Wideband linear amplifier.

Helping engineers accelerate next-generation optical device characterisation.

The AH15203A/B, a 140 Gbaud wideband linear amplifier with integrated bias tee has been launched by Anritsu. Designed for engineers developing next-generation optical transmission devices, the new amplifier helps simplify high-speed device characterization by delivering the broadband, high-output signal conditioning required for the Beyond-1 Tb era.

With a broad frequency response from 200 kHz to 125 GHz (-6 dB bandwidth), the AH15203A/B amplifies PAM4 signals up to 140 Gbaud with a maximum output of 2.0 Vpp. Its +15.0 dB gain and low jitter performance of 300 fs maximum help engineers maintain signal fidelity, compensate for transmission-path losses, and perform more reliable waveform evaluation during high-speed optical device development.

The AH15203A/B can amplify 140 Gbaud PAM4 signals from DSPs and other signal sources, while directly driving optical devices that require high-amplitude offset signals, such as modulators. This makes it well suited for characterizing optical modulators used in next-generation 800GbE and 1.6TbE digital coherent transmission systems, as well as IM-DD optical modulators widely deployed in optical communications. For engineers, this provides a practical way to validate demanding device performance with greater confidence and efficiency.

By combining wide bandwidth, high output, low jitter, and an integrated bias tee in a compact drive amplifier, Anritsu helps customers reduce test complexity, improve confidence in measurement results, and accelerate the deployment of faster, more reliable data centre and network infrastructure.

Development background.
Growth in AI, machine-learning, and cloud-service traffic is pushing data centre and network operators to increase capacity while maintaining signal quality, energy efficiency, and operational reliability.

To support these requirements, IEEE 802.3dj is advancing standardization for 200 Gbps/lane IM-DD modulation and digital coherent configurations including 800GBASE-LR1 (10 km), 800GBASE-ER1-20 (20 km), and 800GBASE-ER1 (40 km). In parallel, IEEE 802.3ds standardization is progressing toward optical links operating at 200 Gbps per wavelength for short-reach communications below 30 m. As speeds increase, signal attenuation becomes more challenging, creating a clear need for high-output linear drivers with integrated bias tee that can faithfully amplify PAM signals and directly drive EML, DML, and VCSEL devices during development and validation.

Product outline.
The AH15203A/B high-output linear amplifier supports 140 Gbaud PAM4 signal evaluation at up to 2.0 Vpp. With a 125 GHz bandwidth and integrated bias tee, it enables engineers to generate high-quality, high-speed drive signals without increasing setup complexity. Its low power consumption of 1.5 W also supports more efficient test environments, helping customers manage performance, space, and power considerations in advanced optical device characterization.

A dedicated power supply further helps reduce the risk of incorrect power handling, contributing to safer operation and greater confidence when integrating the amplifier into high-frequency test setups. 

 Markets include: High-speed optical and electrical device manufacturers; optical signal test and measurement-instrument manufacturers and applications: High-speed optical device characterization at up to 140 Gbaud

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR   #TandM #Optical

Wideband-high-output linear amplifier.

The AH15199B 140 Gbaud Wideband/High-Output (2 Vpp) Linear Amplifier*1, developed by Anritsu to evaluate optical transmissions devices in the generation of beyond 1 Tera is now on the market.

Technical Terms *1 Linear Amplifier: Amplifies input signal at fixed ratio *2 PAM4: Abbreviation for Pulse Amplitude Modulation used to increase transmission capacity by amplitude modulation using four voltage levels *3 Gain: Parameter indicating how many times input frequency sinusoidal amplitude multiplied at output; plotted as frequency on logarithmic x-axis and gain in dB relative units on y-axis *4 Jitter: Parameter indicating quality of digital signal as timing fluctuation; larger jitter causes errors in acquiring digital signal values *5 DSP: Abbreviation for Digital Signal Processor; specialized microprocessor for processing digital signals and generally used in real-time computing *6 Digital Coherent Data transmission method using light phase and polarization to transmit high-capacity signals over long distances due to low signal degradation *7 IM-DD: Abbreviation for Intensity Modulation-Direct Detection (IM-DD); data transmitting/receiving system using changes in light intensity

This new linear amplifier features a wideband frequency response of 200 kHz to 135 GHz at a –6 dB bandwidth and can amplify 140 Gbaud PAM4*2 signals to 2.0 Vpp. The high-gain*3 amplification of +15.5 dB and low jitter*4 fluctuation of 300 fs from the actual signal timing support amplification of even high-quality input signals attenuated during transmission.

Furthermore, the AH15199B can amplify 140 Gbaud PAM4 signals from various signal sources, such as DSP*5, and can directly drive modulators and other devices requiring high amplitude. Therefore, it is a suitable driver for evaluating optical modulators for 800GbE and 1.6TbE digital coherent*6 system, now the focus of attention as next-generation transmission systems, as well as for IM-DD*7 systems used widely in optical communications.

This wideband linear amplifier supports the growth and smooth operation of high-speed networks.

Development Background.
Mobile data traffic is increasing with the growth of AI, machine learning, and other services, but further increases in communication speeds for servers and network devices are a major challenge.

The next-generation Ethernet standard IEEE802.3 supporting high-speed networks will use digital coherent methods, such as 800GBASE-LR1 (for 10 km), 800GBASE-ER1-20 (for 20 km), and 800GBASE-ER1 (for 40 km), as well as the IM-DD method. The OIF (Optical Internetworking Forum) is studying specifications for optical transmission technologies, such as 800ZR, 1600ZR, as well as coherent technology to support increased optical network capacity and accelerate growth of “beyond 1 Terahertz” systems.

On the other hand, higher transmission speeds suffer larger signal attenuation, so a high-power linear driver is needed to amplify PAM signals faithfully and drive modulators directly.

The AH15199B high-power linear amplifier supports evaluation of 2.0 Vpp signals at 140 Gbaud PAM4 for high-speed, high-output data transmissions at a low maximum power consumption of 1.5 W. A 140 Gbaud data speed equals 140 billion signal changes per second.

The standard, small, dedicated power supply reduces the risk of damage from incorrect handling.

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@Anritsu @AnritsuEMEA @NapierPR #TandM #Communications

Ultrawide band RF amplifier.

The new R&S BBA300 family from Rohde & Schwarz*, provides a single amplifier solution that eliminates the need to switch instruments or bands during a test. This facilitates testing on automotive and ultrawide band wireless communication radios for example.

The unique features of the new R&S BBA300 family include its continuous ultrawide frequency range from 380 MHz to 6 GHz in a single amplifier. This is believed to be an industry first. It comprehensively addresses the requirements of EMC test centres, RF component designers and product design & validation. The new broadband amplifiers are a major advance on existing Rohde & Schwarz amplifiers for development and product validation tests in quality assurance, and in the development and production of RF components.

The new broadband amplifiers offer outstanding RF performance over this wide bandwidth ensuring dependable test results over the entire frequency range. Initially, two models are available. The BBA300-DE operates from 1 GHz to 6 GHz and the BBA300-CDE offers 380 MHz to 6 GHz capability.

The all-new design extends through its mechanical aspects, software, and RF design, delivering flexible and robust RF performance. The R&S BBA300 family’s design and manufacture ensure excellent linearity and outstanding noise power density (as low as -110 dBm/Hz). It also ensures excellent harmonic performance (down to -25 dBc). Intelligent protection features ensure high availability, even in the event of component failure. Rohde & Schwarz’s high-quality design and manufacturing provide resilience against all forms of mismatch. With self-protection built-in, the instruments are robust against RF mismatch up to VSWR of 6:1.

The R&S BBA300 models benefit from numerous smart settings and activation functions, which readily adapt instruments’ settings and behaviour according to the application. The amplifier design offers the ability to realise a broad array of customer system setups, offering high flexibility and scalability, with upgradable frequency and power. This makes it easy for customers to expand their systems, building upon their initial investment.

*The new R&S BBA300-DE and R&S BBA300-CDE models are available now from Rohde & Schwarz and selected distribution partners.

@RohdeSchwarz @NeeshamPR #Wireless #RF

Single channel measuring amplifier for pressure sensors!

Kistler’s new single channel measuring amplifier for piezoresistive pressure sensors is suitable for a wide range of applications using high-accuracy measurements with digitally compensated sensors. 

The Type 4624AK amplifier is designed to interface with their PiezoSmart sensor identification and is ideally suited for use with digitally compensated sensors which allows the characteristic values to be automatically read out from the electronic sensor data sheet (TEDS). The new amplifier is especially suited to applications using a small number of sensors where a multi-channel amplifier would be uneconomic or difficult to accommodate as are often encountered in motor vehicle and aerospace testing.

The amplifier may also be used with pressure sensors that are not equipped with sensor identification. The characteristic values of the sensor (sensitivity, zero point) being entered manually via an Ethernet connection and a web browser . Saved on non-volatile memory, the sensor data is protected in the event of power loss.

The measuring chain is ready for use once automatic or manual amplifier configuration has been completed. Correction of the zero point of the sensor (e.g. for adjusting to barometric pressure) may be set using pushbuttons on the housing of the amplifier or via the Ethernet on the web browser.

The amplifier is suitable for signal processing for most common piezoresistive pressure sensors and the easy-to-use single channel measuring system is particularly recommended where maximum precision is required such as on-board measurement in motor vehicles or for demanding measurement tasks in testing laboratories.

Measuring with Piezoelectric Sensors has never been so easy!

The new Kistler LabAmp Type 5165A is an  amplifier designed specifically to combine impressive flexibility with convenient usability for the measurement of dynamic signals. Compatible with piezoelectric, Piezotron® (IEPE) and voltage output sensors, the input signals can be routed to a choice of either 24-bit digitized data via Ethernet or analogue outputs.

The new measuring amplifier provides exceptional flexibility for dynamic measurements with universal sensor inputs, integrated data acquisition and an intuitive user interface to allow quick results and a lean measurement setup. The new LabAmp has been designed for use in research, development and laboratory applications where dynamic signals need to be measured precisely and with high signal quality. Typical applications include acceleration and vibration measurements, pulsating pressure applications and force measurements of fast machining processes.

Advanced signal processing technology offers impressive flexibility. The frequencies of the highpass, low-pass and notch filters can be directly entered as numeric values in Hertz and virtual channels allow mathematical calculations in real-time. The input signals and the virtual channels can be flexibly routed to the analogue outputs.

Ethernet communication with the one or four-channel amplifier permits user-friendly operation in a conventional web browser – the simplest method for rapid configuration of the Kistler LabAmp. The standard software interface to the widely used LabVIEW™ graphics development tool simplifies the integration of the amplifier directly with an existing application to process the flow of data. Users who prefer to use the analog ±10V output signals, will appreciate the fully flexible 2-point scaling capability.

The technical specification of the new amplifier is impressive. Its wide charge and frequency range, the 24 bits digitization plus the extensive filter options make it a versatile partner for laboratory work. Processing measurements using piezoelectric sensor charge signals is easier than ever before. In addition the amplifier practically configures itself when connected to Piezotron sensors (IEPE) with integrated TEDS.

The Kistler LabAmp Type 5165A is not only an outstanding low-noise charge amplifier for dynamic signals but also a powerful data acquisition device delivering the digitized measurement values directly to a host computer for further analysis. It is configured and operated in a web-interface, conveniently accessible by a standard web-browser.

Solid state pulse amplifier!

Instruments for Industry (IFI), a subsidiary of AMETEK Compliance Test Solutions, offers a dual-mode, solid-state amplifier that combines continuous (CW) and pulse (P) operating modes.  The new S31-500-900P amplifier has been optimized for performing 600 V/m radar pulse radiated immunity testing in the 0.8 GHz to 3.1 GHz band. 

Technical Specifications • Performs 600 V/m radar pulse radiated immunity testing • Has a 500 W continuous rating • Can deliver more than 900 W while in pulse mode • Operating temperature range of 0°C to 50°C • Pulse width up to 570 µsec • PRF range of 0 KHz to 100 KHz • Duty cycle to 10%

This IFI amplifier has a 500 W continuous rating along with the ability to deliver more than 900 W in the pulse mode. IFI is a leading developer of instrumentation and systems for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) emission and immunity testing.

Ideal for labs and many automotive OEMs, the unit offers a peak power rating that allows it to generate a 600 V/m test with either high gain narrow band antennas or a single wide band antenna. When used with narrow band antennas, the S31-500-900P has sufficient power to allow over-testing for increased confidence or to provide greater coverage of the EUT to reduce testing time.

These dual-mode amplifiers use proven GaN technology that allows the units to combine high power P and CW operation in broadband frequency ranges for automotive, high intensity RF and general testing markets.

With an operating temperature range of 0°C to 50°C, the S31-500-900P offers a pulse width up to 570 µsec, a PRF range of 0 KHz to 100 KHz and rise/fall times

-more-

of 15 nsec at duty cycles up to 10% in the pulse mode.

The new amplifier features VSWR protection against any output mismatch, internal pre-amplification to obtain rated output power with an input level of 0 dBm or less as well as internal systems diagnostics.

The amplifier is comprised of two units: a power supply drawer measuring 7"H x 19"W x 25.12"D and a PA/RF drawer that is 10.5"H x 19"W x 25.12"D.

Improved load cell amplifier

Mantracourt has announced the launch of the LCA20, a flexible digital signal conditioning amplifier for single or multiple load cell applications.

LCA20 with transparent lid option!

The versatile LCA20 load cell weight indicator offers options of 3 programmable digital inputs including Auto Tare, Peak Hold and Reset. In addition, the LCA20 provides two relay outputs for control or alarm functions and is now able to support up to ten 350 ohm load cells. The new LCA20 features include a simplified digital set-up via PC, 10 point linearisation and the provision of measurement speeds of 10 or 80 samples per second.

“The LCA20 takes advantage of new technology, it replaces and builds on our previous LCA15 load cell amplifier, providing increased functionality and improved performance,” said Dave Porter, Technical Sales at Mantracourt. “The core design is based on existing, proven technology but it has now been updated to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of end-users in the field.”

The LCA20 provides both RS232 and RS485 options for digital communications (including setup) and can support label or ticket printers. Furthermore, the LCA20 is enabled with an easy one-pass calibration and fast setup procedure.

The LCA20 supports Mantrabus 1 & 2, MANTRA ASCII 2 and MODBUS RTU protocols. It is housed in a ROHS compliant enclosure and is environmentally sealed to IP65 / NEMA 4 (dimensions 200 x 120 x 75 mm). DIN rail or PCB module versions are also available.

The LCA20 also caters to existing LCA15 users in that it features a full LCA15 emulation mode. The LCA20 shown in main photo has the transparent lid option (LTL).

New amplifier product range!

Milmega, a Teseq company and a leading designer and manufacturer of high power microwave and RF amplifiers, has introduced the new AS0728 product range.

Designed, in response to customer demands, to cover the test requirements within the wireless testing frequency bands, these 700 MHz to 2.8 GHz amplifiers are available in 25 W, 50 W, 100 W and 170 W P1 dB power levels.

These amplifiers are extremely popular in the wireless communications industry where the benefits of high reliability, excellent linearity, industry leading power density, and class leading performance are widely accepted by the market's leading companies.

They are all are covered by the industry's only Standard 5 year fully expensed Warranty and are backed by an established Global Support network.

In April 2012 Milmega was awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation. The prestigious Queen’s Award is awarded to businesses in Britain in recognition of outstanding innovative achievements.

Low noise precision instrumentation amp

Intersil Corporation today announced a new 40V, low noise instrumentation amplifier that is the industry’s first precision instrumentation amplifier with an integrated analog-to-digital converter (ADC) level shifter and driver.

The ISL28617 incorporates a differential output to easily interface to today’s highest performance differential input ADCs. It offers excellent gain accuracy and gain temperature coefficient over a temperature range of -40°C to 125°C, with the industry’s highest common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) in all gain configurations. Noise measures only 8.6nV/√Hz @ 1kHz and 85nVrms from 0.1Hz to 10Hz, and the ISL28617 can provide both high gain and attenuation, setting it apart from competing instrumentation amplifiers which typically are limited to gain only configurations. The ISL28617 is ideal for instrumentation, industrial, motor control and medical systems.

Features and Specifications
Integrated differential output ADC driver simplifies the design of high performance 24-bit instrumentation systems
Excellent solution for both single and dual supply voltage operation
Unlike competing amplifiers, provides both high gain (10,000x) and attenuation (0.1x) required in flexible data acquisition systems.
Low noise characteristics make it ideal for noise-sensitive, high gain applications

The ISL28617 is part of a precision, low noise signal chain solution from Intersil including the ISL21090 low noise voltage reference and the ISL26134 low noise 24-bit delta-sigma ADC.
Additionally, using Vishay Precision Group’s next generation Z-1 Bulk Metal Foil technology FRSM chip resistors provides gain setting with non-measurable noise while maintaining exceptional gain accuracy under extraordinary thermal and environmental stresses.

DIN rail amplifiers

DIN rail signal amplifiers ideal for use with PLCs

When enclosure space is at a premium it is convenient to use compact DIN rail mounted devices. RDP Electronics DR7 series signal amplifiers are increasingly being used in conjunction with Programmable Logic Controllers in such situations.

PLCs typically have terminations for I/O from a number of control and measurement devices including signal input from LVDTs, strain gauges, load cells, pressure transducers and torque transducers. DR7 amplifiers can clip on to the DIN rail alongside the PLCs offering the benefit of short interconnecting cables and often operate from the same 24V supply. With transducer excitation options of 1 or 3 volts RMS, at either 3kHz or 5kHz carrier signal excitation, the DR7 gives a choice of a full range output of either ±10 V or 4~20 mA from switched selectable input signal levels ranging from 20 mV to 4 V RMS.

Digital servo amplifier

Aerotech has launched a new digital servo amplifier with a linear power stage for ultra-high resolution brushed or brushless linear and rotary motion control systems. The new compact ML series amplifier is intended for lower power use but maintains the very high performance characteristics required for nanometre and microradian level precision positioning applications that are acutely susceptible to electrical noise, and where PWM servo amplifiers become unusable. The DSP based ML range is designed for minimal radiated noise to allow the servo system to provide exceptional levels of speed control and in-position stability for ultra-smooth motion profiles, and to ensure negligible interference levels for sensitive processing and measuring equipment.

Aimed at very high resolution motion systems applications as found in NDT, MEMS, vision systems and microscopy but with less dynamic performance requirements, the new amplifier is available in three versions: as the Ndrive ML option for Aerotech's A3200 software only motion controller; as an entry level version of the Soloist™ ML integrated single-axis position controller range; and as a low-cost linear drive stage solution for the multi axis Ensemble™ ML, a networkable and panel mount motion control system.

The basic specifications for the ML series linear amplifiers in all configurations includes 5A continuous/10A peak current rating with a customer supplied DC bus voltage of +/- 40 V and a control supply requirement of 18-36 VDC. A single 16-bit ±10 V analogue input is used for direct interfacing to the motion controller with an ESTOP sense input included.

The ML features primary and secondary incremental encoder interfaces which are optionally equipped with Aerotech's MXH hardware based multiplied encoder technology for up to 65536 times quadrature output. Using a 1V p-p sinusoidal encoder which does not require a costly power supply, this level of multiplication has a 2MHz analogue input frequency that allows nanometre or microradian level resolution across Aerotech's wide range of high precision direct-drive positioning mechanics, without compromise on top speed.

The MXH encoder option also enables the single axis Position Synchronised Output (PSO) feature to be implemented at the highest level. Aerotech's PSO is a powerful algorithmic software tool that precisely coordinates the real-time position from a linear or rotary encoder with high speed output pulses from the controller which are be used to trigger external events.

This feature is widely used in applications such as laser micromachining or position critical NDT where exacting, no compromise synchronisation is required between laser firing or sensor reading and the axis path position.

For the alternative software based MXU encoder version, the encoder interfaces have a 4096 multiplication factor and both MXU and MXH encoder options include end-of-travel limits and home inputs on the primary feedback encoder. An optional I/O expansion board is also available to equip the ML drive with 8 opto-isolated digital inputs and 8 digital outputs (sinking or sourcing) in addition to single 16-bit analog inputs and outputs, and a brake relay output.

As the ML series linear stage amplifier does not include an integrated power supply and the I/O expansion option may not be required for some applications, the drive can be a low cost solution and additionally its small footprint may be advantageous in space restricted OEM applications.

The ML drive's 10A peak current rating will provide more than sufficient power for the majority of micropositioning applications, however where more useful power may be required and in areas where amplifier temperature rise must be kept to a minimum, a water cooled version is available. This version can provide a 35% increase in usable power.

In addition to the ML range, Aerotech also produce linear stage amplifiers with 2 & 3 axis PSO capabilities, integral mains power supplies and built-in I/O and fieldbus interfaces - offering the superb linearity, high bandwidth, zero crossover distortion and ultra-quiet EMC characteristics of the ML series. These control options and higher power versions are available throughout the A3200, Soloist and Ensemble ranges, and in addition Aerotech offer a full complement of PWM stage amplifiers for very high speed and heavy load precision positioning applications.

All of these Aerotech drive technologies may be freely mixed for multi-axis positioning systems ensuring that each axis is cost and performance optimised. A choice of PC-based software-only, rack or panel mounted motion controls in single or multi-axis formats allow optimal performance with diagnostics and comprehensive features that aim to ensure fast product development and commissioning, reduce positioning errors, improve throughput performance and ensure time-saving and quality improving benefits.

Strain gauge amplification

Sub-miniature, high performance “In-Cell” amplifier

By incorporating the second generation “in-cell” amplifier (ICA) from LCM Systems, engineers can convert a strain gauge input to a voltage or a current output. This high performance, sub-miniature amplifier can be used for internal amplification of strain gauge based load cells, pressure transducers or torque transducers.

Available in six different versions with a wide range of current and voltage outputs, this latest amplifier with its robust construction has also been designed for quick and easy installation. With a maximum height of only 7.6mm, a standardised excitation of 5V DC and plated through holes for wire connections, its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of OEM applications. Reverse polarity, short circuit protection and a fast calibration procedure are just some of the other features on this CE approved range of amplifiers.

According to Steve Sargeant, Managing Director, LCM Systems is one of only a few companies who have an amplifier suitable for load cell integration. “The technology has been available for many years and is widely used in pressure transducers.” he explains. “However, it hasn’t really been utilised with load cells but has considerable benefits. The signal obtained from a pre-conditioned and pre-calibrated load cell, can reduce installation time and can reduce downstream instrumentation costs.

LCM Systems can integrate the ICA into the majority of its comprehensive range of sensor products. For applications where this is not possible, a small inline enclosure, incorporating the ICA can be used.

New website launched.

Capacitec has announced the launch of a fully upgraded global corporate website. With improvements that are 100% driven by comprehensive customer and industry feedback, the site has been enhanced to reflect Capacitec’s growing product portfolio, while addressing the expressed product, application and educational needs of present and prospective customers.

The new Capacitec website features a clean, easy-to-navigate home page, which includes added search capabilities by product type or target market category. Upon selection of desired target product or application, the user has instant access to a series of comprehensive product pages, devoted to sensing system product specifications, as well as detailed recommendations on accompanying software and accessories. The site’s enhanced search capabilities allow for greater functionality and speed of information gathering. In addition, a comprehensive resource library contains up-to-date product literature, as well as detailed examples of the practical applications of Capacitec product technologies that will best solve a specific measurement challenge.

Notes Bob Foster, president, Capacitec, “We are pleased to announce the launch of the new Capacitec company website, which is really reflective of where our company is today. The goal for www.capacitec.com was to grow an invaluable customer resource and go-to reference guide for the engineering community at-large, and particularly, one that keeps pace with the tremendous growth we’ve experienced over the past few years.”

EX i isolation amplifier with SIL and Zone 2 certs

Phoenix Contact has added two new modules to its range of safety-relevant applications: The repeater power supply PI-EX-RPSS and the isolation amplifier PI-EX-AIS correspond to the requirements of EN 61508 for Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 2 and have been available since autumn 2009.

The modules, which are certified as associated intrinsically safe equipment, also have protection type EX n and can therefore also be installed as electrical equipment in Zone 2. This extends the options for users when it comes to flexible installation concepts.

Both modules belong to the pluggable PI-EX product line for potentially explosive areas according to protection type EX i – which permits efficient and versatile control cabinet solutions. Combination with the basic terminal block allows direct installation at the switching level of the control cabinet as well as pre-wiring of the modules, which are just 12.4 mm wide.

The required electronics can then also be subsequently plugged in. Alternatively, motherboards are available as additional basic elements, with which system cabling can be established.

Condition monitoring

Participation in British maintenance event


With the growing awareness of the importance of condition monitoring of rotating machinery and especially that of electric motors, Whitelegg Machines have again invited Tim Thomas, Senior Engineer of Baker Instrument Company, to join them at Maintec 2010 (02- 04/03/2010) Tim will be able to bring his wide expertise to focus on visitors’ queries on the stand.

Seminar
In addition Tim will be giving a Learn Shop presentation on aspects of Motor Condition Monitoring.

New system launch
As well as showing a range of instruments for on and off line testing and monitoring of electric motors, Whitelegg will be launching the new Online Motor Monitoring Network-Based System, the NetEP.

This is an automated system for the monitoring of electrical rotating equipment. The instrument will monitor 40+ parameters on up to 32 motors, and on up to 7 voltage busses. Benefits to the user include automated evaluation of critical assets from the convenience of your office or anywhere an internet connection is available. With the ability to monitor multiple motors simultaneously, this instrument will supply valuable data along with saving a tremendous amount of time in comparison with route-based instrumentation.

It will notify the user of alarm situations, maintain all database functionality and trend all data for enhanced analysis. Tests include power quality, rotor bar integrity, torque ripple, and transient analysis of motor start ups.

Whitelegg Machines Ltd are British and Ireland, Sales and Support Agents for Baker Instrument Company.

Flight test

Airborne amplifiers for flight test applications

Endevco® has launched a new series of compact, lightweight, rugged airborne amplifiers, designed for use within demanding flight test applications.

Operating from an onboard aircraft DC-power source, these airborne amplifiers are designed for use with piezoelectric microphones and accelerometers. The 2680M-XXX is a charge amplifier, offering dual outputs, one biased and the other, unbiased, both of which are adjustable with a common gain control. Units are available with an optional low-pass filter. Endevco® model 2685V is a voltage amplifier for use with ISOTRON® (IEPE) accelerometers, providing a constant current power source to a transducer’s integral electronics, while maintaining a two-wire connection. The unique hybrid microcircuit construction of both the 2680M-XXX and 2685V series allow them to be offered in a rugged, compact package, with low power consumption. Units have an output voltage proportional to input acceleration or sound. Amplifier sensitivity is not significantly affected by input cable capacitance. Use of modular construction techniques permits great versatility in gain and filter choices.

Accelerometers recommended for use with the series 2680M-XXX and 2685V airborne amplifiers include model 7255A Pyrotron accelerometer; model 2271A/AM20 cryogenic accelerometer; the thru-bolt mounted model 2221F accelerometer, which recently commemorated its 6,000th successful field installation; and the model 2510 piezoelectric microphone.