Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Turck BIM-UNR Dual Sensor for C-Groove Cylinders


TURCK’s BIM-UNR line of magnetic cylinder position sensors has been expanded to include a new dual sensor for detecting long and short stroke cylinders. This unique device combines the benefits of two sensors through a single cable connection, lessening wire costs and connection points. It can be used in places where multiple cylinders are installed, as it only requires one cable. Its dimensions of 2.9 x 4.6 x 18 mm make the BIM-UNR one of the most compact sensors on the market.


TURCK’s BIM-UNR sensor is designed to mount within C-groove cylinders with no accessories required. The sensor can be inserted into a C-groove from the top rather than from the side, simplifying installation. On the sensor’s side is a built-in tab that keeps the sensor in place to facilitate one-handed mounting. As the mounting screw is located near the cable exit, the sensor remains fastened even if the cable is pulled.



Turck Technical Datasheets

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Honeywell Sensing and Control Zephyr Digital Airflow Sensors


The new Honeywell Zephyr™ Digital Airflow Sensors (HAF Series - High Accuracy) allow for very precise airflow measurement.

The Zephyr sensors provide enhanced reliability, digital accuracy, and repeatable measurements to meet many medical and industrial application specifications. These devices offer key competitive advantages not found in other digital airflow sensors, including:

  • Meet high accuracy specifications: High 2.5% accuracy allows for a very precise airflow measurement, often ideal for demanding applications with high accuracy requirements
  • Customizable: Allows the sensor to be designed to meet your specific needs
  • High sensitivity at very low flows: Allows your application the ability to detect the presence or absence of airflow
  • High stability: Reduces errors due to thermal effects and null shift to provide accurate readings over time, often eliminating the need for system calibration after printed circuit board (PCB) mount, and periodically over time
  • Low pressure drop: Typically improves patient comfort in medical applications, and reduces noise and system wear in components such as motors and pumps
  • Saves customers time and money: Linear output provides a more intuitive sensor signal than the raw output of basic airflow sensors, often eliminating the need for linearizing the output which can help reduce production/design costs and implementation time
  • Simplifies your production requirements: ASIC-based I2C digital output compatibility eases integration to micro-processors or micro-controllers, reducing PCB complexity and component count
  • Small: Small size occupies less space on the PCB, simplifying installation and potentially reducing production costs; PCB size may also be reduced, simplifying fit in space-constrained applications
  • Flexible: Low 3.3 Vdc voltage option and low power supply allow for battery-driven and other portable applications


Red Lion Controls New and Improved CUB7 Counters and Timers


Red Lion is pleased to announce the release of their new and improved CUB7 line of counters and timers. In updating the CUB7 line, features were combined to reduce the total number of available models from 24 to 12. The counters and timers are available in two input formats-low voltage (28 VDC max) and high voltage (50 to 250 VAC max), and are offered with three available liquid crystal display options-reflective, red backlight and green backlight.

Enhancements include input DIP switches that allow low voltage models to have sourcing and sinking inputs. All units have front panel keypads that can be used to reset the display. These keypads can be enabled or disabled via a single DIP switch if no action is needed from the front panel. The standard units are supplied with 22 gauge wires for external connections. An optional terminal block is available for those customers that prefer wiring terminals. Power is provided from an internal lithium battery, designed to provide up to 7 years of trouble-free operation.


Red Lion Controls CUB7 Counters and Timers

Red Lion Controls Technical Datasheets

Red Lion Controls Crimson 3.0 Software


Red Lion announces the release of Crimson 3 – the latest version of their widely-acclaimed operator interface configuration software. Built from the ground up and tested in actual user applications for over a year, Crimson 3 is the direct result of more than 540 customer requests to help improve Crimson software. Crimson 3 contains myriad new features designed to make it easier to design and implement attractive and powerful user interface solutions. The new software currently works with G3 and G3 Kadet operator interfaces, Modular Controller, and the Data Station Plus.

Crimson 3 provides expanded international support with 5 built-in languages; English, Spanish, German, French, and Chinese—with more languages planned for future releases. Automatic translation is supported via lexicon files of standard industrial control terms or via Google or Microsoft’s web translation application programming interfaces. The entire database or just a single string can be translated in this manner.

Some other features available in this new version include:

  • The ability to drag tags onto the screen to create instant objects.
  • Create hundreds of tags using smart copy to auto index register addresses.
  • Quick menus provide a short list of the most common tasks for faster programming.
  • Anti-aliased fonts improve user visibility.
  • Many new images have been added to the already more than 4000 images.
  • New looks, better color fills, and the ability to add data and text to any object.
  • The USB host ports allow USB memory stick synchronization.
  • With an unlimited number of undo commands, there is no need to worry about mistakes.
  • Create master slides to share objects with other pages to shorten editing time.
  • Combine multiple dynamic objects together to create a single working widget and share your widget with others users around the globe.
  • Mass edit tags to modify the following attributes: color, security, alarms, format, mapping, scaling, or triggers.
  • Convert an application database written for a large HMI to a smaller HMI with the easy conversion utility.
  • Manage the entire database of fonts or images through a single utility.


Thursday, March 25, 2010

New Literature from SMC Pneumatics

Air Line Components

SMC Pneumatics’ Air Line Components pocket guide is an essential reference for pneumatic specialists in the field. This guide contains technical information on SMC tubing, speed controllers, fittings and FRL units, along with quick reference information to aid in many pneumatic applications.


All Products

The newly updated All Products catalog from SMC Pneumatics lists basic information for their entire line of pneumatic and pneumatic-related products. Every series of SMC’s products along with their main features and characteristics can be located quickly and easily.



Panduit PANDUCT PANELMAX Corner Wiring Duct


Panduit's PANDUCT PANELMAX Corner Wiring Duct is an innovative one-piece wire management product that makes more efficient use of space inside enclosures, speeds installation, and reduces control panel assembly costs. PANELMAX Corner Wiring Duct is used in the vertical corners of medium to large electrical control panels (with both side and back panels) to route, conceal, and protect electrical wiring. PANELMAX Corner Wiring Duct is part of a complete line of Panduit wire management solutions for control panels.



CML Innovative Technologies Product Selector Guide


CML has led the world of illumination since its formation in 1910. Moving from the supply of incandescent lamps, CML-IT has embraced LED technology and is now one of the world leading supplies of both LEDs and LED based solutions for a variety of markets.


Order CML Innovative Technologies Literature

CML Innovative Technologies Technical Datasheets

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Turck Explosion-Proof Receptacles


TURCK announces new 1”-16UN and 1-1/8”-16UN minifast® explosion-proof feed-through receptacles that install directly into standard 3/4 inch conduit entries, without requiring additional conduit or poured seals. These quick-disconnect B-size (1 inch) and C-size (1-1/8 inch) receptacles provide an effi cient solution to maintain the explosion-proof ratings of instrument housings and explosion-proof enclosures in Class I, Division 2 hazardous areas.


These receptacles are fully potted and withstand 6,000 psi of pressure in high quality 316 stainless steel housings. The 7 and 8-pole B-size and 9, 10 and 12-pole C-size connectors are keyed in a manner so that it is impossible to incorrectly mate the connectors. The connectors incorporated into these devices are compatible with TURCK’s FM approved cordsets, and provide NEMA 1, 3, 4, 6P and IEC IP68 protection against liquid ingress when a mating connector is attached.



Turck Technical Datasheets

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Turck Ethernet PROFIBUS Device Coupler


TURCK announces its new Ethernet PROFIBUS device coupler that includes integrated Web server software and diagnostic functionality that enables users to monitor PROFIBUS networks during continuous operation through a computer Web browser. The PB-XEPI may be integrated into new or existing PROFIBUS networks in pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and packaging applications.


As long as the user has access to the Internet, the PB-XEPI can be used to monitor and configure applications, without disrupting network communication. The PB-XEPI can identify any malfunctions in the network and send an error message via e-mail that includes a link to the device that enables users to directly access the interface. The user can then access detailed information about the malfunction and the recommended procedures to remedy the malfunction, along with the ability to adjust monitoring and alarm settings.


The PB-XEPI may be configured as an active node on the PROFIBUS network using FDT/DTM software. Additional software may be implemented to increase the diagnostic functions of the device, allowing it to perform more complex search functions. The device may also be configured as a PROFIBUS Master Class II, which allows it to set up and configure a PROFIBUS slave, such as TURCK’s BL20, BL Compact and excom® systems.



Turck Technical Datasheets

Friday, March 12, 2010

Pepperl+Fuchs Acquires Siemens Proximity Sensor Business


Pepperl+Fuchs, Mannheim, Germany, has signed an agreement with Siemens Industry Automation Division, Nuremburg, Germany, to acquire Siemens’ binary proximity sensor business. The acquisition is expected to be finalized effective June 30, 2010, and Siemens will continue to accept, support, and execute all orders for Siemens proximity sensors until the transfer is complete. The interim period will be used to seamlessly integrate the new business and products into Pepperl+Fuchs’ existing portfolio, while providing uninterrupted service and delivery capacity for Siemens proximity sensor customers.


“We are delighted with the acquisition and the opportunity to benefit from the broad technological spectrum, highly qualified personnel, and strong market position of Siemens, particularly in the field of ultrasonic sensors,” says Dr. Gunther Kegel, CEO of Pepperl+Fuchs GmbH.


“Pepperl+Fuchs is recognized as a worldwide specialist in the field of electronic sensors and components for factory automation, and offers the best foundation for further developing Siemens binary sensor technology business,” says Hans-Georg Kumpfmüller, CEO, Business Unit Sensors and Communication, Siemens Industry Automation.


About Siemens Industry Automation Division

The Siemens Industry Automation Division (Nuremberg, Germany) is a worldwide leader in the fields of automation systems, industrial controls, and industrial software. Its portfolio ranges from standard products for the manufacturing and process industries to solutions for whole industrial sectors that encompass the automation of entire automobile production facilities and chemical plants. As a leading software supplier, Industry Automation optimizes the entire value added chain of manufacturers – from product design and development to production, sales and a wide range of maintenance services. With approximately 39,000 employees worldwide, Siemens Industry Automation achieved sales of US $9.5 billion in fiscal year 2009.


About Pepperl+Fuchs

A family-owned company, Pepperl+Fuchs GmbH (Mannheim) is a leading manufacturer of industrial sensor technology for factory automation applications. The company’s factory automation solutions include a robust family of proximity sensors, photoelectric sensors, position feedback systems, rotary encoders, RFID systems, industrial vision systems, AS-Interface networking solutions, barcode and camera systems, logic control units, quick-disconnect cordsets and receptacles, as well as safety sensors and ergonomic safety press actuators.


Named one of the Top 50 Global Automation Companies by Control magazine and the ARC Advisory Group, Pepperl+Fuchs is also a world leader in the design, manufacture, application, and support of a broad range of robust solutions for varied process automation markets and applications. Pepperl+Fuchs is the market leader for intrinsic safety interfaces and hazardous location equipment, and also specializes in fieldbus, HART interfacing, purge and pressurization, surge suppression, power supplies, remote I/O, signal conditioning, industrial HMI displays and interfaces, electromechanical equipment, level sensing, and corrosion monitoring solutions. In 2009 the company had 3,750 employees around the world, with global sales of US $409 million.


Tel.: 330.486.0001, Fax: 330.405.4710, www.pepperl-fuchs.us, fa-info@us.pepperl-fuchs.com



Thursday, March 11, 2010

Schneider Electric Harmony Biometric Fingerprint Switch

Utilizing fingerprint recognition technology, Harmony™ Biometric Switch by Schneider Electric is the only industrial switch of its kind to authorize users for operator or equipment usage. As a viable alternative to combat the weaknesses of the other access control systems, the switch provides simple, reliable and efficient operation to restrict access to sensitive zones and machine functions (starting, adjustment, maintenance, etc.) to only authorized personnel, which is essential in industrial environments.

Advanced access control using fingerprint recognition technology means increased security for your employees, machines and systems, plus lower operating and administrative costs.

Schneider Electric Technical Datasheets

Steven Engineering YouTube Channel

Schneider Electric Harmony Spring Clamp Contact Blocks

Harmony Spring Clamp Contacts are fully compatible with XB4/XB5 22mm push buttons and maximize installation simplicity, providing secure connections with excellent vibration resistance.

All Harmony spring clamp contacts conform to CE marking and IEC/EN standards, and are manufactured in conformity with the requirements of the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) European Directive.

The new Spring Clamp contacts are so intuitive that its not necessary to have any instructions. Mount in complete confidence thanks to a strong snap and the lever position which provides visual indication of a secure connection. With its new design, the Schneider Electric Spring Clamp is the only Contact Block and on the market that is wired without the use of a tool! The spring clamp products reduce wiring time by 66% compared to screw clamps.

Vibration, temperature cycling, and settling of strands may cause a screw clamp connection to be checked and re-tightened to insure a secure connection. Harmony spring clamp contacts maintain their clamping force despite vibration, temperature cycling, and settling of strands.

Schneider Electric Technical Datasheets

Steven Engineering YouTube Channel

Schneider Electric Harmony XVC Tower Lights and XVR Rotating Mirror Beacons

The new Schneider Electric line of Harmony XVC Tower Lights offer pre-wired, one piece con struction with five color combinations and integrated buzzer options in 40mm, 60mm and 100mm diameters. The entire XVC range meets IP54 (NEMA 12 and 3R) degree of protection. Save installation time and money with the pre-wired, color coded, one piece construction con figuration and eliminate the need to select and wire individual colored lenses, buzzers and lamps.

XVR Rotating Mirror Beacons are available in 12 Volt and 24 Volt versions in a variety of long-life LED colors including red, orange, green and blue. All XVR products are pre-wired from the factory for time-saving installation. All devices are IP23 (similar to NEMA Type 1 general pur pose rating) and many devices can be upgraded to IP65 (similar to NEMA Type 4 watertight and dust-tight rating) with optional rubber base.

Schneider Electric Technical Datasheets

Steven Engineering YouTube Channel

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Turck LI-Q25 Linear Position Sensors


TURCK’s new LI-Q25 series linear position sensors replace magnetostrictive and potentiometer devices to deliver precise, repeatable measurements in metal processing machines, rolling mills or injection molding machines. Unlike magnetostrictive or magnetic inductive position sensors, LI-Q25 sensors do not require a magnetic positioning device; thus, they are unaffected by metal debris. The sensors provide up to 1 μm resolution and can achieve measuring ranges between 100 and 1,000 mm with analog voltage/current, SSI or I/O Link outputs.


The linear position sensor has emitter and receiver coil systems, precisely placed onto a printed circuit board, that are activated with a high frequency AC field and produce an inductive RLC circuit with the positioning element (resonator). As a result, the resonator is inductively coupled with the receiver coils. The receiver coils are arranged in a pattern so that different voltages are induced into the coils depending on the position of the resonator. These voltages serve as a measure for the sensor signal.


To increase the speed and accuracy of measurement, the sensor has a course and a fine measuring coil system that is microprocessor controlled. An integrated processor provides an output signal in different formats: 0 to 10 V, 4 to 20 mA, IO-Link or SSI.


The linear position sensor has extremely short blind zones of only 29 mm on each side, along with a wide temperature range of -25 to 70°C, and the option to program the sensor for different measuring ranges.



Turck LI-Q25 Linear Position Sensors


Turck Technical Datasheets

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Phoenix Contact Terminal Blocks with Push-In Technology



New terminal blocks from Phoenix Contact use push-in technology to reduce insertion forces by 50 percent compared with other spring-technology products.

The modular Push-In Technology terminal blocks are easy to operate and reduce fatigue. They are ideal for installations with limited space or hard-to-access wiring. Available in a 2.5 mm² cross section, the Push-In Technology series accepts ferrules between 22 AWG and 14 AWG. The orange actuation button opens the spring to the maximum wiring space of 14 AWG, resulting in fast, easy-to-access wiring and touch-proof safety. The universal button is compatible with any type of tool, even a pen.