Friday 30 March 2018

Optical rotary torque.

Optical rotary torque sensors suitable for low torque and high band width measurements

New benchmark performance standards for optical rotary torque transducers is now available from Sensor Technology, with the launch of its digital ORT 230/240 series. These new optical rotary torque sensors are ideal for applications when the demand is for low torque and/or high bandwidth, providing precise, dynamic measurement of rotary and static torque of less than 100Nm and for bandwidths of up to 50kHz.

These new devices replace Sensor Technology’s E200 ORT series, benefiting from all-new electronics that deliver significant gains in resolution, frequency response, reduced sensor current consumption and faster digital data throughput.

The high speed capability comes from an inherently low inertia, since the electronics are not fixed to the shaft, while non-contact operation ensures a long and reliable life (backed up by Sensor Technology’s lifetime warranty) with high accuracy. The optical operating principle also ensures excellent noise immunity.

TorqSense ORT 230 series sensors provide fixed voltage or current analogue outputs – one for torque and one for either speed or power. The TorqSense ORT 240 provides two user selectable voltage or current analogue outputs – one for torque and the other for either speed, power or peak torque – plus digital outputs including RS232, CANbus and USB for interfacing with modern instrumentation and laptops. The ORT 240 enables users to connect up to 10 transducers via USB, and transducer configuration software for making changes to transducer variables.

Features of both devices include self-diagnostics to report if the transducer’s torque, speed ratings or calibration date have been exceeded, while inbuilt sensors monitor shaft temperature for better compensation and accuracy. The device also offers a simple ‘sensor status’ output.

Complementing these products is Sensor Technology’s TorqView software, providing an easy-to-use advanced torque monitoring package for Windows PCs to assist with data display and recording. It offers real time chart plotting, and is compatible with both Matlab and Excel. Further, LabVIEW VIs are available for users to design their own process control applications, and DLLs are available for users who wish to write their own custom software.

These latest optical rotary torque sensors are an important extension to the Sensor Technology torque monitoring range, and offer an alternative solution when low torque or bandwidth requirements preclude the use of the more cost-efficient SAW-based TorqSense products.

Optical rotary torque sensors use a pair of gratings attached a short distance apart on a strain-sensitive shaft to modulate a light source. As torque is applied to the shaft, a slight twist results which changes the alignment of the gratings and thus varies the light transmitted through to a detector. The use of this technique results in a transducer which is able to detect torque bi-directionally, and which has a fast mechanical and electrical response, low inertia and complete freedom from brushes or complex electronics.

The absence of brush gear allows high-speed operation with a continuous rating up to 30,000rpm standard. Further increases in rpm are available depending upon shaft size. The torque shaft is of low compliance ½° maximum torsion deflection on the smaller transducers and ¼° maximum on the larger transducers at full-scale deflection. Any full scale torque can be specified within the range 10mNm to 100Nm.

@sensortech  #PAuto 

Thursday 29 March 2018

FPC connectors.

Omron Electronic Components Europe offers time savings with its Rotary Backlock FPC connector range. The XF series of FPC connectors is a popular and space effective option for interconnecting PCBs and connecting boards to displays.

Commenting, Andries de Bruin, Senior European Product Marketing Manager, Omron, said “Many manufacturers supply their FPC connectors with the latch in close position but Omron’s backlock mechanism mean that we can ship with the lock in open position. This saves time, which on a high volume production line can add up to considerable cost savings too.”

Omron’s backlock on the XF2M and XF3M ranges gives the benefit of reducing the risk of the cable movement lifting the locking mechanism in use. The rotary latch is independent of the FPC socket and will not release if the FPC is lifted. The mounting reliability is further enhanced due to the four-sided housing that holds the FPC preventing displacement. The dual-sided contact also provides flexibility for engineers at the designing stage and the applicable FPC/FFC thickness is just 0.3mm (Gold-plated type). The range includes connectors with between 6 and 60 pins available on reels of 100 or 1500 pcs. Pitch sizes range from 0.25mm to 0.5mm

Applications include wearables, smart phones, projectors, ultrasound, security and embedded modules.

#Omron #PAuto

Published by Oisín Ó Riain.

Postioning in world of Industrie 4.0!

The detection of objects in systems is an important part of automation today. Objects have to be reliably detected and measured, as well as verifying that they are correctly positioned. The scope of possible applications is almost limitless and is continuously expanding (for example, detecting valve and flap positions, the position of PV panels for optimal exposure to light, the position of a ship's rudder, automation tasks in the machine-tool industry, etc.)

As well as measuring and displaying electrical parameters, Camille Bauer Metrawatt AG offers position sensoring solutions for angular position and tilt measurements. These precision sensors are an important link between the mechanical hardware and control intelligence. Under the KINAX brand name, the product offering ranges from basic to the robust devices needed for applications in harsh environments Based on a unique measurement concept and housing design, the position sensors ensure very high levels of precision, reliability and durability. Their primary objective is to ensure that systems, productions and processes operate trouble-free over the long term.

The function of these angular transducers is to capture rotational or translational movement and convert it into an electrical output signal. The mechanical structure of the sensors is designed to withstand very high stresses and offers, in combination with the patented and wear-proof capacitive-based measurement process, measurement results that are reliable at all times. A plug-and-play system ensures that on-site commissioning is very simple. Even redundant measurements can be performed easily with the help of hollow shaft transmitter.

As well as classical angular transducers, their product portfolio also includes tilt sensors. Using the principle of the plumb line, these sensors capture deviations from the horizontal or the vertical, with reference to the Earth's gravity. The main advantage compared to transmitter in this case, is that the mechanical coupling is takes places directly with the object to be measured. The parameter settings are straightforward and performed on-site. No time-consuming calibration is required and absolute measurement values are available at all times. In addition, the high quality of the housing material and the high degree of protection guarantee maximum durability.

With the KINAX HW730 angular transducer, Camille Bauer Metrawatt AG now joins the world of Industry 4.0. Thanks to the direct Ethernet link via Modbus TCP, data consistency is ensured from the sensor up to the control and data centres. It should be noted that, thanks to the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology, the operating voltage is sourced directly through the Modbus TCP. This completely eliminates the need for communication gateways and reduces the complexity, design effort and, above all, costs.

• Camille Baur products are marketed in Ireland through Irish Power & Process.


#CamilleBauer #Pauto @irishpwrprocess 

Wednesday 28 March 2018

Power connector.

The Han® M23 Power from Harting is a new hybrid industrial connector that combines the capability to transmit both power and signals with a high degree of environmental protection.

The new connector extends the Han® M23 series by allowing the industrial lifelines of signal and power to be fully supplied from a single device. The field of application includes drive technology as well as any areas with increased demands on vibration safety and protection against dust and water as well as other external mechanical influences. Built-in shielding also offers additional protection against electromagnetic interference.

The robust housing of the Han® M23 Power meets IP protection classes 67 and 69K in the closed position, making it particularly suitable for harsh industrial environments. Simple tool-free assembly makes the connector suitable for field assembly by service personnel as well as for serial production.

With power contacts for a voltage range of up to 630 V AC and a maximum current carrying capacity of 28 A, large amounts of power can be transmitted in a small installation space.
To complement the contact insert, the Han® M23 series offers a wide range of housings, including straight, angled and rotatable sleeve versions as well as various bulkhead and coupling types, in order to adapt the connectors optimally to the requirements of different applications.

The contact inserts in the series, including the Han® M23 Signal (6- to 19-pole) and the Han® M23 Power (6- to 9-pole) are plug-compatible with most other M23 round connector types available on the market.

Fast and secure mating and unmating is ensured by the use of the Han® Com Lock locking system

 #Harting #PAuto

Gas analysis company has new leader.

Trevor Sands has been appointed as new President of Servomex.

Trevor Sands
Responsible for the leadership and growth of Servomex’s global operations, he takes over from Charles ‘Chuck’ Hurley, who has stepped down after almost five years in the role.

Trevor brings extensive senior leadership experience to the role, having worked in various management positions for companies as diverse as Emerson, Invensys, Unitech and Arthur Andersen. Most recently he ran the Control Valves business for IMI plc, following a period as Chief Executive of Cosalt plc.

Based at Servomex’s Technical Centre in Crowborough (GB), Trevor will bring his proven industry experience to the position, heading up a global team based in two technical centers and six regional business centers.

“I’m delighted to be joining Servomex at such an exciting time, and I look forward to building on the great work done by Chuck over the past few years,” said Trevor. “He has strengthened the value proposition for the customer, leaving Servomex well-placed to take advantage of the rebound in our core industrial markets.

“Our ambition now is to continue to increase our presence and market share, delivering the products and expert services demanded by the industries we serve. Leading Servomex’s accomplished team of global experts through this continued growth is a privilege, and I look forward to achieving future success together.”

Chuck is leaving Servomex to pursue a new business opportunity, enabling him and his family to return home to the US. He joined Servomex in 2008 as General Manager of the Americas region, and moved into leading global sales and marketing before taking up the President role in 2013.

Under his leadership, many key products were designed and manufactured, including the SERVOTOUGH Laser 3 Plus TDL range, SERVOTOUGH MonoExact DF150E and DF310E oxygen analyzers, and the SERVOPRO MultiExact 4100 multigas analyzer.

In addition, Servomex’s Hummingbird Sensing Technology brand was awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2016, in recognition of the company’s innovative sensing technologies.

“It’s been an honor to have been part of the Servomex team for the past decade,” said Chuck.

“I’d like to thank my colleagues at Servomex, Hummingbird and Spectris for all their hard work and support over the years. They are exceptionally talented and enthusiastic, and I know they’ll continue to provide the same commitment and energy to the business under Trevor.

“I wish Trevor great success at Servomex – he has the experience and personal qualities to continue the momentum behind our successful business development.”

“I would like to congratulate Trevor on his appointment. Trevor has extensive senior leadership experience in global industrial businesses which makes him well-suited to drive further success for Servomex,” said Jo Hallas, Business Group Director at parent company Spectris plc. “We would like to thank Chuck for his significant contribution over the past five years and we wish him and his family the very best for the future.”


@Servomex #PAuto @codacomms

Security standards in automation.

The ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards, developed by the ISA99 committee as American National Standards and adopted globally by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), is designed to provide a flexible framework to address and mitigate current and future security vulnerabilities in industrial automation and control systems (IACS). These standards and all other standards may be accessed from the ISA Standards Page.

A newly published standard in the series, ISA/IEC 62443-4-1-2018, Security for Industrial Automation and Control Systems Part 4-1: Product Security Development Life-Cycle Requirements, specifies process requirements for the secure development of products used in an IACS. It defines a secure development life-cycle for developing and maintaining secure products. This life-cycle includes security requirements definition, secure design, secure implementation (including coding guidelines), verification and validation, defect management, patch management and product end-of-life.

These requirements can be applied to new or existing processes for developing, maintaining and retiring hardware, software or firmware for new or existing products. The requirements apply to the developer and maintainer of a product, but not to the integrator or user of the product.

“Designing security into products from the beginning of the development lifecycle is critical because it can help eliminate vulnerabilities from products before they ever reach the field,” emphasizes Michael Medoff of exida, who led the ISA99 development group for the standard. “We all know how difficult and expensive it can be to constantly have to patch software in the field. The new standard gives us a real opportunity to break the cycle of frequent security patches and to produce products that are secure by design.”

The ISA99 standards committee draws on the input and knowledge of IACS security experts from across the globe to develop consensus standards that are applicable to all industry sectors and critical infrastructure. Previous documents in the ISA/IEC 62443 series cover terminology, concepts, and models; establishment of an IACS security program; patch management; and system security requirements and security levels.

#ISA99 #PAuto #ISAuto #Cybersecurity

Fire investigation kit.


The world’s first fire investigation kit featuring the well-proven, handheld Tiger or TigerLT photoionisation detector (PID) for the reliable detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at sites of suspected arson-related incidents has been launched by Ion Science.

Easy to use with minimal training, Ion Science’s fire investigation kit includes essential accessories for the fast, accurate detection of VOCs, all contained within a rugged carry case. In addition to either a Tiger or TigerLT PID instrument, it comprises a one metre flexi-probe, AA Tiger battery pack, charging cradle, vehicle charge adaptor, exhaust barb, bump test pen, quick start guide and PTFE filters.

In suspected arson cases, it is part of the investigation to prove that there is no other cause of fire. The Ion Science fire investigation kit can be used to detect hydrocarbon compounds such as those found in petrol, alkanes and cycloalkanes. Fire investigators including the police, consultants and private investigators acting on behalf of insurance companies, will search for every type of fire accelerant such as grill lighters, lighter fuel, liquid glue and cleaning agents.

Both the Ion Science Tiger and TigerLT PIDs are perfect for arson investigation. The instruments have a rugged design, are ready to use within seconds, easy to operate with gloves and can be cleaned quickly with a wet cloth. Plus the filters are simple to change.

In the aftermath of a fire significant values can already be 1-20 parts per million (ppm). Depending on the period of time between the occurrence of the fire and the examination, potential VOC gases might have partially disappeared. As a result, values always vary and sometimes the measured values can reach 100 ppm or more.

The extinguishing foam used by fire teams contains proteins and other hydrocarbon compounds which can produce falsified results and make usable measurements difficult.

Fire investigators often take photographs whilst using the Ion Science Tiger or TigerLT and document several values at the same time. If high quantities of VOCs are detected, they will go on to take samples for analysis by an authorised laboratory.

A robust handheld PID, the popular Tiger accurately offers 0.1 ppm sensitivity and reliably detects gases down to ultra-low parts per billion (ppb) levels and up to 20,000 ppm. The Tiger is fully upgradeable in the field so lower cost instruments can be purchased with the option of adding functionality.

Ion Science’s TigerLT PID is a streamlined, low cost version of the Tiger with a detection range up to 5,000 ppm and push to log data log option.
Both models incorporate Ion Science’s market-leading PID technology with patented fence electrode system. The advanced three-electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field, as well as reduced drift issues and extended run time.

A compact, ergonomic design makes the Tiger VOC detectors extremely easy to use in the field. A large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas and an illuminated keypad comes on when light is low.

The Tiger models have the fastest response time on the market of just two seconds and can be connected directly to a PC via the USB for quick data download.

Both instruments are intrinsically safe (IS) allowing batteries to be replaced in potentially explosive environments. They meet ATEX, IECEx, North American and Canadian standards and are IP65 rated against water ingress.

Long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries give up to 24 hours usage and can be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes.

Other features include a protective, removable boot for harsh environments, loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support. The warranty for both the Tiger and TigerLT can be extended from two to five years when the instruments are registered on line.

@ionscience #PAuto #TandM @elhcomms

Image processing for AI applications.

Release 2.0 of Abaco Systems' powerful, flexible ImageFlex image processing and visualization toolkit has been released. Leveraging the enormous power of GPU technology, ImageFlex provides an easy-to-use API framework to considerably speed and simplify the development, optimization and maintenance of advanced AI applications – especially those targeted at autonomous vehicles.

ImageFlex enables developers of image/video processing and visualization applications on GPUs to be substantially more productive by hiding the complexity of the underlying software layers, while maintaining high performance. By providing an OpenGL® abstraction layer (no OpenGL experience is required) it can reduce the number of lines of code required by a factor of five, radically reducing the effort and time needed in order to create, test and maintain the application. This means faster time-to-market as well as lower development cost.

New features for ImageFlex Release 2.0 include:

  • Tools and reference examples enabling AI-based applications to be deployed on Abaco’s NVIDIA®-based GPU products.
  • Provision of a reference target tracking example - a core building block for tracking applications.
  • High quality, GPU-optimized image stabilization.

ImageFlex is highly complementary to Abaco’s NVIDIA GPU-based GVC1000 and GVC2000 hardware platforms, which use the NVIDIA Jetson supercomputer on a module for AI computing at the edge. This allows the creation of complete solutions for Degraded Visual Environment (DVE), 360° situational awareness, helmet mount sight processing, target identification and tracking and other EO/IR processing applications. It is portable across a range of graphics processing architectures and operating systems, and is potentially safety certifiable.

“ImageFlex significantly reduces our customers’ software engineering effort in the development and deployment of applications for EO/IR platforms and autonomy, and is unique in its ability to do so,” said John Muller, Chief Growth Officer at Abaco Systems. “Combined with our powerful, flexible hardware platforms, ImageFlex is evidence not only of our experience and expertise in AI-based graphics, video and visualization applications, but also of our commitment to providing our customers with more complete solutions.”

The ImageFlex API provides functions for a range of image processing operations from simple image transformations through to more complex lens distortion correction and image morphing. It includes optimized, high quality image fusion, stabilization, tracking and distortion correction algorithms, as well as a comprehensive set of reference application examples that provide core software building blocks. ImageFlex also provides tools and reference examples demonstrating how to integrate with sensors and deploy artificial intelligence-based applications such as object detection and recognition.
In addition, ImageFlex provides an innovative, high performance image fusion function that can fuse image data from multiple sources of different resolutions. The algorithm adaptively adjusts to pull through the regions of highest contrast in each source to a produce a fused result, enabling an observer or processing stage to act on the combined information of the sources.

@AbacoSys #PAuto  

Flow, temperature and volume of process water.

The Proline Prosonic Flow E 100 ultrasonic flowmeter has been introduced by Endress+Hauser. It is specifically for measurement of flow, temperature and volume of process water—regardless of conductivity, pressure, density or temperature. The Prosonic Flow E 100 is ideal for use in industrial, process, power utility, fresh water, steam circuits and boiler feedwater systems.

It can measure flow in both directions as well as water temperature, making it ideal for measuring demineralized water in boiler condensate return lines, or monitoring and controlling feedwater temperature. It can also measure flow in water containing magnetite, often found in closed hot water systems for nuclear reactors, wet central heating systems and boilers.

The all-stainless-steel Prosonic Flow E 100 works in process pressures up to 363 psi, and in temperatures from 32 to 302 degrees F. It is available in line sizes from 2 to 6 inch for measuring flows up to 1680 gal/min with accuracy of ±0.5% fs. Accuracy is based on accredited calibration rigs according to ISO 17025.

The flowmeter measures volume flow rate by combining all the flow velocities determined by its sensor pairs within the cross sectional area of the meter body with extensive knowledge of fluid flow dynamics. The design of the sensors and their position ensures that only a short straight run of pipe upstream of the meter is required after typical flow obstructions, such as bends in one or two planes.

Process outputs sent via 4-20mA with HART include volume flow, mass flow, flow velocity, temperature and three totalized values. The HART signal also includes diagnostic outputs such as acceptance rate, sound velocity, signal strength, signal to noise ratio, turbulence and signal asymmetry. It also has a Pulse/frequency/switch output.

A local display has a 4-line liquid crystal display with 16 characters per line, white background lighting, and switches that turn to red in event of device errors. The format for displaying measured and status variables can be individually configured.

The Prosonic Flow E 100 also has a Web server interface. By using a standard Ethernet cable and a laptop, users have direct and complete access to all diagnostic, configuration and device data on-site—without the need for additional software or hardware. This enables targeted maintenance and service, thus saving time.

Heartbeat Technology is integrated into the flowmeter, providing self-diagnostics, extensive monitoring of the values measured, and a certified and metrologically traceable verification during operation. The operator does not need to be present in the field for most commissioning and operations activities, improving safety.

The Prosonic Flow E 100 also has the HistoROM function, which ensures maximum data safety before, during and after a service call. All calibration data and transmitter parameters are stored securely on the HistoROM data memory, and are automatically reloaded after a maintenance event.

@Endress_Hauser  #PAuto 

Tuesday 27 March 2018

Next generation in Electrical & Control Engineering.

The Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering Student Award Ceremony held its Awards Night in early March. The DIT Student Awards Night is a special ceremony which highlights the achievements of the top graduates in engineering fields.

Rachel O Brien, Marketing Executive with
Mitsubishi Electric presents Christopher P. Dunne
 with the David Berber Mitsubishi Electric Award.
Mitsubishi Electric were delighted to continue to sponsor the ‘David Berber Mitsubishi Electric Award’, named so in memory of the late David Berber, customer, distributor and friend to Mitsubishi Electric. The David Berber Mitsubishi Electric Award is bestowed to the Best Overall Academic Performance in the Final Year of the BEngTech in Electrical & Control Engineering (DT009). This year Christopher P. Dunne received the award.

Ciarán Moody, General Manager of Mitsubishi Electric Ireland, remarked that “these students are the next generation of engineers from Ireland and are capable of taking their place on the world’s stage. We are happy to mark the incredible achievement this award represents and we wish the recipients every success in their engineering careers”.

Mitsubishi Electric also extended its sponsorship to the top grades received in both First and Second year of BEngTech in Electrical & Control Engineering (DT009). Congratulations to Raimonds Kaminskis who received the Best overall Academic performance in the Second Year of the BEngTech in Electrical and Control Engineering (DT009/2) and to James Hutchinson who received Best overall Academic performance in the First Year of the BEngTech in Electrical and Control Engineering (DT009/2).

@MitsubishiFAEU  #PAuto @ditofficial @MEIrishbranch

Measuring FTTx Networks.

For the installation and maintenance of FTTx and PON networks, Laser Components recommends the new, revised version of the MTS-4000 base meter from VIAVI Solutions. Thanks to its faster processor, the system can be up and running in less than 30 seconds.

Instead of control buttons, the device is now operated with a graphical user interface on a 9-inch touchpad, which allows for more intuitive handling. In addition to the USB and Ethernet interfaces of its predecessor, the MTS-4000 V2 also supports wireless communications via WiFi and Bluetooth. Smart Access Anywhere provides the capability to perform technical support remotely at any time. With its StrataSync software, VIAVI Solutions also offers the opportunity to integrate the device into a comprehensive, centrally managed Cloud solution.

Similar to its predecessor, the MTS-4000 V2 serves as the base unit of a modular measurement solution that includes different measuring probes and fiber microscopes. Thus, it can be used for measurements on CWDM and DWDM multiplexers, as well as for the pass/ fail analyses of MPO multi-fiber connectors. All measuring modules are compatible with the other VIAVI tools such as MTS-2000 and MTS-5800.

@LaserComponents #PAuto 

Automated fuel management co-operation.

Protacon has purchased a substantial part of Inray Ltd, a Finnish company supplying X-ray technology based measurement systems to power and thermal plants. Together, Protacon and Inray can now offer a complete solution for fuel measurement and analysis to bioenergy-fired thermal plants, for example. The solution is fully automated and provides real-time data.


LtoR: Janne Kovanen, CEO Inray Ltd, Mika Muinonen, Sales Director Inray Ltd, Timo Akselin, CEO Protacon Group Ltd, Kari Pellinen, CEO Protacon Technologies Ltd.

“The fuel quality influences, among other things, the efficiency ratio, emissions and fuel 
pricing. Ultimately, customers will save money when they pay only for the actual fuel and not for water or sand contained in it. At thermal plants, savings can amount to 0.5 million Euros on an annual basis”, says Inray’s CEO Janne Kovanen.

Continuous automatic quality measurement speeds up the process and makes it notably more accurate. If samples were previously taken as individual random checks, now it is possible to go through the entire fuel mass and accurately analyse its quality.

Large market, many applications
The great number of thermal plants in the northern European region create a large market for the complete fuel management solution. Protacon and Inray have also identified other potential applications for the technology. In the pulp industry, it can be used to measure chip moisture and size and to find foreign objects, such as stones.

“If the chip moisture and size are known, the amount of chemicals used in the pulp cooking process can be cut down thereby reducing energy consumption and achieving significant cost savings. At waste combustion plants, X-ray technology would help identify material on the conveyor belt enabling separation of non-combustible material from waste”, explains Kari Pellinen, CEO of Protacon Technologies Ltd.

The solution for the management of solid fuel supply chains, Protacon Once, is available throughout the Baltic countries, Russia, Central Europe and the US. In Finland, the solution has become the market leader. Now, customers can benefit from an even more advanced system in which manual steps have been completely eliminated.

“Until now, analysing fuel and raw materials for their moisture content, energy value, etc. has required laboratory work. Inray's technology enables accurate real-time analysis of fuel mass during unloading. This streamlines the overall process and reduces risk of errors”, according to Kari Pellinen.

@protacon #Pauto #Finland #Power

Co-operation means Best-practice approach.

Werum IT Solutions and EXTEDO has announced the launch of RImanager Starter Package. The package includes the RImanager software and a set of services such as software installation, pre-defined and EMA SPOR-compliant configurations, best-practice content, consulting and training.

Christian Bohrmann
“Statistics show that organizations who follow a structured implementation approach typically reap a faster return on their investment than those who don’t,” said Christian Bohrmann, VP Marketing & Alliances at EXTEDO. “Pharma and biotech customers using our RImanager Starter Package benefit from faster and cost effective implementation and pre-defined configurations that have been extensively tested. We developed this best-practice approach together with our partner Werum IT Solutions and regulatory experts.”

RImanager enables pharma and biotech companies to efficiently manage their regulated product master data as well as plan and track related regulated activities, processes, submissions and commitments. It covers the entire lifecycle of pharmaceutical products from a regulatory point of view including registration, submission management and pharmacovigilance processes.

The software product RImanager is developed by Werum IT Solutions while EXTEDO is in charge of the global distribution, the product rollout to the customers and the definition of functional requirements for new product versions.

@Werum #PAuto @EXTEDO

Monday 26 March 2018

Waterproof cable assembly.

A new waterproof cable assembly fitted with a non-reversible 2 pole plug with a current rating of 5A has been introduced by Cliff Electronics.

Manufactured by using a three shot injection moulding process the CLIFFCON 68 cable assembly series is IP68 rated with a screw down ferrule connector, has a mating panel mounted socket and is supplied with a 5m cable terminated with tinned bare ends for connection to customer equipment.

Applications include agricultural and construction vehicles and machinery, motorway lighting, exterior mounted wireless networking and security camera systems, exercise equipment, portable instrumentation battery charging and connections to sensor networks.

John Hall, Managing Director of Cliff Electronics, comments; “We have been supplying over-moulded cables, connectors and probes to a number of market-leading electrical test equipment OEMs for many years. This new waterproof cable assembly extends our capability and offers equipment designers a simple solution to sourcing a waterproof connection to their products. No longer do they have to source a suitable plug and socket and make a reliable waterproof connection to a cable, our new assembly offers a complete solution using our rugged and reliable in-house three shot injection moulding process.”

Cliff Electronics are market leaders in the design, development and manufacture of connectors, leads, test lead sets and accessories for a wide range of markets and supply major international OEMs. All Cliff™ test lead sets and components are manufactured in their own ISO 9001 certified factories. They exceed all relevant safety specifications such as EN 61010-1, are CE Marked and RoHS compliant.

The Cliff electrical test product range includes leads, probes, sockets, crocodile clips and accessories for OEMs, engineers and technicians and support a wide range of test, design, calibration, repair and installation applications. Cliff offers a very successful total design and manufacturing service for OEM test meter manufacturers including customised branding and labeling if required.

 #Cliff_Electronics #Pauto

Easy Data Integration.

The Softing gateway dataFEED uaGate MB is commercially available now. The new product enables easy and secure integration of process- and machine data coming from Modbus PLCs with IoT- and Industry 4.0 solutions.

It is a gateway for communication between Modbus PLCs in industrial automation networks and IT applications. The product provides access to process- and machine data via the OPC UA interoperability standard and via the MQTT protocol. It supports relevant IT security standards such as SSL encryption and X.509 certificates, and it can connect multiple applications in parallel.

OPC UA has established itself as the predominant interoperability standard for OT/IT integration, and MQTT is the preferred communication protocol for many cloud based applications and IoT platforms. The gateway also supports hybrid architectures, running partly on premises, partly in the cloud.

“Modbus PLCs without an integrated OPC UA server are very common in existing factories” says Sebastian Schenk, Product Manager Industrial Data Intelligence. “With dataFEED uaGate MB, Softing offers automation departments and OT a very easy-to-use device to implement a flexible and secure interface towards IT.”

dataFEED uaGate MB extends connectivity to Modbus PLCs, supports globally recognized security standards, and is field proven since it is based on the same hardware platform as the dataFEED uaGate SI. @SoftingIA #PAuto #IoT #Industrie4

New options for signal analyser.


Five new 5G measurement software options for its MS2850A Signal Analyser have been announced by Anritsu. The five new software options are compliant with the 3GPP 5G standards (5G NR hereafter) and used for measuring the RF Tx characteristics of next-generation 5G base stations and mobile terminals.


Any telecoms operators looking for early deployment of commercial 5G services these modules when combined with MS2850A Signal analyser provide a cost effect solution for fast and stable signal-analysis measurements, such as Tx power, frequency error, EVM, etc., at frequencies below 6 GHz (sub-6 GHz) and in the millimeter wavebands (mmWave) such as 28 GHz band and 39 GHz band.

The MS2850A has the same or better dynamic range and amplitude/phase flatness as higher-end models but at a better cost-performance point, assuring both high-precision signal analysis and higher finished product quality at a lower instrument cost.

To help facilitate early deployment of 5G services while meeting demands for high-level measurement technologies at lower instrument costs, Anritsu has developed the announced product release to improve the quality of 5G NR equipment while cutting costs.

 @AnritsuEMEA #TandM @NapierPR

Friday 23 March 2018

Optical particle counter.

Alphasense has launched a new version of its optical particle counter. The new OPC-N3 retains all of the advantages of its predecessor (OPC-N2) with the added benefit of automatic range switching covering PM10, PM2.5 and PM1. With an expanded measuring range (0.38 to 40 µm), the OPC-N3 is able to measure the particulate fractions of most interest; from the finest of particles up to larger particles such as pollen.

 “This is an extremely important development for manufacturers of air quality monitoring instrumentation,” says Alphasense Director, Arthur Burnley.

“A few years ago, the public was generally unaware of the threat posed by air pollution. However, the many thousands of premature deaths that occur every year in almost every country, have finally caused a high level of media coverage and political interest, and this has led to demands for air quality improvement measures, which in turn have created a need for accurate particulate sensors.

“This bodes well for our customers as the demand rises for small, accurate, reliable, cost-effective particulate sensors.”

The OPC-N3 measures particulates with minimal maintenance using a patented design, providing both particulate matter readings and real-time particle size histograms. As such, the sensor competes in performance with existing analytical units, but at a fraction of the cost.

#Apphasense #PAuto @_Enviro_News 

Hinged frame connector.

Harting has added a new hinged frame module to its established Han-Modular® industrial connector system.

The new Hinged Frame Plus module incorporates a stainless steel spring that holds the frame together in the open and closed positions, as well as a number of other features that have been optimised to make assembling the connector modules easier and more efficient.

Highly visible lettering provides support in this context. All module positions are evident at first glance, while an additional marking with a black triangle indicates the orientation for proper insertion of the modules on the frame.

Insertion of the modules is especially easy since the spring maintains the frame in the open position and the modules fall into a defined support edge. The frame windows are optimised so that they have a funnel-shaped opening with the modules automatically centred when the frames are closed. When locking, a contour fitted to the joint works in tandem with the stainless steel spring to produce a clearly audible click, and holds the frame securely together – meaning that the fixing elements previously used can be dispensed with.

Since the new module is based on the design of the original hinged frame module, it continues to offer the properties of high mechanical stability and full compatibility with the entire Han-Modular® connector range - the market standard for modular industrial connectors.

Despite the variety of over 100 different modules for power, data and signals, all available modules can be used without limitation, and no compromises need be made in terms of mechanical stability.

@HARTING  #PAuto 

Advancing automation.

The growth of IIoT and Industry 4.0, is studied in another edition of Advancing Automation to help users get up to speed on the latest trends.

This eBook looks at some of the complex barriers that are currently hindering IIoT efficiency as well as discuss ways to overcome them. It shares some of the new technologies that have impacted the industry throughout the last year, and how they are enabling businesses to solve productivity and maintenance issues away from the factory floor.

Download this publication, IIoT and Industry 4.0, here (pdf)

@automation_com  #PAuto #ISAuto #IoT

Miniature object recognition.

The new O300 miniature laser sensors with IO-Link by Baumer are the specialists for the reliable detection of very small objects and gaps. A laser beam which focuses to within 0.1 mm and the high repeat accuracy of 0.1 mm, ensures that objects can be positioned with high precision and follow-up processes controlled exactly.

Thanks to the extremely short response time of less than 0.1 ms, the sensor reliably detects even closely spaced objects, thus allowing fast processes and high throughput rates. A big advantage is the exact alignment of the laser beam to the fixing holes by design (qTarget).  Detection with pinpoint accuracy can be guaranteed over the entire series.

The new O300 miniature laser sensors with IO-Link by Baumer are the specialists for the reliable detection of very small objects and gaps. Thanks to a laser beam which focuses to within 0.1 mm and the high repeat accuracy of 0.1 mm, objects can be positioned with high precision and follow-up processes controlled exactly. Thanks to the extremely short response time of less than 0.1 ms, the sensor reliably detects even closely spaced objects, thus allowing fast processes and high throughput rates. A big advantage is the exact alignment of the laser beam to the fixing holes by design (qTarget).

Thanks to qTarget, detection with pinpoint accuracy can be guaranteed over the entire series.

@BaumerGroup #PAuto

Wednesday 21 March 2018

Temperature sensing for motorsports and automotive R&D.

The IRN2-C linear analogue & digital infrared sensor from Variohm EuroSensor,  provides a 4…20 mA output over a standard temperature range of -30 to + 220 ⁰C in a compact M12 x 34 mm sub-miniature housing.

The IRN2-C is part of a range of contact-free IR temperature sensors that suit the various emissivity characteristics of materials for race track, tyre, brake and other components used in demanding motorsports and automotive R&D applications. Based on straightforward installation with compact and durable M12 stainless steel housings, these include voltage and analogue output devices with various target temperature ranges up to +1200 ⁰C as standard. Each sensor type also caters for the optimum measurement distance. The thermopile with silicone lens technology used in Texense sensors is extremely robust with typical shock ratings to 500 g and vibration up to 20 Gpp5’ – well proven in race track and test.

In particular the IRN2-C offers an accuracy of ± 2 % FS with an ambient temperature error of ± 0.5 °C. Sensitivity is 64 µA/⁰C, response time 50 msec (0-90%) and field of view is 4:1 at 50 mm.

Other Texense sensor products available from Variohm EuroSensor include CANbus-interfaced and wireless temperature, pressure and fluid sensors used across professional and club motorsports, aeronautics and other sports industries such as cycling dynamics.

Variohm EuroSensor is a designer, manufacturer and a distribution partner for leading global sensor component suppliers, covering a comprehensive range of sensor technologies including linear and rotary position, load, force, vibration and temperature. Variohm provides complete pre-sale and post-sale application support for demanding measurement applications throughout industry, agriculture, construction, autosports and research.

@Variohm #Automative #PAuto

Helping ensure hazardous waste is safe.

Tabib Toxic Waste Services Ltd has purchased a second Tiger handheld photoionisation detector (PID) from Ion Science – leading specialist in gas detection instrumentation for global occupational health and environmental monitoring applications – to ensure the safe export of hazardous waste from a new hazardous waste transfer station in Israel.

Tabib, which repackages and exports hazardous waste materials, is using the intrinsically safe TigerLT instrument to monitor levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in box containers before they are sent to Europe.

Tabib provides comprehensive solutions for all types of waste, from the generation phase to the delivery of waste to its final destination. Since the company was established in 1992, it has become a leader in its field, thanks to the increased awareness of environmental issues and increased enforcement of environmental laws in Israel.

Daniel Stern, Chemistry Technologist at Tabib Toxic Waste Services comments: “Tabib holds an export license for recycling, treating and destroying all types of hazardous waste, in line with the Basel Convention. This means we are authorised by Israel’s Ministry of Environmental Protection to export toxic waste for treatment abroad. We have treatment and destruction facilities outside of Israel that specialise in all types of hazardous waste.

“With the opening of a new hazardous waste transfer facility, we required another PID to monitor VOC levels in box containers being exported to Europe. Our existing Ion Science Tiger VOC detector has proved reliable, accurate and trouble-free so it made sense to use the same brand.

“As we only monitor VOCs, the distributor recommended the streamlined TigerLT as both a functional and cost effective option. We are confident the performance will match the original Tiger instrument as it also incorporates Ion Science’s market-leading PID technology for increased resistance to humidity and contamination.”

Tabib’s skilled chemists are using the TigerLT on a daily basis to check box containers of hazardous waste before they are sent to the port from the waste transfer station. The results are recorded within containerisation reports.

Ideal for conducting environmental surveys, the handheld TigerLT boasts a detection range of 0.1 - 5,000 parts per million (ppm). It utilises a standard two-point calibration protocol and offers an unrivalled industry response time of just two seconds and equally quick clear down.

Both simple to operate and service, the TigerLT allows easy access to the lamp and sensor and the safe replacement of batteries in hazardous environments. The intrinsically safe instrument also meets ATEX, IECEx, UL and CSA standards.

The TigerLT six pin MiniPID detector cell with anti-contamination design dramatically extends run time in the field. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes, minimising downtime.

This instrument also features long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries which give up to 24 hours usage. Fast battery charging allows the instrument to be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time.

TigerLT features a protective, removable boot for harsh environments while a large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. It is IP 65 rated against water ingress. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas. Other features include a loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support. It also has push to log data log option.

@ionscience #PAuto #Israel @elhcomms

Reducing electric vehicle test development times.

Major automotive manufacturers like Subaru are using National Instruments (NI) hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technology to simulate actual road conditions for electric vehicle testing, eliminating environmental factors to reduce test time and costs.

Traditionally, engineers have conducted vehicle tests using finished cars on test courses or public roads to check the vehicle’s performance and safety response. However, certain limitations, such as weather and fluctuating road surface conditions, can make it difficult to conduct reproducible tests on roads in a timely manner. Moreover, electric vehicles are extremely complex due to their many subsystems, which are all interdependent on each other. This complexity makes the job challenging for automotive test engineers with short development cycles and pressure to limit costs.

To combat these issues, Subaru replaced the roads in the validation tests with a NI HIL simulation solution built on NI PXI products and LabVIEW software. With the HIL system, Subaru can eliminate environmental factors and thoroughly and efficiently test a vehicle’s embedded controller in a virtual environment before running real-world diagnostics on the complete system.

“By using NI PXI products and LabVIEW, we were able to completely implement a customized HIL system in just one to two weeks and develop our software in-house,” said Daisuke Umiguchi, Electrified Power Unit Research and Experiment Dept., Subaru Corporation. “This helped us keep product purchasing costs to around one-third of the cost of adopting solutions from other companies, and, because of our familiarity with LabVIEW, keep our software development costs to around one-sixth of the cost of commissioning an outside developer.”

Subaru further outfitted its vehicle test solution with a controller-driven dynamometer by HORIBA and CarSim vehicle dynamics simulation software deployed by Virtual Mechanics. Together, they produce load conditions equivalent to those generated on actual roads. This driving system transmits the calculated values to the NI HIL system in real time to create closed-loop control between the models on the HIL system and the driving system. As a result, the HIL interaction system can apply the appropriate load to the vehicle throughout the tests.

Subaru plans to use this test system at the final stages of development for electric vehicles as a final quality check, and eventually expand its use for all car types. By adopting this system, Subaru anticipates reducing labor hours by half compared to conventional methods.

 @niukie #Transport #NIglobal #Pauto

Partnership supporting Industrie 4.0.

Aegis Software has announced their partnership with SEICA Italy, a global supplier of intelligent automatic test equipment and selective soldering systems, consolidating Aegis’ and Seica’s mutual vision to support Italian and EU government-driven environment sustainability and Industry 4.0 digitalization initiatives.

SEICA is a progressive company with a strong digital vision for Industry 4.0, providing a complete range of connected manufacturing equipment solutions that provide unique value into diverse market sectors. The combination of Aegis FactoryLogix digital MES software and Seica equipment is the perfect way to deliver true digital innovation into the market, with a focus on energy management, production efficiency, and sustainability.

“Industry sectors such as telecommunications, automotive and IT, to medical and avionics are urgently looking for digitalized solutions that enable them to reach the next level of manufacturing performance with Industry 4.0, and as such, Seica is the perfect company to act as a representative for Aegis and its expanding customer base in Italy” said Stephan Häfele, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development for Aegis Software.

Aegis attaches great importance to providing its customers with exceptional sales and service support ensuring the reliability and quality of its products. This partnership will ensure that customers with a requirement for true Industry 4.0 and energy management solutions, integrating digitalized engineering, manufacturing, quality and supply chain, particularly where the demands for compliance, control and traceability are essential, will be well catered for.

“The partnership with Aegis allows us to offer the unique solution that the industry needs, the right combination of hardware and software for the next generation of digital factories with environment awareness,” stated Antonio Grassino, President of Seica.

 @FactoryLogix  #PAuto #Seica #Italy #Europe

Manager in Compressor Division.

Atlas Copco Ireland has announced the appointment of Tom Van Gaal as Business Line Manager for its Compressor Technique Service division.

Tom Van Gaal
After four years in the role of Technical Support Specialist in the Atlas Copco Airpower factory in Belgium from 2012 to 2016, and a brief spell as operational analyst with Atlas Copco Argentina in 2014, Van Gaal occupied the post of Global Process Engineer at the service division headquarters in Antwerp (B). Tom carries an MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Economics. With all this, he brings a broad range of academic, operational, process and product development experience and skills to the role.

Commenting on his appointment, Tom Van Gaal said: “After six years in Belgium, where I worked on ensuring the continuous improvement of our products and processes, I am very much looking forward to working directly with our customers, in Ireland. My goal is to further strengthen Atlas Copco’s aftermarket business and actively contribute to the sustainable and profitable growth of the company and that of its customers.”

Tom’s focus will be to combine the existing operational experience of the team in Dublin with Atlas Copco’s new state-of-the-art ERP and CRM solutions, in order to deliver on the company’s promise of offering reliable and innovative services, along with the aim of maintaining and increasing their customer’s productivity.

Van Gaal believes that in tandem with rapidly evolving technological developments, which have improved the efficiency and performance of Atlas Copco’ equipment, it is equally vital to maintain investments in the competence of the company’s team.

“I intend to place great emphasis on continuous training of all our staff, to live up to our customer’s expectations of having the most skilled and knowledgeable service workforce available to them, 24/7."

In his leisure time Van Gaal is an active sports enthusiast and both played and coached soccer in Belgium. He is equally keen on rock climbing, golf and snooker, and is developing an interest in GAA Irish sports and rugby. He enjoys travelling and is looking forward to exploring the beauty of the Irish countryside, not to mention his forthcoming marriage later this year.

• See also New HQ opens in Dublin's pharma district. (7/3/2018)

@AtlasCopcoUKIRE  #PAuto #Ireland  @AtlasCopcoGroup

Tuesday 20 March 2018

Digital room sensors.

The EE10 room sensors from E+E Elektronik measure accurately the relative humidity and temperature in commercial and residential buildings. Besides existing versions with analogue outputs, the devices are now also available with Modbus RTU or BACnet interface, which facilitates integration into modern climate control systems. The functional enclosure allows for fast and easy installation.

The EE10 room sensors family includes models for humidity and temperature measurement as well as for temperature measurement only. Featuring analogue (current/voltage) or digital (Modbus RTU / BACnet) outputs, EE10 is particularly versatile.

Digital EE10 devices calculate additional physical quantities such as absolute humidity, mixing ratio, enthalpy, frost point temperature and water vapor partial pressure. The analogue models are optionally available with a passive temperature output.

The stylish, functional enclosure offers significant advantages during installation. The back cover with the screw terminals can be mounted and wired first. At a later moment, the front cover containing all measuring electronics simply snaps onto the back cover. This way the electronics is never exposed to construction site pollution. The active part of the device can also be replaced in just a few seconds without tools, while the wiring remains intact.

The EE10 sensors are available in two sizes (EU and US standard) and in three different colours. The measured data can be read directly on the optional LC display.

• E+E Elektronik products are marketed in Ireland by Instrument Technology.

#EEElektronik #BAS 

Eight years of growth.

Kamstrup has posted a record-breaking turnover for the 8th consecutive year, reaching a total of DKK 2,1 billion (EUR €282 million) for 2017. The pre-tax profit reached DKK 311 million (€42 million) according to its annual report just published.

Kim Lehman
Kim Lehmann, CEO at Kamstrup, notes that he could not have asked for a better starting position: "Kamstrup is a well-run company with a clear vision for the future. We want to create progress for our customers by introducing new digital opportunities. One of our ambitions is that one day one billion people will have clean water from a distribution network with Kamstrup intelligence.” 

Kamstrup has been able to grow its market share within the electricity and heat metering markets. In 2017 and the years before, the company has both won and started roll out of large-scale projects such as the project with Radius, owned by the Danish energy company Ørsted, where one million remote read electricity meters are being installed in Copenhagen and the surrounding area.

In the water metering market, Kamstrup continues to experience an increasing demand for intelligent metering solutions. The company’s ambition to drive the technological transition from mechanical to intelligent meters has resulted in double-digit growth. Consequently, in 2017 the company opened a water centre dedicated to high-technology production supporting Kamstrup’s strong focus on automation, digitalisation and product development.

The rapid growth within the water business in the US also led to the opening of production facilities outside Scandinavia.

“In the late part of 2017 we established a new production in Atlanta, Georgia with the same high level of automation as in our existing production facilities. This establishment marks our ambition to move our business closer to our customers and to be a flexible partner,” says the CEO.

All other industrial production facilities are today situated in the headquarters in Denmark.

New product launches in 2017 include upgrading of meters and integration of IoT technology in existing solutions.

“As a frontrunner in digitalisation and with a dedicated focus on developing analytical tools to fully utilise data, we enable our customers to reduce losses in the supply of water and energy. Data-driven insight into the distribution network is crucial for utilities to optimise their business.” 

The continuous investment in innovation and market expansion led to an increase of the workforce with more than 100 new positions in 2017. In the effort to find highly skilled employees within R&D, the company also recently added a new software development unit in Malaga, Spain. Kamstrup plans to add the same number of new positions in 2018.

"We will continue our expansion and we expect to gain additional market shares in 2018 by investing heavily in market and product development, automation and digitalisation."

 #kamstrup #PAuto #Water

Measuring high pressure in hydraulic & pneumatics systems.

To measure high pressure in hydraulic and pneumatics systems or highly dynamic pressure measurements in shock tubes or blast tests, Kistler Instruments has the answer. The new 1,000 bar, miniature Type 603C piezoelectric (PE) pressure sensor has a very high natural frequency of 500 kHz which makes it suited to a wide range of applications where highly dynamic pressure transients need to be measured.

A unique characteristic of the 603C PE sensor is its ability to measure small pressure fluctuations, superimposed on a high static pressure, with exceptional resolution. The integrated acceleration compensation ensures reliable measurements even under highly vibrating conditions. Add long life reliability and calibration at 10% and 100% of FSO making the sensor easily matched to changing needs resulting in exceptionally low cost of ownership.

With linearity typically better than ±0.4% FSO and operating temperature from -196°C to +200°C, the new sensor is big in performance but small in size. A 5.5mm diameter, robust, high pressure membrane is mounted in a hermetically sealed, welded, stainless steel housing available in both long 37.8 mm and the short 15 mm long overall versions both with a 6.3 mm overall diameter.

The new Type 603C PE pressure sensor has been designed for use with the recently introduced dual-mode LabAmp Type 5165A series for dynamic pressure and the Type 5167A series for both dynamic and quasi-static pressure measurements.

#Kistler #PAuto

Are process control & automation systems secure?

ISA Ireland - Conference on Cybersecurity for Process Control and Automation Systems,  Cork, Ireland.  13th April 2018
Panel of Speakers
The growing threat from Cyberattacks on the control systems running manufacturing plants and critical infrastructure is not going away.

The conference aims
• Highlight how to identify cyber threats, mitigate risks & limit exposure of control systems/networks.
• Introduce proven industrial systems security standards and practices and demonstrate how to apply them – ISA99 / IEC 62443 (Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security).
• Show what mitigation steps are being taken, by leading control system manufacturers & end users, to implement Cybersecurity Standards.
• Showcase industry best practices and highlight peer to peer experiences & lessons learned.
• Identify steps needed to protect Control and Automation Systems from internal threats.
A conference on Cybersecurity for Process Control and Automation Systems is being organised by the Ireland Section of ISA studying .

The event will explore the solutions and concerns which uniquely affect control and automation systems used within the Manufacturing, Transportation and Critical Utilities across Ireland today.

ISA Ireland will have some of the world's leading speakers on this topic including those from some leading Control and Automation suppliers like Siemens, Rockwell, Emerson, Yokogawa and ABB

One thing all the experts agree on is there is no single permanent solution, these cyber threats are constantly evolving. Masures may be taken to reduce exposure as several of the presenters will outline, but operatives and other users need to constantly be aware and prepared for new cyberattacks.

The presentations will give an understanding of how the control system manufacturers are designing protections into the existing and future control system to reduce these treats.

An International Panel of presenters representing these manufacturers will form part of the day. There will also be two breakout sessions with discussions on threat from cyberattacks and how best control systems can be protected.

Register online
Register On-Line
ISA Ireland Sponsors


#PAuto #ISAuto #Ireland #Cybersecurity

Friday 16 March 2018

Router & data gateway supports MQTT.

The IIoT gateway – eWON Flexy (all models including the new Flexy 205) from HMS,  now supports Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol – a simple and lightweight messaging protocol aimed at minimizing network traffic and device resource requirements.

Initially created in 1999 to help oil and gas distribution firms control their pipelines effectively, MQTT has recently seen increased popularity because of the exponential growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the need to facilitate communication between low-powered smart devices.

MQTT is essentially a publish/subscribe protocol aimed specifically at low-powered embedded devices. MQTT targets low-powered embedded device environments where resources are scarce.

One of the upsides of using the MQTT protocol with eWON Flexy includes the ability to resume operations from any breakpoint without data losses. In addition, during network interruptions, data can be buffered until network communication is resumed and a client device reads the data. This not only prevents data loss, but also allows customers to manage the information flow to network nodes.

Designed to facilitate the transmission of large volumes of data to numerous servers and client devices constrained by low bandwidth, high latency, or unreliable networks, MQTT is ideal for dynamic communication environments. As the name indicates, the main purpose of the MQTT protocol is telemetry, also known as remote monitoring.

Several eWON Flexy users have already seen the benefits of this protocol and started to integrate it into their projects. One of them, W2W Solutions shares how they extend the life of their customer’s transformer using MQTT.

@ewonrouters #PAuto