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Control Design Puts Product Roundups at Your fingertips

Jan. 30, 2005
CONTROL DESIGN Senior Technical Editor Rich Merritt has done the research for you. He’s boiled down all the marketing hoopla from product descriptions and turned them into something useful. Check out his compilation of Product Roundups and find the software, hardware, machine components and devices you need quickly and easily.
How many times have you searched for product information using control magazine web sites or Google and come away disappointed? If you look up motor drives or HMIs, for example, all you get is a series of links, right? You have to click on each one, just to see what it is. Sometimes all you get is the original press release which contains a bunch of self-serving statements from the company president or product manager. Worse, if you go to a company's web site to find product information, you have to fill out a qualification form and then spend many minutes using their search function to find a data sheet or PDF on a product which may or may not exist.We are trying to do away with all that, and make life more simple for you. First, you can see brief product descriptions about products in the individual roundups listed to the right. No clicking on additional links after that. Next, if you find a product you like, click on the link for more information. There, you'll find additional product information, photos, and links to locations of data sheets or other information on the vendor's web site. In other words, we've done the research for you. We've boiled down all the marketing hoopla into something that is useful for you.If you like browsing through random new product writeups, check out the NEW PRODUCTS section below. Here you will find recent product writeups from our print and web publications.Finally, if you need detailed technical information or want to see direct product comparisons, click the link to .If there is any way we can improve this site, please let us know. Write to CONTROL DESIGN Editor in Chief Joe Feeley or Senior Technical Editor . 

NEW PRODUCTS

Sensor Distribution Boxes
Distribution boxes can be used with all sensors equipped with the M12 connector and are available in 4 or 8 position, PVC or PUR, with or without LED indication, and with double assigned slots as an option for wiring. Boxes a re mounted directly on the equipment and provide IP65/67 protection. The KFMY accessory allows two sensors with compatible contact configuration to be connected to the same slot in the sensor distribution box. Automation Systems Interconnect

Gone Wireless
RadioLinx 2.4 GHz frequency hopping spread spectrum industrial wireless communications offer security with proprietary frequency hopping and data encryption, as well as reliability in the noisiest environments. Serial, Ethernet and Ethernet with serial server models are available. All models are UL Class 1 Div. 2 approved. ProSoft Technology

Make the Switch
Switch104, a PC/104 10/100 Ethernet switching hub for embedded computers, offers low power dissipation (1.5W), an extended temperature rating (-40C to +85C), and a high MTBF (1.51 million hours). The hub can be used as a standalone network switch (no processor board required) or in combination with embedded systems that support a PC/104 (ISA) bus. The unit is 3.550 in. x 3.775 in. (90x96 mm) in size and offers network connections through onboard RJ-45 jacks or via right-angle 4-pin Molex connectors. Parvus

Industrial Ethernet Switches
ET-5ES Series industrial Ethernet switches are plug-and-play and have dual power inputs. Deterministic performance is provided with high throughput (3.2 Gbps, non-blocking) to ensure no delays. The 5-port switches operate from -40 to 85°C, carry UL/CSA/CE ratings, and perform in Class 1, Div. 2 (Zone 2) hazardous locations, as well as marine/offshore applications. The switches run directly off DC power and will fit into any equipment-filled enclosure by DIN rail or direct panel mounting. SixNet

Talk to the I/O System
PCI-AC51 high-speed adapter card links the Pamux bus to PCI-compatible computers. The card interfaces with the I/O on PCs that use a PCI instead of an ISA bus. The computer-based I/O system reads 8 points in 3 microseconds and 512 in slightly over one-quarter of a millisecond for applications utilizing tufting machines, conveying systems, and sorting machines. Memory mapped architecture allows custom device drivers to run multiple adapters in parallel, allowing for customization of applications. Opto 22

Pushy Connectors
AWG #10 push-wire connectors require no twisting and taping, have a transparent housing for visual confirmation of the connection, and are available in 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, and 8-point connectors to handle the following wire sizes: AWG 10 to 18 solid copper, 10 to 16 stranded copper, 10 to 22 tinned stranded copper. A 4-point version is available with a special point for an AWG #18 stranded copper wire. Wago

I/O Modules for OEMs
PCLD-8751 has 48 isolated digital input channels, while the PCLD-8761 has 24 relay channels and 24 isolated digital input channels. PCLD-8751 and PCLD-8761 connect with PCI-1751 and PCI-1753 TTL-level digital I/O boards directly and can operate in harsh environments. Both products' digital input channels have 3,500Vdc isolation protection, wide input range from 5 to 30V, and wet or dry contact setting through DIP switch selection. LED indicators show the status of all I/O channels. Advantech

Expanded Connectivity
Eight-point input (­IE8H) and output (­OE8H) HART analog modules allow for communication with smart field devices that support the HART protocol. Modules can access the HART digital signal in parallel to the module's 4-20 mA analog signal with no effect on the processing of the analog. Modules allow users to connect to ControlNet or EtherNet/IP networks, HART field devices, HART handheld programming terminals, controllers, and HMI products. Rockwell Automation

Analog Signal Conditioner
MCR signal conditioner has a 6.2 mm housing with power bussing capabilities. Universally configurable and dedicated versions of the modules are available to convert signals from RTDs, thermocouples and various analog sensors. Signal splitter, single- and multi-channel, and loop-powered modules are available. Hot swappable modules snap onto the T-foot bus connector without removing any bus bars or bridging. Phoenix Contact

RF Connectivity for Harsh Environments
ACE6490 and ACE6790 are housed in NEMA-4x enclosures to withstand extreme weather or other severe surroundings. Each product delivers variable output power up to one watt at 900MHz, maximizing range in tough environmental conditions. ACE6790 utilizes dynamic peer-to-peer protocol for enabling mesh topology, while ACE6490 uses a server/client networking architecture. Applications include SCADA, industrial control, outdoor signage and utility monitoring. Both transceivers have compatible over-the-air communications with all 4490- and 4790-series ConnexLink and OEM modules. Aerocomm

Eliminate Alignment Hassles
RoundAbout cable guide gives draw wire transducers unparalleled flexibility in connecting the displacement cable (draw wire) to applications. Offering rotational capability in two axes and linear capability in one axis, the cable guide enables 2D and 3D dynamic tracking capability. Cable-directing device allows cable-actuated position transducers to follow motion dynamically in 3D space, using two precision-positioned pulleys to provide two dimensions of the tracking capability. SpaceAge Control

Echo That Transmission
Line powered level transmitters (models U71 & U73) use digitial Modbus communications, allowing users to have up to 128 transmitters communicating on one shielded, twisted pair cable. All echOsonix units can be polled in less than 2 seconds. A single I/O circuit can support up to 128 transmitters. The multi-sensor system with only 10 sensors can have response times up to 3 minutes. SOR

Multi-Mode Wireless Device Server
DeviceMaster AIR wireless device server enables users to connect serial or Ethernet devices to an Ethernet network either wirelessly using the 802.11b industry standard or using standard wire. The product can wirelessly connect serial devices or other devices that would typically use a wired Ethernet connection.Users can opt to use wired connectivity as a fail-safe backup in the event that a wireless connection is unavailable. Comtrol

Motion in Minutes
EZ Limo motorized cylinders combine step motor functionality and motion control and have speed ranges of 0.01-600 mm/s (0.0004-23.6 ips) with a maximum thrust of 45-400 N (10.1-89.9 lbs-force). The EZC, EZHC and EZHP offer 0.01 mm (0.4 mils) resolution, strokes of 50-300 mm (1.97-11.8 in.) with a repetitive positioning accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm (0.8 mils). An optional teaching pendant provides real-time monitoring of set operating data, current position and I/O status. Oriental Motor

Check, Inspect and Detect
Checker 101 vision sensor detects the presence or absence of multiple items. The sensor can analyze more than 400 images per sec. and automatically can detect when a product is ready to be inspected. Illumination, optics, sensor, processor, memory and I/O are fully integrated in a single industrial-grade package about the size of a cell phone. No external trigger is required, even for products in continuous motion at high speed. Cognex

Reader Sees All, Tells All

Wafer reading OCR and decoder sees, reads, records and responds to industry-standard wafer identification while providing product traceability and real-time validation. Integrated lensing and lighting capabilities, such as contrast and color modifications that subject the wafer to changes in appearance, provide the flexibility to read code throughout the various stages of production. DVT Sensors

Half-Size Connections
M3 small motor connector comes completely sealed and shielded for use in servo motor applications, and fits motors with a flange size 60 cm or less and consist of a zinc die-cast shell, rubber sealing parts, high temperature insulator material and contacts. Specifications are 48 V/5 A power rating, operating voltage of 50-630 V and current rating of 2-10 A. A rotating flange version is available with a Seeger Ring pre-assembled in the housing, O-ring sealing and predefined locking position. ITT Industries

Industrial Screen Toughie
The M7170 17-in. SXGA (1280x1024) industrial touchscreen monitor is less than 2-in. thick and capable of operating from a computer's RGB video output port, or from a video camera or player. Combined with a NEMA 4/12-compatible bezel, the monitor has built-in automatic calibration and AM-TFT LCD displays with 250 NIT brightness. StarPanel Industries

Don't Blow It
SDI non-fused switch disconnects allow breaking and disconnecting on equipment loads to 600 VAC, at a nominal current range from 16-40 A. SD2 series allows breaking and disconnecting to 600 VAC, at a nominal current range from 63-125 A. Both series are DIN rail or panel-mountable and have high breaking capacities, double-break contacts, high electrical and mechanical endurance, and are resistant to damp heat. AutomationDirect

Multiaxis Motion System
Cartesian motion system (CMS) in one, two, or three axes uses standard compact modules and servo drives for payloads to 25 kg, operating at speeds to 1.0 m/s, with acceleration rates to 15 m/s2. The motion system can execute strokes to 100 mm in the X-axis, 700 mm in the Y-axis, and 800 mm in the Z-axis for pick-and-place applications in assembly cells and transfer stations, and is pre-parameterized for plug-and-play into any application. Bosch Rexroth

Developer's Kit for Motor Control
MC73110 brushless motor control IC developer's kit is an integrated board and software package that allows designers to evaluate and use motor control ICs. The kit provides a platform for developing applications, testing motors and verifying software. The board comes with the motor control IC installed and provides software-programmable current, velocity, and commutation control for brushless DC motors, and includes a Windows-based program to exercise the motor hardware. Performance Motion Devices

Automation Software Suite
FactoryFloor 4.1 software can be used with process automation controllers, Ethernet I/O and I/O products to develop control programs, design HMIs, expand control system connectivity to enterprise databases, and complete control and data acquisition projects. The suite has four integrated components — control, display, server and connect — and assorted utilities that assist users in downloading and executing control strategies. Opto 22

Plan Your Next Trip by Rail
RailDesigner 2.3 software includes database, customized enclosure design capabilities, bonus software, HTTP Internet download capability, and on-line ordering/quotation access. Display of products and graphic user interface, along with product information and search functions, enable the user to select products through database queries and parts libraries. Cross connections, markings, end plates, partitions, end brackets, open slots and external cable bridges are graphically displayed. Weidmuller

Handles Shape Shifters
Halcon v. 7.0 software includes 3D shape-based matching that can generate models for all orientations and scales, allowing detection even if parts of objects can move with respect to each other. Data code reading allows identification even when a code is etched or embossed on metal surfaces, disturbed, mirrored, or inverse. Enhancements include automatic combining of images from multiple cameras, subpixel measurements in color images, OCR and texture analysis, rectification of complex distortions and interactive documentation. MVTec Software

Interface Brochure
Brochure, based on IEC61191 standards, describes the merging of real-time communications mechanisms with the Industrial Ethernet infrastructure for communications between digital controls, drives, I/O and sensors. The brochure includes real-time communications examples, available ring and line topologies, the structure of real-time and non-real-time data using Ethernet data frames, cycle times, and expected performance of various servo system configurations. SERCOS

See What CNC Can Do
Products and solutions are featured for various industries ranging from aerospace, automotive, job shop and retrofit, to high-speed and specialty machining applications. Customer testimonials demonstrate real-life machining applications with Siemens. A CD is included highlighting the latest trends in Sinumerik CNC technology. Siemens Energy & Automation

Communication encoder incorporates ASIC
Model R35i small encoder provides brushless motor commutation and higher resolution incremental position signals in a 1.38x0.55-in. OD package. The three-phase (U, V, W) commutation pattern is available for four, six and eight-pole brushless motors. Incremental encoder position resolutions from 250 to 8,192 line counts are available with A, B and Z (reference) channels. Output frequency response reaches 500 KHz. Renco Encoders

Frameless pancake resolvers
ULT resolvers range 3-15-in. diameter with holes 2.5-14 in.and come with an angular error map (AEM) that allows electronic compensation for mechanical errors. AEM-corrected resolvers provide absolute position information within one revolution. Operating temperatures range is -40°C, and 16-bit resoultion is typical, with higher resolutions available. Applimotion

Customized load cells for OEMsProprietary technology is applied to develop industrial load cells that can be small and sensitive in terms of electrical output/force for highly customized OEM applications. A glass-bonded, piezo-resistive silicon strain gage provides the cells with higher tension and compression for highly specialized environments. MSI Sensors

Machine tool brochure
Products and solutions are featured for various industries ranging from aerospace, automotive, job shop and retrofit, to high-speed and specialty machining applications. Customer testimonials demonstrate real-life machining applications with Siemens. A CD is included highlighting the latest trends in SINUMERIK CNC technology. For a free copy, . Siemens Energy & Automation

Fieldbus power hub
The Fieldbus Power Hub modular power supply system for Foundation fieldbus (FF-H1) has single or redundant plug-on modules, including isolated power module with 30 V and 500 mA for high power with segment protectors, isolated power module with 17 V and 500 mA for FNICO installation with segment protectors, and non-isolated module with host spur protection with both SegmentProtector and FieldBarrier, while providing additional network segment protection in conjunction with redundant host cards. Pepperl+Fuchs

Control transformers
Industrial control transformers come with factory installed WA and WB fusing options to help customers comply with UL Standard 508, NEC430-72(C) and NEC450.3(B). The WA and WB fuse options are available through 1000 VA.  The WA includes a two pole, primary fuse holder for Class C fuses and a secondary fuse holder that accepts a type 3AG or equivalent glass fuse. The WB uses the same primary fuse holder and includes a secondary fuse holder that accepts a type FNM or equivalent fuse. Finger safe terminal covers for both the WA and WB are included with the package. EGS Electrical Group

Machine vision system
NetSight II DCL allows users to match the image of their choice to their inspection needs. The system provides asynchronous acquisition of images from up to two Camera Link cameras (area or line scan formats) and one FireWire camera using an IEEE 1394 port. The system is equipped with a processor, 256 MB of program memory, 20 GB of storage memory and programmable digital I/O, built-in Ethernet connectivity, and is compatible with such industry protocols as EtherNet/IP and Modbus for into existing factory and/or enterprise networks. ipd

Data monitor handles tough environments
The Data Dolphin 220 Data Monitor operates in temperatures from -40 to 60°C. It has a 24-bit A/D that ACCEPTS analog-to-digital section to provide four differential bipolar inputs with resolution to 90 nV, which allows most sensors to connect directly without any signal conditioning. Four additional inputs allow the user to select pulse, status, event start/stop or analog capability. Scientific Technologies

Temperature controllers plug and play
Plus (+) Series DIN temperature controllers have plug-in modules for outputs, inputs, alarms, and communications, so that users can keep only one type of controller in stock and adapt it for each application as required. Models include 1/16, 1/8 and 1/4 DIN size units sold under West and Partlow brands. Controllers have dual setpoints that can be selected from a remote location, and PID control with pre-tuning and self-tuning. Danaher Industrial Controls

Now available online, the 2005 Buyers Guide provides the OEM community with the industry's newest and most comprehensive directory to suppliers of automation, instrumentation and control products in more than 100 different product categories.