Articles
WLAN client
The BAT54-Rail WLAN Client from Hirschmann Automation and Control allows mobile terminal devices in the production environment to be securely connected to the wireless network. It is designed for a temperature range of between -30 and +50 °C. It also fulfils the requirements of the IP40 protection class as well as all relevant specifications regarding shock and vibration resistance and electromagnetic compatibility. The integrated Fast Roaming function can be adapted specially to industrial ethernet protocols such as Profinet or Ethernet/IP, enabling stable connection when changing from one radio cell to another.
[ + ]Noise monitor
Acoustic Research Laboratories has released the Ngara noise monitor. Ngara is a real-time sound acquisition system that offers class 1 specifications, allowing the user to post-process statistical noise measurements from 1/10th of a second stored data files. Ngara provides the option to store calibrated (continual or triggered) 48 kHz raw audio data. Measurements and data are stored to a USB storage device (HDD or memory stick).
[ + ]Fast/Gigabit Ethernet switch
The managed Fast/Gigabit Ethernet switch of the MACH1000 family from Hirschmann Automation and Control has all its ports with the exception of a service port located on the rear of the device. The 24 Fast Ethernet ports, up to four of which support PoE, are available with M12 connections as well as in any combination for other connectors such as MTRJ, St, SC or RJ45. For the gigabit uplinks, two combo ports (10/100/1000 Base-Tx) are optionally available and can be equipped with SFP fibre modules (1000 Base-Fx/SX/LX/LH). In this way, the new design offers a high bandwidth in combination with industry-proven M12 connection technology.
[ + ]Wireless keyboard
APC Technology has announced the redesign of the DW-860 rugged wireless keyboard into a sleeker, more compact case with no protruding battery pack. The case enables the keyboard to be more convenient for mobile and wireless users.
[ + ]Operator interfaces
The fourth-generation Pilz PMI operator interface and diagnostic display units offer improved performance. Both the PMIvisu and PMIopen series are available in the fourth-generation specification, with the PMIvisu models being suitable for diagnostics and visualisation with PNOZmulti modular safety systems, PSS programmable safety and control systems and SafetyBUS p networks. The fourth-generation PMIvisu units can also be used as graphics systems for all common programmable logic controllers (PLCs). If custom software needs to be run on the display, then the PMIopen operator terminals can be specified.
[ + ]Industrial bus test tool
The Fluke 225C and 215C ScopeMeter test tools, with automated test capability for Fieldbus, Profibus and other industrial communication protocols, are designed for maintenance specialists who keep automation and process plant equipment operational. The instruments feature easy signal validation of all the critical signal parameters like amplitude and noise, and have floating and fully isolated inputs for true differential signal measurements on 2-wire differential bus systems.
[ + ]Compressed air maintenance
As rising electricity costs compel companies to examine their energy usage, advanced technologies are emerging which bring new efficiencies to old tasks, such as ensuring a clean flow of compressed air. John Davis, Business Development Manager for the Australian operation of Parker domnick hunter Filtration, explains.
[ + ]Energy efficiency through the optimal interaction of system components
The products and technologies that help make more efficient use of energy in industrial applications are already available. However, maximising energy productivity is not necessarily straightforward.
[ + ]WirelessHART: the right standard at the right time
The WirelessHART standard provides a robust wireless protocol for the full range of process measurement, control and asset management applications.
[ + ]Mixing multiple wireless technologies - Part 2
In the Part 1 of this article, Joel Young explored cellular, Wi-Fi/802.11 and WiMAX/802.16 technologies. In this second part, he examines ZigBee/802.15.4 and provides some guidelines for planning a successful commercial or industrial deployment.
[ + ]Intelligent device management with EDDL
EDDL technology was specifically designed with the process industry in mind. It is an integral part of the bus protocols used in process industries: HART, Foundation fieldbus and Profibus.
[ + ]A safe, clean business — monitoring an exhaust purification plant
Systems for thermal exhaust purification are subject to furnace regulations, and the safety of such plants presents a particular challenge for automation technology. In the past, the safety functions on systems manufactured by Dürr were monitored using conventional automatic gas burner control systems and safety relays, but safety and efficiency have since been greatly improved with the implementation of advanced safety control systems.
[ + ]Maintaining pH electrodes
Process instrumentation technicians who implement good pH electrode maintenance regimes get more than just greater accuracy in pH measurement. They also benefit from a longer interval between cleaning cycles and extended productivity during a longer life cycle, significantly reducing running costs.
[ + ]Profibus communication technology in wastewater treatment
The key factor driving investment in wastewater treatment all over the world is cost reduction, and the only way to maintain high standards while reducing costs is to utilise highly sophisticated measurement and process control technology.
[ + ]Ethernet in harsh environments
Ethernet is the most prevalent LAN application worldwide, offering the benefits of standardisation, low-cost components and high-performance switching technology. It’s easy to configure and install.
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