Friday 28 August 2009

10inch Screen

Inch High Resolution & Widescreen Graphic OITS
Offer More Speed, More Memory, and More Pixels For Less Money

Maple Systems is enthusiastically getting the word out on their three new 10 inch Graphic OIT models. These innovative 10 inch HMIs offer a substantial improvement in visual performance over standard interfaces. With a choice of Widescreen or High Resolution displays, these 10 inch models offer faster CPUs and enhanced graphic appeal and capability, and attractive pricing to help in budget conscious times.

The HMI5100N and HMI5100T (with Ethernet) are 10.2 inch widescreens that have a 400 MHz CPU with 128 MB of Flash and 64 MB of DRAM. Widescreen models offer 20 percent more usable screen area than the comparable standard 640 x 480 screen. That means more room to display application graphics – imagery that looks sharp and crisp on these 800 x 480 pixel 65K Color TFT displays. Indeed, these 10.2” Widescreens are an attractive option when you want the wider visual impact, but need the practical and functional capabilities of a larger HMI. Basically, you are getting more pixels, speed, and memory for less money.

With a display resolution of 800 x 600 pixels, the HMI5104XH is a 10.4 inch High Resolution Graphic OIT with a very fast 500 MHz CPU, 256MB of Flash and 256MB of DRAM. That’s enough power to speed through any application. And it will even run a video media player. This high resolution unit gives you the same pixel coverage as a 12 inch HMI – but it is all packed into the 10.4 inch unit –and at pricing that is more than attractive.
This 10 inch HMIs are offered at some of the best pricing in the industry. In addition, these graphic OITs come with a 2 year warranty and full technical support. Maple Systems is an industry leader with a 26 year track record of superior customer service.

Laser sighting tool for IR Temp

New Laser sighting tool for non-contact infra-red temperature sensors

Calex has developed a new Laser Sighting Tool for the successful “Pyro” series of non-contact infra-red temperature sensors.

There are two models to choose from: Model LSTL has a 20 x 1 mm mounting thread which is compatible with PyroUSB sensors and model LSTS has a 16 x 1 mm thread for PyroCouple and PyroEpsilon sensors.

The Laser Sighting Tool screws onto the front of the sensor during installation and indicates precisely where the sensor is aiming. Once the sensor has been aimed at the centre of the target and locked in position the Laser Sighting Tool can be removed.

The laser is activated by means of a push button on the front of the tool which has a latching mechanism.

Both Laser Sighting Tools are made of anodised aluminium to keep weight to a minimum, and they are powered by a single lithium 1/2 AA 3.6V battery, which is easy to replace at low cost.

Thursday 27 August 2009

DC Source-measure instruments

Range of DC Source-Measure Instruments compatible with ACS Basic Edition software expanded


View a brief video on this new product

Keithley Instruments has enhanced its popular ACS Basic Edition software, adding support for a broader line of source-measure (SMU) instrumentation. This broader choice of compatible instruments should prove especially useful in expanding the software’s voltage and current limits available for testing solar cells, photovoltaic panels, and discrete power semiconductors. ACS Basic Edition combines high speed hardware control, device connectivity, and data management into an easy-to-use tool optimized for part verification, debugging, and analysis.

With the introduction of Version 1.1, ACS Basic Edition, a member of the company's Automated Characterization Suite (ACS) family, can now support a far broader range of DC voltage and current test capabilities. It’s compatible with the company’s full SMU offering, the broadest array of choices in the industry. Depending on the SMU selected, ACS Basic Edition supports sourcing and measuring up to 5A or 1100V DC on individual channels. The newly expanded source and measure ranges are especially useful for tests on evolving photovoltaic panels/solar cells and high power electronics in research, failure analysis, and inspection applications. ACS Basic Edition now also supports combining different SMU models into a single test, allowing easier configuration, test creation, and test execution – with no need to write code.

Keithley developed ACS Basic Edition to maximize the productivity of technicians and engineers responsible for packaged part characterization in applications ranging from early device research through development, quality verification, and failure analysis. It is delivered complete with a library of pre-configured component test routines to minimize start-up time, reduce the need for code development, and simplify the component testing process. Even novice users can test a semiconductor component in seconds and compare the characteristic curves with reference curves immediately. Much like a traditional analog curve tracer, ACS Basic Edition can generate a family of curves on a packaged part quickly but also offers the flexibility to save, compare, and correlate results easily.

Version 1.1 of the package provides a variety of new and enhanced capabilities:

  • Expanded hardware options: The software now supports combining hardware from any of Keithley’s SMU families into a single test, including Series 2600 and 2600A System SourceMeter instruments, Series 2400 SourceMeter instruments, the Model 4200-SCS Semiconductor Characterization System, and the Model 237 High-Voltage SMU. Now, users can test with a variety of SMU instrumentation optimized for a device’s specific current and voltage requirements.
    A new communication settings window allows configuring a variety of external GPIB instrumentation, such as a switch matrix, capacitance-voltage (C-V) meter, etc. into an ACS Basic Edition system. This simplifies making productive use of additional measurement hardware that users may already have in their labs.

  • Test saving enhancements: ACS Basic Edition now includes tools that help organize tests by devices and instruments, so it’s easy to save test algorithms and recall them for later use or modification. A new “Saved Test Info” dialog box allows selecting the instrument models with which the test will be associated on the test selection window. With this feature, users can organize their tests as they collect important data or update their test method.

  • Updated test selection dialog: Enhancements to this dialog include a new GENERIC device option, an improved user-defined device function, and a new instrument models listbox that includes all the instruments scanned by the software at startup.

  • Easier data visualization: Improvements to the data tab of all individual device tests simplify data visualization by allowing all the data a user wants to include in a plot to be incorporated at one time.

  • Script editor enhancements: The script editor has been enhanced to make script development and organization more powerful for a number of different test module types. Users now have direct access to the XRCed GUI development tool, which lets them build GUIs for custom test modules written in either Python or Test Script Processor (TSP®) languages. TSP scripts work with Series 2600, Series 2600A, and Model 3706 instruments. Python scripts are used to communicate via GPIB to any of these instruments, as well as any general purpose hardware users want to control.

Keithley offers customers around the world a variety of flexible solutions for current-voltage (I‑V), capacitance-voltage (C-V), and pulsed I-V measurements and analysis. Products range from benchtop instruments to turn-key systems and are used in applications as diverse as materials analysis, device characterization, wafer level reliability, and process control monitoring. They work closely with semiconductor customers worldwide through its network of field service centers and application engineers with specific expertise in the area of semiconductor technology.

Food ingredient flow

PD flowmeter system measures high-viscosity fluids in food ingredient applications
DC-F/IM system provides superior performance where batch repeatability is desired


Flow Technology (FTI) has announced the DC-F/IM (Ingredient Measurement) positive displacement (PD) flow meter system. Featuring a bearingless design with only two moving parts, the DC-F/IM is ideal for measuring high-viscosity fluids in food applications where batch repeatability is desired.

Food manufacturers use various flow meter designs to measure a wide range of thick and/or abrasive liquids, including chocolate, caramel, corn syrup, mayonnaise, frosting, etc. In many of these applications, however, higher viscosity requires that Coriolis meters be specified at a larger line size to minimize pressure drop, which inherently limits the low-end measureable flow rate compared to a smaller line size meter.

Employing Flow Technology's Decathlon Series DC-F PD flow meter, the DC-F/IM system helps improve quality control in food manufacturing. The DC-F/IM is suitable for measuring flow rates as low as 0.001 Gallons per Minute (GPM) and is designed for applications involving high pressure and pulsating flow streams. Due to its unique geometry, the PD meter can be utilized in the optimal line size, which minimizes pressure drop and enables accurate measurement across the entire desired flow range.

The DC-F sanitary PD flow meter employs 316 stainless steel construction, advanced thermoplastic impellers, and a non-intrusive pickoff sensor. The meter offers repeatability of +/-0.05% of rate and up to 1,000:1 turndown, and can measure viscosities up to 1,000,000 cP+.

Unlike some flow meter technologies, the DC-F/IM system is Clean-in-Place (CIP) compatible - ensuring a low cost-of-ownership. The PD meter can also be quickly opened in-line for inspection and physical maintenance if needed.

It is available for 1/8 inch to 2-inch lines sizes.

Wednesday 26 August 2009

Motion control

2D and 3D model configuration and download symplified!

The latest addition to the Design Tools section of Thomson's website allows users to configure and download both 2D and 3D CAD models.

Many models are configurable, allowing the user to simply enter the parameters of their particular requirement and the online software then locates the relevant data sheet, 2D/3D views and part number. From here, you are only a click away from a quote.

The new configuration service is the fourth section of a comprehensive Design Tools offered on the Thomson website. The other three are Sizing Software, Product Selectors and Engineer's Toolbar.


    About Thomson
    With more than 60 years of motion control innovation and quality, Thomson is the industry's premier producer of Linear Ball Bushing® Bearings and Profile Rail Bearings, 60 Case™ Shafting, ground and rolled Ball Screws, Linear Actuators, Gearheads, Clutches, Brakes, Linear Systems, and related accessories. Thomson invented the Linear Ball Bushing Bearing in 1945, and has set the standard ever since with an unsurpassed set of mechanical motion control solutions serving global commercial and aerospace & defense markets. They have facilities in North America, Europe and Asia with over 2000 distributor locations in around the world.The models fall into eight different categories: Precision Linear Systems, Ball Screws, Lead Screws, Linear Guides: Profile Rail, Linear Guides: Round Rail, Linear Motion Systems, Linear Ball Bushing® Bearings and LinearRace Shafting.
    For each category, 2D and 3D models with downloads are available in all major CAD formats.

Monday 24 August 2009

Wireless access

802.11b/g industrial wireless access point

HardwarePT has added Advantech’s EKI-6311G 802.11b/g Wireless Access Point, Client Bridge and Repeater to its hardware range enabling standards-based and license-free wireless connectivity for industrial devices, equipment, and applications.

For maximum flexibility, this instrument supports multiple operating modes. As an Access Point, it allows wireless devices to communication with each other and with 10/100Base-TX Ethernet wired networks. For applications where a wireless extension cord is needed, Client Bridge operation connects one or more wired devices to a wireless network. While combining both of these modes, the unit operates as a wireless repeater to extend wireless coverage areas.

Ruggedized for Industrial Environments
It is enclosed in a dust-tight and water-tight weatherproof plastic enclosure. With an IP65 rating it can be used for a number of different applications, ranging from indoor plant/factory locations to outdoor use. A single conduit connection is all that is required for both external power and wired network connections.
Enterprise-grade Security

Addressing security and data integrity concerns, the EKI-6311G supports enterprise standards like WPA2 (WiFi Protected Access 2) and 802.1x remote authentication, for secure wireless communications and to ensure that only authorized users and devices are permitted access. The unit is also SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) manageable, which means it is easily integrated with enterprise performance and availability monitoring systems.

“We’re extremely excited to offer wireless access at an incredible new price point, without sacrificing ruggedness, convenience, or enterprise security” said Paul Wacker, Product Manager for Industrial Communications at Advantech. “With the EKI-6311G 802.11b/g Wireless AP industrial equipment manufacturers as well as end-users will have the opportunity to realize the benefits of wireless communications.

Easy Installation and Setup
For quick and easy installation, all required installation hardware is included in the box. Two (2) detachable antennas are included, in addition to a wall or mast mounting bracket. Plus, an in-line PoE (Power over Ethernet) injector simplifies installation, by providing power to the unit over the same Cat5e cable that connects it to your network. For setup, all that is needed is a PC or laptop equipped with a web browser. The EKI-6311G is an ideal solution for adding wireless capability to plant and factory wired networks.

Fastest PLC

The fastest PLC in the world
programmable with Step 7


With the VIPA “SPEED7 Technology”,system 300S is the fastest control system in the world programmable with STEP7 from Siemens. The maximum memory for program and data has already been integrated into the SPEED7 CPUs. The CPUs can be operated without an additional memory card. Depending on the CPU type, the integrated work memory can be expanded up to 8MByte with the VIPA Memory extension card as required. The VIPA 314SX instruction set equates to the set of the S7-400. Next to the high processing speed usual for SPEED7, this PLC was furthermore especially designed for a fast I/O reaction on digital and analog signals.

The analog I/Os located on-board stand out with a sampling rate of 100kHz. The update rate of the analog inputs and outputs has thus been increased by a factor of 25 compared to the current compact CPUs. From the user’s point of view there are only 40µs delay time between the signal change at an analog or digital in- or output terminal and the direct periphery access within the code.
The features of the integrated digital I/Os are impressive:


1. The maximum 4 counters can process AB tracks with up to 400kHz frequency and the digital outputs can put out a 400kHz signal.
2. Up to four channels can be active contemporaneously as either AB track counter, stepper control or puls-width modulation.
3. In addition to the cyclic interrupts of 250µs (OB28) and 500µs (OB29) that are available in all SPEED7 CPUs, this PLC provides the OB27 programmable from 25µs which can be re-parameterized at runtime. By means of this feature it is possible to carry out analog controls with up to 40kHz update rate and with algorithms programmable in STEP7!
4. On asynchronous events at a digital input the user program (OB40) can send out a reaction to an analog or digital output after only 10µs.


This makes the CPU 314SX the ideal solution for time critical applications which require shortest cycle times and a fast processing of signals.

This CPU is pin-compatible to Siemens controllers and can therefore be applied in combination with existing devices.

All CPUs in the System 300S are equipped with an Ethernet Interface for PU/OP communication. Perfect for connection to SCADA systems. A CP343 interface for TCP/IP communication has been integrated in the ‘NET’ CPUs. Because of its high performance and scalable memory, system 300S is especially suitable for mid to high range applications.


More about VIPA

Information from DC Automation who market these products in Ireland.

Friday 21 August 2009

IR Camera

Smart long wave infrared camera

Smart cameras come to the world of infrared imaging with the new Xenics Gobi-384 compact LWIR camera from Stemmer Imaging. The affordable Gobi-384 features a unique on-board digital signal processor for improved real-time image processing. The Gobi offers a high degree of flexibility in terms of frame rate, user interface and temperature range, enabling the user to adapt it to various industrial settings and tasks.

This compact smart camera can be readily fitted into industrial environments for process control and used as an IP network camera or directly connected to a PC or video monitor. Other applications include R & D and medical imaging.

Operating in the 8-14 micron wavelength range, the Gobi-384 camera can detect temperature differences as small as 0.05˚C. The 384 x 288 pixel uncooled a-Si microbolometer detector array offers a 44% higher pixel count than other systems based on the same detector technology. The Gobi-384 is fully compatible with Thermography Studio™ software for dynamic analysis and recording. Thermography Studio features a library of powerful tools that enable the sophisticated analysis of thermal behavior for a wide range of objects and materials.

The camera offers flexibility of control and interfacing. It has both Ethernet (TCIP/IP) and CameraLink interfaces. A frame rate of up to 50 fps can be achieved over a a standard 100 Mbit Ethernet connection. A software development kit supporting C++, Visual Basic, LabView or Linux allows flexible programming in an open architecture. The Xeneth Advanced GUI allows live image view, storing of digital images and movies, digital zoom and selection of a region of interest, as well as display of data such as image histograms and line profiles.

Power Supply

600W Compact PCI Power Supply responds to customer demands
Class leading high power density gives users more value for money


Gresham Power Electronics has introduced the latest addition to its very successful Compact PCI power supply family, the cPCI-6U-600. By continuing to push the boundaries of high efficiency, high power density power supply design Gresham are responding to growing market demands for ever increasing power from the 6U cPCI footprint.

Emerging communications, broadcast and advanced multi-media applications require increasing amounts of power which until now has meant using multiple power supplies connected in parallel. By delivering 600W in the standard cPCI package users can free-up more rack space for revenue earning electronics.

Jake Moir, Managing Director of Gresham Power Electronics, comments; “In these challenging times we continue to seek to offer our customers greater value for money and products which allow them to maximise their own sales revenues. Greater power density in the standard cPCI package frees up space for increased functionality in the end product adding value for our customers. Employing the latest components and topologies ensures we do not sacrifice quality or reliability while increasing our market opportunities.”

Their complete range of cPCI products is fully compliant to PICMG 2.11 and offer hot-swap, N+1 redundant connection and active load current share. AC input versions are power factor corrected and have a universal 90-264VAC, 47-63 Hz input range, a 48VDC input version is also available which operates over the range 36-72VDC. Standard output voltages are 5V/65A +3.3V/80A +12V/12A -12V/1.5A and custom variants are possible.

This family of products are all RoHS compliant, feature ruggedised construction as standard and advanced status and control functions including remote inhibit, output fail alarm, over temperature warning, output remote sense, single wire current share and front panel LEDs indicate outputs OK and any fault condition.

Full international safety agency approvals are held including UL/cUL60950, EN60950, CE Mark (LVD) and EN55022 Level B. Operating temperature range is -5C to +55°C with de-rating at 2.5%/°C up to +71°C, cooling requirements are 400LFM of airflow and MTBF is calculated as >400,000 Hours per Belcore 332 issue 6.

Gresham Power’s cPCI product range represents the industry's leading cPCI AC/DC power supplies, delivering from 350 to 600W of continuous power. Gresham Power’s unique design uses two converters in parallel, one for the +3.3V and the other for the +5V. This design provides the flexibility for determining individual load requirements for each output independently enabling full load currents to be drawn.

Thursday 20 August 2009

Safety trip

Featured in exida’s Integrated Safety Lifecycle Software
Safety Trip Alarm for Rapidly Emerging IEC 61508 Safety Applications


Moore Industries’ STA Safety Trip Alarm for IEC 61508 Safety Applications is now featured as a Logic Solver in exida’s exSILentia® integrated safety lifecycle software. The exSILentia software is a leading safety lifecycle engineering tool.

Part of Moore Industries’ FS FUNCTIONAL SAFETY SERIES, the STA performs as a Logic Solver and acts on potentially hazardous process conditions; it warns of unwanted process conditions and provides emergency shutdown or on/off control in Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) and traditional alarm trip applications.

By including the STA in the exSILentia software tool, exida has provided competent functional safety practitioners a way to determine the STA’s applicability in specific safety-related applications. Exida is highly selective in choosing components for exSILentia’s equipment database. To include this instrument, the Functional Safety experts at exida had to review and approve all Failure Modes, Effects, and Diagnostic Analysis (FMEDA) data.

In the exSILentia tool, safety practitioners can select the 4-wire (line/mains-powered) STA as an economical Logic Solver that accepts a signal input from transmitters (current and voltage inputs), temperature sensors, resistance and potentiometer devices and more.

The STA can be configured for a wide variety of Safety Instrumented Functions (SIF) for safety related applications. The “high availability” alarm trip is designed for Safety Instrumented Systems up to SIL 2 and the firmware is suitable for use in a SIL 3 system, in a 1oo2 (one out of two) voting architecture.

It provides three failsafe alarm outputs. Two are configurable process alarms that trip when a monitored process variable falls outside of user-set high and/or low limits. The third alarm is a non-programmable, latching alarm that is activated if any internal faults are found by the unit's extensive internal diagnostics. This fault relay is also triggered if the input is faulty or broken.

The STA features industry-best 20-bit input resolution; long term stability of up to 5 years between scheduled calibrations; a rugged, industrial metal housing; and isolation and RFI/EMI protection that provides superior protection against the effects of ground loops, plant noise, and radio frequency and electromagnetic interference. The unit also features standard “transmitter excitation” that provides 24V power to a 2-wire transmitter.

Monday 17 August 2009

Moisture analysis

New Advanced Quartz Crystal Microbalance Trace Moisture Analyser

Michell Instruments has expanded its range of sensing technologies by introducing the advanced quartz crystal microbalance technique for moisture measurement in gases. Their PMA2030 quartz crystal analyser is an ideal quality monitoring tool for air separators, industrial and high purity gas production processes.

The analyser is designed to provide highly reliable, fast and accurate measurement at trace moisture levels (ppbv and ppmv). The quartz crystal sensor of the PMA2030 will give a 63% response to a step change in moisture in less than 2 minutes (95% in less than 5 minutes).

The wide operating range – from 0.1 to 2000 ppmV – coupled with the fast response of the PMA2030 helps to monitor and protect processes to avoid damage to tools or finished products by enabling users to react quickly to fluctuations in moisture.

Crucially, the new analyser provides measurements that can be trusted throughout its operational life. The company's advanced quartz crystal technology, developed and refined over many years, gives a highly reproducible and linear response to changes in moisture content. This allows the PMA2030 to deliver class-leading accuracy of 5% of measured value in the range 0.5 to 500 ppmV. Its automatic calibration system, using an internal reference source, guarantees the sensor’s integrity and accuracy by cancelling out the effects of contamination.

The PMA2030 is also easy to use as its cutting-edge touch-screen panel provides a user-friendly and intuitive interface. Not only are the live measurement data and graph of the session always on view, they can also be downloaded to a conventional external USB storage device for traceability or analysis.

The PMA2030 analyser enhances the range of moisture sensing technologies currently available from Michell. Along with the metal oxide ceramic sensor, chilled mirror and capacitive technologies, the quartz crystal microbalance enables the customer to benefit from flexibility of choice between these complementary humidity measurement technologies.

Friday 14 August 2009

Vision technology

Product date expiry verification

The latest demands by major food retailers for future, mandatory, product label expiry date reading and verification have been met with already proven systems by Machine Vision Technology Ltd.

Incorporated into on-line, manufacturing processes, the MVT system is able to read and verify product codes including 1D bar code reading, and check corresponding expiry dates. The product and date can be menu selected, translated from existing factory management systems or use dates or date codes from any equation or code sequencing required by the end customer.

A key benefit of this solution is that it is based on proven, camera based technology using reliable optical character recognition (OCR) techniques. The company has vast experience in this area having carried out OCR with machine vision systems on fast-moving products in many different industry sectors.

They have over twenty existing and successful installations at Premier Foods’ sites, where, for example, OCR is being used to read codes on top of cans, at typical speeds of 800 per minute. This technology is now available to check expiry dates on labels or packaging.

MVT’s Product Label Verifier is quick and easy to install with no disruption to ongoing production. It can be stand alone if necessary with no dependence on existing factory automation or equally integrated into existing systems.

Usually placed at the end of the production line, there are a number of warning and process alternatives. These range from a flashing alarm beacon to indicate mismatch to a reject divert capability, with a divert gate mechanism option, to a halt in production. At the same time there is full product and reject count monitoring.

Water quality

China trial for new in-pipe monitor

New technology, developed by Intellitect Water, that provides visibility of water quality within the drinking water distribution network, is currently on trial in China.

Shanghai based, Ewaters Environmental Science & Technology Co., Ltd, which specialises in water network modelling and data management, carried out the trial and their Managing Director, Weijun Zhang says, "We are keen to promote this ground-breaking technology in China because we see the importance of capturing concurrent multi-parameter data and believe that the water industry in our country will derive enormous benefits from its deployment."

The monitors (Intellisondes™) provide real-time monitoring data from up to 12 sensors (including a robust, highly accurate solid-state chlorine sensor) inside a tiny sonde head that fits in the pipeline through a 1½ inch valve.

Measurement options include Free Chlorine, Total Chlorine, Mono-chloramine, Dissolved Oxygen, Conductivity, pH, ORP/Redox, Flow, Pressure, Temperature, Turbidity and Colour. Importantly, none of these require membranes or reagents and the sondes can be deployed for long periods without the need for frequent recalibration or maintenance.

The probes can be fitted into large pressurised pipes (via a 3.8 or 5cm valve) as well as pipes only five centimetres in diameter, for street level monitoring.

Emphasising the importance of the trial, Weijun Zhang says, "The management of water quality in distribution systems has always been a complicated task because it has been difficult to install water quality monitoring instruments and there is a lack of effective ways to capture real time data. As a result, it has been hard for water utilities to capture sufficient data to create a full picture of system performance under varying conditions, for management purposes. For example, utilities need to be able to study the impact of water quality in the trunk mains from hydraulic controls, pipe materials, age etc."

"This situation has also created difficulties for distribution system modelling. With insufficient data, model calibration and system performance is limited within the accuracy of the available data and often model prediction of water quality may only be indicative which may affect the quality of management decisions."

"Although the test in China was only at a single site, the data retrieved has clearly demonstrated both the sensitivity of the sensors, and the status of the water quality. The data provided a clear picture of water health including trends for each parameter and diurnal variation. For computer modellers the availability of such water quality data is a dream come true."

"From an operational perspective, the installation and maintenance of Intellisondes is simple. Also, the generation of real-time data makes it possible to link to a Web based data service and further integrated with a real time modelling system to assist in the evaluation of various operational scenarios."


Looking forward, Weijun Zhang says, "If the trials are successful, we believe that large numbers of low cost monitors will be installed in China's drinking water distribution networks. This will enable the optimisation of Chlorine dosing to reduce costs and protect water quality, customer taste and perception."

Ethernet switch






More about
Industrial Ethernet
This is the name given to the use of the Ethernet protocol in an industrial environment, for automation and production machine control.
See also Testing, comparing industrial Ethernets, the cover story in the August issue of InTech.


HardwarePT - Industrial Computing.
HardwarePT is an Industrial Automation Hardware business offering a comprehensive range of world-class industrial computing and connectivity tools to the Industrial Automation market in the Britain and Ireland. The company, which is located in Cheadle, was set-up in March 2007 and is a division of SolutionsPT Ltd which has over 20 years experience in supplying Industrial Automation Solutions. Product range includes: Industrial Computers, Panel PC's, Flat Panel Computers, Embedded Computers, Touch Panel Computers, Industrial Ethernet Switches, Network Interface Cards, High Availability Servers and Hardware Support.

Industrial Ethernet switch added to product portfolio

HardwarePT, a division of SolutionsPT Limited has added Advantech's EKI-4654R, an IEC61850-3 compliant managed Ethernet switch for grid automation applications to its product portfolio. IEC61850-3 certification ensures environmental and EMI immunity of network devices used in substations and allows the EKI-4564R to be interconnected with a myriad of devices, providing reliable consistency in power & energy applications.
The EKI-4654R features 24 10/100Base-T Ethernet ports and two 1000Base-T SFP slots and has a wide range of redundant power inputs (2x 100~240 VAC/100~240 VDC) allowing connection to two separate power supplies, guaranteeing operation in the event of sources going offline. In addition, the dual connections can be used to connect multiple managed switches in a self-healing ring configuration, which provides a secondary communication path in the event that the primary is interrupted.

In addition to an open standard Spanning Tree (SFP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), the EKI-4654R also supports Advantech’s ultra-fast X-Ring, which guarantees recovery in less than 10ms. Furthermore, the EKI-4654R features the “Dual X-Ring” technology, allowing it to be a hub for an existing X-Ring, so that users need only one switch to link redundant rings.

The EKI-4654R has many advanced features such as: IP security, VLAN, QoS, Port Mirroring, MAC security, IGMP Snooping, Port Trunking, CoS/TOS, email warnings, SNMP Trap, and SMTP. For user access control, the EKI-4654R supports port-based IEEE 802.1x user authentication from a centralized RADIUS server.

The EKI-4654R is fanless with a 1U size, rear-end wiring, an LED indicator, front panel LEDs, and high port density providing simple management and easy maintenance.

Machine vision

New IR Technology for Machine Vision with Thermography
Image Recording and Analysis for Automated Swine Flue Detection


Xenics will demonstrate its highly sensitive line-scan detector Xlin-1.7-1024 with unique features, the high-detectivity Onca for multi-spectral imaging, the uncooled InGaAs "smart" Bobcat 320/ 640 for low-cost mass markets, new software for the high-speed SWIR Cheetah-640CL, and a new real-time Gobi/Raven thermography application: a digital recording and image analysis package developed with Quadrox for automated Swine Flue detection in public places. at Vision 2009 ( Hall 4, Stand E82).

At Vision 2009, Xenics is set to once again prove its broad science-based design and production capabilities in IR imaging by focusing on five commercially successful and pioneering product groups: Xlin, Onca (right), Bobcat, Cheetah and the upgraded thermography version of Gobi -- emphasizing the current need for advanced thermal imaging solutions. The presentation underscores Xenics' two-pronged strategy of supporting the growing demand for high-resolution and high-sensitivity cameras suited for industrial uses as well as cost-sensitive mass markets.

Featured prominently will be Xenics' line-scan detector Xlin-1.7-1024 sporting a unique combination of features for high-speed imaging applications in machine vision and spectroscopy. At a line rate of 40 kHz and a resolution of 1024 pixels in combination with 12.5 µm pitch, Xlin-1.7-1024 enables more accurate inspection and smaller particle detection at shorter wavelengths than other cameras. This very competitive combination of product features with best signal-to-noise performance positions Xenics in the upper echelons of line-scan camera providers on the world market.

Likewise, Xenics' Onca family (see picture), conceived as a high-end IR and thermal imaging platform with cooled detector offering high detectivity and uniformity, is also claiming top position in the competitive ranking. The Onca camera is excellently suited for R&D environments as well as industrial process monitoring, high-speed imaging, target signature radiometric data collection, tracking and IR spectroscopy. In this regard, Onca is of special interest because it increases frame rate while reducing overhead for high-speed process monitoring in windowing mode. Delivering more than 100 images per second, Onca's image acquisition and control are compatible with GigE Vision and CameraLink for easy integration in customers' systems.

Onca is available in various formats: MWIR-InSb, MWIR-MCT, LWIR-QWIP and LWIR-MCT, thus covering extended wavelengths at a broad sensitivity range. A filter wheel achieves best performance in multi-spectral imaging and super frame mode enables viewing of hot and cold spots in one sequence -- equalling ultimate dynamic range. Radiometric calibration results in temperature measurement at utmost accuracy.

Bobcat, another proven Xenics camera operating in the 0.9 to 1.7 µm band, is now available for cost-sensitive, high-volume markets, replacing the XS-1.7-320. As a compact "smart" SWIR camera complete with uncooled InGaAs detector and full on-board image processing (DSP, TCP/IP, CL, video interface), Bobcat comes with either 320 or 640 pixel resolution. It is laid out for easy system integration and use, and is set to conquer traditional markets based on outdated vidicons. This pertains to industrial monitoring, EVS, night vision and gated imaging - all open now to cost-reducing uncooled InGaAs camera solutions.

Cheetah-640CL, which premiered at last year's Vision, supports continuous full-speed data transfer via double CameraLink. It is now available with the IO Industries Streams 5^(TM) image acquisition software. This allows grabbing still or dynamic images at highest flexibility by setting control parameters such as integration time, operating temperature or frame rate, via the Cheetah-640CL configuration tool.

Finally, in a real-time thermography application aiming at the current Swine Flue epidemic, Xenics will demonstrate a digital recording software and video management platform of Quadrox in conjunction with its Gobi and Raven cameras - as featured on signpost last May. The system was co-developed by Xenics and Quadrox featuring a software decision engine for the automated detection of flue-infected persons in pedestrian flows at airports, border stations or public schools.

Thursday 13 August 2009

Radar level

Guided Wave Radar level transmitters for Safety Instrumented Systems


The 5300 series makes it possible to meet safety requirements while maintaining maximum plant availability and reducing lifecycle costs


Emerson Process Management now has available its Rosemount® 5300 Guided Wave Radar (GWR) level transmitters for SIL 2 safety instrumented systems. Following successful third-party evaluation, the 5300 series now comes with the required Failure Modes, Effects and Diagnostic Analysis (FMEDA) report. As a result, companies in the oil & gas production, refining, petrochemical, chemical and power industries can benefit from the superior performance of Guided Wave Radar (GWR) technology while ensuring compliance with associated IEC industry standards.

The 5300 Series was evaluated, as per hardware assessment IEC 61508, by global organisation Exida. The resulting FMEDA report, with Safe Failure Fraction (SFF) over 90%, shows SIL 2 suitability. As per IEC 61508 & IEC 61511 the documentation provides safety instrumentation engineers with the required failure data and with proof test recommendations. With a five-year-plus proof test interval, the proof test can be co-ordinated with plant turnaround, minimising process interruption and reducing risk to personnel.

This series is a 2-wire GWR for challenging level and interface measurements on liquids, slurries and solids. It leverages the company’s 30 years of proven radar expertise and is designed to improve plant profitability through superior reliability, state-of-the-art safety features, effortless handling and unlimited connectivity.

It has an enhanced capability to handle disturbing factors, longer measuring range, and lower dielectrics, even with a single probe. Its robust design prevents leakage and performs reliably, especially under extreme process conditions. Heavy-duty probes are available to meet the extreme temperatures and pressure challenges with multiple layer of protection and advanced echo logics for reliable overfill detection.

The 5300 series’ 2-wire technology enables fast and inexpensive installation. With user-friendly graphical interfaces and wizards, measure-and-learn functionality, suggestions for application-specific configuration and PlantWeb® digital architecture functionality, the transmitter integrates easily into new or existing control systems. This, in addition to maintenance-free operation and advanced diagnostics, results in a quicker return on investment with overall improved uptime and enhanced safety.

Rosemount transmitters are components of Emerson's smart SIS safety management solution, an extension of the company's PlantWeb® digital plant architecture. Emerson's smart SIS provides an integrated approach to complete safety loops — from sensor to logic solver to final control element. The smart SIS solution enables process manufacturers to implement safer facilities, improve availability, lower life-cycle costs, and simplify regulatory compliance. The smart SIS system components include Rosemount® and Micro Motion® certified and proven-in-use devices, the DeltaV™ SIS system, the Fisher certified valves or SIL-PAC final control solution with FIELDVUE DVC6000 SIS, and the AMS® Suite: Intelligent Device Manager.

Wednesday 12 August 2009

Dissolved ammonia

Dissolved ammonia monitor enables continuous measurement of ammonia in river water

Specialist electrochemical sensor manufacturer Analytical
Technology
tells us that its Q45N Dissolved Ammonia Monitor achieves continuous, on-line monitoring of ammonia levels in raw water from rivers. Continuous monitoring of ammonia in river water is important for plant operations and environmental agencies. Analytical Technology's dissolved ammonia monitor enables organisations to effectively measure the levels of ammonia in river water.

River water quality is assessed by the Environment Agency through the General Quality Assessment (GQA) scheme and it is essential that potentially harmful chemicals in river water are controlled. Ammonia is an important nutrient for plants and algae that reside in river water. However, when river temperatures change, ionized ammonia changes to un-ionized ammonia gas. This can be fatal to fish and other water organisms in the river, therefore it is important that ammonia levels are continuously monitored.

Water quality is also important for water treatment plants using river water as the water source. High ammonia levels in the inlet water cause major problems in the disinfection process. By successfully measuring the ammonia content in river water at inlets to water treatment plants, organisations are able to protect the inlet supply. In some applications, when ammonia levels hit unacceptably high levels the inlet can be closed.

Current ammonia monitoring technology is expensive and complex, using ion selective electrodes and costly reagents, which are toxic and difficult to dispose of. These monitors are also non specific and require continuous calibration in order to suit different needs such as wastewater treatment, potable water treatment and measuring levels of ammonia in river water. Ion selective electrodes typically need daily zeroing and calibration using reagents.

The Q45N Dissolved Ammonia Monitor avoids the challenges of conventional ammonia monitors through using a completely unique method. Ammonia is converted to a stable monochloramine compound, equivalent in concentration to the original ammonia level. The chloramine concentration is then measured with a polarographic membraned sensor that selectively responds linearly to chloramines. The reaction chemistry gives the monitor excellent sensitivity even at very low (ppb) ammonia levels.

Reagents are simple and inexpensive and their usage is low. As a consequence the unit has a very low cost of ownership. The monitor has two 4-20mA outputs programmable for free ammonia, total ammonia and monochloramine concentration. This allows all the important parameters to be measured on a single instrument.

The larger UK water companies and some Environment Agency approved laboratories are already using the Q45N monitor to effectively monitor ammonia levels in river water. This new ammonia system from Analytical Technology provides users with a monitor that is both simple to operate and economical to purchase, with low running costs and no measurement interferences.

Wind power

Complete wind turbine solution delivers 3kW electrical power for home or business

Carlo Gavazzi is meeting the increasing demand for small-scale renewable energy sources with a complete package for residential or commercial wind power generation. The Mistral solution comprises of a 3kW micro wind turbine, braking control unit and inverter, enables users to generate electricity for the home or office, and feed surplus energy into the public grid.

Power is generated by a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT), which offers high efficiency with a low level of audible noise. The 2.6m diameter propeller provides a sweep area of 5.31m² and is integrated with a generator and tail atop a zinc-coated pole typically 6m in height. This 48.5kg unit makes use of lightweight, weather resistant materials: together with a specially-designed blade profile, it provides very high performance even in case of dominant wind turbulence. In harsh conditions, even when installed close to high buildings; this small turbine provides up to 39% of total efficiency. When the wind speed is more than 12.5m/s the safety “furling protection” tilts the mill tail, orientating the propeller diagonally to the wind direction, and forcing the propeller to slow down. In such condition the maximum power is also self limited to 3.3kW.

The generator is a three-phase permanent magnet unit with 18 electrical poles, designed to produce power even at low rotating speeds and providing a maximum output of 3.3kW. It is housed in a central body assembly, which also incorporates yaw bearings enabling the turbine to rotate and maintain the optimum heading. Electrical connections to the inverter and control system are via a slip ring located in the tower mount.

Three phase power at variable voltage is converted to a single-phase, 230VAC output at 50Hz, using the WTI3 inverter unit. A safety and monitoring system maintains efficiency to better than 95% and guarantees immunity from electro magnetic influence within international EMC standards. Full digital control ensures low current distortion of better than 3%, along with output frequency detection and synchronisation. Also integrated is Carlo Gavazzi’s maximum peak power tracking technology to maintain optimum wind power output. Active anti-islanding protection is provided for grid monitoring to ensure the highest levels of installer and user protection.

The WTB3 braking box sits between the generator and inverter, providing automated or manual control of the turbine. In its basic form, this unit ensures safe operation acting as the main breaker from the generator to the grid. The inverter drives two different electromagnetic brakes: a resistor brake, which operates when the wind speed goes above 13.5m/s, and a short-circuit brake that takes over if the resistor brake is activated repeatedly in a short time, or if the wind turbine speed increases despite the action of the resistor brake. In addition, manual brakes are provided via a mushroom switch and a maintained-action push button.

Braking unit and inverter are available separately or within a complete packaged wind turbine cabinet WTC3 that also integrates surge protection, along with the facility to monitor power output using a MID-compliant energy meter connected via an RS-485 interface, grid interface and breaker.

Monday 10 August 2009

Tabletop microscope software

3D Analysis & Measurement Software for Hitachi TM-1000 Tabletop Microscope

Hitachi High-Technologies has introduced a new software option for its ever-popular TM-1000 Tabletop microscope. The new 3DView analysis package provides the capability to produce, manipulate and record 3D visualizations of a specimen and make comprehensive measurements of the 3D surface characteristics without the need for specimen tilt.

The range of measurements that can be made using the new software includes height, surface area and roughness measurements (S: Sm: Rlr: Da: Rpm: Rv: Rp: Rms: Ra: Ry: Rz: L). Measurements are obtained using a section profile, utilizing current industry-standard methods. Mouse-controlled zoom and rotation of the 3D image is provided, together with the ability to record animations of image manipulations as AVI files so that the 3D graphical information can be easily shared without the need for any special software. All data obtained (measurements, section profiles and images) can be easily exported to other software packages for further analysis.

The new 3DView option further enhances the flexibility of this easy-to-use microscope. Combined with the availability of EDX elemental analysis & application-specific stages (Heating/Cooling, Tensile/Compression, Nano-manipulators, Tilt / Rotation with IR Chamberscope) the TM-1000 can offer powerful flexibility and functionality to many microscopy facilities.

Saturday 8 August 2009

Accelerometer

Damped, low mass DC response accelerometer
for high reliability impact testing applications


Endevco has introduced Model 7264G, a patented, damped MEMS accelerometer for crash sled, rough road and other critical shock testing applications.

Model 7264G features a full bridge, with two fixed resistors to facilitate shunt calibration. Sensing elements are housed within a rugged, lightweight aluminum, for a total weight of just 1.4 grams. The light damping of the instrument enables the unit to attenuate resonance and minimize phase shift over the useful frequency range. Full scale output is 400 mV with 10 Vdc excitation. Units are available with less than 1% transverse sensitivity (“T” option) and less than ±25 mV zero measurand output (“Z” option). A uniquely advanced micromachined monolithic sensor design offers improved ruggedness, stability and reliability, with added damping capability.

The sensor delivers shock resistance of up to 10,000 g in any direction, with a range of +2,000 g full scale. With frequency response extending down to DC (steady state) and integral mechanical overrange stops, the accelerometer is ideal for any crash or shock application where measurement of long duration transients, with minimal mass loading and broad frequency response, are required. This includes non-automotive applications, such as in shipping container shock tracking, ejection seat and jack hammer testing.

Because Model it has the same seismic mass, center of gravity and bolt hole spacing as the industry best-selling Model 7264C-2K accelerometer, it may be used as a drop-in replacement for legacy applications, where damping capabilities are an added benefit. Model 7264G meets SAEJ211 and SAEJ2570 specifications for instrumentation for vehicle impact testing, as well as multiple other global automotive testing standards.

Wednesday 5 August 2009

Historian process video

Process Historian added to Video System
By integrating with the process historian from Canary Labs, Longwatch can not only display all the data from an event, it can show video of what happened out in the plant.


Longwatch has announced a bi-directional OEM agreement with Canary Labs. The Longwatch Video Historian now offers Canary Labs Trend Historian and Trend Link software that enables users to link video with plant data. Together, the two systems archive all the relevant information—video and real-time data—from a process or automation system, making it much easier for plant operators and engineers to analyze events, alarms and actions.

When video cameras are situated to monitor process or automation operations—such as assembly lines, inspection stations, machine tools, pumping stations, tanks or similar systems—video from the cameras is stored along with real-time data from the process. If an alarm occurs, or operators want to analyse problems with a system, both the archived trend data and video can be “replayed” and displayed simultaneously using the Longwatch Viewer software. This allows operators and engineers to see all of the pertinent process data from the historian, plus view video of the process equipment, at the same points in time.

The Longwatch Video System can acquire video from both analog and digital cameras throughout the plant. Video data can be sent over existing plant networks, wireless or cellular links to a central server in the control room, where it can be viewed on HMI/SCADA workstations. Video can be viewed live, attached to an alarm message as a short “snippet,” or archived in the server along with real-time process data.

Canary’s Trend Link chart object, integrated into the Longwatch Video Historian for automatic visual synchronization of trend charts and video, can interface to other historical data archives using OPC-HDA. Similarly, the Canary Labs Trend Historian collection engine can obtain real-time data directly from PLCs, RTUs, data acquisition systems, DCSes, PC-based control systems, and other smart systems via OPC interfaces.

Video makes analyzing past events and trends much easier than simply looking at raw data and reports on a screen.

“Canary Labs has enabled us to make initial installations of our new Video Historian very easy and very capable,” said Steve Rubin, President and CEO of Longwatch. “Our Video Historian has received a great deal of interest from early adopters, and the inclusion of the scalable and powerful trend engine from Canary makes the product that much more valuable,” Rubin said.

“We’re pleased to be working with the innovative team at Longwatch,” stated Gary Stern, president of Canary Labs. “The engineering teams in both companies have a rich and successful history of satisfying the needs of industrial customers. With this relationship, we’re able to take the application of our product families to new levels and new applications,” he added.

The Canary Labs historian and trending component is part of the “Starter Pack” of Longwatch’s Video Historian software.

Tuesday 4 August 2009

Metals analysis

OES Metals Analyser
for Fast, Reliable and Cost-Effective Analyses of Cast Iron, Steel and Aluminum


Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced their ARL 3460 Advantage metals analyser. An extension of the their optical emission spectrometers portfolio, this unit features four configurations specifically designed for the analysis of cast iron, steel and aluminum samples, addressing the analytical requirements of foundries and metals processing companies. Calibrated in the factory, the analyzer provides an immediate, accurate, cost-effective and high-performance turn-key solution, which is ready to analyze samples from installation.

With an installed base of more than 5,000 units worldwide, the ARL 3460 is recognised for its excellent stability, reliability, repeatability and long lifetime. The cost-effective ARL 3460 Advantage offers the same high performance capabilities, particularly regarding detection limits, precision and accuracy. It uses the same high-tech, powerful PMT detectors as the ARL 3460.and can be delivered very rapidly.

The ARL 3460 Advantage is powered by Thermo Scientific OXSAS analytical software, which is designed to meet the specific needs of users in the metals industry. OXSAS provides simple one-click routine analysis launch and full traceability and allows users to run virtually unlimited analyses, including the development of new analytical methods and calibrations, rapid high-quality routine analyses and quantitative analyses using tasks with analysis parameter templates. This easy-to-use, comprehensive solution features access to recent analyses results for on-screen comparison, a simple graphic user interface and triple navigation style including menu, tree and icon views to accommodate individual preferences. Additionally, OXSAS analytical software provides access to various functional levels through password-protected user accounts allowing for secure operation.

'Key to Metals,' the most comprehensive steel and nonferrous metals database worldwide, is included with OXSAS. It offers unlimited access to more than 3,400,000 records for chemical composition, properties and specifications for metals. This powerful multilingual tool allows easy direct export of grade concentration data to OXSAS grade limits. 'Key to Metals' features search and cross reference tools that enable considerable time and cost savings.

Dairy NIR application

Constituent measurement and quality control
Outdated legacy system replaced with in-line near infrared analyser


ESE has announced that Rockview Farms of Downey (CA US) has chosen ESE's Q5i Near Infrared (NIR) In-line Analyser for improving quality control during the fluid milk standardization process. Rockview selected this system based on its fast and accurate testing, and increased control for measuring key constituent levels. Fluid milk production requires tight control over both fats and solids levels in order to meet FDA compliance requirements and ensure customer quality and safety.


Q5 Series Near Infrared Analyser
ESE's Q5 family of Near Infrared Analyser is designed to help manufacturers in the food and beverage industries test and measure food constituents in a lab environment or right on the production line. The Q5 NIR Series will analyse a batch in as little as five seconds, contains no moving parts to ensure sample accuracy and repeatability, and can sample multiple constituents without preparation or clean up work. The Q5i has no moving parts, sits right on the production line, and requires little to no maintenance.


"Heightened consumer expectations and the FDA require us to continuously review our quality standards and find better ways to measure constituents like fat and salt," stated Joe Lunzer, Plant Manager of Rockview Farms.
"With the implementation of the ESE Q5i Near Infrared Analsyer, we will further improve the quality of our milk products. their system allows us to monitor and control the batch on the production line every 5 seconds, without pulling a sample. And, it instantly informs us when a batch is out of tolerance before sending it downline. We expect to have our location using the new, advanced in-line technology in production by mid-September."

"We are very pleased that Rockview Farms has selected the Q5i Near Infrared Analyser as their technology for inline fluid milk standardisation," said Tom Walther, President of ESE. "We take pride in helping our customers manufacture the highest quality products. Like many other food manufacturers facing the need to replace legacy equipment, Rockview chose our advanced in-line technology for its ability to quickly and accurately test multi-constituents and receive results within seconds, as well as deliver a fast return on investment and immediate gains in operational efficiencies. With the Q5i NIR In-line Analyser system, Rockview will be replacing outdated, legacy in-line units which would have required costly parts and long lead times, and not offered the advanced technology found in today's Q5i solutions from ESE."

ESE will work with Statco, a leading distributer in the food and dairy industry, to complete the full implementation of Rockview's fluid milk standardisation technology.

Monday 3 August 2009

Electronic measurements acquisition

LEM announces the acquisition of Danfysik ACP A/S

LEM the market leader in providing innovative and high quality solutions for measuring electrical parameters, has acquired the Danish company Danfysik ACP A/S. The deal is a strategic bolt-on acquisition in order to strengthen the position of the LEM Group in the field of very high precision current measurements.

Danfysik ACP (Advanced Current Products) is the world’s leading company in the development and manufacturing of highest precision current transducers for three main markets: medical scanners, precision industrial motor controls and test & measurement. LEM has acquired the transducer activity with a turnover of CHF 7.6 million in 2008 and 15 employees. The company is based near Copenhagen, Denmark. The acquisition was finalized for an undisclosed amount.

Paul Van Iseghem President & CEO of LEM (picture right) said: “Danfysik and LEM can already look back at a successful 12 year relationship. We are taking advantage of this strategic bolt-on acquisition to create a new focus on the high precision current transducers market.”

Soeren Rathmann, Chairman of the Board of directors of Danfysik ACP; “We have been very satisfied with the development of Danfysik ACP, however the strategic fit to LEM has always been obvious and we believe that the company now has found its right home.”

The product range covers transducers for nominal current measurements from 12.5 A to 25 kA providing overall accuracy at +25°C from 1 ppm. Thermal offset drifts are extremely low, from only 0.1 to 2.5 ppm/K. Models from 12.5 A to 60 A nominal can be used for PCB mounting, models from 60 A to 25 kA are for panel or rack mounting.

To obtain these exceptional performances, Closed Loop Fluxgate technology has been used coupled with a top class current transformer. This combination enables high accuracy, dynamic performance and a wide measuring range.

Featuring galvanic isolation, all components can be used for current measurement of any kind of waveforms (including DC, AC, mixed and complex) without any contact to the conductor.

Atomic Absorption

New entry level flame AA spectrophotometer

Analytik Jena has launched the novAA® 350, a robust, simple to use flame-only atomic absorption spectrohotometer with the performance of a high-end system. Designed for daily laboratory usage, the new model features an automatic 8-lamp turret utilising high intensity hollow cathode lamps with a significantly improved lamp power supply for better performance and speed of analysis.

It is a fully automated flame system which is available for single beam or double beam operation. The high quality optics from Carl Zeiss have a unique special covering for protection against the most aggressive laboratory environments. The well-established D2 HCL background correction method ensures accurate analyses can be carried out even on samples with the most difficult matrices.

A built-in Self Check System utilizes a multitude of sensors to monitor key safety-relevant parameters such as gas flow, the burner and the siphon for contamination residue to ensure safe operation of the instrument. The flame is automatically extinguished in the event of a power failure.

A number of optional accessories can be used to further enhance performance. For large sample throughputs, a unique autosampler is available with intelligent online dilution. This provides automatic dilution of samples down to a factor of 1: 625 to eliminate errors associated with manual dilution. If concentrations exceed the calibration range, an automatic clean control prevents contamination of the subsequent samples.

For samples with particularly complex matrices, accessories such as the SFS6 injection unit or the Scraper can be of great benefit. The software controlled SFS6 injection system provides continuous cleaning and flushing of the burner heads to extend the available working time with samples with high matrix or salt contents. The Scraper is an intelligent software-controlled cleaning device for use with nitrous oxide flames. It automatically removes graphite deposits from the burner slot, ensuring continuous and reproducible measuring cycles for routine analysis and avoids the need to shut down the flame for cleaning.