Space saving indicators.

With standard and custom illuminated bi-color graphics, providing a clear user interface in a very compact form factor.

The new DUAL ICON series 14mm panel-mount LED indicators from APEM, join their established line of dual-indicating pushbuttons. Bi-color dual indication provides a compact yet durable option for delivering more information to users of industrial, commercial, marine, and other equipment. DUAL ICON indicators are an elegant way to provide enhanced operational information to the user, without the need to resort to more complex and expensive digital interfaces.

Many applications entail presenting multi-state information to users, but control panels are limited in space. Digital displays are sometimes a possibility, although they represent a costly, complex, and even fragile approach. LED indicators are a familiar and highly visible component, and APEM DUAL ICON indicators provide double the information in a clear and efficient package, streamlining solutions.

A robust threaded barrel with anti-rotation D-cut is sized to fit industry-standard holes and panels, consuming minimal back-of-panel space. The flush bezel—made of plated brass and featuring black E-coat—seals the front of the device to provide an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and it will withstand salt spray, humidity, extreme temperatures, and shock/vibration.

Green and red filters combine with vivid LED lighting to produce a 120° viewing angle with three different operational states: off, green icon/image, and red icon/image. Custom designs are possible, but several standard configurations are available to support many common applications:

• Green “I” for on, red “O” for off
• Green “ON”, red “OFF”
• Green “START”, red “STOP”
• Green battery full icon, red battery low icon
• Green left arrow, red right arrow

DUAL ICON indicators are available with solder FASTON terminals or three 200mm long flying leads. They are designed for nominal 12V DC operation compatible with most vehicles and industrial equipment, and typically draw just 20mA for energy efficiency. Solid state design delivers a life expectancy of 100,000 hours. DUAL ICON indicators meet the requirements for UL Recognition and other industry-relevant standards.

OEM and industrial designers should find many usability and performance advantages by integrating APEM DUAL ICON indicators into their products as an effective operator interface solution.

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@APEM_HMI @APEMINC @IDECUSA #PAuto #OEM

Waterproof CANbus keypads are programmable.

Enabling vehicle manufacturers to provide premium and robust visibility and control.

The PKD, PKI, and PKR series of advanced CANbus keypads, with many user interface options and a compact form factor designed to resist the elements have been announced by APEM. This product family provides a myriad of options for vehicle OEMs to add exceptional and beautiful visualization and control features, enhancing their equipment using standardized components, while avoiding the complexity and expense of fully custom devices.

Modern vehicles incorporate many on-board digital and automation systems, which are typically interconnected using standard communication protocols such as CANOpen and J1939. While touchscreen displays can be developed to access these capabilities, there are many cases where one or more durable keypads provide a superior user interface.

APEM now offers the PKx series of keypad interfaces, which join a well-established line of industrial-grade switches and indicators. Depending on the model, a variety of capabilities are possible:

• Configurable multicolor LED backlight
• High intensity RGB LED status indicators
• Standard or modular pushbuttons and knobs
• A 3-in-1 knob combining a pushbutton, rotary encoder, and joystick
• Laser etched icons, or stock icon inserts
• IP67/69K ingress protection, and 400-hour UVB protection

• Flexible mounting

These keypads feature a silicone rubber front face, a plastic backshell, and connectorized CANbus wires for easy installation where space is at a premium, when functionality cannot be compromised, and/or in adverse conditions. Designers can select from three major product families, each with various standard and optional features, as follows:

• PKD: This series integrates an innovative 3-in-1 pushbutton/knob/joystick with 4 or 6 keypad buttons, each with two LED indicators. The PKD provides precise and diverse input options in one compact design.

• PKI: This series is available in configurations of 1 to 15 key positions, arranged in 1 to 3 rows with 1 to 6 columns. Each position can be provisioned with a keypad button (using a replaceable icon insert), and a 15 key version can incorporate up to two 16-detent rotary knobs. The PKI is available with thousands of stock icon inserts, making it suitable for almost any conceivable application.

• PKR: This series is available in four sizes offering a total of 6 to 14 key positions. Each position includes a keypad button with 0 to 3 LED indicators. The PKR is extremely compact, delivering a high button density, while preserving excellent usability.

All PKx keypads are designed with a wide operating temperature range, thermal/mechanical shock and vibration resistance, and the ability to withstand UV, salt spray, and chemical exposure. Every indicator and keypad button is easily configured to interface with host systems over open CANOpen and J1939 protocols.

With the introduction of the APEM PKD, PKI, and PKR series of keypads, OEM and industrial designers now have access to a premium and highly adaptable user interface to help them differentiate their products, without requiring cost-prohibitive custom and esoteric design work. The PKx series is a first-rate solution for off-road, defense, specialty vehicle, automotive, agricultural, industrial, and nautical markets.

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@APEM_HMI #controlspr #Automotive #CANbus

Rugged Toggle Switch.

Versatile capabilities and advanced design details to support the toughest applications.

APEM has announced the worldwide launch of its CT Series toggle switches, with ready availability globally through service distributors. Offered in familiar form factors with innovative options, these toggle switches and accessories integrate thoughtful design details for improved performance, and they incorporate the features and approvals needed for industrial-grade applications in agriculture, material handling, heavy equipment, and specialty vehicles.

 Typical power toggle switches, using a standard 15/32” mounting hole, are a familiar sight in many of the world’s most demanding applications. However, some end users and OEMs have discovered issues with obtaining the products they need from suppliers. Recognizing these supply chain challenges, APEM has moved to support industry needs. The APEM CT Series toggle switches are offered in a variety of form factors and configurations, with a wide selection of associated accessories such as nameplates, protective boots, and switch guards. The most common and popular part numbers are ready for rapid order fulfillment.

One- and two-pole versions, rated 15A @ 28V DC and 10A @ 125/250V AC, with screw, solder lug, or quick connect terminals, cover a large range of specified applications. With UL approval, an IP67 waterproof rating, and an exceptionally wide operating temperature range of -45 to +85 Deg C, the CT Series is well-suited for use in the harshest environments.

While other commercial offerings often use a pinned top face susceptible to liquid or potting material intrusion, the CT Series is built tough with a single-piece crimped-on top. Internally, the CT Series employs a unique wheel mechanism for improved tactile feel and smooth operation compared with competitive products. In addition, as opposed to other products, the CT Series overall construction uses thicker components which are cast instead of stamped, with a base made of nearly indestructible thermoset plastic. This attention to detail throughout the whole series ensures a robust product created to deliver a long lifetime of reliable service.

Online data sheets and 3D CAD files support designers with the information they need to easily specify the switches. Ready availability, superior design elements, and a favorable price/performance ratio ensure that products from the APEM CT Series toggle switch family will perform reliably in the toughest applications.

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@APEMINC @IDECUSA #PAuto

Pollution mitigation recognised.

APEM Group has been announced as the winner of the ‘Pollution Mitigation Initiative of the Year’ category at the Water Industry Awards, in recognition of the company’s continuous water quality monitoring project for United Utilities.

Working in partnership with Meteor Communications, APEM Group managed a water quality monitoring project on the River Kent near Kendal in the Lake District (GB). The project was implemented to help ensure the protection of water quality while treated water was discharged into the river through a temporary outfall pipe at a new location, following the damage of the original outfall by storm Desmond in 2015.

Hannah Austin, Divisional Director – Water Science, APEM Group, said: “I am immensely proud of the team that brought this amazing project to life. It’s great to see the tangible benefits to our rivers that monitoring data and evidence-led decision making bring. For APEM Group and our partners at Meteor Communications to be nationally recognised for this innovative work is a remarkable achievement.”

The WIA judges felt that APEM Group’s entry “stood out as both very relevant and innovative, while also presenting a positive message about pollution mitigation.” They described it as “a scalable solution to enhance pollution control and meet future demands, presenting significant benefits.”

A key element of the project was the deployment of Meteor ESNET water quality monitoring stations, installed and maintained by Meteor Communications to provide real-time water quality data both upstream and downstream of the temporary outfall. Meteor’s Managing Director Matt Dibbs, who attended the awards ceremony, said: “We were delighted that the scalability of our water monitoring quality monitoring solutions has been recognised as these systems meet the river monitoring requirements of the Environment Act’s Section 82. This project therefore represents a blueprint for the large number of monitoring systems that water companies will establish in the upcoming AMP period.”

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@MeteorComms @APEM_Ltd  @_Enviro_News #Environmental #Water #Britain

Switch and LED Indicator range.

Specialist distributor JPR Electronics are a major distributor of switches and LED Indicators from APEM in Britain.  APEM products are used in such diverse markets as IT, medical, communications, industrial automation, defence and transport.

Paul Raynor, Director of JPR Electronics, comments. "APEM is a market leader in HMI solutions and manufacture cost effective, reliable switches for a very wide range of markets and applications. Our APEM product range is an important part of our capability to supply OEMs with complete component supply solutions.”

The full APEM range available from JPR includes momentary and latching pushbuttons rated to IP67 and vandal resistant versions for rugged applications, industrial toggle switches, PCB mounted switch types and micro-miniature switches. 3mm and 5mm LED indicators mounted in recessed or prominent chrome or black bezels are also available for use by panel and system builders.

@Jprelec #PAuto @APEMUK

Aquisition ensures a broader range HMI supplier!

IDEC Corporation has acquired APEM. Together, IDEC and APEM are now one of the world’s largest manufacturers of human machine interface (HMI) components, panels and systems. With more than $500 million in total sales, the combined entity has a broad portfolio of industrial automation and HMI products, and access to markets across Europe, North America and Asia.

From factory sites to familiar everyday situations, IDEC Group supports the future of manufacturing and daily life through control technology. With many products, including a diverse lineup of network-compatible components advancing the Industrial Internet of Things, the company hopes to meet their customers’ needs today and tomorrow.

IDEC’s has four main lines of business: Industrial & Safety, Electronics & Automation, Explosion-Proof and LED. Products within these lines of business are supplied to various industry segments including manufacturing, public transportation, agricultural, and energy. These products include industrial controllers, HMIs, sensors, switches, power supplies, LED lighting and others.

“This acquisition is a major step for IDEC to establish solid foundations for global growth. It provides us with access to new customers, new markets, and greater range of products and services. Combining the two companies, we are a much bigger enterprise with a global reach. Together we have $500 million sales, 3500 people worldwide, Sales subsidiaries in 15 countries and factories in 10 countries. Thanks to the complementary product offerings, business models and geographical presence of the two companies, we expect significant synergies as we combine the two companies together,” says Toshi K. Funaki, the President of IDEC.

APEM’s products are primarily HMI interface components such as panel switches, joysticks, keypads and LED indicators. These components are assembled into HMI panels by their customers, or by APEM as semi-custom and full custom HMI panels. APEM’s primary markets include agricultural, material handling, medical, aeronautics, defense and transportation. These products and markets complement IDEC’s standard HMI systems and industrial automation products. APEM’s ability to design and deliver semi-custom and full custom HMI panels extends IDEC’s product portfolio into this fast-growing area.

APEM’s strong historical presence and reputation will help accelerate IDEC’s growth in Europe. IDEC’s leadership position in Japan and across Asia will open new markets for APEM products, and help to support existing APEM business across Asia. The strength of the combined APEM and IDEC sales teams in the United States will provide unique opportunities for selling high quality products and solutions to each company’s customer base. IDEC and APEM together will be primarily focused on growing sales, with a huge potential of geographical and product offering synergies.

“With the acquisition by IDEC, a new page of APEM history starts. Our product offerings are complementary, which creates a unique opportunity to develop further sales and new products for our existing customers and new ones,” says Grégory Sachnine, the President of APEM.

APEM will keep its product branding, and will maintain strategic development priorities under the leadership of the current management team. APEM and IDEC share many of the same values including high quality products, excellent customer service, and a commitment to the long-term development of their employees. The combined entity will continue to serve customers worldwide in keeping with its long-standing reputation for customer satisfaction.

@IDECUSA #PAuto @APEMINC #IoT

21 Years old and still going strong...

On November 21st 1989, Alan Cook struck out on his own to create a specialist distributor of electro-mechanical components. With a wealth of experience from his careers in both electronic engineering and broad-line distribution Alan wanted to create something different. And so Foremost Electronics was born. The goal was to provide design engineers in Britain with a reliable source of technologically advanced Emech components and offer a “service with a difference”.

Foremost has now firmly established itself as not just a component distributor but a resource for designers who require high quality components – with a difference. Foremost offers a flexible approach to component supply and is happy to undertake in-house customisation of their product range to meet the exact requirements of the designer. From engraving the cap of a switch or adding illumination, through to custom assemblies Foremost can accommodate a wide range of special requirements.

This customer focussed approach to distribution has lead to steadily increasing sales, long relationships with customers and high levels of support from their suppliers.

Suppliers have grown to appreciate the extended product life that Foremost’s customisation offers and a relationship with a specialist distributor who really understands their market.


Elma and knitter-switch, both suppliers of switches and rotary encoders have this to say about Foremost;


“Elma UK is proud to consider Foremost Electronics as both prime business partners and friends. Their on-going policy of supporting, stocking and marketing our rotary switch products is key to our future success. Thanks to Foremost for everything they do for us and happy 21st birthday! “

While Terry Moss, General Manager of knitter-switch UK says; "Knitter-switch have worked with Foremost Electronics for the past 15 years and we have always found them to be excellent at finding new design-in opportunities and retaining long term customers. Foremost have an unsurpassed knowledge of the UK Emech component market and we appreciate this singular focus which serves us very well.”


Apem, market leading manufacturers of Joysticks commented; "Foremost has been a distributor of our joysticks for 9 years now and indeed distributes many other Apem group products. During that time we have enjoyed a strong working relationship and have been very positively impressed by the service driven culture of Foremost. Many customers have reported a desire to work with Foremost in light of the stocking and service packages offered, and the technical design support in the early days of their project. We also value Foremost’s marketing activities which include strengthening both the Foremost and Apem brand with continual advertising, exhibitions and trade publication entries. We congratulate Foremost on its 21st birthday and look forward to many more years of cooperation and success”.

And last but by no means least Binder UK, suppliers of world class circular connectors said; "Proactive, responsive and customer focused; just what a manufacturer requires from a specialist distributor and exactly what we have experienced from our relationship with Foremost. Add to this a narrow and complimentary product portfolio along with excellent product, application and market knowledge; this makes Foremost Electronics the ideal partner for Binder UK.”

Alan Cook, Managing Director of Foremost Electronics closes; "We have successfully managed to find our way through a number or recessions and have always come back stronger and this current one has been no exception. We have a dedicated team of experienced technical and sales specialists, headed up by Sales Director Alan Vincent, who can use their extensive knowledge to provide our customers with the best solution to their component requirements and the long term support that is really appreciated in this rapidly changing market.”