Hydraulic remote control portfolio.

Danfoss Power Solutions has announced the global launch of its portfolio of high-performance hydraulic remote controls. Designed to withstand extreme and harsh environments, the Danfoss DHRC line increases machine productivity through superior controllability and operator comfort, plus customizable, robust designs offering high reliability. Danfoss’ hydraulic remote control range includes the DHRCJ joystick, DHRCP foot pedal, and DHRCD sectional valve. The controls are ideal for excavators, skid steer loaders, backhoe loaders, wheel loaders, forklifts, truck cranes, aerial work platforms, telehandlers, and drilling machinery.

“Danfoss has over 30 years of experience in developing hydraulic remote controls. We’ve offered these products on a limited basis to select customers, but we’re now ready to scale production and bring the benefits to the broader global market. OEMs need robust systems and reliable performance, and we’re ready to deliver with our DHRC joysticks, pedals, and valves,” said Seonghun Lee, senior product portfolio and marketing manager, Connect and Control Solutions, Danfoss Power Solutions.

With low leakage and hysteresis plus good linearity, the DHRC line delivers precise and repeatable operation for superior machine controllability. The joystick valve’s body and spool provide smooth and sensitive operation while minimizing internal leakage.

Flexible, customizable designs enable original equipment manufacturers to tailor the controls to the application. DHRCJ joystick options include seven switch boxes, four grips, four boots, and four bodies. The DHRCP pedal is available in seven styles, including single and double pedals, with five bellows and seven body options. The DHRCD sectional valve offers 11 lever and bar designs, four boots, and six body options.

The Danfoss DHRC range is designed for comfortable use with minimal effort, which increases productivity. The joystick features an ergonomically designed handle with a comfortable hand rest. Its grip can be configured with a comprehensive set of finger functions, enabling true personalization based on individual preferences and operational requirements.

With its robust designs, DHRC controls ensure high quality and reliability. The joystick’s valve is protected from dust by outer and inner boots. It features a strong rod seal that provides long life and low friction sealing. The DHRCJ joystick switch box is rated to IP68, while the proportional switch is rated to IP69K, offering high levels of ingress protection.

The joystick and double pedal have a rated flow of 20 L/min, while the sectional valve has a rated flow of 10 L/min. Various output pressure and operating torque options are available, and consistent performance is guaranteed over a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to 60°C.

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@Danfoss @NapierPR #Pauto #Hydraulics

Access remote industrial equipment.

The release of the HMS Networks new generation of Ewon® industrial remote access gateways has been finalised, bringing IIoT connectivity and cybersecurity to the next level.

Featuring built-in hardware security, the Cosy+ range allows users to access PLC-based machines securely from anywhere, and do commissioning, troubleshooting and programming online. With the new Cosy+ Wireless version, users can connect to their machines via Ethernet, Wi-Fi or cellular link depending on the industrial situation, enabling effective and sustainable support of machines by using secure remote access. The remote access to Ewon Cosy+ gateways is done over Talk2M® – the world’s largest 3rd party industrial cloud service, with more than 400,000 Ewon gateways connected.

Time for Cosy+ Wireless.
Following the launch of the Cosy+ Ethernet version last year, the Cosy+ Wireless addresses the increased demand for secure wireless access to machines. The demand is driven by the need to increase productivity as well as maintain secure and sustainable operations.

“The current international geo-political situation highlights the need to access machines remotely in a secure, sustainable way, minimizing the need for on-site traveling by service teams. By releasing the Cosy+ Wireless, the most secure Ewon gateway to date, Ewon is taking industrial remote access to a new level”, says Sébastien Thinnes, Head of Products and Marketing at HMS Networks’ Business Unit Ewon.

Security in focus for Ewon.
Developed and managed according to ISO27001, the Cosy+ wireless range includes several layers of security and comprises unique built-in hardware security features. Thanks to an exclusive partnership with cybersecurity expert firm Nviso, Ewon offers a remote solution that is proven, scalable and tested according to the highest standards in order to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. On the market for more than 20 years and today a market leader in remote industrial connectivity, Ewon by HMS Networks is known for providing industrial remote access solutions to the global market that are easy to use, cost effective and highly secure.

@hmsnetworks @ewon_hms @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Wireless

Secure access to remote assets.

Ultra-compact and rugged wireless routers enhance connectivity to remotely located equipment and systems in demanding utility, infrastructure and transportation applications

The Westermo range of industrial cellular routers designed to provide resilient data communications for remote sites has been expanded. The new Merlin 4400 series of ultra-compact and rugged LTE Cat 4 wireless routers has been developed specifically to support extremely secure remote access to equipment and systems within demanding utility, industrial and trackside applications. High connection security gives users the confidence to expand their IP networks to include remote assets, helping to increase visibility and ultimately improve operational performance.

Resilient and reliable high-speed data communications are essential to the digitisation of the rail network, the implementation of smart grids and improving the operational performance of utilities. Network security is a fundamental requirement in these applications and to defend against increasing cyber threats, the Merlin 4400 series is equipped with a complete set of cybersecurity tools as standard. These include a TPM (trusted platform module) chip that keeps cryptographic keys secure, Secure Boot functionality ensuring the routers boot using only trusted software, and virtual private network (VPN) and stateful firewall support for data security and user authentication.

The Merlin 4400 series offers high-speed data network connectivity, with support for Ethernet and RS-232/485 communications to ensure suitability for a broad range of applications. The Merlin 4400 is ideally suited to replace traditional modems when migrating to an IP infrastructure. Serial (RS-232/485) ports enable connection to legacy devices and equipment, while a built-in industrial protocol gateway enables seamless connection to multiple devices using different communication protocols.

With many applications typically requiring installation in demanding environments, the Merlin series has been designed to cope with extreme operating temperatures and high levels of electrical magnetic interference. The Merlin 4400 series has IEC 61850-3 Class 1 approval, allowing deployment in medium voltage substation automation applications, while EN 50121-4 approval enables use in rail trackside applications. Outstanding reliability and an extremely long operating life (mean time between failures of 1,600,000 hours) helps to minimise expensive maintenance trips and lowers network operating costs.

With networks increasing in size and complexity, the Merlin range has been designed to support both the system integrator and user by being easier to install, operate and maintain. When coupled with Westermo’s zero touch deployment software Activator, the Merlin routers provide cost-effective, reliable and consistent onboarding within large-scale projects. This allows configuration from a central server, which reduces the potential for errors and saves considerable time.

“The increasing need to gain access to remote sites for monitoring, management, diagnostics and support creates a greater reliance on the availability of reliable and secure data networks,” explained Dermot Mannion, product manager, Westermo. “The Merlin 4400 range of cellular wireless products meet this requirement, supporting the most demanding industry applications, while providing the advanced functionality needed to maximise connectivity and reduce installation time without affecting security.”

@WestermoUK @westermo @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #Transport

Secure wireless routers for remote sites.

Compact, rugged, secure wireless routers for demanding utility, infrastructure and transportation applications

A new range of industrial cellular wireless products designed to provide resilient data communications for remote sites has been launched by Westermo. The Merlin range of compact, rugged and secure cellular solutions has been specifically developed to support industrial IoT (IIoT) and machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions in demanding utility, infrastructure and transportation applications.

“An increasing desire to implement IIoT and M2M solutions at remote facilities creates a greater reliance on the availability of resilient, reliable and secure data networks,” explained Dermot Mannion, Product Manager,, Westermo. “The Merlin range of cellular wireless products will meet this requirement, supporting the most demanding industry applications, while providing the advanced functionality needed to maximise connectivity and reduce installation time without affecting security.”

The first Merlin products to be released are the 4600 series, which further strengthen Westermo’s existing range of industrial wireless routers. These four compact and feature-rich devices provide high-speed data network connectivity for demanding industrial, smart grid, and rail trackside applications. The routers meet the requirements of IEC 61850-3 Class 1 Medium Voltage substation and railway trackside EN 50121-4 standards.

The Merlin range has been designed to be easy to install and maintain. When coupled with Westermo’s zero touch deployment software Activator, the Merlin devices provide cost-effective, reliable and consistent onboarding within large-scale projects.

To achieve best-in-class cybersecurity, the Merlin 4600 series is equipped with a TPM (trusted platform module) chip that keeps cryptographic keys secure, while Secure Boot ensures that the routers boot using only software signed and trusted by Westermo. A set of cybersecurity tools is available as standard, including virtual private network (VPN) and stateful firewall support for data security and user authentication.

A built-in industrial gateway enables multiple devices, using different protocols, to be accessed via a common interface. For example, in a substation application with IEC-101, Modbus and DNP (distributed network protocol) devices, all three types can be presented via the SCADA system by a single IEC-104 or MMS (multiple messaging service) interface.

The Merlin 4600 series also supports six inputs and two outputs for local monitoring or control. The number of digital and analogue inputs and outputs can be increased using external I/O modules and the status of the internal or external I/O is accessible via the supported industrial communication protocols.

@WestermoUK @Westermo @HHC_Lewis #PAuto #IIoT #Communications

Secure industrial remote access platform.

Red Lion’s Secure Remote Access Platform, in partnership with MB connect line GmbH, is now available in Great Britain, Norway, Iceland as well as Ireland*, Sweden, Finland, and France. This next-generation remote access solution meets the most demanding security requirements of modern industrial applications. 

Red Lion’s Secure Remote Access Platform centralizes the management of routers, allowing users to quickly respond to and act on their most crucial assets from anywhere, at any time. The ability to remotely access, monitor and manage diverse equipment helps to lower operational costs and downtime by reducing site visits and dramatically improving response times.

“As the industrial world rapidly shifted to the new normal of remote production operations due to the pandemic, demand for platforms that securely enables these remote production operation capabilities has never been stronger and more critical,” according to Craig Resnick, Vice President, ARC Advisory Group. “Red Lion’s Secure Remote Access Platform was designed to enable secure access in real-time from any location. ARC expects that this new normal of remote production operations will remain even after the pandemic, as the industry has recognized its benefits to maximizing productivity, key performance indicators, profitability, and most importantly, sustainability to overcome any future pandemic-like challenges.”

Red Lion’s Secure Remote Access routers and software provide flexible capability with unyielding security. The RLConnect24, a remote service portal, provides a simple centralized site to monitor and manage deployed assets and users. RLConnect24 also provides data visualization, geographic mapping, data logging, and alarms based on operational or system-generated data. The RLDialUp client software enables operators to securely connect their PC to remote assets for maintenance and configuration, just as if they were plugged into it locally. The routers are industrial-grade gateways that offer optional LAN, WAN, serial, USB, Wi-Fi or 4G LTE connectivity to ensure seamless integration with any industrial application.

Red Lion also launched RA10, a compact industrial firewall, which provides OT-cybersecurity. This intelligent firewall can learn and self-configure to help secure older assets, avoid address conflicts, and/or logically isolate machines or groups of machines.

* Red Lion products are marketed in Ireland through Instrument Technology.

@redlioncontrols @arc_advisory @mepaxIntPR #Pauto #Europe

IIoT monitoring and automation almost anywhere.

The Quantum Remote Telemetry Unit (QRTU) and the QSolarBattery is being shipped now by Quantum Automation. These standardised yet customisable hardware platforms are part of the growing array of Q-Line products which are enabling end users and systems integrators (SIs) to deploy industrial internet of things (IIoT) and automation solutions anywhere, regardless of whether internet connectivity or power are readily available.

The QRTU is a complete edge hardware solution for all remote commercial, industrial, and utility/infrastructure data collection and control applications. Numerous options are available to incorporate PLCs from major suppliers such as AutomationDirect, IDEC, and Allen Bradley.

Any type of I/O signaling or communications protocol can be supported, and an edge wireless gateway provides connectivity via the cellular network of choice for installations where internet service is not available. Power can be supplied by the user—supplemented with the Quantum Uninterruptible Power Supply (QUPS) if desired—or by the QSolarBattery for a complete off-grid solution.

A customised QRTU system can be shipped in one box and is easily installed, so you can begin monitoring and controlling your remote applications quickly. The system is UL Listed and includes detailed documentation and engineering drawings.

The QSolarBattery system is a complete package with everything needed to power remote monitoring and control panels anywhere there is sunshine. It includes:

· Solar panel · Lithium ion battery · Charge controller · Pole-mount or ground-mount options

Over a dozen configurations are available, with four different solar panel wattage sizes and battery capacities ranging from 30Wh to 480Wh to support up to four hours of runtime, depending on the load. These systems are designed to deliver regulated power output, not just a variable battery voltage, using a battery management system with eight layers of safety and optimisation built in.

Battery and solar components carry the relevant UL certifications, and the compact form factor is built for outdoor operation in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 65°C. Quantum Automation is available to help size a system to best meet your needs.

While the QRTU and QSolarBattery can each be used for standalone applications, they work together particularly well for industrial-grade monitoring and control applications located near or far, with or without available networking or power connectivity. Applications include:

· Oil & gas: Production, well and tank monitoring, leak detection, compressor stations · Environmental: Solar and wind tracking, paint booths, HVAC equipment, landfill monitoring, water treatment · Agriculture: Soil moisture monitoring, weather monitoring, irrigation, pump houses · Golf courses: Lake monitoring, pump control, timers, sprinklers · Water districts: Tank monitoring and pump control · Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Bridge/tunnel/freeway signage, overpass pump houses, battery charging stations, temporary power, smart trucks · Entertainment: On-location movie filming support

Combined with the Quantum Cloud Server (QCS) IIoT remote monitoring and control cloud-based solution, users can interact with remotely-sourced vital data anywhere via any device capable of hosting a web browser, such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

@quantautomation #PAuto #IoT

Driving digitization with mobile devices.

The industry of the future is based on a comprehensive collection and analysis of production data. In order to enable IoT applications and machine learning, this data must be collected, analysed and managed. This is done peripherally, with foresight and increasingly close to the process – if possible, in real time and with low latency. With the integration of cyber physical systems into production, the boundaries between classic IT and operation technology blur more and more.

Unfortunately, these systems are still mainly open and inhomogeneous despite all standardization approaches. In order to optimize manufacturing and production processes, solutions are needed that decentralize and facilitate data processing and management. Mobile terminals integrated by means of comprehensive mobile device management not only function as digital gateways, they also support networking to a central system by means of special applications and a wide range of functions from cameras to employee protection. The latter is particularly important because of the dangerous working environment and the regular working alone. Hence, they must not only be particularly robust, but also provide effective protection for mobile workers – in the field as well as in potentially hazardous areas.

With this in mind, specially designed, mobile devices such as Pepperl+Fuchs' ecom's Smartphone Smart-Ex® 02 offer numerous advantages. In addition to robustness, high ergonomics and ease of use, sensors in combination with the corresponding software guarantee comprehensive lone worker protection in accordance with the DGUV regulation BGR-139. Emergency calls can be triggered not only by the software for the sole worker, but also via emergency call buttons. In this way alone workers are reliably protected. With Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons specially developed for the hazardous areas, employees can even be located without GPS and indoors. At the same time, the intrinsically safe Android smartphone works as a mobile hub: it supports 21 different LTE frequency bands and is delivered without simlock.

Global Ex- certificates as well as local regulatory approval enable worldwide use. The intrinsically safe smartphone, designed for a temperature range of -20 to +60°C, is thus designed for worldwide use even under the most extreme conditions. In addition, it is the first device certified for Zone 1/21 and Div. 1 to receive Google's demanding Android Enterprise Recommended Validation. This ensures consistent, easy deployment and management of the mobile solutions through hardware and operating system support as well as guaranteed Android upgrades and regular, timely security patches. In this way users save time and money in the deployment and maintenance of the devices in terms of total cost of ownership (TCO).

To ensure that data transmission is as easy as possible, it is important that mobile devices communicate directly and smoothly with enterprise mobility management (EMM) systems. For mobile devices, this means comprehensive certifications for the support of the hardware and software of EMM systems. ecom guarantees both: through Android Enterprise certification as well as certifications for the market-leading device management systems. With suitable software and apps, companies can be comprehensively networked without limiting themselves to one technology. A solution like this enables the central management and protection of data as well as devices and fits into any infrastructure. Mobile device management software thereby enables a faster rollout of the devices as well as a secure and fast connection to the operative systems. Besides, apps and operating systems can be installed, updated and managed automatically.

ecom's new Digital Products & Services division enables the staging, management and real-time monitoring of mobile devices such as the Smart-Ex® 02. It combines automated pre-configuration during device manufacturing with comprehensive mobile device management and analytics. Mobile devices are therefore not only easy to set up and manage, but can also be updated at any time – even over-the-air. An analysis of historical data is possible at any time to reveal security-critical processes. If necessary, the solution can also be used as a full-fledged EMM system, which relieves the IT departments and provides more security during operation.

Thanks to devices designed for industrial use and suitable digital services for companies, mobile devices effectively support digitization by becoming independent hubs. The evaluation of data becomes faster and easier with their use. Therefore, companies gain a comprehensive insight into procedures and processes and recognize where improvements need to be made. At the same time, mobile devices protect employees – even in explosive environments – and facilitate their everyday work.

#PAuto @PepperlFuchs

Cloud-based secure remote access.

To better serve the needs of OEMs and machine builders, Moxa has launched a new Remote Connect Suite that provides an easier and more secure way to connect to remote machines and equipment for the performance of critical troubleshooting, maintenance, data acquisition, and device management, resulting in faster and smarter support.

Designed for Industrial IoT environments, the Moxa Remote Connect (MRC) is a remote connection management platform that includes server and client software along with a hardware gateway to seamlessly bridge the gap between field devices, engineers, and application servers for greater visability and support. Hosted on Amazon EC2, MRC connects Ethernet-based edge devices to the server portal with the security needed in today's networks. Client software connects the engineer's laptop to the server portal so that they can manage all devices in realtime through a HTTPS web console.

"With an easy to use design, secure connections, and flexible connectivity, the Moxa Remote Connect allows OEMs to access their remote machines effortlessly and streamline their maintenance efforts" stated Li Peng, a product manager in Moxa's Industrial Ethernet Infrastructure business unit.

The MRC Auto Configuration function makes installation "plug-and-play" simple with no need for extensive IT knowledge and no requirement to configure VPNs, perform complex firewall settings or reconfigure IP Addresses. MRC provides Smart IP Mapping to avoid IP conflicts and is firewall friendly to comply with existing IT security policies, allowing companies that need secure remote access to minimize the amount of time and effort spent on deployment.

In order to combat the numerous security risks that present themselves when data is collected through the Internet, MRC is equipped with security features including end-to-end encryption to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks. The Smart Protection function includes an embedded firewall that permits remote access under whitelist control without disrupting local networks. In order to provide an on-demand maintenance service, access to machines is fully controlled by machine operators.

MRC delivers greater flexibility by supporting a variety of connections including 1-to-1, multiple-to-multiple, and site-to-site. It empowers companies to remotely manage numerous machines and users at different locations, which makes it an ideal solution as businesses scale to satisfy growing demand.

@MoxaInc #PAuto 

IS1+ Remote I/O system communicates ticks approval.

The latest generation of explosion-protected Remote I/O systems from R. Stahl, IS1+ for installation in zone 1 and zone 2 or Division 1 or Division 2, enables fast communication via Foundation Fieldbus High Speed Ethernet (FF HSE).

As the first product in its class, IS1+ has been acknowledged with the official "tick mark" for a FF HSE device following testing and registration by the FieldComm group. Featuring a transmission rate of up to 100 Mbit/s, the HSE standard has been designed by the Fieldbus Foundation – now a member of the FieldComm Group – especially with Remote I/O, wireless gateways, and similar applications in mind. FF HSE has more recently been further augmented by F-ROM (Foundation for Remote Operations Management) technology. F-ROM features a number of enhancements, which are all also supported by IS1+. These include special "RIO Function Blocks" for an effective transmission of large amounts of data, "Association Blocks" for comfortable offline configuration as, and special "HART Transducer Blocks", which – for the first time ever – enable an integration of HART field devices into FF architectures.

Remote I/O solutions with F-ROM technology are ideally suited to supplement fieldbus installations with smart H1 field devices. Using F-ROM-enabled Remote I/Os, conventional and HART field devices can be integrated into fieldbus installations alongside H1 devices. As a result, the installation effort is significantly reduced. In addition to FF HSE and F-ROM, IS1+ supports other Ethernet-based protocols such as Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET for cutting-edge, fast communication in process plants with hazardous areas. Users also continue to benefit from the general advantages of the IS1+ system, namely hot-swapping capabilities for all modules in Zone 1 and Division 1, multi-functional I/O modules and preventive maintenance messages according to NE107. Moreover, R. Stahl offers a standard warranty extension for three years free of charge on all IS1+ systems.

• Stahl products are marketed in Ireland through Douglas Controls & Automation.

#Stahl #PAuto @FOUNDATIONField

Alliance to revolutionise remote monitoring.

BinMaster and Device Solutions Inc have announced their strategic alliance that will revolutionize remote monitoring with end-to-end solutions for sensor-based networks. The companies have teamed up and designed systems that automate data collection, dissemination, and reporting. Customers across any industry will be able to monitor and manage data from all types of sensors for properties such as level, temperature, moisture, humidity or flow and be alerted when pre-determined thresholds have been met. Other system features include the ability to track assets and automatically optimize routes for delivery vehicles.

The backbone of the system is a wireless communication device based upon the Cellio® IIoT platform developed by Device Solutions that BinMaster will market as BinCom™. Transceivers and gateways send data from sensors to cloud-based application software. The BinMaster BinCom device roadmap will offer a variety of models compatible with Cellular CDMA, Cellular GSM, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet communication platforms. Remote data monitoring can be done via a PC, tablet, or SmartPhone and can be set up to send automated alerts via email or SMS text. Device Solutions has developed flexible dashboards that can be customized by each company, each user within a company, and by the type of sensor data they wish to monitor. BinCom is compatible with a variety of BinMaster sensors or currently installed sensors supplied by BinMaster or another manufacturer. The standard BinCom interfaces include both Analog and Digital and support 0-5VDC, 4-20 mA, dry contacts, Modbus, and RS-485 outputs.

The BinCom data monitoring and asset tracking solutions will be offered by BinMaster as complete systems including sensors, BinCom transceivers, gateways and asset trackers, cloud-based services and other options such as local monitoring consoles. “Customers today just don’t want to buy a sensor, they want a complete turnkey solution that is easy to implement and is extremely affordable,” stated Scott McLain, CEO of BinMaster. “Device Solutions is the perfect partner to round out BinMaster’s robust solutions. BinMaster is entrenched in industries such as agriculture, mining, plastics, food processing, cement, biofuels, chemicals, oil & gas that have complex and demanding supply chains. Teaming up with Device Solutions makes serving their diverse needs possible.”

“We are extremely excited about the opportunities that a BinMaster and Device Solutions partnership brings to reality,” stated Bob Witter, Co-Founder and CEO of Device Solutions. “Pairing BinMaster’s decades of experience and proven portfolio of sensor indicators and control systems with the Device Solutions Cellio Industrial IoT ecosystem, completes an affordable, scalable and reliable end-to-end data collection, analytics, and control solution that is ready for deployment in an amazing number of applications.”

@binmasterusa #PAuto 

Wireless switches without batteries.

ZF Electronic Systems* is introducing a new line of switches that don’t need wired connections and do work wirelessly without batteries. Their power source is ultimately the physical actuation of the switch; in a very nice implementation of energy harvesting, that pit of motion translates into power through an innovative penny-size micro-dynamo within the body of the switch.

One benefit to designers is a much simplified ability to implement remote switches without the need to run connecting wires, which can simplify both product design and certifications. Compared to other wireless solutions, the ZF Electronic Systems energy-harvesting switches do not require periodic battery changes or even more frequent battery status checking, and there are none of the usual battery-related switch failure mode.

Inside the familiarly sized switch housing the micro-dynamo magneto-electric generator is joined by a controller, a digital modulator and a radio; the radio can be configured for many frequencies, including those common to home, office and plant automation systems.

The first of these switches are available in snap-action or rocker configurations and others can be produced to meet customer requirements. ZF Electronic Systems is also making its tiny generator available separately from these switched. They rate its mechanical life at 1,000,000 actuations and the energy it generates at a measured 0.33 mw (actuating and releasing).  The RF transmission distance is rated up to 300 meters in open space, and up to 30 meters indoors with any type of obstruction.

*ZF Electronics was formerly known as CHERRY.

 #PAuto @CherryAmericas

Configure PLCs and machines remotely!

HMS Industrial Networks now introduces Netbiter Remote Access into the Netbiter Remote Management solution. Remote Access is a technology that provides an instant, secure communication tunnel to remote equipment, such as PLCs and machines. It allows users to employ their usual PLC configuration software such as Rockwell RSlogix® or Siemens TIA Portal®, just as if they were connected to the machine on site. This makes it possible to instantly take action in case an operational problem occurs and reduces the need to travel to the site.

Configure just if being on site.

Netbiter Remote Access makes it possible for machine builders, system integrators, OEMs and end users to instantly connect to devices, equipment or machines from any location. The solution provides a secure communication tunnel for PC-based software applications and allows PLC programmers and machine owners to configure, reprogram and debug the machinery from any location saving both time and travel costs while improving customer service.

How it works
Users first connect a Netbiter EasyConnect™ 300-series gateway to their remote device or machine. By running the Netbiter QuickConnect™ software on a computer, a secure tunnel is created to the Netbiter gateway and the device/machine to which it is connected. PLC programmers or machine owners can simply open their regular configuration software (such as RSLogix or TIA Portal) and configure or debug just as if they were on site.

The secure connection is established via the cloud-based Netbiter Argos data center. This means that there is no need for opening inbound ports in firewalls or setting up VPN connections on site. The result is a secure connection which is set up a matter of minutes.

Simplicity and security
“Simplicity and security are the main traits of Netbiter Remote Access,” says Henrik Arleving, Product Line Manager at HMS Industrial Networks. “After connecting the Netbiter gateway to a machine, users can access their machines and be up and running within minutes from any location. This is a much sought-after functionality that will save machine builders, system integrators, PLC programmers and maintenance staff a lot of time and effort, not to mention substantially decreased travel costs.”

Solid security
Data is encrypted both to and from Netbiter Argos and it is also possible to choose a two-step verification method (logging in with a password and also getting an SMS to verify the user’s identity). This ensures secure data connection to the remote equipment. Since the connection is made through the Netbiter Argos, which acts as a routing portal for all communication, there is no need to bother with fixed IP addresses or holes in the users’ firewalls.

Remote monitoring of water data

Operating data of water treatment plants can be remotely monitored over a network with the new Process Monitoring System (PMS) from the Siemens Industry Automation Division.

The PMS is particularly suitable for use in swimming pools as well as the treatment of process and drinking water. Up to 32 bus addresses and therefore the same number of systems and devices, such as measuring and control systems, can be connected to the PMS via RS 485 interfaces. The monitoring system transforms the data of the connected devices into easy-to-read tables and graphics which can be called up via a network or the Internet, with special safety precautions in place. The user requires a computer or mobile end device, such as as smartphone or tablet-PC with Internet browser. Changes to all parameters important for water quality are clearly visualized in transparent trend displays. Remote parameter assignment is also possible with special password-protected access. E-mail notifications can also be set up which are then either event-driven or sent at defined times.

The PMS is equipped with a LAN port for connection to the worldwide data network. A version is also available with a 56K analog modem. In addition, the acquired values are saved on an SD card. An archive file is automatically created for each device connected to the PMS. A 2 GB card has sufficient memory capacity to archive all the data from 32 connected measuring and control systems for several years. Files containing data for one month can simply be downloaded for further evaluation and imported into Excel applications or other databases.

Key performance indication

The COSCOM KPI (Key Performance Indicator) module is designed as a Web application to give users location-independent access to corporate data and analyses at all times. Online visualisation provides real-time information on the progress of the process. This allows optimisation and organisational measures to be initiated while the process is still underway.

Any smartphone with a Web browser

COSCOM Computer GmbH, has more than two decades of experience in the development, marketing and implementation of software solutions for process optimisation in the production environment. The modular structure of the COSCOM MES system allows it to be used in a wide variety of applications. COSCOM software tools - ProXIA for detailed job scheduling, PEP for staff scheduling, MDE for machine data acquisition and BDE for operational data acquisition - provide the basic data for determining meaningful KPIs. They dramatically simplify the localisation of bottlenecks and negative factors in the production flow, thereby enabling users to initiate specific optimisation actions and monitor their effectiveness.

KPI analysis is becoming more and more important in the production industry. Organisational and business strategies such as lean manufacturing and kaizen pursue the essential objectives of eliminating all forms of waste, achieving customer satisfaction and delivering top quality. But what forms the basis for optimisation decisions? Experience from the implementation of real projects shows that poorly founded decisions can have a negative impact on the production process. For example, individual actions - such as reducing staff levels - can easily lead to lower productivity. Well-founded decisions are not possible unless all parties involved in the production process are forced to ´fess up´.

Visualisation of KPIs plays a major role here. Unlike KPI analysis at the end of the production process, which only tells you whether the process was OK or not OK, online visualisation provides real-time information on the progress of the process. COSCOM´s newest product is primarily dedicated to this task. In the form of a mobile application, this module can also run on any smartphone with a Web browser, thereby enabling managers to make well-founded decisions no matter where they are - in the plant or on a business trip.

New management portal

The number of users at the online management portal netbiter.net for M2M and Remote Device Management is growing very fast. Due to increasing demands IntelliCom Innovation have introduced several new features to monitor, control and manage remote units in an easy, reliable and cost efficient way.

Some of the new features are;
Extended support for the award winning Netbiter EasyConnect concept that provides true plug’n’play installation of wireless devices, including secure access of firewall protected equipment.

There is now a software API basedon web services like SOAP ayt the site. It makes it possible to interface remote data to business applications, Intranets, web sites etc.

Modbus connectivity has been added on some GPRS and I/O based products.

Alarms are now supported via RSS feeds. The alarm scheduler has also been improved.

Last but not least the report engine has been updated to support more reports and customisation options.

Remote system

Remote video monitoring system for utilities

WIPAT increases security and provides a virtual patrol for remote facilities

Satel-West has announced its WIPAT Remote Patrol and Monitoring System for utilities such as electric power companies, oil and natural gas pipelines, and water & wastewater treatment plants. The system provides constant monitoring of remote utilities and public infrastructure without land-based vulnerabilities or reliance on telecommunications carriers.

WIPAT is a long-range, drop-in-place, wireless video monitoring system that provides video clips, still images, event logging, access control, multiple digital sensor inputs, output contacts for control of devices, and a suite of event logging tools. Advanced configuration allows for large networks, integration with common industrial control hardware and software, integration with common security hardware and software, satellite connection and redundancy.

Operating on wireless public safety channels with options for satellite connection and solar power, WIPAT allows industry and public services to monitor critical areas without relying on vulnerable ground connections, such as phone lines, fiber optic cable or hardwired networks. WIPAT delivers a unique combination of Satel wireless and satellite technology integrated with Longwatch remote video hardware and software to deliver cost effective security and surveillance systems for remote locations and assets.

Longwatch components include a Video Engine at each remote site to acquire and archive live video from multiple cameras, and interface to Satel wireless components. The Satel system transmits video via wireless to a utility’s control room, where a Longwatch Video Control Center takes incoming video data from the remote sites, stores it on a local disk, and presents it on the utility’s HMI/SCADA system. The Satel/Longwatch system can interface with all leading SCADA and distributed control systems (DCSes), making it a drop-in-place monitoring system for all existing utility control systems.

This system not only provides live and archived video for security purposes, the video can also be used by operators to monitor and diagnose control or operational problems at remote sites. An operator at an HMI can select a live feed from any camera at any remote site to investigate problems at remote pumping stations, compressor stations, switching systems, substations or power generating plants. The operator can also “go back in time” to see archived video from 10 seconds to 10 days before an event occurred.

“Longwatch provides a robust and flexible complement to our long range products and we are very excited about our technologies and resources coming together to enhance public security,” said Sergio Tacci, President of Satel-West. “The ability to see, document, record, and respond to events anywhere was not enough. We wanted to have a product completely removed from land-based service providers, yet simple and affordable enough for small as well as large utilities.”

“Longwatch is pleased to provide the Longwatch Video Surveillance software and appliances for the new WIPAT system. When combined with SATEL-West radios, Longwatch surveillance systems provide utilities unique capabilities to view live video or video clips related to events and alarms. Delivering video to the central control center enables operators to make better and more timely decisions when responding to remote events,” stated Steve Rubin, President & CEO of Longwatch, Inc. “In addition, the distributed architecture of the Longwatch Video System provides operators with secure storage of high resolution video for use in investigations or prosecution.”

See also 25 Years of PC-Based Control for the inside story of Longwatch!

Power harvesting

Ultralow voltage 20mV step-up converter & power manager for energy harvesting applications

We are hearing more and more about energy harvesting as a means of powering units in remote, difficult to reach or in areas where cables are not acceptable or possible especially in wireless transmitter/sensors.

Now Linear Technology has introduced the LTC3108, a highly integrated step-up DC/DC converter designed to start-up and run from extremely low input voltage sources such as thermoelectric generators (TEGs), thermopiles and small solar cells. Its self-resonant topology steps up from input voltages as low as 20mV. Small temperature differences can be harvested and used to generate system power instead of traditional battery power. Energy harvesters are designed for applications requiring very low average power, but require periodic pulses of higher load current. For example, in many wireless sensor applications the circuitry is only powered take measurements and transmit data periodically at low duty cycle.

The LTC3108 uses a small standard step-up transformer to provide a complete power management solution. Its 2.2V LDO can power an external microcontroller, while its main output is pin selectable to one of four (2.35V, 3.3V, 4.1V or 5V) fixed voltages to power a wireless transmitter or sensors. A second switched output can be enabled by the host in order to power devices that do not have a micropower shutdown capability. The addition of a storage capacitor provides continuous power even when the input energy source is unavailable. The LTC3108’s extremely low quiescent current (<6µA) and high efficiency design ensure the fastest possible charge times for the output reservoir capacitor. The combination of the LTC3108’s
3mm x 4mm DFN package (or SSOP-16) and very small external components ensure a highly compact solution for energy harvesting applications.

The LTC3108EDE’s in a 3mm x 4mm DFN package and the LTC3108EGN is available in a SSOP-16 package. Pricing starts at $2.95 each for 1,000-piece quantities. Industrial temperature grade versions, the LTC3108IDE and LTC3108IGN, are also available. Pricing starts at $3.45 each for 1,000-piece quantities. All versions are available from stock.

Remote device management

Control from afar!

The online management portal for M2M and remote device management, Netbiter from Intellicom, has got several new features.

The solution now includes new and improved features to monitor, control and manage remote units in an easy, reliable and cost efficient way.

For example:

- New improved support for the EasyConnect concept that provides true plug’n’play installation of wireless devices, including secure access of firewall protected equipment.
- Improved report manager for various reports (energy, tank level, temperature etc)
- New alarm manager with scheduler
- Improved browsing of remote devices
- Improved fleet management to monitor geographical position using GPS enabled devices

“Hundreds of our customers are today minimizing service operational costs and improving equipment efficiency. The trick is no longer a fancy web site but rather provide a solution that takes a few minutes to install without being an IT or mobile phone networks expert," says Henrik Ebeklint, managing Director at IntelliCom Innovation. "True plug’n’play is the key."