Safe, convenient and obvious!

The Managing Director of Signal Group, James Clements believes that it should be possible to remove the screens of all gas analysers, and connect with them wirelessly. “It no longer makes sense to fix the screen into the analyser,” he explains. “Everyone is completely comfortable with portable keypads and screens, and analysers are often in inconvenient or even unsafe locations, so we have designed detachable screens into all of our latest instruments.

For decades, the users of gas analysers have become accustomed to managing them and viewing readings on a fixed screen, but with the technology that is now available, that doesn’t make sense – why not just grab the screen and take it somewhere safer and more convenient? Seems obvious when you think about it!?

“For many of our customers, it was either inconvenient or impossible to be physically next to their analysers to view readings and manage their instruments, so we integrated detachable tablets into the designs, and have been delighted with how popular this has been.”

The detachable tablets in Signal’s analysers are rugged with an IP67 rating, which means that they can even be used outdoors. Typically, customers find them most useful when it is necessary to install the analyser in a location with difficult access – such as: in vehicle exhaust gas test cells; in an ATEX enclosure; with a raised gantry on a stack; in a combustion test rig, or on any site where the location of analysis is not an ideal or safe working space.

With inbuilt 802.11 Wi-Fi, Signal’s tablet connects wirelessly to the analyser from a distance of up to 50 metres. This provides users with the ability to view live data in a different location, and even manage datalogging, alarms and calibration from a distance.

In addition to wireless connectivity between the analyser and the display, all Series IV instruments have their own IP address, and are compatible with 3G, 4G, 5G, GPRS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and satellite communications. This provides users with simple and secure access to their analysers at any time, from anywhere.

The removable tablets are supplied as standard with all Series IV gas analysers, including the new SOLAR XPLORE, and James says: “The most exciting thing about this new technology is that it all comes at no extra cost!”

@GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #PAuto 

Industrial panel PC.

A new range of fanless multi-touch Panel PCs from Axiomtek have been announced by Impulse Embedded. These industrial quality devices feature the Intel Elkhart Lake Celeron J6412 processor, a 10W quad core 2.0GHz processor with 2.6GHz boost and full HD 1080 resolutions. These Panel PCs are perfect for digital signage, self-service, POS systems and light factory automation applications.

The Axiomtek industrial wide-screen touch panel PCs are available in three sizes: 15.6, 18.5 and 21.5 inch and support Full HD 1080 resolutions with a projected capacitive (PCAP) touchscreen with a 3H anti scratch touch surface.

Other key features of the GOT Series of panel PCs include:
• 1x superfast 2.5G Ethernet port
• 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
• 4x 10Gbps superspeed+ USB3.2 Gen 2 ports
• 1x RS-232/422/485 port for control purposes
A flexible I/O port can also be fitted with more application specific I/O options to further tailor the system to customer’s specific needs.

This new range of panel PCs all feature the Intel Elkhart Lake Celeron J6412 which offers many advanced features, such as:
• CPU: Intel Elkhart Lake Celeron J6412 2.00GHz quad-core processor
• System Memory: 1x 260-pin DDR4 3200 SO-DIMM, up to 32GB
• Resolution: 1920x1080 (FHD)
• Brightness: 350cd/m
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9

@ImpulseEmbedded @Axiomtek @proactivefleet #PAuto

Bringing tablets to the factory floor.

The new HT4P Safety Commander, developed by IDEC Corporation, is building on the success of the HT3P by incorporating end user feature requests for additional networking and operator interface functionality. The unit is an ergonomic device enabling users to securely hold and protect a human-machine interface (HMI) tablet, while providing power, networking, and hardwired emergency stop (e-stop) and other operator interface devices. OEMs and automation designers can now provide flexible and safety-rated operator interface options for equipment, robotics, collaborative robots, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and other manufacturing system applications.

Industrial operations personnel have long been constrained to using specialized HMIs mounted on fixed control panels, or dedicated teaching pendants. Modern consumer-grade tablets offer a better visualization solution, especially for data-intensive industrial internet of things (IIoT) applications, and they can also offer instant viewing of drawings and manuals, videoconferencing, and reports. But they simply are not made to withstand industrial conditions.

Now, the Safety Commander family of devices provides a ruggedized way of deploying HMI tablets to deliver many convenience and productivity benefits, in an arrangement designed for use on the factory floor.

Enhanced HMI options.
The original HT3P Safety Commander provided a lockable, ergonomic, and sturdy way to secure HMI tablets. It included charging provisions, along with a hardwired e-stop and a 3-position hold-to-run enabling switch, so designs could integrate tablets in compliance with ISO/IEC safety standards and requirements. Many OEMs and end users have used this device to great advantage, and some have requested even more features to expand its usefulness for their applications. 

The new HT4P Safety Commander builds on these capabilities and has been enhanced with:
+ Larger size: The HT4P can now hold tablets ranging from 10-inch all the way up to a 13-inch (whereas the HT3P accepts 8- to 11-inch tablets) using adjustable grippers, so users can take advantage of more display real-estate and greater CPU processing speeds. In most cases, the larger the tablet screen size, the greater the price advantage compared to using a traditional fixed-mounted touch panel.
+ Wired networking: While designers may still choose to use Wi-Fi for their tablet, there are many applications where electrical noise or other conditions make wireless unsuitable. Now, designers have the option with the HT4P to use an on-board wired LAN combined with a USB-PD connection, providing stable communications and 30W power charging simultaneously. A USB/RS232C/RS422 converter option is also available. External shielded cables with connectors are available for the HT4P in lengths of 5m, 10m, 15m, and 20m, making them suitable for almost any application.
+ Hardwired non-safety switches: The HT4P now has three on-board mounting positions capable of providing standard or custom arrangements of hardwired pushbuttons, illuminated pushbuttons, and selector switches. In addition, a guard is available to protect against inadvertent operation of the e-stop button.

The HT4P maintains other key features, such as the ability for the tablet to be used in vertical/portrait or horizontal/landscape orientations, by both left- and right-handed users, with a hand or shoulder strap to minimize fatigue. A wall-mountable bracket is available, and the device can also be placed on a desk for easy viewing. The device has been tested for drop resistance up to 1.2m, and it offers IP54 protection from water splashes, dust, and dirt. It operates in temperatures ranging from -10DegC up to +35DegC or more, depending on configuration. Clean room compatible parts are also available.

The IDEC HT4P Safety Commander lets OEMs and equipment designers take advantage of modern and familiar tablets acting as HMIs located close to machinery, and it eliminates the need to develop or use dedicated and less flexible devices.

@IDECUSA #PAuto #HMI

HMI safety for tablets.

IDEC Corporation has developed the HT3P Safety Commander to address a growing need for users who want to incorporate modern tablets into their industrial automation systems, but also need to include hardwired emergency stop (e-stop) and enabled functionality. The Safety Commander makes it easy to hold a tablet securely in an industrial setting, for applications like machinery, robotics, automatic guided vehicles (AGVs), and production lines.

Tablets offer more

Traditionally, industrial operations personnel have needed to stand in front of fixed control panels, or use dedicated handheld touch panels or teaching pendants. Each of these methods have their place, but for many applications operators need much more detailed human-machine interface (HMI) capabilities at their fingertips, even as they move about the system. Industrial internet of things (IIoT) initiatives and capable HMI options are now prompting designers to select mobile tablets as visualization and control devices because of their convenience and productivity benefits.

Tablets offer high display resolutions, powerful computational abilities, extensive memory, Wi-Fi networking, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity—all at a low cost. Beyond HMI functionality, they can offer instant viewing of drawings and manuals, videoconferencing, and report creation. But how can consumer- or commercial-grade tablets deliver industrial-grade safety?

Adding industrial-grade safety to typical tablets
Recognizing industry’s need, IDEC has developed a unique device for adding industrial-grade safety to typical tablets. The Safety Commander is a hand-held device with a slider and adjustable grippers to accommodate tablets ranging from 8- to 11-inch diagonal size. A tablet mounted into the Safety Commander thus provides:

• Key-locking provisions to keep the tablet secure in the device.
• A sturdy and ergonomic hand grip and strap, for both right- and left-handed users, and an optional neck strap.
• The ability to rotate the tablet to any vertical/portrait or horizontal/landscape orientation using a patented design.
• One hardwired e-stop button with LED indicator.
• One hardwired 3-position enable switch.
• A 5-meter cable.
• USB Type-C port for tablet charging.
• IP54 protection from water splashes and dirt, and drop resistance tested to 1.2 meters.

Unique HMI capabilities
In many cases, using a modern tablet avoids the need to locate a PC on the plant floor and provides an option to add IIoT functionality to industrial systems. Tablets can offer many more capabilities than dedicated industrial teaching pendants, which are expensive and can be difficult to use. However, users have struggled with custom but awkward designs for incorporating tablets with industrial automation, or they have compromised on safety considerations.

The IDEC HT3P Safety Commander overcomes these physical integration challenges. Using the Safety Commander, AGV and robotics designers can take advantage of the hold-to-run button to integrate tablets into their automation in compliance with ISO/IEC safety standards and requirements. Manufacturing and processing operations can provide the best visibility for their operators, while providing them with the flexibility to safely move about the equipment.

@IDECUSA #Pauto #HMI

Disruption for gas monitoring market!

 ‘Thinking out of the box’ is usually a phrase that R&D engineers use as a metaphor for looking at a challenge from a different perspective, but at Signal Group, the technology development team have taken the phrase to a new level. Following an intensive development program, the company has announced that all of their main line S4 gas analysers are now available with a detachable Tablet instead of the traditional built-in screen. 

The new S4 Wireless Tablet will be supplied as standard on all new orders for the Signal Group's Series 4 gas analysers, which includes the SOLAR, QUASAR, PULSAR and AURORA models.

“We are not aware of any off-the-shelf gas analysers with this capability anywhere else in the world, so this will dramatically disrupt the gas analyser market,” comments Signal Group’s Stephane Canadas. “No longer will customers have to manage their analysers, while standing, sitting or squeezing into inconvenient or even hazardous locations; now they will be able to operate their equipment wirelessly from a convenient location nearby, using the instrument’s built-in Wi-Fi.

“The even better news for our international customers, is that we can now confirm that the Tablet is available with user-selectable multiple languages.”

The new Tablets are rugged with an IP65 rating, which means that they can even be used outdoors. However, the applications where the detachable Tablet will be of greatest value include: analysers in an ATEX enclosure; vehicle exhaust gas test cells; on a raised stack gantry; in a combustion test rig, or on any site where the location of analysis is not an ideal or safe working space.

The new S4 Tablet connects wirelessly to the analyser via an inbuilt 802.11 Wi-Fi which can connect up to 50 metres away, and the tablet’s enhanced Graphical User Interface (GUI) uses intuitive graphical icons for all the main functions. This provides users with the ability to view live data remotely, and even manage data logging, alarms and calibration. 

In addition to wireless connectivity between the analyser and the Tablet, all Series 4 instruments are supplied with software which provides users with simple and secure access via RS232 or Ethernet at any time, from anywhere.

@GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #Pauto #Analysis

Tablet PC for hazardous areas.

The introduction of the Field Xpert SMT77, a rugged tablet PC tool for commissioning and maintenance staff to manage field instruments and document the work progress expands Endress+Hauser's product portfolio for device configuration. The SMT77 comes preinstalled with device configuration software and device library —so it is ready to go, right out of the box. The device enables plant asset management in Class 1 Div 1 hazardous areas.

Like the Field Xpert SMT70 (Class 1 Div 2 rated), the Field Xpert SMT77 supports HART, PROFIBUS DP/PA, Foundation Fieldbus, Modbus, CDI and Endress+Hauser service interfaces.

The Field Xpert device library has more than 2,700 pre-installed device and communication drivers, allowing it to work with many different instruments from a wide variety of vendors. It can connect to field instrumentation devices directly via a USB or Bluetooth wireless modem, or via a gateway, remote I/O or multiplexer to a bus system.

The Field Xpert SMT77, therefore, works with virtually every modern field instrument with “One Click Connectivity.“ To connect the Field Xpert SMT77 to a flowmeter with HART interface, for example, the operator simply clicks on the application, which then prompts the user to select automatic connection and the application connects to the instrument, and the SMT77 is ready to perform diagnostics, configurations or commissioning with the built-in device configuration software. The SMT77 also supports Endress+Hauser Heartbeat Technology and FieldCare instrument diagnostic and monitoring functions.

The tablet PC has Windows 10 Pro software installed. It comes with an 10.1 inch LCD Multitouch HD display, 2x bonded Gorilla Glass, a 5MP auto focus camera, a 2MP front facing camera, and up to 128 GB storage. Communication ports and supported networks include USB, Ethernet, HDMI, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—with 4G LTE and GPS available as an option. The battery runtime is five hours. The SMT77 comes in a general purpose configuration as well hazardous area configuration for Class 1, Div 1 and meets all the legal requirements of the relevant EU directives and is IP65 compliant.

 #PAuto @Endress_Hauser @Endress_US @Endress_UK

Phone & tablet in industry.

The Ex-Handy 10 Featurephone and the ATEX/IECEx Zone 1/21; Div. 1 version of the industrial tablet Tab-Ex 02 has been recently introduced by Pepperl+Fuchs.

The in-house developed Zone 1/21 certified 4G/LTE Featurephone Ex-Handy 10 with Android 8 operating system is the ideal enabler and companion for innovative industrial 4.0 applications in hazardous areas. The latest member of the ultra-robust Ex-Handy family, developed since 1994, enables the use of push-to-talk (PTT) solutions over 4G as well as private LTE and Wi-Fi networks. This ensures optimum network coverage in all areas and situations – with low network latency and excellent data transfer rates. Speakers positioned at the front of the mobile device provide optimal voice and sound quality – even in noisy environments.

Dedicated, easy-to-use side buttons – large PTT and red emergency button – allow quick access to PTT and alarm services via one-touch. In addition, the automatic, lone worker protection function can be implemented application-specifically and can (server-dependent) be integrated into the company's IT.

The high-resolution, brilliant display of the Ex-Handy 10 is protected by extremely resistant and scratchproof gorilla glass. It features protection class IP68 and withstands permissible ambient temperatures from -20 °C to +60 °C in harshest industrial environments. The feature phone offers maximum planning and investment security thanks to very long availability and support (5-year lifecycle) as well as global approvals (explosion-protection, country-specific product conformity and a wide variety of radio bands).

With the Android 8 operating system, continuous security updates via FOTA (Firmware Over the Air) and its own software development team, the Ex-Handy 10 is future-proof. In addition, its highly developed and powerful rechargeable battery paired with advanced energy management allows operating times above average. A consistent, compatible product ecosystem with its own 3.5 mm audio jack connector fixation concept and neues ecom Radio Speaker Microphone (RSM) as innovative PTT sets, scan applications and BLE beacons complete the offer.

The ATEX/IECEx Zone 1/21; Div. 1 version of the new industrial tablet Tab-Ex 02 is successor of the world's first explosion-proof Android tablet Tab-Ex 01. The Tab-Ex 02 combines highest performance with innovative applications such as augmented reality. Equipped with an Android 8 operating system, the Tab-Ex 02, based on the Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2, features a powerful Octa Core processor with 1.6 gigahertz and 3 gigabyte RAM.

It is ideally suited for industry 4.0-capable applications and simplifies data exchange with SCADA/DCS systems, merchandise management systems (SAP, IBM Maximo), project management systems and computer-aided system planning. The compact Tab-Ex 02 is the perfect and worldwide approved companion for various tasks, including inventory, material tracking, maintenance, supply chain and asset management up to a professional solution for lone worker protection.

@PepperlFuchs #PAuto #Safety #Ex

Ex tablet!

The industrial tablet Tab-Ex 02, from Pepperl+Fuchs, combines top performance with innovative applications such as augmented reality. It is ideally suited for IoT-capable applications and simplifies data exchange with SCADA / DCS systems, enterprise resource planning systems (SAP, IBM Maximo), project management systems and computer-aided system planning.

As a compact lightweight tablet, the Tab-Ex 02 is the perfect companion for a wide range of tasks such as inventory, material tracking, maintenance, and supply chain or asset management.

Based on the latest Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2, the Tab-Ex 02 commands the high-performance Android 7.1 Nougat operating system and features a powerful Octa Core processor with 1.6 GHz and 3 Gigabyte RAM. Thereby ecom provides the technological basis for complex applications that connect people, processes and systems through the Internet of Things and will be a decisive factor for a company's success in the coming years. The improved hardware of the Tab-Ex 02 enables, for example, to identify objects in an installation via augmented reality applications. The software delivers all the underlying, existing data directly into the user's field of vision in real time, while also making it shareable within the company network. Augmented reality ensures greater transparency, higher availability and faster as well as safer processes – from the planning to the operation and maintenance of a plant.

The Tab-Ex 02 is part of ecom´s wirelessly interlinked, explosion-proof Mobile Worker Ecosystem that includes smartphones, tablets, peripherals as well as software applications.

• Pepperl+Fuchs' products are marketed in Ireland through Insteco. 

@PepperlFuchs #PAuto #Ex

Rugged tablet PC.

The E+H Field Xpert SMT70 works with virtually every modern field instrument with “One Click Connectivity.”

The Field Xpert SMT70 is a rugged tablet PC for commissioning and maintenance staff to manage field instruments and document the work progress just introduced by Endress+Hauser. The tablet comes preinstalled with DeviceCare device configuration software and device library —so it is ready to go, right out of the box.

The Field Xpert SMT70 supports HART, PROFIBUS DP/PA, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, Modbus, CDI and Endress+Hauser service interfaces. It can connect to field instrumentation devices directly via a USB or Bluetooth wireless modem, or via a gateway, remote I/O or multiplexer to a bus system.

The Field Xpert device library has more than 2,700 pre-installed device and communication drivers, allowing it to work with many different instruments from a wide variety of vendors. The drivers can be used to communicate with virtually all HART and FOUNDATION Fieldbus devices, and additional device drivers (DTMs) can be easily installed if required. Generic HART DTM and PROFIBUS profile DTMs also enable communication with field devices using these protocols.

The Field Xpert SMT70, therefore, works with virtually every modern field instrument with “One Click Connectivity.“ To connect the Field Xpert SMT70 to a HART flowmeter, for example, the operator simply clicks on the app, which then prompts the user to select Automatic Cconnection and the app connects to the instrument, and the tablet is ready to perform diagnostics, configurations or commissioning with the built-in device configuration software. The tablet also supports Endress+Hauser Heartbeat Technology and FieldCare instrument diagnostic and monitoring functions.

The tablet PC has Windows 10 Pro software installed. It comes with an 11.6 inch Multitouch HD display, a 5MP auto focus camera, a 2MP front facing camera, and up to 256 GB storage. Communication ports and supported networks include USB, Ethernet, HDMI, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—with 4G LTE and GPS available as an option. The battery runtime is 14 hours. The tablet comes in a general purpose configuration as well hazardous area configuration for Class 1, Division 2 Groups A,B,C,D, T4 and Class 1, Zone 2, Groups IIC, T4.

@Endress_Hauser  #PAuto 

Remote access via smartphone or tablet.

eWON eCatcher is the software that eWON users utilise to establish a remote connection via an eWON router to their machine. HMS Industrial Networks has launched a mobile version of this award-winning remote access solution called eWON eCatcher Mobile. It is available for free for iOS and Android.

By connecting an eWON Cosy or Flexy router to a machine, it is possible to access and control the machine via the cloud service eWON Talk2M®. eWON users can then access Talk2M in an easy and secure way from a computer using the eCatcher software. Now, eCatcher is also offered as an app for mobile devices on iOS or Android.

Today, many HMI and PLC manufacturers offer apps to connect to their devices. eCatcher Mobile is designed to work as a complement to these apps. eCatcher Mobile opens a secure tunnel to the remote machinery through the Talk2M cloud, enabling users to run any device manufacturers’ app and connect, just as if they were on site.


How it works
After logging in to their eCatcher account, users validate themselves using Touch ID (or a PIN code), similar to most mobile banking applications. Just like in the desktop version, users will see all eWON routers connected to their Talk2M account. After clicking on the eWON they want to access, they are securely connected. When the eCatcher mobile app is connected, it is possible to start native HMI apps from automation vendors. Examples include Sm@rtClient Lite from Siemens, Vijeo Design'Air from Schneider Electric, or Remote HMI from Pro-face. eCatcher mobile can also be used with VNC client apps.

“The eCatcher Mobile app is ideal for remote access, maintenance and monitoring of your devices wherever you are,” says Marie-Luce Bodineau, eWON Product Manager at HMS. “We see that more and more users are starting to utilize the native apps from HMI and PLC vendors, and with the eCatcher mobile we offer them a way to operate remotely in an easy and secure way.”

The eCatcher Mobile app is available for free at Apple App Store or Google Play.

@HMSAnybus #PAuto 

Versatile device management wizard.

FieldMate® R3.03,  is a significantly enhanced version of the FieldMate device management software tool from Yokogawa. FieldMate software has the versatile ability to configure, adjust, and manage a wide variety of field devices used in factories and other production sites. It will be found useful for Process industries such as oil, petrochemicals, chemicals, pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals, foods, and iron and steel.

In addition to having a function that displays past diagnostic data, this latest version of FieldMate includes new functions that provide a more intuitive visualization of pressure calibration data. Powerful new interfaces are also provided for connecting to devices that rely on non-standard protocols and connecting to host networks.

Development Background
FieldMate runs on PCs and is used to configure, adjust, and manage devices in plants. With its support of a variety of digital communication standards, FieldMate can connect to and manage many different manufacturers’ devices. This is a popular software tool that has been installed on more than 10,000 systems since 2006, and Yokogawa has steadily updated it with new functions that truly make it an all-in-one maintenance solution.

The functions added in Release 3.03 make it significantly easier to adjust, check, and calibrate devices, facilitate the sharing of maintenance information by field and office personnel, and allow the connection to devices and instruments that use non-standard communication protocols.

Enhancements
1. New functions that makes it easier to calibrate differential pressure/pressure transmitters which requires the use of their CA700 pressure calibrator.
Field devices must be periodically calibrated to maintain their accuracy. Differential pressure/pressure transmitters are widely used in plants, and their calibration requires skilled maintenance personnel. To calibrate a transmitter, a field engineer must apply pressure using a hand pump, measure that pressure with a pressure calibrator and a transmitter, and manually record the reading produced by the transmitter. This same procedure must be repeated at various standard pressure levels. Release 3.03 has a new function that clearly displays in real time the pressure calibrator and transmitter readings acquired from the pressure calibrator, and a new function that automatically records calibration data. With these functions, even inexperienced maintenance personnel can easily calibrate these devices.

2. Enhanced visualization of historical data needed to identify device deterioration
This latest FieldMate release comes with a new function that displays previous measurements on a graph, which is useful, for example, in identifying changes over time in the adjustments needed to eliminate an offset from the zero point. Used together with a function that displays a list of diagnostic data, this can help personnel identify field devices and other types of equipment that are in need of maintenance. Previously, such assessments required a good deal of experience in analyzing measurement data. Thanks to the improved visualization of data with this new function, even inexperienced maintenance workers can accurately make these assessments.

3. New external interfaces
A new external interface is now available on a special order basis which facilitates connections to host systems, including those that rely on the Cloud. This allows users to easily share FieldMate-generated maintenance reports with their colleagues in the field and back at the office.

In addition, while FieldMate supports all the major communication protocols used by field devices, some plants still rely on field devices and other types of equipment that use unique, non-standard communication protocols. A new external interface is now available that enables FieldMate to connect to, and handle, data from devices that use such non-standard protocols.

 @YokogawaIA  #PAuto

Calibration device puts HART at user’s fingertips.

Combined with a Fluke 750 Series or 720 Series calibrator it delivers a comprehensive HART calibration and configuration solution

Fluke has introduced the Fluke® 154 HART Calibration Assistant, a standalone tablet-based communication tool that makes HART configuration easy. The 154 provides HART communication functionality that, when combined with a Fluke 750 Series Documenting Process Calibrator or 720 Series Multifunction Process Calibrator, enables the user to calibrate the full range of HART devices used in the process industry.

The Android-based tablet comes configured with the FlukeHART mobile app that utilises a long-range wireless HART modem, which connects to the HART transmitter being tested or configured. This allows technicians to wirelessly communicate with the device up to 250 feet away, eliminating the need for technicians to stand next to the device so they can work from a safer, more convenient location.

The Fluke 154 provides full HART Device Description (DD) support of all HART devices and can monitor PV, SV, TV, QV, and other measured HART variables. Quarterly DD updates can be downloaded free from the Fluke website for three years from the first use of the product.

The calibration assistant includes a configurable connection cable that accepts either hook clips for connecting to wires or extended tooth alligator clips designed to connect to transmitter connection screw heads. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery is designed to last for several days of device testing and configuration under normal conditions.

The 154 includes the Android-based tablet, charger and USB micro-cable, installed FlukeHART mobile application, HART modem, USB mini-cable, hook test clips, alligator clips, magnetic hanging strap, and hard-side case.

@FlukeCorp  #PAuto #TandM

On-cell touch enhances image readability while reducing display weight and thickness.

Ginsbury has announced the availability of a new Kyocera 7.0-inch TFT display featuring a fully integrated On-cell touch panel. The TCG070WVLR*PC*-GD*118 is the first Kyocera TFT display to be offered with an On-cell projected capacitive touch panel. The touch panel cover glass, touch sensor and controller are fully integrated into the display module to yield a thin, lightweight LCD panel which provides superior light transmission and improved optical performance.

An On-cell touch panel differs from a bonded projective capacitive touch panel in its mechanical construction, in that the cover glass and touch sensor are fully integrated into the LCD cell, thus enabling a reduction in overall module thickness and weight. Production process costs are also reduced as there is no additional optical bonding required following the final assembly of the display module. Improved light transmission enhances outdoor readability due to a reduction of air gaps in the panel.

The On-cell touch panel provides the same electrical and touch characteristics as a bonded projected capacitive touch panel. An additional benefit, is the guaranteed operation of the touch panel, due to the improved immunity to electrical noise from the LCD and the internally mounted touch panel controller IC.

The touch panel features 12-bit (4096 x 4096) resolution and 2 discrete touch points. The 5-pin touch panel interface supports a USB interface and can be used with a Windows or Linux based OS. The active area of the On-cell touch panel mirrors that of the active area of the display at 152.4mm (w) x 91.44mm (h). The surface film of the display is anti-glare and has an anti-fingerprint treatment.

The 7.0-inch wide VGA (WVGA) display features a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and a 15:9 aspect ratio. Optical characteristics include a contrast ratio of 650:1, while the LED backlight has a brightness of 350cd/m² and an estimated 70,000 hour lifetime to 50% minimum brightness. A 30-pin single channel LVDS data interface featuring 6-bit RGB enables a colour palette of up to 262K colours. The display module has outline dimensions of 169.8mm (w) x 109.7mm (h) x 9.2mm (d) and an active display area of 152.4mm (w) x 91.44mm (h). The display has an operating temperature range of -20° to +70°C and supports storage from -30° to +80°C.

Kyocera TFT modules have high contrast and brightness up to 1500 cd/m² which make them suitable for outdoor and rugged environments. New product enhancements such as on-cell touch displays and haptic feedback are becoming increasingly important in Kyocera's forward thinking HMI strategy.

Rugged Android tablet for true industrial mobility!

ADLINK Technology has released a new IMT-1 Android 4.2 tablet, integrating the TI OMAP5432 1.5GHz dual-core ARM A15 processor for high performance computing power. Built-in WLAN or optional WWAN connectivity enables the IMT-1 to easily access information in a wide variety of workplace scenarios. An IP54 rating and 1.2 meter (with optional protective housing) drop resistance support significantly ruggedized construction to withstand the most demanding environments.

Consumer-style design with industrial durability
The IMT-1 is as attractive as the market’s leading consumer tablets, with a 10.1” capacitive touchscreen and built-in megapixel cameras on the front and rear. The IMT-1 is fully ruggedized, with IP54-rated structure delivering the durability to withstand drops up to 1.2 meters (with optional protective housing). And the display’s ultra-strong Gorilla® Glass is virtually impervious to damage, able to flex on impact without shattering or scratching.

Functional in various workplace scenarios
The IMT-1 supports 802.11 a/b/g/n protocols for the fastest wireless connectivity in any setting. The data-only modem supports the IMT-1 on optional high-speed 3.5G HSPA+ or 4G LTE cellular connections. In the office or out in the field, with WLAN or optional WWAN connectivity, the IMT-1 supports speedy data transfer and processing. As well, the sunlight-readable display enables clear easy viewing even in the brightest outdoor environments.

Advanced HF RFID technology with data security
The IMT-1’s NFC reader/writer supports recognition of RFID tags (13.56 MHz), and a built-in standard SAM (Secure Access Module) slot dependably secures communication of encrypted data for sensitive and confidential applications.

Android user interface for power analysis

Outram Research's Bluetooth®-enabled power quality range now interacts with Android devices enabling flexible remote control using the latest tablets and mobile phones. Power engineers can now control the entire range of Outram’s power quality analysers with one application running on either an Android or Windows device.

Power quality analysers are often deployed in electrical cabinets or other difficult to reach locations, making it difficult for engineers to read a display on the instrument. Using a remote solution rather than a fragile integrated display eliminates problems of analyser location, permits a more robust product and allows for a more comprehensive, graphically superior user interface.

In addition to viewing information such as phasor diagrams to validate correct set up and operation, engineers can remotely access real time power quality data from the analyser. This wireless communication, via PMScreen, allows engineers to program the analyser on site, take snapshots of live data for reporting and check adherence to the EN50160 standard. Engineers can also view current, voltage, power, power factor and flicker, access harmonic data, and in the PM7000 this capability extends to over 500 general parameters. Detailed information is presented on events such as sags (dips), surges and interruptions in power as well as, in the PM7000, ranked waveforms, transients, interharmonics, ITIC Curves and 3D bar graphs.

“We wanted to offer our customers the opportunity to take advantage of the latest technology. Tablets and mobile devices are now prevalent in the workplace and are becoming an integral part of modern business and engineering workflow. Users can remotely control their power quality equipment without disturbing or needing access to the installation, eliminating the need to take time unlocking and locking cabinets or climbing back up the pole. It could mean not entering the building at all so avoiding drawn out entry or safety procedures,” said John Outram, Managing Director of Outram Research.

“Outram has harnessed the impressive processing power of today’s portable devices enhancing the user experience with the introduction of a bigger screen, better graphics and the opportunity to email snapshots of live data.”

Outram Research customers can select from a range of tablets and mobile devices to interact with their Bluetooth-enabled equipment. A Samsung Galaxy tablet is currently provided as standard on the market-leading PM7000, the industry’s Cat IV 600V Phase A-powered power quality analyser, and is available as an option on all other Outram analysers, including the 3-phase PM3000, single-phase PM1000 and the split-phase PM2000 that is designed specifically to troubleshoot residential power quality problems in the USA.

Intelligence by phone!

ARC Industry News and Intelligence Now Available from Mobile Devices – Smart Phones and Tablets

The ARC Advisory Group website, which delivers news and market intelligence, is now optimised for iPhone, iPad, and other smart mobile devices.

ARC specialises in news, analysis, best practices, custom research, reports, and market studies.  With over 60 employees in client support and analyst roles, they deliver a dynamic and wide range of market intelligence through its website and client portals.  Now a subset of this information, formatted specifically for mobile devices is available.  Current information includes:

• Market intelligence in English, Japanese, and Chinese
• Upcoming events
• Research report listings
• Market study listings
• Social media

“We have been a proponent and early adopter of leading edge technologies for many years.  Our website, customer portals, and collaboration tools are all based on Microsoft SharePoint.  This has enabled us to quickly adopt new technologies such as Mobile Entrée to deliver existing content in new formats,” stated Andy Chatha, President of ARC Advisory Group.

Mr Chatha received a significent honour in the Automation ft=raternity when he was made an Honoury Member of the International Society of Automation. This the highest honour bestowed by the Society is reserved to recognize special individuals for support of, and/or contributions to the advancement of the arts and sciences of instrumentation, systems, and automation.