make it fast and easy to evaluate, implement, and deploy multi-camera applications without programming. Enhancements include: QuickBuild environment defines image acquisition, vision tools, and accept/reject criteria; Communications Explorer sends inspection results to input/output lines and communication devices; and Optional Scripting extends QuickBuild without programming the entire application. • The Application Wizard automatically generates a runtime application with an operator interface in a matter of minutes.

		Wavetrend makes three senior appointments - 05/31/06 Wavetrend, the world-leading manufacturer of active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, is pleased to announce two new board positions with the appointment of Ken Moss as Executive Chairman and Charles Cameron as a Non-Executive Director. In addition, Adrian Segens has been appointed as Head of Sales and Marketing for Europe. By strengthening the management team, Wavetrend plans to capitalize on the significant opportunities for growth in the active RFID market.

		Viola Systems forges strategic partnerships in India, targets power sector - 05/31/06 A new Indian electricity policy has set ambitious goals to bring access to the electricity to all Indian households. The emphasis is in rural electrification; 125,000 villages translating into over 25 million households. This demand is to be fully met by 2012. Viola's Arctic IEC-104 Gateway, a product specified together with ABB, helps power utilities save costs and improve distribution management.

		ABB Instrumentation Announces New Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Planning - 05/31/06 ABB announced today that Robert N. (Bob) Hausler has been appointed Vice-President Marketing and Strategic Planning for Instrumentation in its Automation Products Division. He will be based at ABB's US headquarters for Instrumentation in Warminster, PA. In his new role, Hausler will immediately focus on top line growth, portfolio management, and strategic planning.

		Invensys enhances Real-time Condition Monitoring solution - 05/31/06 The Condition Monitoring (CM) version 2.1 solution provides early failure detection and analysis for plant equipment using an even wider range of real-time and historical data sources. IEnhancements include: Support for ArchestrA Industrial Application Server as a data source; support for OPC Alarms and Events; and Microsoft BizTalk Integration.

		Rapid Instrument Delivery Program Expands to Include Majority of Foxboro Instrument Product Lines - 05/31/06 The program now includes 90% of pressure measurement products, 80% of DolpHin pH sensors, plus many popular magnetic flowmeters, strip chart recorders, and electronic indicating recorders. Rocket Shipment is an industry-first order processing and production system that facilitates a 24-hour turn around of custom orders for a broad range of Foxboro instrumentation products at no extra charge.

		Yokogawa Technology Innovation Fair & User Conference Starts Nov. 29 - 05/31/06 Scheduled for November 29-December 1, 2006, at the Hilton Americas Hotel in Houston, Texas, the event will feature Yokogawa Electric Corporation President and CEO, Isao Uchida, as a keynote speaker and offer attendees a glimpse into the heart of Yokogawa R&D developments.

		Training Lab For Pumps, Valves and Seals - 05/31/06 Flowserve Corp., a global provider of fluid motion and control products and services, announces the launch of new Learning Resource Center (LRC) instructional labs, which offer hands-on technical facilities for pump, valve and seal system optimization and maintenance training. The LRC is an innovation in the industry, offering hands-on training in a simulated plant environment that features complete pumping systems and equipment from both Flowserve and other manufacturers.

		Advantech Launches Industrial 17 in. Flat Panel Monitor - 05/31/06 FPM-3171G industrial 17” flat panel monitor with a direct VGA port has a NEMA4/IP65 complaint front bezel, anti-reflective screen with a tempered glass, and a hard anodic coating to prevent panel abrasion and acid corrosion. The FPM-3171G starts at $1,200.

		National Instruments announces Dual-Core PXI Embedded Controller - 05/31/06 PXI-8105 dual-core embedded controller improves the performance of multithreaded applications up to 100 percent versus single-core PXI controllers with the same processor clock rate. With two computing engines in one physical processor, the dual-core processor can simultaneously execute two computing tasks.

		NI's Design and Prototyping Teaching Suite Offers USB Plug-and-Play Connectivity - 05/31/06 With the incorporation of USB M Series data acquisition devices into the NI ELVIS product offering, educators will have the plug-and-play simplicity of USB, as well as tight integration with National Instruments LabVIEW, NI SignalExpress and Electronics Workbench Multisim 9 and MultiMCU, to teach science and engineering concepts in multiple disciplines.

		Electro Standards Laboratories annunces Rackmount Switch for Two 10 Base-T Networks - 05/31/06 Model 9061 RJ45 A/B all-aluminum rackmount switch allows access to two 10 Base-T networks from one computer or workstation. This switch system eliminates the need to plug and unplug cables.

		Pertinence and Apriso Partner To Boost Agility In Managing The Supply Chain - 05/31/06 The development partnership will involve the integration of Pertinence's Rules Maker and Operations Advisor business intelligence products into Apriso's FlexNet® operations execution platform. The combined solution will provide customers with a new tool for capturing data and learning best practices from product and process history. Empowered with that on-line information, operators will be better able to reduce scrap and improve quality.

		Emerson's Gas analyzer provides on-line analysis of hydrogen cooled generators - 05/31/06 The Rosemount Analytical CAT 100 continuous gas analyzer transmitter meets all of the measurement requirements for hydrogen cooled turbine generators in electrical power plants. The on-line thermal conductivity TCD analyzer is typically set up with three measuring ranges: The first and primary is to monitor the hydrogen purity during normal operation; the second and third measuring ranges allow safe opening of the turbines for maintenance.

		K-TEK Acquires BETA B.V. of The Netherlands - 05/31/06 BETA, located in The Netherlands, serves virtually all industry sectors with a broad range of pressure and temperature switch products. BETA currently operates throughout Europe, Asia, and portions of the Middle East. Through this acquisition, K-TEK is planning to offer all BETA products through K-TEK's distribution network in the Americas and in selected countries within Asia and the Middle East.

		ASM Sensors announces Magnetostrictive Position Sensors for Mobile Hydraulics - 05/31/06 POSICHRON is an absolute, contact-free and wear-free position sensor measuring system. The sensor provides an absolute position measurement and supplies either a 0-10V or 4-20mA analog output to enable a smooth integration of the hydraulic control systems. The PCST25 series with measurement ranges up to 5,750mm and linearity up to 0.02% for high accuracy is already available at ASM.

		Electro Standards Laboratories announces Peripheral Toggle Switch - 05/31/06 Model 7284 Multi-Peripheral A/B Toggle Switch can be manually controlled via a front panel toggle switch or remotely controlled via the screw terminal Remote port on the rear panel. Front-panel LEDs display the switch position.

		Intermec Attains Gold Certified Partner Status In Microsoft Partner Program - 05/31/06 As a Gold Certified Partner, Intermec has demonstrated expertise with Microsoft technologies and a proven ability to meet customers' requirements. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners receive a rich set of benefits, including access, training and support, giving them a competitive advantage in the channel.

		CalAmp Acquires Dataradio - 05/31/06 In a statement released today, Bob Rouleau said “The close of this acquisition combines CalAmp’s long, successful history of delivering cost-effective high quality solutions with Dataradio’s unparalleled portfolio of high performance wireless RF products. This combination is expected to energize future growth across both businesses. In addition to giving us the purchasing power to reduce our manufacturing costs, CalAmp brings some great technology to the combined company. There is a lot of synergy and I’m very excited about what we can do together.”

		Automation Systems Interconnect announces DIN-Rail Circuit Breakers - 05/31/06 The expanded circuit breaker product line includes UL 1077 supplemental protection, UL 489 branch circuit protection and a new DC breaker family with UL489 listing. Their high density, 13mm housing design saves up to 30% of the space compared to other breakers. The QZ supplemental protection or UL 1077 breakers are now available in single, two and three pole versions from 0.5 amp to 50 amps.

		GE Fanuc Automation announces PAT Solution for Life Sciences Industry - 05/31/06 Proficy RX Process Analytical Technology (PAT) solution allows for production connectivity, data collection and analysis, and provides a solid foundation for companies seeking to better understand and improve their processes. PAT is a system for designing, analyzing and controlling manufacturing through timely measurements of critical quality and performance attributes of raw and in-process materials.

		FANUC Robotics’ Kevin Ostby Receives 2006 Engelberger Robotics Award for Leadership - 05/31/06 The Engelberger Robotics Award is the robotic industry’s ultimate honor. Four leaders were presented awards at the 37th International Symposium on Robotics, May 16, during AUTOMATICA in Munich, Germany. The awards—named for Joseph F. Engelberger, considered the “father of robotics”—recognize significant achievements in the areas of leadership, application, education and technology development.

		Toshiba Teli's Machine Vision Camera Captures Images at 133 Frames Per Second - 05/31/06 The CS8581QF is a remote-head FireWire camera that meets the needs of factory automation applications for ultra-fast frame rates, high resolution, and a micro-sized remote camera head to fit restricted mounting spaces. The CS8581QF has 133 frames-per-second (FPS) at full 640 x 480 resolution (8bit monochrome), as well as partial scan modes that top 430 FPS.

		KUKA Robotics Signs Les Machineries AutomaTech as System Partner in Canada - 05/30/06 Les Machineries AutomaTech plans on using KUKA Robots in wood product manufacturing application cells designed to increase small and medium sized manufacturers' efficiency. Les Machineries AutomaTech Inc. is a leading engineering consulting firm specializing in industrial automation.

		Easy-to-Use Programming Software for Stepper and Servo Drives Features Icon-Based Programming Environment - 05/30/06 Version 2.5.14 supports seven Si-compatible stepper drives, including the new STAC6 drive, as well as three Si-compatible servo drives. Si (Simple Indexer) Programmer provides out-of-the-box use with integrated tuning for intuitive programming and a point-and-click graphical interface that combines motion, I/O and operator interface functionality for simple machine sequencing. As a result, Si-compatible drives easily integrate with other devices on a machine such as sensors and PLCs.

		Fluke Enhances its Family of Pressure Calibrators - 05/30/06 The Fluke 718 Pressure Calibrators feature a new design that protects the built-in pneumatic calibration pump from fluid contamination, allowing it to be serviced in the field for reduced service expense and overall cost of ownership.

		Ship2Save deploys second RFID solution for Atlas Cold Storage Inc. - 05/30/06 The system allows Atlas to offer value-added RFID services to clients that are progressively being required to meet RFID mandates of mass-merchandiser behemoths like Wal-Mart. "This project allowed us to extrapolate many of the best practices we discovered through our initial deployment at Sikeston [Missouri], and build yet another solid RFID infrastructure for Atlas [Cold Storage] here in Appleton, Wisconsin." says Arsalan Ahmed, Director of RFID Development at Ship2Save.

		HEIDENHAIN's Interface Box Changes Encoder Signals from Analog to Digital - 05/30/06 By changing 1 Vpp encoder signals to an EnDat 2.2 bidirectional digital interface, the EIB box changes its signal from analog to digital, a huge advantage to machine builders wanting to standardize on one encoder interface. To do this, the interface box will convert sine / cosine signals to EnDat 2.2, a digital bi-directional interface for encoders that also updates information stored on an encoder.

		OMRON Donates 10 Million Yen to Support Central Java Earthquake Relief Operations - 05/30/06 OMRON's local affiliated company, P.T. OMRON Manufacturing of Indonesia, will also donate 10 million rupiah and emergency supplies. OMRON Corporation wishes to express our deepest condolences to the victims of this disaster, and their families.

		Alpha's Intelligent Actuator System Positions Precisley - 05/30/06 Ternary is an all-in-one linear system that merges mechanics with intelligence, integrating several separate components: electronics, precision mechanics, feedback, control and software. Ternary is ideal in all situations where a pneumatic cylinder isn't enough and a servo is too expensive and too complicated.

		FKI Logistex enhances Voice Order Fulfillment System - 05/30/06 EASYpick Voice order fulfillment system is now compatible with mobile computing. Mobile computing units, which resemble PDAs, offer touch screens, bar code and RFID scanning compatibility, and rugged construction designed specifically to handle the demands of warehouse work. These units can be intermixed with traditional dedicated voice devices throughout the warehouse to provide necessary staff with additional functionality and flexibility.

		Advantech announces Industrial 10/100 Mbps Unmanaged Ethernet Switch - 05/30/06 ADAM-6520L 5-port industrial 10/100 Mbps unmanaged industrial Ethernet switch supports a power input range of +10~30 VDC via a terminal block, has 3,000 VDC surge protection, and a temperature range of -10~70°C. Six diagnostic LED indicators make troubleshooting of any collisions, link status, power failure, and data integrity errors easy and immediate. Prices start at $105.

		Carlo Gavazzi's Solid State Relays Switch 50A loads - 05/30/06 RJCS Series Current Monitoring Solid State Relay is capable of switching 50-amp single phase AC loads at up to 660 VAC when controlled by a 4-32 VDC signal. Its internal current sensing circuitry monitors and reacts to a number of load failure conditions.

		Epson Robots announces Six-Axis Robot Controller - 05/26/06 Micro PowerDrive provides path control, fast accel/decel times, and overall motion capabilities in an ultra compact form factor. One of the industry's smallest 6-axis robot controllers, at 1/4 the size of previous EPSON controllers, can even be mounted inside a standard cabinet panel (next to a PLC) saving valuable factory floor space.

		Phoenix Contact upgrades Industrial Computers - 05/26/06 A slot-based CPU allows for the use of high-performance Celeron M and Pentium M processors. These CPUs offer more processing power and 24 times the video memory than before. To enable the display of complex graphics in an easy-to-read screen resolution, 17" and 19" color TFT touch screen sizes have been added to the already available 12" and 15" screen sizes.

		Banner Engineering releases Fiber Optic Sensors Brochure - 05/26/06 The D10 Series consists of three high-performance models that service a range of application demands. Models include the D10 Expert™ with Numeric Display, D10 Expert with Bargraph Display and D10 Discrete Output. The D10 Expert models also feature intuitive push-button TEACH that allows static, dynamic or single-point programming.

		Kennecott Utah Copper Orders AlarmAnalyst Software - 05/26/06 AlarmAnalyst presents graphical on-line representations of the state of a process plant using alarms, events and operator actions. Time stamps on all values are obtained from the control systems, as part of the acquired data, for a true root cause analysis. Plant stability can be assessed using real-time displays of trends in alarm behavior.

		AXIOMTEK announces Embedded SBC that Supports Dual LCDs - 05/26/06 Smart Embedded SBC Family supports dual LVDS LCDs plus IEGD (Intel Embedded Graphics Drivers). Intel Embedded Graphics Drivers are supported in Windows XP and Windows XP embedded operating systems.

		Technosoft's Intelligent Drives Work on CANopen Networks - 05/26/06 DSP intelligent drive model IDM/IDS640 offers a CANopen communication option for motion automation builders currently using the CANopen DSP 402 standard. These intelligent drives embed motion control, drive and PLC functionalities in a single compact unit (size 136 x 95 x 26 mm). They are software configurable to drive brushless, DC, linear or step motors up to 640 W (80 V, 8 A).

		Emerson enhances DeltaV for More Precise Control - 05/26/06 Emerson Process Management enhanced the DeltaV system with the release of version 8.4 software. Included in this release is easier access to historical data, easier data backup, and an enhanced operator interface. This enables operators to more quickly access necessary key process parameters and respond more quickly to ongoing operational needs.

		Binder-USA announces M12 Feed-through Connectors for Sealed Enclosures - 05/26/06 Feed-through connectors are available with 4 or 5 gold plated contacts which have a current rating of 4A each. O-rings ensure a protection rating of IP67 is achieved at both the panel and mating area on each side of the connector. This connector is compatible with Binder's entire M12 product range including the 713 series field attachable connectors and the 763 series molded connectors and cordsets.

		Beckhoff Automation announces Pluggable Wiring for Bus Terminal I/O - 05/25/06 KS series Bus Terminals enable complete wiring to be removed as a plug connector from the face of the I/O housing without the need for tools. The connector can be removed from the Bus Terminal assembly by pressing an unlocking tab. Users insert the new I/O component and re-plug the connector in with the wiring. This reduces installation time and the risk of wiring errors. .

		Hedland releases Turbine Flowmeter Catalog - 05/25/06 Turbine Flow Meters for Water and Water-Based Fluids reference catalog lists the features and specifications in an easy-to-read format, as well as handy ordering information with ordering samples. The catalog has been completely updated with new and improved products, including the new HB2800 flow monitors, the F to I / F to V Intelligent Frequency Converters and the K-Factor Scaler.

		Binder-USA introduces Shield Termination Method for EMI Protection - 05/25/06 New shield termination technique employs a coiled shielding spring which firmly connects a cable's braided shield to a connector's metal housing. This enhancement ensures 360 degree EMI protection and reduces the number of components required for assembly as well as the overall assembly time.

		Miniature Laser Scanner from Datalogic - 05/25/06 The miniature size of the DS1500 makes it easy to install in areas with space constraints. The DS1500 scanner operates at a speed of up to 1200 scans per second. This high scan rate increases the number of code scans on the same code and hence improves reading effectiveness, which is particularly useful in difficult and fast reading conditions

		FKI Logistex Promotes Martin Clark to Oversee Marketing for Manufacturing Systems North America - 05/25/06 Clark, an industry veteran with more than 20 years of material handling experience, was previously director, international and newspaper operations. Clark joined FKI Logistex in 1999, and was instrumental in developing the company's manufacturing-based business in the United Kingdom. He has played a major role in building the customer base in Mexico and Canada for FKI Logistex Manufacturing Systems North America.

		Keithley Sponsors First Weblog For Nanotechnology Electrical Testing - 05/25/06 The Nanotest Weblog keeps visitors abreast of the latest news in the nanotechnology and MEMS industry through frequent posts of technical and business developments. Linda Bell, Publisher of Nanotech Briefs, said she expects the new blog to be an important contribution to the emerging field of nanotechnology.

		Schneider Electric acquires Invensys Building Systems for $296 million - 05/25/06 This acquisition follows the acquisition of Invensys Advanced Building Systems (ABS EMEA) completed in July 2005 and will be very complementary with Schneider Electric’s building automation platform. IBS generated revenues of $142 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006, with operating profit of $20 million. The company is a leading provider of building automation products and services in North America with interesting positions in Asia.

		PSI Engineering announces Friction Feeder for Difficult Paper Stocks - 05/25/06 The Direct In-Feeder system automatically feeds anything from very fine sheets all the way up to the most difficult envelopes. It also adjusts to feed other flat products including CDs, DVDs, catalogs, and magazines.

		White Paper Explains SOPs for FDA and ISO Compliance - 05/25/06 This white paper prepared by MasterControl discusses why SOPs are more than just a tool of operation. SOPs directly affect product quality, and therefore, compliance. Once established, an efficient and effective SOP management system will serve as a foundation for an organization's sustainable compliance and long-term success in the market.

		Dickson Temperature & Humidity Data Loggers have Built-in USB - 05/25/06 Pro Series Data Loggers have built-in USB ports for triple-speed data downloading. They have LED alarms, 1-second sampling rates, and accuracy up to ±0.5°C.

		Kuka Linear 6-axis Robot Has Long Reach - 05/25/06 KUKA Jet robot, a 6 axis robot mounted on a linear unit, is designed for customers with applications that entail long reach tasks. The 6 axis robot is mounted either upside down or sideways on the linear rail depending on the application need and is available in four configurations with different reaches and working ranges.

		Sage Software adds Warehouse Automation Module to ERP software - 05/25/06 A Warehouse Automation module has been added to the Sage MAS 500 ERP business management solution. Warehouse Automation simplifies data entry by automating routine warehouse tasks, including Receipt of Goods; Warehouse Transfers; Bin Transfers; Sales Returns; Cycle Counts; Physical Counts; and Picking, Packing and Shipping.

		VarTech Systems adds Bigger, Brighter Displays - 05/25/06 Ultra high bright display systems has been expanded to include displays in 10.4" and 12.1" sizes. The displays have an anti-reflective protective faceplate designed to increase the viewing quality and the strength of the display glass. The display image will remain crisp and clear in any lighting condition.

		Welch Dry Vacuum Pumps Control Solvents - 05/25/06 DRYFAST and DRYFAST ULTRA have built-in Advanced Vapor Management (AVM) for the distillation of organic solvents and applications handling aggressive vapors and gases. The pumps have solid PTFE heads, PTFE diaphragms, Kalrez valves and fluorinated plastics on all wetted surfaces. The six new models feature flows to 70 l/min and ultimate vacuum levels down to 2-Torr. No cold traps are needed to operate.

		Sharp Introduces 12.1 and 15.0 inch LCDs for Industrial Applications - 05/25/06 Super View 12.1 in. (LQ121S1LW01) and 15.0 in. (LQ150X1LW72) TFT-LCDs have improved resolution and luminance while maintaining drop-in replacement for current Sharp designs.

		Grace Engineered Products releases Thru-Door ProfiBus Interface - 05/24/06 The GracePort D3-Series interface mounts on a control panel exterior, allowing users a convenient way to temporarily connect to a ProfiBus network without opening the control panel door. Thru-door products simplify NFPA 70e compliance and reduce personnel exposure to hazardous voltages.

		Honeywell Unveils Web Monitoring System for Paper Manufacturers - 05/24/06 ProWeb camera-based web monitoring technology for newsprint, fine paper producers and printing houses provide a real-time window into the cause of paper breaks, enabling the mill to improve machine uptime, process stability and product quality. ProWeb records the moving paper web and processes and analyzes the images in real time.

		Emerson Awarded $1.4 Million Contract for Indorama Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) Project in Thailand - 05/24/06 Emerson will supply 220 Fisher control valves with Fisher DVC6000 digital valve controllers. The $1.4 million order includes the Fisher high-pressure globe valves and Vee-Ball® rotary valves as well as Baumann general service control valve products. Of these, 30 Fisher control valves on critical applications will be supplied with advanced diagnostics.

		NI Offers More Than 5,000 Instrument Drivers - 05/23/06 Instrument Driver Network ensures seamless integration and connectivity between the PC and stand-alone instrumentation, such as Ethernet/LAN, GPIB and USB instruments. With source code availability and a standard programming model, LabVIEW Plug and Play instrument drivers give users the ability to easily add instruments to a test system without learning new communication protocols or programming paradigms.

		Emerson and Symantec Deliver Cyber-Security to the Power Generation Industry - 05/23/06 Emerson's Power & Water Solutions industry center will offer customers three proven Symantec security products that have been validated specifically to operate with the Ovation system. Ovation, a key technology that powers Emerson's PlantWeb® digital plant architecture, features embedded tools and applications specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the power industry.

		Falcon Electric's Frequency Converter Has Galvanic Isolation - 05/23/06 The SSG Series 500VA Frequency Converter is a high performance single-phase on-line frequency converter, voltage regulator and line conditioner that provides highly flexible and reliable AC power. It is ideal for use in critical applications such as process control, test and measurement, robotics and communications/microwave and drilling rigs, as well as in locations with poor or missing ground systems.

		Phoenix Contact's M12 Plug Connectors are Ethernet Compatible - 05/23/06 The M12 Ethernet D-coded connector is available as overmolded cordsets, field wireable and panel feed-through connectors. The preassembled cables enable users to plug and play, providing time, labor and cost savings. The M12 Ethernet connection system is IP67 rated for harsh environments and meets

		Beckhoff Automation's Switch Terminal Channels Ethernet Through EtherCAT - 05/23/06 The EL6601 Ethernet switch terminal ensures fully transparent and collision-free Ethernet communication of connected devices through the EtherCAT system. The switch terminal can be installed at any point within an EtherCAT node. A wide range of Ethernet-linked devices, such as printers or terminals for production data acquisition, can be connected within the EtherCAT node.

		Igus Continuous-Flex Cables Available with Over-Molded Connectors - 05/23/06 Chainflex CF.INI cables with over-molded connectors have a sensor/actuator cord set for process automation applications. Chainflex cables are designed for use in cable carrier systems on automated machinery. The outer jacket of every Chainflex cable is extruded over the conductors for a snug fit.

		German Cash & Carry wholesale stores go live with Intermec Gen 2 RFID Technology - 05/23/06 As of the first of April, METRO suppliers have been able to ship tagged pallets with Gen 2 RFID technology. Metro Cash & Carry, the market leader in self-service wholesale, is using a new Gen 2 RFID infrastructure that includes Intermec's Gen 2 IF5 UHF RFID reader coupled with IBM middleware. The Intermec RFID Gen 2 technology deployed in METRO Group's Cash & Carry stores creates a platform on which to build interoperable RFID products and systems that will effectively track and trace pallets to ultimately improve inventory management.

		Cognex Acquires Assistware, Developer of Lane Departure Warning Systems - 05/22/06 AssistWare's LDW system uses a small video camera and machine vision technology to watch the road ahead and alert drivers if they unintentionally leave their lane, or if their driving pattern becomes erratic. In a recent U.S. Department of Transportation study, AssistWare's LDW technology was shown to significantly reduce unintended lane departures, which are known to be a major cause of truck accidents.

		FieldServer Technologies announces ControlLogix/BACnet IP Interface Module - 05/22/06 SlotServer ControlLogix/BACnet IP Interface Module enables a user to interface third party devices utilizing BACnet IP to the ControlLogix 1756 platform. BACnet IP is a widely used TCP/IP protocol used in the building automation industry for many building controls, energy monitors, HVAC controls, I/O controls, lighting controls, motor controls, and sensors.

		SICK announces Bin Picking System light grid - 05/22/06 The Pick2Light system reliable hand detection and a 360-degree visible job LED. This single-sided retro-reflective light grid cuts parts and labor costs in half due to its external t-slot frame mounting feature. Each bin only requires one light grid. The external mounting configuration also cuts down on damage caused by workers when removing parts or inserting bins - and it doesn't restrict bin size.

		Danaher Motion introduces Power Steering System for lift trucks and other vehicles - 05/22/06 APS is a quiet, reliable, low maintenance brushless system that consists of a permanent magnet AC motor with integrated speed reducer and an AC drive with I/O interface. It features a CANOpen interface for seamless integration and communication, and covers a wide variety of vehicle applications including Class 1, 2 and 3 lift trucks.

		Honeywell’s 2006 Users Group Equips Industry Leaders To Meet Tough Business Challenges - 05/22/06 Honeywell announced the agenda for its 2006 Users’ Group Americas Symposium, which will be held June 11-16 in Phoenix with the theme, “Adapting to Change.” Honeywell customers from around the world will meet to exchange ideas, share their experiences and create strategies for meeting their toughest business challenges, including those related to security, energy efficiency and the integration and management of new technologies. Honeywell’s Experion® Process Knowledge System (PKS) R300, wireless technology and life cycle management will be the focus of this year’s event.

		Keithley Instruments wins Electronics Magazine Asia's Innovation Award - 05/22/06 The Innovation Award, created to recognize excellence in the Asian electronics industry, was presented at the magazine's awards ceremony on April 5, 2006. The Model 2910 features an unrivaled combination of high-performance, speed, flexibility, ease of use, and compact size. Its design includes a patent-pending synthesizer, Software-Defined Radio (SDR) architecture, unique power leveling techniques, and a touch-screen user interface.

		ASI expands Sensor Cable and Connector Lines - 05/22/06 Customers will now have a molded cable choice with M12 male or female, straight or 90 degree angle connectors, with or without LED indication in 3, 4, 5, or 8 poles. The cable material can be PVC, Shielded or PUR and they are also available in Y assemblies where one connector can be wired with two cables leading to two separate connectors. The Y assemblies are an ideal method to expand the ports on hard wired distribution boxes.

		Rosemount expands Radar Level Measurement Capabilities - 05/22/06 The 3300 Series is now available for temperatures up to 750°F (400°C) and pressures up to 5000 psig (345 bar). Common applications with these extreme environments include refinery distillation columns, liquefied gases and freons, power plant utility heater vessels, gas-oil production separators, oil water separators and compressor tanks.

		Siemens Named Company of the Year By Frost & Sullivan - 05/22/06 Frost & Sullivan presented the Award in recognition of Siemens' consistent focus in providing innovative solutions that add value to its automotive customers. Additionally, Frost & Sullivan commended Siemens for addressing the challenge of developing worldwide industry standards for the automotive industry by providing customers with a single hardware platform for diverse manufacturing applications.

		Intermec Named Cisco Solution Technology Integrator Partner For Second Year - 05/22/06 This is the second consecutive year Intermec has been named a Cisco U.S. STI Partner of the Year. The Cisco Partner Summit Theater Awards are conferred to partners who meet and score the highest on a specific set of requirements that are designed to identify the best channel partners by theater. These include customer satisfaction, year-over-year growth of Cisco sales and complying with the Cisco Channel Partner Program.

		Datalogic PDA Manages Data on the Move - 05/22/06 The new Datalogic Jet™ Version 5 is ideal for applications such as field force automation, retail in-store and warehousing, and enables companies to optimize the management of activities in all areas of a company's supply chain.

		Report Lists Performance Specs for Off-The-Shelf Motion Products - 05/22/06 The report provides the reader with an instantaneous snapshot of the basic performance parameters of all available finished inventory, including DC Motors, Servo Motors, DC Gear motors, Linear Actuators, Motor Speed Controls, Servo Amplifiers and DC Power Supplies.

		Westermo Announces Redundant Protocols for Ethernet Switches - 05/19/06 Spanning Tree (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree (RSTP) are used as network redundant protocols in the Lynx-, R200- and T200-series of industrial Ethernet switches. This will allow the switches to improve interoperability while keeping a high network redundancy reliability.

		LXI Consortium's First PlugFest in Europe Shows High Interest Among Vendors & Customers - 05/19/06 The LXI Consortium’s fifth PlugFest event was the first to be held outside of North America. The event, which took place April 25-27 in Munich, Germany, had 69 registered attendees representing more than 25 different organizations -- manufacturers, system integrators, customers, universities and the press. LXI member Rohde & Schwarz (R&S) hosted the event at its local training center.

		Advantech Launches GPIB Interface Card - 05/19/06 PCI-1671UP is a cost-effective, universal PCI, GPIB controller in MD1 low-profile form factor which allows for data transfer rates of up to 1.5 MB/s. Features include: Full IEEE 488.2 compatibility, talker/listener controller, 1024-word FIFO buffer, HS488 compatible for up to 7.7 MB/s data transfer to/from instruments that support the high speed protocol, shared interrupt capability and transparent interrupt enabling /disabling.

		ISA-SP100 Committee Announces Formation of Working Groups - 05/19/06 The SP100.14 working group will define wireless connectivity standards optimized for the unique performance and cost needs of a wide range of industrial monitoring, logging and alerting applications. The SP100.11 work group will define wireless connectivity standards addressing a wide range of applications optimized but not restricted to the unique performance needs of control applications ranging from closed loop regulatory control through open loop manual control.

		Advantech Launches the eAutomation eXpress Mobile Exhibition Vehicle - 05/19/06 The eAutomation eXpress is an informational and educational vehicle that will travel across North America to provide hands-on interaction with Advantech’s Industrial Automation products. The vehicle is a 24’ van with active production demonstrations.

		Honeywell Releases Process Modeling Tool - 05/19/06 UniSim Design Suite allows manufacturers to design, test and train employees on new processes offline before they are implemented. The new release includes enhancements that improve the design and optimization of heat exchanger networks, enhanced features supporting electrolyte processes, and the ability to predict corrosion.

		Invensys implements Operator Training Simulators and Process Models for EO/EG project in Thailand - 05/18/06 Invensys Process Systems has recently completed a fast-track implementation of SimSci-Esscor operator training simulators (OTS) being used at a new EO/EG (ethylene oxide/ethylene glycol) plant for TOC Glycol Company (TOCGC), a subsidiary of PTT Chemical Ltd. The new plant, located at the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate in Rayong province, will supply feedstock products to various processing customers in and around Map Ta Phut, Thailand’s key petrochemical industrial cluster.

		B&R Automation Offers a Central Contact Person for Large International End Users - 05/18/06 With increasing globalization, large End Users require coordinated service for subsidiaries all over the world. B&R is creating new positions in order to keep up with this trend. Uwe Keiter (42) will be taking over the position as Global Account Manager, making him responsible for international End User service in the Food & Beverage segment.

		Invensys Implements Operator Training Simulators and Process Models for EO/EG Project in Thailand - 05/18/06 Invensys Process Systems has recently completed a fast-track implementation of SimSci-Esscor operator training simulators (OTS) being used