Alternative radar series without IP68 approval.

The introduction of the new „Standard“ version, the OPTIWAVE 15xx series, from Krohne, offers an alternative for adapting the radar level devices flexibly and cost-effectively to the customer's requirements: the new version is aimed at applications where IP68 approval is not a must.

At the same time, it offers a price advantage over the IP68 models, whose other approvals also apply to the new version. It also features the OPTICHECK technology built-in self-diagnostic function, which enables continuous encoder testing and field verification with on-site reporting, without process interruption or device removal.

Launched in June 2024, the OPTIWAVE 15xx series has become a proven solution that makes 80 GHz radar technology with flush-mounted PVDF lens antenna in combination with HART and Bluetooth available at low cost for simple applications. The devices are characterised by their compact design, robust construction and intuitive commissioning via Bluetooth with the OPTICHECK Level mobile app.

The OPTIWAVE 15xx series is rounded off by a specially tailored range of accessories that make installation and positioning of the devices much easier.

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@KROHNE_USA #PAuto #DWN

Miniature Carbon Dioxide sensor.

It enables mass-market CO₂ monitoring in a wide range of applications with unmatched form factor, cost-efficiency and low current consumption.

STCC4, one of the world's smallest sensors for direct CO₂ measurement has been launched by Sensirion. It is set to transform how society monitors indoor air quality. With an unprecedented form factor and power consumption, the sensor is a groundbreaking newcomer in the CO₂  sensor market. Utilising the latest technological advancements in thermal conductivity sensing, the STCC4 provides the accuracy needed for indoor air quality applications.

Both accurate signal compensation and monitoring of relevant indoor environmental parameters are achieved when STCC4 is combined with Sensirion’s industry-leading temperature and humidity sensors. Engineered and manufactured in Switzerland, it has been optimized for easy integration into high volume applications through its SMD design and tape & reel packaging. The STCC4 is suitable for a wide range of applications, including indoor air quality monitors, smart thermostats, air conditioners and much more.

The SEK-STCC4 evaluation kit jumpstarts the sensor assessment process by offering users a straightforward testing approach. Sensirion enables simple sensor evaluation through provided hardware, software testing platform and driver support. The STCC4 and SEK-STCC4 are now available worldwide through Sensirion’s distribution network.

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@sensirion #PAuto  

Redesigned website bedded down.

Impulse Embedded has launched its newly redesigned website: www.impulse-embedded.co.uk. The site improvement offers a cleaner, more intuitive experience for customers exploring and specifying industrial devices.

Impulse Embedded worked closely with Venditan, the eCommerce platform and development agency, to create a site tailored to the needs of industrial computing customers. The website reflects a major upgrade in both design and functionality, helping engineers, system integrators and industrial buyers quickly find the products and resources they need. Visitors can browse Impulse’s wide range of industrial computers, components, and networking devices with improved navigation, smarter search tools, and clearer product categorisation.

A key highlight of the new site is the launch of an integrated webshop, which gives customers the ability to buy industrial computing and networking products directly online, thereby streamlining the purchasing process and enhancing customer convenience.

“We’ve designed the new website to reflect how we work: straightforward, reliable, and focused on delivering value to our customers,” said Robert Plant, Managing Director at Impulse Embedded. “This new platform gives our customers a faster, more efficient way to explore our product range, and the new webshop makes it even easier to do business with us. We are grateful to the Venditan team for helping to turn our ideas into a site that makes every interaction easier and more rewarding for our customers.”

John Coyne, Managing Director at Venditan, said: “Impulse set the bar high with their technical expertise and reputation for engineering excellence.

Our role was to create a digital platform that supports that reputation while giving customers a faster, simpler way to do business with them. The new site is built to grow alongside Impulse and to open up new opportunities for their customers and team alike.”

The new website also features updated brand visuals, more detailed product content, and a responsive design optimised for mobile and tablet use. While the website has a fresh look, the company’s mission remains unchanged: to combine Industry Insight with Technology Know-how to design, build, and supply outstanding computing, control, and communication solutions for demanding environments.

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@ImpulseEmbedded @Venditan @proactivefleet #Automation #PAuto

Global drives.

NORD has strengthened its position as a leading developer and manufacturer of individual drive solutions. In addition to its headquarters in Bargteheide (D), the company has 48 subsidiaries on all continents. Around the world, NORD customers receive products and services with consistently high quality.

NORD is represented in over 80 countries worldwide

Decades of experience, extensive know-how in more than 100 industries, own production facilities, great production depth and a global network – worldwide, NORD offers its customers drive solutions from a comprehensive range of modular products. The proximity to customers is a key aspect for NORD DRIVESYSTEMS.

Benefits for NORD customers: short delivery times, consulting expertise and direct on-site service. Thanks to its global presence and own production in strategic markets, NORD understands the local requirements and offers flexible, efficient drive solutions. The great production depth, the global network and the wide range of products with gear units, motors and drive electronics form the basis for highest quality, customer proximity and fast response times – supported by a committed team.

For customers in the EMEA region, which comprises Europe, the Middle East and Africa, NORD is present with its own subsidiaries in 23 countries. Each of them take care of the on-site markets. Seven locations, including four in Germany as well as one in Italy and two in Poland, feature on-site production. These plants are part of the global production network and supply customers with high-quality drive solutions.

The Polish site in Nowa Sól is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year: The plant, which was founded in 2005, has a total operating area of more than 32,000 m2 and has been continuously developed over the years.

In the economic area of North and South America, NORD has seven own sites – four of them in the USA with Waunakee in Wisconsin as the hub as well as with its own production facilities. Locations in Canada as well as Mexico and Brazil for the South American continent complete the network in America.

In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) economic region, NORD is represented with nine locations. The regional hub in Suzhou, China, which was founded in 2001, acts as the central hub. Further subsidiaries cover India, Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia.

The global presence is of major importance to the customer loyalty – not only in the field of sales and support. By having its own production facilities in all economic areas, the drive specialist has a further invaluable advantage in the face of tough international competition.

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@NORD_Drive @mepaxIntPR #Pauto

Optimising energy assets.

GridBeyond has launched Bid Optimiser and Designer for the National Electricity Market (NEM) in Australia, expanding its offer for asset owners following the launch of Forecaster in the second quarter this year.

“The launch of Bid Optimiser and Designer in Australia build on the foundation of our highly accurate Forecaster, with the objective of capturing maximum value and the back of our forecasting accuracy," said Chris O’Brien, Country Manager of Australia at GridBeyond. "The result is generating higher revenues for grid connected BESS, or optimising value behind the meter for customers with large energy loads, energy storage or generation. These products demonstrate our deep expertise in delivering intelligent, performance-driven solutions globally and our commitment to help Australian businesses add value through innovation.”

Bid Optimiser empowers asset owners by providing them with a strategic advantage in optimising their energy and ancillary market involvement, maximising the profitability both at an individual asset level and at a portfolio level. Bid-Optimiser leverages a multi-layered artificial intelligence framework that combines physics-based battery modeling with adaptive market intelligence. The system continuously evaluates market opportunities across all markets; ancillary services and energy, selecting the most profitable strategy, while managing operational constraints such as state of charge, efficiency and cycling warranty limits. The tool also offers the opportunity for users to customise their own trades, view trading history and compare against perfect foresight through the cloud-based interface, ensuring transparency and ease of reporting.

GridBeyond’s Designer product helps asset owners plan, design, and analyse prospective investments, allowing users to co-optimise project design and operations to maximise revenue from real time markets and make savings on energy spend while balancing other project goals such as carbon reductions.

As large scale battery investment and behind the meter installations grow rapidly, real-time battery trading is becoming more challenging and requires sophisticated tools that leverage AI to simplify decision-making whilst managing complex offtake agreements and merchant revenues.

Bid Optimiser and Designer join the Forecaster solution recently launched in Australia, providing a suite of tools to enable customers to explore various trading scenarios and quantify values and the probabilities related to different market participation strategies.

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@GridBeyond_ #PAuto #Energy #Australia

Industrial analytics board appointment.

The appointment of Anton Chilton to the Seeq Board of Directors has been announced effective immediately.

Anton Chilton

Chilton brings more than three decades of global technology leadership to Seeq, most recently serving as CEO of QAD Inc., a leading SaaS provider of ERP and supply chain solutions for global manufacturing companies. Over a multi-decade tenure at QAD, Chilton held leadership roles across sales, marketing, and professional services. Under his leadership, QAD accelerated its transition to SaaS, expanded through strategic acquisitions, and was taken private in a landmark transaction with Thoma Bravo in 2021.

“We are pleased to welcome Anton Chilton to our board,” said Pete Higgins, Chairman of the Seeq Board of Directors. “Anton’s expertise in SaaS for manufacturing, global supply chain, and enterprise operations—along with his proven track record of leadership—brings valuable perspective to Seeq at a pivotal stage of our growth. We look forward to Anton’s contributions as we accelerate innovation and deepen value for our customers.”

Following an early career in the British Royal Navy Submarine Service, Chilton began his technology career with British Steel and later held senior executive roles with world-leading systems integrators across Britain, South Africa, and Hong Kong.

"I am pleased to join Seeq’s Board of Directors,” said Anton Chilton. “As an enterprise technology leader, I see a significant opportunity for Seeq to continue driving innovation and accelerating digital transformation for manufacturers around the world. I look forward to supporting Seeq’s leadership team as they continue to execute their strategy and create measurable value for customers and stakeholders.”

Chilton will replace previous Board Director Ashley Kramer, who resigned in July 2025. Following the appointment of Chilton, the Board will be composed of seven directors and four observers with diverse backgrounds in corporate strategy, enterprise software, technology development, and engineering.

Higgins added, “On behalf of the Board, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Ashley Kramer for her dedicated service as a valued board member. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”

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@SeeqCorporation  #PAuto #Appointment

Micro-size connectors.

Amphenol LTW’s X-Lok Micro Size connectors, compatible with the M8 panel cutout are now available through Inelco Hunter. They offer an advanced, secure solution for signal and data transmission. Featuring a spring-loaded push-lock mechanism, they ensure intuitive, fast, and reliable connections with audible and tactile feedback.

The X-Lok Micro Size connectors offer an alternative solution to M8 connectors. The connectors minimise mating failures and accelerate installation time. The spring-loaded Push-Lock quick mating action can be carried out “blind” with audible confirmation that the mating is safe and secure. On-site installation time is slashed, increasing installation output. Workmanship errors are also avoided and the end-result is a rapid, secure installation with the benefit of reduced installation costs.

Amphenol LTW’s X-Lok Series connectors are offered in various sizes for AC/DC power, data, signal and hybrid inputs. With UL1977 & 2238+50e certification, ALTW's X-Lok connectors are ideal for outdoor applications.

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@InelcoHunter @amphenol #PAuto

Safety Controller.

Streamlines integration, offers superior safety and functionality.

Emerson has announced the new PACSystems™ RX3i CPS400 Safety Controller, designed to enable Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL2) strategies for infrastructure, fire and gas, burner management systems, and other emergency shutdown systems. The PACSystems Safety Controller is a compact, high-performance solution with robust security measures and a scalable architecture with 2,000 available I/O points, ideal for complex projects with evolving requirements.

“Adding the PACSystems RX3i CPS400 Safety Controller to our extensive portfolio of safety products, we continue to deliver tools users need to create compliant safety systems that are easily developed and integrated into sophisticated automation solutions,” said Daniel Smith, senior product manager with Emerson’s discrete automation business.

As project automation becomes more sophisticated and data-driven, OEMs and systems integrators need a range of more powerful hardware and software products to ensure compliance with standards and regulations for protecting workers, whether onboard a single piece of equipment or distributed throughout a much larger process.

A large 64-megabyte memory capacity and scalable digital architecture enables the PACSystems Safety Controller to support a diverse range of mission-critical applications. Using built-in industrial communications protocols, including OPC UA, Ethernet Global Data (EGD), and Modbus TCP, the RX3i CPS400 controller is ready to connect peer-to-peer and with higher level hosts, providing complete operational visibility. .

As a secure-by-design solution incorporating Secure Boot® and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) standard, the new controller delivers rigorous data integrity and protection against potential threats. Safety-certified function blocks and pre-configured templates simplify overall system certification in accordance with the IEC 61511 standard.

Available in simplex or redundant controller configurations, the RX3i CPS400 controller can perform all safety data messaging with duplex communications using the black channel principle over EGD, allowing standardized and reliable connectivity with Emerson’s PACSystems VersaMax™ SafetyNet I/O system. The platform is IEC 61508 safety-certified, providing a capable SIL2 simplified solution to help designers build appropriate protection schemes.

Developers can configure the new controller using familiar software tools employed for programmable logic controllers (PLC), operator interfaces, and other automation elements, namely Emerson’s PAC Machine Edition development environment. As a unified tool chain with a user-friendly interface, the PAC Machine Edition suite streamlines development efforts so users can easily create complete and integrated automation, visualization and safety solutions for rapid startups and maximum operating efficiency.

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@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @mepaxIntPR #PAuto

Versatile Temperature Transmitter.

Offers superior accuracy, stability, diagnostic coverage and usability.

The Rosemount™ 3144S Temperature Transmitter has just been announced by Emerson. This is a new industrial measurement solution with the flexibility to meet the most demanding temperature measurement challenges, allowing for increased efficiency, safety and profitability.

Today’s technicians and managers expect temperature measurement technology to be highly accurate and reliable. Instances of a measurement point performing erratically or failing can have a major impact on productivity. Greater ease-of-use is also critical as the process industry workforce transitions to more recent hires, with fewer employees overall.

The Rosemount 3144S Temperature Transmitter addresses these issues with 0.05 degrees Celsius (0.09 Fahrenheit) of accuracy needed for processes that require the highest measurement performance. It is available with an optional 20-year stability specification and a 20-year limited warranty, assuring that it is one of the most reliable solutions on the market.

Emerson’s new ReadyConnect™ Technology allows ease-of-use by enabling plug-and-play sensor configuration with a push of a button, eliminating the need to manually input sensor information and Callendar-Van Dusen coefficients, saving configuration and commissioning time.

“The Rosemount 3144S Temperature Transmitter fits well in a wide variety of applications across a broad range of industries, making it a versatile choice for many different types of temperature measurement needs,” said Ryan Leino, senior product manager with Emerson’s measurement solutions business.

An operator interface with a simplified, task-based menu and common navigation structure across host and configuration tools also allows further ease-of-use. To further increase productivity, Quick Service Buttons provide local access to basic commissioning and maintenance tasks, such as viewing the current configuration, performing a loop test and rotating the display. Bluetooth® wireless technology provides remote access to the device at distances up to 50 feet for increased productivity, reliability and safety.

To address thermowell challenges, the Rosemount 3144S Temperature Transmitter greatly expands the application coverage of Rosemount X-well™ Technology, Emerson’s non-intrusive measurement solution, which can now measure up to 650 degrees C (1,202 degrees F).

With the Loop Integrity diagnostic and RTD Measurement Protection, the transmitter provides full diagnostic coverage from the temperature sensor to the control room, including sensor health diagnostics, dual input capabilities, and continuous electrical loop monitoring, enabling real-time insight into each measurement point.

Loop Integrity performs continuous monitoring of the entire electrical loop to detect potential failures before they occur, while RTD Measurement Protection will seamlessly switch from a 4-wire to a 3-wire RTD sensor input configuration if one of the four sensor wires becomes broken, corroded, or loose anywhere from the sensor element to the transmitter terminal connections.

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@EmersonExchange @Emerson_News @EMR_Automation @HHC_Lewis #PAuto

Simulator-based training for nuclear sector.

Policies in both the US and Canada aim to enable the deployment of next-generation nuclear technology as part of a diversified energy mix.

ABB has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SimGenics, an advanced plant simulator company, to support the development and provision of engineering, training and distributed control system (DCS) simulators for the nuclear energy industry, primarily in North America. The collaboration comes at an important time, with both US and Canadian governments implementing policy frameworks to stimulate the deployment of nuclear energy to generate electricity.

Drawing on their collective expertise, the MoU will allow ABB and SimGenics to explore how they can support the greenfield power generation industry predominantly. This will include complete plant process model and simulation across conventional large nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR) and advanced modular reactor (AMR) facilities. As well as being installed at offsite R&D centers for testing and validation purposes during the design stage, the simulators can also be used onsite at operational nuclear power plants as engineering and training systems.

Nuclear power generation is expected to play a key role in US domestic policy, with the country’s Department of Energy looking to secure a reliable and affordable energy supply by enabling the rapid deployment of next-generation nuclear technology. In Canada the federal government views nuclear power as an important component of a diversified energy mix, having created the Canada SMR Action Plan to drive development, demonstration and deployment of SMRs.

“Against the backdrop of growing energy demand, nuclear power offers a reliable, low-carbon solution as part of the future energy mix,” said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division. “Partnerships are instrumental for advancing modern, advanced nuclear technologies, and comprehensive simulation and training capabilities will be crucial to enable capacity growth in nuclear power as part of the future energy ecosystem.”

As part of the MoU and in order to optimize productivity, safety and operational efficiency, ABB will be able to supply automation, electrification and digitalization solutions to non-critical areas of nuclear facilities, as well as long-term service support through ABB Care to end users and reactor technology providers. SimGenics will be able to provide critical solutions, including engineering, training and DCS check-out simulators – to develop dynamic process models that mimic the behavior of various types of nuclear power plants. The ABB Ability™ System 800xA Simulator can then integrate these process models within control system infrastructures, to create a realistic simulator.

“Simulators have a crucial role to play in advancing nuclear energy,” said Francois Laubscher, Chief Operating Officer of SimGenics. “We look forward to collaborating with ABB to harness its automation, electrification and digital expertise to support the safe and productive operations that are required within the nuclear and power generation industries.”

Engineering and training simulators serve as virtual environments where solutions can be tested and refined in safe and developmental scenarios, enabling the nuclear energy workforce to develop operational skillsets using collaborative technology. Simulators can help reduce risk, prevent equipment failure and unplanned plant shutdowns and identify potential operational issues early*.

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* Development, Use and Maintenance of Nuclear Power Plant Simulators for the Training and Authorization of Personnel (IAEA TECDOC pdf)

@ABBgroupnews @ABBMeasurement @abb_automation @NRCan @ENERGY #PAuto #Energy #NorthAmerica

Accelerating innovation by acquisition.

Kongsberg Discovery's capabilities for the detection and interpretation of complex underwater environments is being strengthened by expanding their product portfolio with electromagnetic sensors.

Kongsberg Discovery has reached an agreement with Argeo’s bankruptcy estate to purchase three core technologies: The Argeo Whisper, Argeo Listen and Argeo Scope. The sensors and software solutions, in addition to highly skilled personnel, will be integrated into Kongsberg Discovery.

President Martin Wien Fjell of Kongsberg Discovery describes the acquired technology as highly strategic., “The technologies, named Argeo Whisper and Argeo Listen, expand our sensor portfolio with active and passive electromagnetic sensing capabilities, strengthening our ability to detect and interpret complex underwater environments. In addition, the Argeo Scope will enhance our Blue Insight analytics platform, providing a comprehensive solution for automated dataflow and ocean data visualisation”.

Executive Vice President Audun Berg of Ocean Technologies, a division in Kongsberg Discovery, is eager to access valuable software, hardware, and highly skilled personnel. “We are pleased to continue developing and integrating the technology and expertise into Kongsberg Discovery. This will allow us to develop new products and solutions together. We will soon be able to deliver value-added solutions to all Hugin customers and continue to expand our offerings to other platforms, such as ROVs, drones, and towed vehicles.” 

The transfer of IP, software, hardware, and other assets is underway. In addition to a team of highly skilled personnel, which will soon join Kongsberg Discovery. “Their experience, knowledge, and competence will advance us significantly, and I look forward to bringing the technology to our customers,” he continued.

Argeo has developed a comprehensive software solution for automatic collection, processing and visualisation of sensor data from autonomous platforms. “These solutions will be integrated with Blue Insight, Kongsberg Discovery’s digital solution for accurate information from the oceans, focusing on internet security and seamless integration,” he says.

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@kongsbergasa #Argeo #PAuto #Marine

Stepper motor controller.

The JVL SMC66 is a separate stepper motor controller aimed at applications where size restraints, high ambient temperatures, harsh environmental conditions or vacuum operation may preclude the use of the globally leading motion control manufacturer’s trademark integrated stepper motors is now available through McLennon. With all the features of JVL’s integrated ServoStepTM drive and motion control technology, albeit without the stepper motor, the SMC66 delivers precision control for small motors from NEMA frame sizes 08 to 34 - with current ratings up to 6 Amps. Closed-loop control from absolute multiturn and incremental encoders as well as external SSI encoder support is included as standard along with RS485 and a built-in ePLC™ for eight configurable digital or analogue I/Os.

Through a compelling choice of options, multi-axis support is covered with multi–Industrial Ethernet comms’ via a built-in Ethernet switch, CANopen, IO-Link and wireless comms’ via Profinet, Ethernet/IP, or Modbus TCP.

The IP42 rated SMC66 measures just 104 x 45 x 54.5 mm (l x w x h) with 4-hole plate mounting so is easily installed or adapted for higher level environmental protection with added cover protection. For vacuum and harsh environment motion tasks, Mclennan can advise on installation design, and from its distribution partnership with Phytron the German motor specialist, supply harsh industrial, vacuum and UHV, cryogenic and space rated stepper motors. A DIN rail adapter is optionally available for installation convenience. An open PCB version of the SMC66 is also available for OEM integration.

Depending on the version, up to six M12 connectors cover motor, encoder, and I/O including dual M12’s for daisy chaining drive-to-drive. The SMC66 can be optionally supplied with a separate STO connector and equipped for SoE Safety over Ethernet. The drive is powered from a separate 12-80 VDC supply, and its ultra-high step resolution provides up to 409,600 steps/rev with a speed resolution down to ±0.01 RPM. Real-time adjustment allows speed, torque, acceleration, target position and many other parameters may be changed "on-the-fly” in synchronisation with the compliment of eight freely configured 24V DC digital I/O or 0-5V (12bit) analogue inputs with advanced filtering.

The optional Ethernet support covers all main protocols including Profinet, EtherNet/IP, SERCOS, EtherCAT, Powerlink and ModbusTCP/UDP with JVL’s MacTalk® software enabling the user to seamlessly swap protocols via an integrated Ethernet switch. Other options for multi-axis motion tasks include DMX512 digital comms’ for the entertainment/lighting industries as well as Bluetooth and the Zigbee low power network. All of the numerous bus and comms’ options available are supported with cables and connectors in various lengths for seamless multi-axis integration.

Whilst the SMC66 can operate without encoders, the drive supports a wide range of absolute multiturn and incremental encoder types, allowing position verification for precision positioning tasks through semi-closed-loop or full closed-loop control with JVL’s PA0260 encoder PCB. For PC or IPC based applications, an ActiveX/OCX driver is available allowing interfacing to LABview, Excel, VB or other Windows-programs.

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@mepaxIntPR #McLennon #PAuto

Acoustic imaging in hazardous locations.

Reliable detection of pressurised gas leaks, mechanical faults, and partial discharge in explosive vapor and dust environments.

An IECEx certified version of FLIR's Si2x, an advanced industrial acoustic imaging camera purpose-built for professional inspectors who need fast, accurate compressed air and gas leak detection in hazardous environments has been announced. Now certified to both ATEX and IECEx standards, the FLIR Si2x is engineered for safe operation in explosive atmospheres while delivering industry-leading performance and usability.

Compressed air and pressurized gas leaks, mechanical faults and partial discharge are all common and costly issues in industrial sectors such as chemical processing, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticals, where safety and reliability are paramount. The FLIR Si2x empowers maintenance professionals to identify and quantify these issues with unmatched precision and speed, even in environments where traditional tools are not permitted.

Key features of the FLIR Si2x-Series include:

• ATEX and IECEx Certified: The Si2x is fully certified for use in hazardous locations, enabling safe and compliant inspections in explosive atmospheres.
• Best-Performing Acoustic Detection: A highly sensitive microphone array delivers pinpoint accuracy for fault detection up to 200 meters away, making it ideal for high ceilings, hard-to-reach assets, and noisy plant floors.
• 
  On-Device Quantification: Instantly view leak size and estimated annual cost, as well as partial discharge severity, enabling prioritization of repairs and fast ROI. Data can be used to support ESG and sustainability reporting initiatives.
• Bandpass Filtering: Customizable bandpass filter allows users to target specific ultrasonic frequencies, cutting through noisy environments to detect the most subtle leaks with clarity.
• High-resolution visual documentation: Integrated 12 MP visual camera with 8× digital zoom and built-in LED lighting helps users capture detailed contextual images for reports and maintenance workflows.
• Safe and Easy to Use with Minimal Training: Built for demanding field conditions, the Si2x is lightweight, compact, and easily operated with one hand. A large touch-screen interface and intuitive UI reduce training time and increase inspection throughput.
• Seamless Data Transfer and Reporting: Use Wi-Fi, USB, or the new secure data transfer cable to move images and analytics to FLIR Thermal Studio or FLIR Acoustic Viewer. Support for Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware updates ensures continuous improvement and compatibility.

“The Si2x is a breakthrough for inspectors who need high-performance acoustic imaging in the most safety-critical environments,” said Darrell Taylor, Global Acoustic Business Development Manager at FLIR. “It empowers teams to work safely and efficiently, detect leaks faster, and reduce energy waste — all while meeting the industry’s most demanding standards. With its rugged design, precision performance, and intuitive operation, the Si2x is built to handle real-world challenges.”

Two versions of the Si2x are available: the Si2x-LD, designed for detecting pressurized gas leaks and mechanical faults, and the Si2x-Pro, which includes all the capabilities of the LD model plus the ability to identify partial discharge. All other features remain the same.

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@flir @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #TandM  #Safety

Connectors, components & test accessories for the North America.

Cliff Electronics has strengthened its global distribution network through a strategic partnership with DigiKey, a leading global distributor headquartered in the USA. This collaboration opens new doors for Cliff in the North American market while providing DigiKey customers with immediate access to high-quality, components with same-day shipping options.* 

Key Benefits & Partnership Highlights:

• 
  Expanded Access to North American Market: With DigiKey stocking Cliff products in the US, American OEMs and engineers benefit from fast, local access to a broad range of Cliff components.
• Enhanced Brand Visibility Across Key Sectors: The partnership boosts Cliff’s presence in key markets such as professional audio, instrumentation, broadcast, and industrial control.
• Same-Day Shipping and Low MOQ Support: DigiKey’s fulfilment capabilities allow same-day deliveries and low minimum order quantities, supporting both rapid prototyping and production-scale needs. Support for Design Engineers and OEMs:

This partnership enables quicker development cycles and easier access to Cliff’s innovative solutions for design engineers globally.

Cliff’s manufacturing ensures product quality, flexibility, and agility in responding to design customization requests, with DigiKey providing a fast distribution channel to global customers.

“Partnering with DigiKey enables Cliff Electronics to serve our growing international customer base more efficiently. Their reputation for service, speed, and global reach complements our commitment to quality and innovation.” – John Hall, Managing Director, Cliff Electronics

“Cliff’s range of high-quality, reliable components fills a critical demand across several engineering sectors. Our customers value rapid access to trusted products, and Cliff’s precision engineering innovation will greatly benefit our customers.” – Heather Fulara, vice president of interconnect, electromechanical and industrial automation at DigiKey.

Cliff and DigiKey will continue to collaborate on growing product ranges, launching new SKUs, and enhancing support for design engineers. The partnership is a key part of Cliff’s long-term strategy to expand internationally while maintaining local service and expertise. 

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*The Cliff product range now available via DigiKey.

@digikey @proactivefleet #CliffElectronics #PAuto #Electronic #USA

Circular connectors.

Ruggedised for use in extreme industrial applications.

The availability of Weald Electronics's LMG Heavy Duty range of circular connectors* has been announced. The connectors are designed for use in harsh or hazardous environments such as geophysical, mining, marine and petrochemical applications and other heavy industrial applications where key priorities are high resistance to vibration and the ingress of liquids, combined with very rugged construction.

LMG Heavy Duty circular connectors are built around a rugged brass or stainless-steel shell, are environmentally sealed from IP67 to IP69K and can come as standard with 6 contact arrangements with from 2 to 19 contacts. Two connector types are available, threaded coupling in brass only, and staple coupling in brass or stainless-steel construction. The rugged sealed design is very robust and is able to withstand high levels of shock and vibration in demanding operational environments.

Key standard features:

• Tried and tested military contact technology.
• High shock and vibration capabilities
• Environmentally sealed from IP67 to IP69K
• Brass or Stainless-Steel shells
• In-line, panel and cable mounting styles.
• 5 to 19A current rating
• Wide range of backshells available

Accessories available include a backshell outlet accessory set for screened and unscreened multicore cable or cables with an inner collective screen, protective caps, staples and assembly spanners.

The conventional screw coupling versions offer a coarse ribbed coupling nut that can be easily gripped with protective gloves, while the staple coupling versions work in a similar way to typical hydraulic connectors where a large metal staple is used to quickly lock and secure the connectors together when mated. The staple provides a very quick coupling (often secured with a hammer) and it can easily be seen whether locked or not, even under adverse conditions.

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*All Weald Electronics products are available from their leading franchised distributor Lane Electronics and available to order online 24/7. 

@FC_Lane @proactivefleet #Weald #PAuto #Electrical

Co-operation for OTA testing for devices.

Microwave Vision Group (MVG) and Anritsu announce the availability of a joint testing solution supporting Over-The-Air (OTA) validation of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) communications for Mobile and IoT devices. MVG has adapted its multi-probe OTA systems to integrate the capabilities of Anritsu’s Radio Communication Analyzer MT8821C, delivering a lab-based environment for realistic satellite link emulation in compliance with 3GPP requirements.

As NTN deployments gain momentum particularly through LEO satellite constellations Mobile and IoT devices must now demonstrate robust performance under conditions that differ significantly from terrestrial operation. These include Doppler shift due to satellite motion, increased signal propagation delays, complex network reselection mechanisms between satellite and ground networks, and roaming across regulatory domains. Emulating these variables accurately in the lab is critical to ensure device readiness and reduce dependency on field trials.

To address this challenge, MVG has configured its OTA systems such as the SG system and StarLab to host Anritsu’s MT8821C as the core signal generation and analysis platform. The MT8821C, widely recognized for its reliability in LTE and IoT testing, brings advanced RF and protocol capabilities into MVG’s controlled OTA measurement environments. This allows manufacturers to evaluate critical metrics such as Total Radiated Power (TRP), Total Isotropic Sensitivity (TIS), and receiver sensitivity under satellite-like test conditions.

MVG's OTA Product Manager, Sebastien Gaymay, highlights a crucial benefit: 'By adapting our test chambers to operate with the MT8821C, we're giving R&D teams the ability to emulate key NTN communication scenarios directly in the lab.' This, he adds, 'enables earlier debugging and faster development cycles for satellite-capable Mobile and IoT devices.’

The MT8821C supports a wide frequency range and provides stable, high-throughput RF testing for LTE, LTE-Advanced, Cat-M1, and NB-IoT terminals. Within the MVG system, it enables synchronized measurements through WaveStudio software, allowing test engineers to simulate and assess device performance under realistic NTN conditions aligned with 3GPP TS 36.521-4.

Toshiya Otowa, Manager of Solution Marketing Department, Mobile Solutions Division at Anritsu, says,'Thanks to our collaboration with MVG, we are now able to conduct testing of NTN-compatible mobile and IoT devices under conditions that closely resemble real-world environments. Thereby, we are pleased to contribute to the realization of a truly connected society enabled by NTN technology, where connectivity is available anytime, anywhere.’

This solution is particularly suited to OEMs and integrators working on global asset tracking, remote monitoring, and industrial IoT applications—areas where NTN networks will be key to expanding coverage. It also facilitates testing against network specifications such as those defined by Skylo, helping vendors verify performance and readiness for deployment on commercial NTN services.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR  @microwavevision #TandM #Communications 

AS9100 Certification award.

Intelliconnect (Europe) has been awarded AS9100 certification, which recognises that the company’s quality management system meets the AS9100 standard, a specialised set of requirements for the aerospace, aviation and other industrial sectors.

AS9100 is based on the general quality standard ISO 9001, with additional aerospace-specific requirements covering such areas as safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance. AS9100 covers the total supply chain and applies to manufacturers, suppliers and service providers in aerospace of any size.

Compliance to the standard demonstrates that a company has proven it follows a globally recognised aerospace-specific quality system, can deliver products that meet customer and regulatory requirements and has processes to prevent defects and manage risks.

To become certified, a company undergoes an in-depth audit by an accredited third-party registrar, and it must be re-audited regularly (often annually) to maintain certification.

The award was presented to Intelliconnect at their Essex, (GB), facility by Michael Venner of Auva Certification Ltd.

Steve Groves, Sales & Marketing Director at Intelliconnect (Europe) Ltd, commented, “We are incredibly proud to presented with this prestigious award. It is a great achievement and demonstrates the commitment of our whole team to maintaining our ethos of manufacturing great products with excellent customer service. Auva Certification were instrumental in ensuring the success of our hard work”

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@Intelli_Connect @AuvaCert @proactivefleet #Pauto #Quality

High-voltage connector.

Fulfilling all necessary safety requirements for up to 1.6 kV AC/DC.

Measurement and testing in the areas of e-mobility batteries, solar and high-voltage in general must be carried out while fulfilling the appropriate safety requirements in order to protect the user. There are many connectors on the market that are specified for measuring up to 1 kV AC/DC. However, the selection of possible connector solutions becomes significantly reduced if you want to carry out measurements between 1 kV and 1.6 kV AC/DC.

One challenge here is to fulfil DIN EN IEC 61010-2-030:2022-11 / VDE 0411-2-030:2022-11. This becomes even more difficult if you have further restrictions on the available installation space for the connector. In particular, compliance with the necessary creepage and clearance distances (at least 32 mm and 22 mm respectively) between the contact and touchable parts is of enormous importance. These creepage and clearance distances must also take into account the operating conditions and environment. Measurements are not generally carried out in an air-conditioned and sterile environment. It is therefore important to know the permissible pollution degree (PD) of the connector.

The ODU MEDI-SNAP® 1.6 kV AC/DC in size 1 meets these requirements for PD 2 and offers further advantages: a long service life, easy handling with a push-pull locking mechanism, together with color and mechanical keying to prevent mismatching of plugs and sockets.

Safe mating also includes touch protection, which is not always provided by alternative breakaway connectors on the market. However, this is particularly important in areas above 1000 volts. The connector also has protection class IP64.

The ODU MEDI-SNAP® with push-pull locking provides haptic feedback when mating but also prevents unintentional unplugging. This makes it convincing in all the main criteria compared to conventional solutions on the market. ODU MEDI-SNAP® connectors are defined without breaking capacity (COC) according to IEC 61984:2008 (VDE 0627:2009-11). The MEDI-SNAP® for 1.6 kV is available in orange as standard as a signal color for high-voltage.

With the new high-voltage connector, ODU is serving an important market segment in which the results of battery tests, among other things, are used in research to further improve the products.

The MEDI-SNAP® for 1.6 kV can be inserted not only for battery tests. Other areas include automotive testing, battery storage, high-voltage measurements in laboratory environments and photovoltaics. ODU offers the MEDI-SNAP® 1.6 kV as a customer-friendly set with mechanical and color coding.

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@ODU_Connectors @PresseBox #PAuto

DC:DC converters.

For industrial, machine building, renewable energy and specialist applications.

A wide range of efficient and reliable DC:DC converters which provide regulated DC output voltages of 12 V, 24 V or 48 V from a wide range of DC inputs are offered by PULS. An efficient DC/DC converter can do more than just adjust voltages. It can contribute to system reliability and increase endurance in the event of voltage fluctuations. The compact design of PULS DC:DC converters allow installation in standard decentralised on-machine cabinets and saves space on a DIN-rail, making room for addition control and monitoring products.

The product ranges offer DC:DC converters are:

• DMENSION - Best-in-class DIN-Rail power supply units combining the highest performance and innovative features with a wide range of configurations and approvals.
• MiniLine - Ultra-compact design for low-power applications.
• SilverLine - The classic family of DIN-rail power supplies which have been performing reliably since the mid 1990’s.

In addition to industrial, machine building and smart factories, versions are available for use in railway, medical, hazardous locations, marine, semiconductor and DeviceNet systems. DC power systems are also increasingly being used in Datacentres which use a telecoms standard 48VDC bus. DC system architecture is simpler than using an AC system and offers space savings.

Standard input voltage ranges of 12VDC, 24VDC and 48VDC are supplemented by higher voltage options of 96-100 VDC, 110:150 VDC, 110- 300VDC and 600 VDC are available for renewable energy applications. Output voltages are available from 5VDC to 56VDC with power levels from 100W to 500W over an operating temperature range of -40°C to 70°C, depending on model. A three-phase product is available as well as a version with an integrated decoupling function.

Like all PULS DC:DC Converters theuy feature a “DC OK” signal and a range of connection options such as spring clamps, screw terminal, and plug connectors. Conformal coating may be specified for installation in harsh environments.

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@PULSPowerSupply  @proactivefleet #PAuto

New IO-Link encoders.

Maintenance-free, robust, networked.

The portfolio of absolute encoders in the WDGA series from Wachendorff Automation, is being expanded with variants featuring an IO-Link interface. This makes integration into modern automation environments even easier, more efficient, and more future-proof.

The new IO-Link encoders are based on proven EnDra® technology – a maintenance-free multiturn principle without gears or batteries. They offer high resolution of up to 16 bits (singleturn) and 43 bits (multiturn) and are equipped with the fast IO-Link COM3 interface. The devices are ideal for use in packaging machines or roll-to-roll processes.

Technical highlights:

• Smart Sensor Profile (SSP) for easy integration
• Integrated status monitoring (temperature, voltage)
• LED status display for operating states and errors
• Parameterization via IO-Link master possible
• Resolution: up to 16 bits (singleturn), 43 bits (multiturn)
• Protection class: IP65, IP67, IP69K (depending on type)
• Compatible with standard IO-Link masters and unshielded cables
• 64-bit profile available for particularly demanding applications

Precise absolute positioning is crucial in applications such as packaging machines. Wachendorff's IO-Link encoders not only provide accurate position data, but also enable quick adaptation to changing packaging parameters – ideal for short cycle times and high flexibility. Integrated condition monitoring helps to minimize downtime and increase machine availability.

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@mepaxIntPR #wachendorff_automation #PAuto

Managed Switch for industrial networks.

LMP-1204G-SFP-bt 12-port PoE Gigabit Ethernet managed switches from Antaira,  are a strategic choice for industrial organizations needing robust, efficient, and flexible networking solutions.

By supplying up to 90W (PoE 802.3bt Type 4) from four of its ports, the LMP-1204G-SFP-bt can handle a broader range of Powered Devices than switches that only furnish PoE 802.3af/at 30W output. High-power industrial devices, such as PTZ cameras, LED lighting, Wireless APs, IoT sensors or controllers, and PLCs, benefit by receiving both power and data over a single Ethernet cable from the LMP-1204G-SFP-bt. Besides reducing cabling complexity and eliminating the need for additional power outlets, PoE 802.3bt lowers overall installation costs, especially in hard-to-reach or remote locations like warehouses, factories, or transportation systems.

Although it features a highly compact footprint, the LMP-1204G-SFP-bt supports multiple industrial devices via its four PoE 802.3bt (90W) Ethernet ports, four PoE 802.3at (30W) Ethernet ports, and four dual-rate SFP slots, facilitating centralized network management and communication in complex industrial setups. Industrial networks can be expanded easily by accommodating new devices and system upgrades without replacing the LMP-1204G-SFP-bt switch. Additionally, redundant network configurations are made possible by its high port count, guaranteeing uninterrupted operation in the event that one path fails.

The LMP-1204G-SFP-bt-24 is a fully manageable Light Layer 3 Ethernet switch pre-loaded with a web management console design. It supports the ring network redundancy function using the open standard ITU-T G.8032 ERPS protocol boasting <50ms --="" 802.1x="" advanced="" and="" as="" control="" determinism="" filtering="" for="" functions="" igmp="" improve="" increase="" management="" modbus="" network="" networks.="" or="" p="" qos="" recovery="" remote="" rmon="" scada="" security="" snmp="" such="" systems="" tcp="" time.="" vlan=""> Securely housed in an IP30-rated metal DIN-Rail mountable enclosure, the LMP-1204G-SFP-bt-24 safely operates in a temperature range of -10°C to 65°C. It also withstands a high degree of vibration, electrostatic noise, and shock common in industrial environments, plus is reverse polarity protected.

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@AntairaTech @OConnell_PR #PAuto #Comms

Metal bellows coupling.

Couplings for high-speed test benches and servo applications.

Flexible couplings are the ideal choice for demanding applications in specialized high-speed test benches, torsionally rigid. The thin-walled metal bellows used not only offer high flexibility but also reliably compensate for shaft misalignments and dampen vibrations.

Jakob's KSD couplings are characterised by their six-wave bellows, which allows for particularly high mobility. The use of tapered bushings as a backlash-free shaft-hub connection makes assembly simple and precise – even with small shaft diameters. No additional key is required.

The rotationally symmetrical design of the coupling ensures excellent dynamic behavior even at very high speeds. Further technical advantages include high torsional rigidity, low restoring torque in the event of shaft misalignment, and low mass moment of inertia – properties that are particularly important in dynamically sensitive applications.

With a transmittable torque range of 10 to 4000 Nm, the KSD series covers a wide spectrum. The use of high-quality materials and the highest precision in manufacturing make KSD couplings a reliable, high-performance, and economical solution for a wide range of applications.

In addition to test benches, the couplings are particularly successfully used in servo and actuator systems – wherever dynamic performance, precision, and reliability are required.

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@PresseBox #jakobantriebstechnik #PAuto #TandM

New I/O modules monitor remote equipment activity and detect power faults.

Acromag has added a new discrete AC input module, the Model NT2140, to their BusWorks® NT Ethernet I/O family. This new discrete I/O module provides six 120V or 240V AC optocoupler inputs for sensing sensing the presence or absence of voltage plus two DC logic I/O channels to monitor/control TTL or 0-32V logic levels. Applications include monitoring on/off levels of pumps, motors, switches (e.g. proximity, limit, float, toggle), push buttons, thermostats, contact closures, and AC voltage power supply levels on a wide variety of equipment. A network interface supports Modbus TCP/IP, EtherNet/IP, or PROFINET protocols to communicate with programmable controllers (PLCs/PACs) or other networked devices. An OPC UA server, MQTT client, and RESTful API support Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.

NTE Ethernet models provide dual RJ45 ports for network communication plus the discrete I/O channels. NTX expansion modules add extra I/O channels to monitor more devices. Up to three NTX modules can link to the NTE communication module through an integrated DIN rail bus interfacing up to 64 I/O over a single network IP address. Other NT Series analog and discrete I/O modules offering a variety of signal processing functions can also be combined to monitor or control voltage, current, and temperature signals. Remote I/O modules are commonly used in chemical processing, oil/gas production, water/power utility, and manufacturing operations.

“With these discrete AC input modules, you can confidently monitor the on/off power status of remote pumps, motors, and other switched devices,” states Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Director of Business Development. “The NT2140 will sense the presence or absence of AC voltage levels for communication to your control system using a wide variety of industrial Ethernet protocols.”

The BusWorks NT2000 Series offers a broad variety of I/O signal processing options. Sixteen I/O configurations are available as either NTE Ethernet I/O or NTX expansion I/O models. Analog I/O models feature up to sixteen inputs or eight outputs for monitoring and controlling current or voltage signals. Discrete I/O models provide sixteen tandem input/output channels or six mechanical relays to sense or switch on/off and high/low logic levels. For temperature measurement, thermocouple and RTD input models support many sensor types and ranges.

Each module supports three industrial protocols (Modbus/TCP, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET) which are selectable using any web browser to configure the network settings and I/O operation. OPC UA, MQTT, and RESTful API support facilitate IIoT applications. The modules typically function as a network server, but also offer Acromag’s i2o® peer-to-peer communication technology to transfer data between modules directly or multicast without a host or master in between. Conditional logic capabilities let users control operations with IF/THEN/ELSE statements.

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@Acromag #PAuto #Comms #I/O

OT Cybersecurity - Resilience.

Papers welcomed from the OT Cybersecurity Community.

The ISA Ireland OT Cybersecurity Conference is scheduled for next November 2025 in Mullingar (IRL). It is being held in partnership with Cyber Ireland.The theme for this years conference is "OT Resilience: Incident prevention, response and recovery."

Papers are currently being sourced and invitations have been issued to end-users, professionals, researchers and experts in the area of cybersecurity in Ireland to contribute their insights and experiences. Preference for speaking slots will be given to end-users.

Suggested topics include:

• Segmentation Strategies
• Defence in Depth
• Disaster Recovery Plans for OT Environments
• Incident Recovery Plans
• Developing an OT-Centric Incident Response Plan
• Collaborating with IT and Cybersecurity Teams During
• OT Incidents
• Best Practices for Incident Investigation in OT Systems
• Operational Continuity
• Importance and Benefits of Cyber Insurance
• Cybersecurity Post-Incident Analysis
• Building a resilient OT Infrastructure

Guidelines: • Authors are requested to submit an abstract of their paper by Friday 29th August. • The committee will review abstracts by Friday 26th September. • Authors of accepted abstracts shall prepare detailed presentation slides and submit them for the final review of the Conference Technical Committee by Friday 24th October. • Final presentations, incorporating the Committee's feedback, shall be submitted by Monday 3rd November. Submissions and enquires to ISA Ireland

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@IrelandISA @CyberIreland @ISA_Automation. #PAuto #Cybersecurity #Ireland

Backshells catalogue.

The new backshell catalogue from Weald Electronics brings together their recently extended high-quality range of backshells in one easy-to-use document, providing an outline description of form, fit and function for each style, as well as full technical and part number information. Standard products are normally available next day, and Weald Electronics is able to tailor a connector solution to exactly meet a customer’s specific requirement on surprisingly short lead times.

For most connector styles, backshells provide the important transition between the connector body and the chosen cable to provide sealing and strain relief of the completed assembly, and where applicable, to maintain the environmental and RFI screening integrity of the overall connector to cable interface.

The Weald LMA range includes EMI/RFI shielding and heat shrink boot backshells, cable clamp strain relief backshells, low profile and standard heat shrink boot backshells, and extended adaptors for fibre optic connectors.

They are based on AS85049/M85049 specifications in aluminium, marine nickel-aluminium bronze and stainless steel with straight and 90-degree options and are compatible with industry-standard MIL-DTL-38999 Series III (interface H) or MIL-DTL-26482 Series I connectors (interface D) from leading manufacturers such as Amphenol, EATON Souriau, TE Deutsch, ITT Cannon and Weald Electronics.

As many different cable types, materials and dimensions can be used within any given backshell assembly, it is important that the end-user carefully considers all aspects of the final assembly requirements when selecting and specifying appropriate part numbers. 

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@FC_Lane @proactivefleet #Weald #PAuto #Electrical

Software service provider now fully owned.

Endress+Hauser is now the sole owner of the software company CodeWrights GmbH, based in Karlsruhe (D). The remaining 33 percent of the shares were acquired from Pepperl+Fuchs with effect from 1 July 2025.  Endress+Hauser held two-thirds of the shares since 2002, while Pepperl+Fuchs owned the remaining third.

CodeWrights was founded in 2002 as a joint venture between Endress+Hauser and Pepperl+Fuchs and employs nearly 50 people. As a service provider, the company develops customised software solutions for providers of measurement and automation technology, for example apps and cloud applications, software for industrial automation and embedded software for devices. This has contributed to CodeWrights’ profitable growth and its reputation as a trusted software partner.

“We are excited to assume full ownership of CodeWrights. At the same time, we would like to thank Pepperl+Fuchs for more than 20 years of constructive partnership,” says Dr Rolf Birkhofer, managing director of Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions, the Group’s product center for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). “We believe strongly in the expertise of the team and the strength of the business model. Together, we look forward to driving further growth and success.”

“We look back on decades of successful collaboration built on mutual trust and respect, for which we would like to express our genuine appreciation. We are confident that, with Endress+Hauser as the sole owner, CodeWrights is ideally positioned to drive its strategic development and realise its full potential,” says Lutz Liebers, COO for Process Automation at Pepperl+Fuchs.

“By transferring the shares, we are creating a clearer ownership structure and strengthening our company’s strategic ability to act. This decision enables faster coordination and provides new impetus for our shared growth,” adds Thomas Debes, managing Director CodeWrights GmbH. He emphasises that the acquisition will have no impact on the service provider’s day-to-day operations. “CodeWrights will continue to serve all customers with the same commitment and maintain its established service portfolio. Employees at both CodeWrights and Endress+Hauser can expect continuity in their work and collaboration.”

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@Endress_Hauser @Endress_IN @Endress_UK @Endress_US  #Codewrights #PAuto

Robotic collaboration.

Regal Rexnord Corporation has joined forces with ABB Robotics to simplify integration of its GoFa™ cobots into 7th Axis Cobot Transfer Units (CTUs) from Thomson, one of Regal Rexnord’s leading linear motion brands. This collaboration makes the Thomson Movotrak™ CTU the first cobot 7th axis technology that ABB Robotics has certified for use in its partner ecosystem.

“Until now, anyone wanting to use a single, plug-and-play ABB cobot on multiple workstations faced what could be days of programming and communications challenges. As part of the ABB Robotics partner ecosystem, we have preconfigured our Movotrak CTU, ensuring rapid deployment with ABB cobots right out of the box. Integrators, distributors, and end-users can now invest more time using the 7th axis to solve productivity problems than dealing with complex integration details,” said Kevin Zaba, EVP and President, Automation & Motion Control segment of Regal Rexnord.

The Thomson Movotrak CTU 7th Axis offers:

• Extended Operating Range: The Movotrak CTU is the first collaborative 7th axis, extending the traditional cobot operating range up to 10 meters.
• Flexible Mounting Options: Ability to move from one workstation to another along a rail that is secured either to the floor, wall, or ceiling.
• Collision Detection: First 7th axis solution with collision detection, stopping the cobot when it encounters an obstacle.
• Increased Productivity: Less downtime with easier training and installation featuring 7th axis Freedrive mode.
• Single-Source, Fully Integrated Solution: Thomson linear units are integrated with other Regal Rexnord components, including Boston Gear gearheads, Huco couplings, and Kollmorgen motors and software for a complete, high-level assembly with one part number.

“This collaboration with ABB Robotics is a great example of how our differentiated Regal Rexnord technologies can be integrated into high-impact, customer-ready solutions,” said Louis Pinkham, CEO of Regal Rexnord. “By combining the technical expertise of our Thomson, Kollmorgen, Boston Gear, and Huco brands into a seamless, 7th axis system available for the ABB Robotics partner ecosystem, we’re making it easier for customers to unlock greater productivity and flexibility in their automation strategies. It also reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and delivering value through system-level thinking.”

ABB partners develop and provide packages consisting of pre-engineered accessories and software that are compatible and easily integrated with ABB’s complete portfolio of robotic solutions. As fully integrated, ready-to-use solutions, the packages enable both end users and systems integrators to reduce time and effort in setting up robots for new applications.

Regal Rexnord’s participation in the ABB partner ecosystem involves changes to mounting hardware, development of a specialised plug-and-play wiring harness, and programming to interface with the ABB software platform and engineering environment, including an ABB Web App, Wizard and RAPID™ Module Code programming tools. Through the integration, certified ABB robotic application developers will be able to access the Thomson configuration tools directly on the ABB FlexPendant user interface.

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@Thomson_Ind @RegalRexnord @ABBRobotics @bcm_pr #Pauto #Robotics #Cobot

In-line 3D measurement and inspection.

The Z-Trak™ Express 1K5 3D laser profiler series has been introduced by Teledyne DALSA. Purpose-built for cost-effective, in-line 3D measurement and inspection, the Z-Trak Express 1K5 is the latest innovation in the Z-Trak family. It delivers high-speed 3D inspection with real-time processing, achieving a maximum profile rate of 5,000 profiles per second across its full measurement range. This makes it ideal for a wide range of industries, including secondary battery production, automotive, lumber inspection, factory automation, and logistics.

Featuring a 1,700mm horizontal field-of-view, the Z-Trak Express 1K5 enables precise measurement and inspection of wide-body objects such as wooden planks, road surfaces, pallets, and automotive body parts, using a single sensor. It also supports the integration of multiple sensors in a variety of topologies, enabling advanced measurement and inspection tasks such as measuring the thickness of moving parts, performing continuous 360° inspections, and extending the horizontal field-of-view, all without compromising Z-resolution. To simplify deployment and reduce costs, the Z-Trak Express 1K5 synchronizes multiple sensors using a data cable and supports content-based triggering for enhanced flexibility.

All Z-Trak profilers are deployment-ready, delivering micrometer level measurements without the need for in-field calibration. To accommodate objects of varying sizes, shapes, colors, finishes, and material compositions, Z-Trak Express 1K5 includes real-time, user programmable profile enhancement functions, two-point HDR, and models with eye-safe red or blue lasers. Like all Z-Trak laser profilers, Z-Trak Express 1K5 performs on-board processing without compromising the profile rate.

The Z-Trak Express 1K5 series comes bundled with:

• Z-Trak 3D Apps Studio – a license for a powerful suite of software tools for in-line measurement and inspection
• Z-Expert – a graphical configuration utility
• Sherlock™8 – a field proven rapid deployment platform for machine vision, enabling seamless communication with PLCs and other devices via industry standard communication protocols such as TCP/IP, MODBUS®, ProfiNet® and more.

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@TeledyneDALSA  #PAuto #Manufacturing #TandM