Radio frequency identification (RFID) first appeared two decades ago as a wireless non-contact reading technology that allowed it to be used in harsh manufacturing environments where some barcode labels could not survive. Recently, Microsoft announced its intention to study the possibility of its software participating in the now ever-expanding world of RFID processing systems.

A range of new products, services and advice will be on display at the upcoming Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) to be held in Mackay, 27-29 July.

The University of Sydney has appointed Professor Greg Hancock, a member of the University's academic community and world expert in engineering construction, as new Dean of the Faculty of Engineering.

Profibus International, representing more than 1200 member companies worldwide, has announced that at the end of 2003 Profibus devices installed in factory and process automation applications had surpassed an historic 10 million benchmark - a total substantially higher than any other fieldbus solution.

In co-operation with the US Consumer Protection Safety Commission, Fluke is voluntarily recalling the TL221, TL222 and TL224 modular test leads. Users are asked to send back test leads for replacement. This recall does not affect the test leads permanently attached to test probes that come standard with most Fluke Digital Multimeters. The recall does not include currently manufactured TL221, TL222 and TL224 test leads that are marked with a SureGrip symbol, either by a tag around the silicon wire, or the symbol moulded onto the connector end.

A new grade of stainless steel spring wire has been developed by Sandvik Materials Technology. Designed for applications with a high number of expansion and contraction cycles and where springs must retain their mechanical properties over long periods, the new grade combines good spring characteristics with high fatigue resistance and a low relaxation rate, according to the company.

Invensys and its Wonderware business unit have received top honours in the industrial automation industry from Frost & Sullivan. Invensys received the 'Industrial Automation Technology of the Year' award for its ArchestrA industrial automation and information software architecture. Wonderware accepted the 'Customer Value Leadership' award, which recognises Wonderware consistently delivering customer value within the industry through its product and services.

Real-time data collection has become more important as companies have increased the focus on driving continuous improvement into their organisations.

Wonderware has appointed Metquip Systems as their National distributor for Australia with effect 1st July 2004 covering the east and west coasts . Wonderware will continue to launch several new software releases this year and we will be showcasing this countrywide in conjunction with Metquip Systems.

Smart field devices and testing software provide a major leap in safety valve reliability.

Laminates of the most varied materials are ever more widely applied in numerous industries. More and more composite materials and laminates are used or produced directly online, and this not only for low-cost disposable products such as nappies, sanitary towels or tissue products, but also for special applications such as technical textiles or automotive interiors.

Emerson Process Management Asia Pacific Limited, a division of Emerson Electric, has been granted International Head-quarters (IHQ) status from Singapore's Economic Development Board.

The AS61010 standard, which specifies the minimum design safety and testing requirements for electrical equipment for testing, measurement and control, was introduced last year.

As the largest pan-Asia event for the composites market, RP Asia 2004 will be held at the Shangri-la Hotel in Bangkok from 1-2 September 2004. This conference and exhibition is firmly established as the most important Asian forum for global suppliers, fabricators, and end-users of composites.

The Hon Ian Macfarlane MP, Minister for Industry, Tourism and Resources, presented nine companies with awards for excellence and innovation on behalf of the Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (AEEMA) at a gala event recently.