Industrial connectivity lab opened for 5G, RTLS testing and more

Siemens' Industrial Connectivity Lab offers testing of any connectivity solution in industrial environments including 5G, real-time localization systems (RTLS) and more.

More answers on how to digitalize an OT-data infrastructure

Answers on how to digitalize the operational technology data infrastructure expand upon material presented in a March 28 webcast, archived for a year.

6G providing sensing and communicating fusion for manufacturers

6G wireless could be around by 2028 at the earliest according to an IDTechEx report and it has many potential benefits for consumers and manufacturers

Wireless updates: LoRa Alliance LoRaWAN standard, 6G challenges

In separate wireless developments, LoRa Alliance discussed progress of the LoRaWAN standard and many organizations are sorting out challenges of 6G wireless band selection and technologies.

Mechanism-enabled, reconfigurable antennas facilitate future wireless technology

Researchers create complaint mechanism-enabled arms that bend in a predictable way without the use of hinges or bearings.

How wireless TSN can be a common foundation for innovation

Standards and implementation for Wi-Fi and 5G support time-sensitive networking. Table compares industrial wireless and wireless TSN capabilities.

A guide to wireless antenna selection

It is important wireless transmissions are reliable regardless of situation. A five-step plan for effective antenna selection is highlighted.

Meeting smart factories’ evolving needs with wireless technology

Smart factories are tough environments for wireless communication technologies, but Wi-Fi continues to evolve to meet users’ requirements.

Wireless technology benefits for industrial applications

The technical improvements in both 5G and Wi-Fi 6 make wireless technology an even more appealing choice for industrial applications.

NSF grants support future of wireless

Rice University researchers received three grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) as part of a larger effort to make wireless systems more intelligent and resilient.

5G communications drive process industry digitalization

5G is emerging as an advanced wireless technology for industrial process requirements and can provide better on-site support in harsh conditions and better connect devices and machines.

Three ways to build reliable wireless communications for AGVs

When building AGVs and AS/RS systems, there are three factors machine OEMs and system integrators should be aware of.

Enabling 5G wireless communication through beam management

Novel beam management practices for 5G wireless technology are being developed to provide a reliable solution for mmWave communication.

Project designed to enhance wireless system resilience

Texas A&M project aims to advance the resiliency of next-generation wireless and mobile communication, networking, sensing and computing systems.

Wireless protocol supports end-to-end IPv6

LoRaWAN now seamlessly supports Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) from end-to-end, which will increase its applicability for smart buildings, manufacturing and more.

Implementing small and energy-efficient field sensors

IO-Link is a standardized technology that regulates how sensors and actuators in industrial systems interact with a controller.

Secure remote access via public 5G network

There is a lot of potential for 5G for industrial applications where remote access to distance equipment is required.

Wireless instrumentation communication propels plant processes

Using Bluetooth, WirelessHART and cloud connections, plants and facilities are leveraging increased process and diagnostic data to enhance operational efficiency and decrease downtime.

Product advice: How remote process monitoring, alerts save time, money

An industrial wireless input/output (I/O) device connected to process sensors, customizable thresholds and remote monitoring accomplish more with less, according to a company with a Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice Award product.

Product advice: How cloud and edge coordinate, thrive in the IIoT era

With efficient cloud and edge coordination, edge devices provide a better understanding of what’s going on in the field, work efficiently and deliver a better user experience, according to a company with a Control Engineering Engineers’ Choice Award product. See four steps toward a cloud and edge Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystem.

How industrial 5G supports the metallurgical industry

Industrial wireless using 5G provides real-time communication between an airborne control system and a remote-control center, for automated operation of the stacker reclaimer, reducing the safety risk and the labor cost.

Aligning manufacturing with 5G capabilities: What to know

5G can help manufacturers realize a smarter factory with some adjustments and patience to realize its full potential. See three ways 5G can help manufacturing.

Antenna system, metamaterial research receives grant

The creation of advanced electromagnetic and optical metamaterials could enhance military, security and wireless communications applications.

Maximizing 5G through virtual product development

Advanced simulation is the key to designing safe, stable and cost-effective 5G devices, implementations.

5G loss measurement for manufacturers

5G has many potential benefits for manufacturers, but there are technical limitations such as line of sight, orientation and path loss that need to be measured.

Wireless connectivity trends and considerations

Well-engineered design, which takes into account the physical environment, safety and security can help make wireless control the new normal in factories and plants around the globe.

Connecting wireless applications effectively

IO-Link wireless and 5G can offer many benefits for industrial manufacturing applications.

Selecting the right wireless sensor network

Selecting a wireless sensor network that can meet the demands of a process manufacturing application is critical.

UWB sensor for IIoT applications

The X-Tag is a UWB-sensor designed for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications and be used in production and logistics applications.

Exploring industrial wireless best practices: More answers

Learn more on industrial wireless, including wireless sensors, wireless reliability and wireless technology selection.

Increasing speed, reliability of wireless communications

Developing millimeter wave communication technologies could improve the speed, latency and reliability of wireless communications.

Light curtain operation is easier with wireless communications

Bluetooth interface helps with setup and operation of a safety rated light curtain.

Wireless technology benefits for manufacturing

There are many potential benefits to using wireless technology in manufacturing, but users need to be aware of standards and potential challenges.

Four best practices for industrial wireless LANs

Deployments and optimal operation of industrial wireless local area networks (LANs) require attention to site survey, lifecycle management, cybersecurity and collaboration. Need to optimize existing industrial wireless networks?

RFID improves precision and efficiency in automobile production

Radio frequency identification (RFID) uses wireless sensors to passively tag objects with digital information, such as production codes, bill of material lists, and other key identifiers, and applications are helping automobile manufacturing.

Cost-effective explosion protection for industrial wireless networks

Wireless Ethernet in hazardous areas is on the rise with integration of explosion-proof enclosures for wireless devices.

Indoor cell site trials to extend 5G coverage completed

Indoor cell sites are a critical step in developing private 5G networks.

Extending TSN capabilities over 5G and other wireless networks

Time-sensitive networking (TSN) has gained more attention from manufacturers as capabilities like 5G become more accessible. Benefits include faster communications, better mobility and high reliability.

5G wireless for industrial use: Six answers

Industrial communications is adding 5G to wireless protocols used. Get answers about 5G progress, 5G benefits, 5G adoption challenges and 5G standard.

What industrial wireless network should I use?

Are your industrial wireless local area networks up to date? Industrial communications are taking another leap forward with IEEE 802.11ax and 5G wireless technologies. Be sure to evaluate the status of industrial wireless LAN (iWLAN) technologies.

What is radio frequency identification? What can RFID products do?

RFID wireless communication technologies enable many applications across industries include identification and access; people, asset and product tracking; safety and machine tools, among others.

Industrial wireless selection and implementation

Industrial wireless networks require a lot of planning and preparation because there are many elements that can hamper or interfere with manufacturing operations.

Wireless real-time communication via light

Fraunhofer IPMS has combined Li-Fi and time-sensitive networking (TSN) to enable real-time and deterministic data transmission wirelessly.

Using energy harvesting, radio technologies to power wireless sensors

Gathering data from wireless sensors is critical in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) era; using energy harvesting and radio frequency identification (RFID) can provide peace of mind for operators who don’t have to worry about batteries.

Defining the details of a wireless network installation

When starting to design a wireless network, it is important to define the who, what, when, where, and why of the installation, and what each aspect means for a company and those involved.

Choose the right industrial wireless technologies for condition monitoring

Wireless sensors can help discover maintenance issues with machines before they happen and give users access to real-time information. See four methods and four steps.

Using Wi-Fi sonar to measure indoor movement speed and distance

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a technique for measuring speed and distance in indoor environments called Wi-Fi-assisted inertial odometry (WIO), which could be used to improve navigation technologies for robots and drones.

The network the oil & gas industry needs

The case for private wireless, mission-critical communications networks.

Wireless monitoring saves hours on each well workover

Requirement for I&E tech to be onsite for well workovers reduced from five hours to 15 minutes.

Multi-source agreement formed to target high-speed optical connectivity applications

The Open Eye Consortium announced the establishment of its multi-source agreement (MSA) outlining its mission to standardize advanced specifications for lower latency.

Wireless low-power IIoT sensor networks differentiated

Mesh networks and low-power WANs are for different IIoT use cases and installation settings.

Annual semiconductor sales hit highest mark since 2008

The SEMI Silicon Manufacturing Group (SMG) reported silicon wafer sales went over the $10 billion mark for the first time since 2008.

Applicability of wireless technology for manufacturing

Wireless manufacturing applications include machine-to-human and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. Can wireless applications augment your manufacturing productivity or that of your customers?

Wireless for operations: proprietary versus standards; adopters versus laggards

Wireless networks are part and parcel of many process plants with many advantages. Adoption continues to increase and are being used for many applications.

This is the one

Imagine the best automation, control, and instrumentation product.Out of thousands of products covered in Control Engineering during year 2000—in print, online, in electronic newsletters—our editors picked 40. The 14th annual Control Engineering Editors' Choice Award winners appear on the next few pages, with more information in the online version at www.

Self-organizing versus managed industrial wireless networks

ISA 100.11a and WirelessHART standards reflect contrasting attitudes toward network management and these standards impact operational effectiveness.

Time-sensitive networking’s benefits for the IIoT and manufacturing

Technology Update: Time-sensitive networking (TSN) is moving from the idea stage to deterministic networking and the result of widespread adoption will lead to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

More RFID is used in more applications

Inside Machines: Radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies are being applied in more applications. Considerations include distance speed, and data transfer rate when selecting technologies.

The impacts of frequency and antenna selection for free-space radar transmitters

Accuracy of free-space radar transmitters depends on frequency, beam angle, antenna configuration, and installation.

Networking used to improve superconducting magnet

The world's largest and most powerful particle smasher large hadron collider (LHC) at CERN has restarted circulating beams of protons and it uses a lot of CANopen networks to control the high-energy physical experiments.

Top 5 Control Engineering articles May 29 to June 4: Future IIoT systems, Salary and Career Survey, IIoT’s potential, more

Articles about the future of IIoT systems, the 2017 Salary and Career Survey, IIoT's potential for maintenance, and manufacturers not embracing IIoT were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from May 22-28. Miss something? You can catch up here.

Series of radio heads for transceiver system

National Instruments' (NI) series of 28 GHz radio heads for the mmWave Transceiver System creates a commercially available full transceiver that covers a spectrum from 27.5 GHz to 29.5 GHz.

The changing landscape for buyers and investors in growing technology markets

Due to controls and automation and Internet of Things (IoT) markets growing, buyers and investors are taking advantage.

The evolution of data center infrastructure in North America

Data centers have become increasingly important under the Industrial Internet of Things revolution. What are the most crucial considerations for the IT infrastructure of a data center?

Network integration enables Industrial Internet of Things

Control Engineering International: It’s easier to implement Industrial Internet of Things applications with network integration, data collection, visualization, and analysis, according to a Control Engineering China interview.

Serial converter for wireless connectivity

EZAutomation's EZWifi is a serial-to-wifi converter that is designed to connect a device to a computer wirelessly for applications where connectivity might be restricted in area where the user will require access to the network.

Wireless process sensing and monitoring solutions industrial applications

Wireless Industrial Networks' (WIN) wireless process sensing and condition-based monitoring solutions are designed for the industrial, factory and commercial markets.

Take a step-by-step approach to Industrie 4.0

Companies that a take a pragmatic step-by-step approach to Industrie 4.0 are the most likely to realize its potential benefits for their operations.

Control software for monitoring and adjusting control loops

Schneider Electric's EcoStruxture Control Advisor is an enterprise-wide IIoT plant performance and control optimization software is designed to optimize the real-time efficiency of the process throughout the plant lifecycle and to contribute directly to improved business performance.

Company announces expansion of consulting practice with focus on IoT, Industrie 4.0

CIMdata announced the expansion of its manufacturing systems engineering (MSE) consulting practice and will concentrate emerging technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrie 4.0 practices, to achieve the factory of the future goals.

IoT expected to grow, create unique value for companies in 2017

The Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to grow rapidly in 2017 and innovation is driving new models and consolidation amongst companies, according to a report by IHS Markit.

IIoT reference architecture receives update

The Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC) announced the publication of version 1.8 of the Industrial Internet Reference Architecture (IIRA), which incorporates rapidly emerging Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies, concepts, and applications.

Six ways to prepare for Industrie 4.0 and what companies should expect

The fourth industrial revolution, Industrie 4.0, is changing how manufacturing produces items and the social, technological, and environmental changes in our world are also having a major impact on mass production and customization. Companies looking to take advantage of Industrie 4.0 should start with six basic actions that are highlighted.

Automotive company to test self-driving cars in Europe in 2017

Ford announced they will be testing self-driving cars across Europen in 2017 as a recent survey by the company indicated greater optimism about autonomous vehicles among consumers.

Data acquisition and control system modules for industrial applications

Dataforth’s MAQ-DIV20/MAQ-DIVC20 and the MAQ20-DODC20SK data acquisition and control system modules are designed for a wide range of industrial applications and include features such as continuous field input/output (I/O) protection and integral PID control in the system software.

Group launches universal language for the Internet of Things

The zigbee alliance's dotdot is a universal language for the Internet of Things (IoT) and is designed to make smart objects work together on any network and improve connectivity on the supply chain.

Five tips to modernize industrial network architectures

Optimize an industrial network design and stay ahead of potential future challenges by deploying a modern network architecture and following certain design tips.

What is Ethernet’s role in industrial Internet?

Applications demand sensible migration path and robust network.

How IIoT happened at Hirotec

Tactical engagements support a strategy to make better use of data.

Promoting smart factory benefits, in manufacturing and in products

Control Engineering International: Benefits of the smart factory, cyber-physical system, China Manufacturing 2025 all point to the integration of industrial and information technologies. Delta-Cimic Electronics Co. Ltd. explains smart factory benefits, in an interview with Control Engineering China.

How to implement wireless sensor networks for difficult industrial settings

Pairing low-power wide area network (LPWAN) and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) networks allows the enterprise Internet of Things (EIoT) to connect wirelessly to remote locations.

Best practices to help with multiplatform system integration

Ease a multiplatform system integration process by doing vendor research, having a common network, and upgrading legacy equipment.

Innovation framework and business strategies for IIoT published

The Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC) published the Business Strategy and Innovation Framework (BSIF), which is designed to help enterprises to identify and analyze issues to capitalize on the opportunities emerging within the IIoT.

Industrial connectivity platform with IIoT capabilities

Product Exclusive: Kepware’s KEPServerEX Version 6 is an industrial connectivity platform designed to work with the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and features streamlined server deployment and integrated security to meet the needs of globally connected and standardized environments.

Groups agree to collaborate on expanding IIoT

The Industrial Internet Consortium (IIC) announced it will collaborate with the IoT Acceleration Consortium (ITAC) to further the development of Internet of Things (IoT).

Industrial Ethernet infrastructure component sales projected to rebound in 2017

IHS estimates industrial Ethernet infrastructure component sales will fall to 4.5%, 2015 to 2016, but the market will improve for 2017 and beyond.

Technology and engineering-based program for reducing operational losses launched

Emerson's Operational Certainty is a technology and engineering-based program designed to help industrial companies achieve top performance and recover more than $1 trillion in operational losses globally.

Manufacturers using Big Data to navigate today’s business climate

A recent survey of 200 manufacturing executives found that more companies are relying on Big Data for their business, though some remain skeptical of the benefits it can provide.

Implementing cloud connectivity for IoT and Industrie 4.0

As information technology and automation technology continue to converge, cloud-based communication and data services are increasingly used in industrial automation projects. Compatible I/O components compatible with Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) enable easy-to-configure and seamless integration into public and private cloud applications.

Infrastructure-as-a-service for HMI and SCADA applications

Schneider Electric's Wonderware Online InStudio is an infrastructure-as-a-service designed to provision, develop, test, and maintain human-machine interface (HMI) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) applications.

Industrial security appliance for plant-floor systems

The Allen-Bradley Stratix 5950 security appliance from Rockwell Automation is designed to incorporate security technologies to help protect plant-floor systems.

Weatherproof access point for harsh outdoor environments

Moxa's AWK-4131A-US-T outdoor industrial AP/bridge/client features an IP68-rated weatherproof housing and is designed for installation in railways, bridges and marinas, and critical industrial applications.

Synchronous serial interface for telemetry, WAN connectivity

Sealevel's 5104e low profile PCI express (PCIe) synchronous serial interface is designed for serial applications such as radar, telemetry and wide area network (WAN) connectivity.

Tips on determining what is IT, OT

Engineering and IT Insight: Companies looking to determine what are information technology (IT) organizations and operations technology (OT) organizations should be focused on what the systems do rather than what they are to solve potential conflicts. See related article topic: IT, OT teams need to work together.

Industrial automation cables for signal and control equipment

Molex has launched a series of Flamar industrial automation cables designed for signal and control equipment and networking applications.

Prima Frutta Linden cherry packing facility: Project and installation technology details

Project and product details follow in a major Industrial Automation Group (IAG) and Prima Frutta upgrade to Prima Frutta’s Linden cherry packing facility. Questions and answers cover controllers, sensors, actuators, Ethernet, wireless, timeline, and advice.

Connector series for wireless applications

Amphenol RF's 4.3-10 series of connectors and adapters are designed for wireless applications requiring low passive intermodulation (PIM) and are IP67-compliant.

Company announces CEO transition plan

National Instruments (NI) announced that its board of directors has elected Alex Davern to serve as chief executive officer (CEO) and president of National Instruments. He will be replacing Dr. James Truchard, who will remain as chairman of the board.

Updated networking program for improved IoT connectivity

Kepware Technologies KEPServerEX version 5.21 software upgrade is designed to extend the connectivity options available within KEPServerEX and introduces the ThingWorx native client interface, a fully-integrated solution designed to provide rapid connection to industrial things.

Organization hosts plugfest to test controllers, devices

PI North America's Profinet plugfest in Ann Arbor, Mich., was attended by thirty-five engineers from 13 companies, who brought six controllers and 30 input/output (I/O) devices to the plugfest, which was designed to evaluate and test the products in a large network.

Failsafe IO modules for simplified controller configuration

Siemens' Simatic ET 200MP failsafe input/output (I/O) modules are designed to simplify S7 1500 controller distributed configuration

MIMO application framework for 5G prototyping

National Instruments' LabVIEW multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) Application Framework is designed to enable researchers to build both traditional MIMO and massive MIMO prototypes for wireless applications working on 5G prototyping.

Digital pattern instrument and editor for semiconductor test systems

National Instruments' NI PXIe-6570 digital pattern instrument and NI digital pattern editor are designed for manufacturers of RFICs, MEMS devices, and mixed-signal integrated circuits (ICs) from the closed architectures of conventional semiconductor automated test equipment (ATE).

Wi-Fi access points/clients for harsh environments

Advantech’s EKI-6331AN and EKI-6332GN are two Wi-Fi access points/clients that are designed for a range of environments that require 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz channels.

Wireless power transmitter for industrial, medical applications

Texas Instruments' (TI) bq501210 wireless power transmitter provides strong efficiency and reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) for personal electronics, medical, and space-constrained industrial applications.

Module for Enterprise Internet of Things projects

Laird's BL652 module is designed for Enterprise Internet of Things (EIoT) applications such as industrial or commercial settings, medical peripherals, and sensors and beacons.

Manufacturing operations management maturity starts when drama ends

Engineering and IT Insight: MESA International’s Manufacturing Operations Management Capability Maturity Model (MOM-CMM) is designed to improve operational processes by evaluating how the people involved in operations handle normal and abnormal situations in a variety of settings.

Agreements reached for global adoption of field device integration technology

FieldComm Group announced a series of agreements, contracts, standards and events to accelerate global adoption of field device integration (FDI) technology.

PLC designed for leveraging the IIoT for process applications

Honeywell Process Solutions' (HPS) ControlEdge programmable logic controller (PLC) uses OPC UA protocol and built-in cybersecurity for smooth integration to a range of instruments, equipment, and software from multiple vendors.

China Industry Internet Conference 2016

Control Engineering China and Plant Engineering China are hosting an IIoT conference in Shenzhen on June 30.

Process data object re-mapping procedures

Process data object (PDO) mapping is an essential feature of CANopen that describes which individual process variables in the data field of a PDO is transmitted. CiA 301, in particular, requires a dedicated re-mapping procedure.

Industrial big data: Core competiveness of manufacturing enterprises in the future

At the Big Data and Intelligent Manufacturing Salon held in Changsha, China, experts from various disciplines discussed how industrial big data will shape future manufacturing and bring new services that focus on customization and commercial needs.

Gateway for motion control applications

Leine and Linde's CANOpen gateway allows rotary or linear absolute position data to be accessed by CANOpen motion control resources.

Companies collaborate on putting the IoT into aircraft engines

Microsoft is collaborating with Rolls-Royce to put the Internet of Things (IoT) into aircraft engines to extend its digital capabilities for supporting existing and next-generation intelligent engines.

Multi-function terminal for IO measurement applications

Beckhoff's EL3751 EtherCAT Terminal is a high-precision input/output (I/O) for measurement applications designed to provide high-end measurement technology as part of the standard I/O system.

Rittal to add Ethernet connectivity to enclosure cooling

Taking another step toward Industrie 4.0.

Building a services company through the cloud and IIoT

GE Digital CEO Bill Ruh talked about how the company has formulated its own digital strategy with the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and how business is becoming driven by operational expenditures (OPEX) rather than capital expenditures (CAPEX).

Plug-in IO modules with EtherCAT technology

Beckhoff's EJ7xxx-series of EtherCAT plug-in I/O modules are designed to provide an efficient wiring solution for machines built in large and medium-sized production runs.

Advanced manufacturing facility opens in Florida

GE opened its $60 million Capacitor and Instrument Transformer Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Clearwater, Fla, which will use digital technology and the Industrial Internet to improve efficiency and production.

Serial EtherNet/IP linking device

HMS Industrial Networks' serial EtherNet/IP linking device allows users to connect any serial device and can automation devices with a serial RS-232/422/485 application interface in an EtherNet/IP-based network architecture.

Embedded board for medical, industrial automation applications

Adlink's AmITX-BW-I is a Mini-ITX embedded board designed to fulfill requirements for medical, and industrial automation applications that are running in limited-space environments.

IoT gateway starter kit for end-to-end data service

Advantech's IoT Gateway Starter is designed to provide end-to-end data service, as well as a quick path to Internet of Things (IoT) innovation. It includes a ready-to-run system, IoT server-side software and platform service, a software development kit, technical support service, and Microsoft Azure service certification and integration.

Modules added to programmable controller series

AutomationDirect has introduced additional modules to the Productivity series of programmable controller products: the P3-550E CPU, P2-RS remote slave expansion, and the 16-bit P2-08NTC thermistor module

Data kit for connecting operations to the IIoT

Moxa's 4G LTE Jump Start Kit is designed to connect operations to the IIoT and features a data logger with built-in 4G LTE communications and a Modbus gateway and an I/O module to collect analog and digital sensor data.

Touch panel PC and HMI series with IoT technology

American Industrial Systems, Inc. (AIS) Industrial Touch Panel PCs and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) come pre-loaded with Microsoft Windows 10 Internet of Things (IoT) enterprise technology and are designed for industrial applications.

Protocol software for audio/video, time-sensitive synchronization networks

HMS Industrial Networks' Ixxat IEEE 1588 has protocol software for IEEE 802.1AS that is designed to provide highly accurate time synchronization of audio/video broadcasting (AVB) and time-sensitive networking (TSN).

Manufacturing software development: Bigger is not always better

Manufacturing and IT insight: More lines of code in a software development project do not mean that a project will be successful; there is more to effective software development than just a sophisticated programming package. Software tools without proper programming training for the right people only lead to major headaches down the road for everyone.

Industrial networking technologies add value to existing infrastructure

Today’s Web-enabled, data-centric world is full of new technology that can be used to connect things in new ways and share information across previously uncrossable boundaries.

Network interface cards for automotive, material handling applications

Molex's SST DN4 DeviceNet PCIe Network Interface Cards (NICs) are designed for automotive and semiconductor automation devices and material handling equipment applications.

Use IIoT to improve operations

Data analytics for IIoT: More data is just more data. Data analysis software is the key to extracting insights and creating value from the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) opportunities in production facilities. See two implementation examples and the four needs of data analytics.

RS-485 transceiver series for industrial automation applications

The Max14853/MAX14855 and Max14943/MAX14949 family of integrated RS-485 transceivers from Maxim Integrated are designed to provide high efficiency and communication for industrial automation applications.

Wi-Fi module for IoT applications

u-blox's Lily-W1 single band 802.11n 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi transceiver module is designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications such as telematics control units, drive recorders, and logistics or point of sales equipment.

USB adapter for hazardous and aggressive environments

EAO Corporation's Series 84 USB 3.0 adapter and optional IP65 cover is designed to implement connectivity to a computer, server or a network in applications that need to be protected from elements in hazardous and aggressive environments.

Quantified benefits of Industrial Internet of Things implementations

Automation experts already have been implementing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) architectures for years, prior to calling it IIoT; benefits of digital manufacturing including less downtime, fewer defects, energy savings, and more new product introductions, as explained by Douglas Bellin, Cisco Systems Inc., at the A3 Business Forum, the day after the Cisco spent $1.4 billion for a cloud-based service company, Jasper Technologies Inc.

Industrial wireless controller for IIoT applications

Banner Engineering's Sure Cross DXM100 industrial wireless controller is designed to facilitate communications for Ethernet connectivity or Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.

Cloud communication portfolio for IIoT applications

Hilscher's netIOT Industrial Cloud Communications portfolio is designed for users looking to take advantage of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and encompasses three product segments.

Top 5 Control Engineering articles, January 25-31: Motor and drive efficiency, Microsoft Windows 10, more

Articles about motors, drives and HVAC efficiency; Microsoft Windows 10; data historians and the cloud; and choosing to repair, replace, or retrofit were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from January 25-31. Miss something? You can catch up here.

IO breakout boards for simplified wiring

Opto 22's SNAP-UDC-HDB-G4 breakout board provides 32-point SNAP digital I/O modules with fused outputs and isolated inputs and the compact SNAP-UDC-HDB board saves panel space and simplifies field wiring.

Using wireless for closed-loop applications

When considering wireless for control applications, including it in the system design early can prevent surprises during or after installation.

Changing from made to created in China

Control Engineering China conducted an in-depth interview with Aldous Wong, vice president and general manager Greater China of HPS, on how to help Chinese process industry achieve a successful transformation from “Made in China” to “Created in China.”

Remote data acquisition devices with Wi-Fi support

Moxa's ioLogik 2542-WL1 and 2512-WL1 remote data acquisition devices are designed to support Ethernet, serial and WLAN interfaces for Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applications.

Internet of Things alliance group launched

Kepware's IoT Alliance program is composed of a strategic network of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions providers that will also focus on shaping the direction of the industry through smart technology, thought leadership, and marketing initiatives.

Dual-channel networking compatible module

Tews Technologies' TXMC888 is a switched mezzanine card (XMC) compatible module designed for transportation, communications, and process control applications.

Separate HMI and I/O systems are more flexible

HMI and I/O systems offer more options when purchased separately, rather than in an all-in-one product.

How to deploy smart HMIs as communication hubs

Smart human-machine interfaces (HMIs) can securely tie servers, controllers, and input/output (I/O) devices together, inside and outside the plant. There are many differences between embedded and PC-based HMIs and it is important to know them to find the right fit for a particular system.

PLC series with IoT, telematics connectivity

Divelbiss' P-Series Bear Bones Family of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) programmable logic controllers (PLC) is designed to interface serial bus protocols, logging system data, and add Internet of Things (IoT) and telematics capability to existing systems.

Windows 10: Upgrade or not?

Microsoft introduced Windows 10, but should industrial institutions consider an upgrade? Here is a quick analysis.

Automation Fair promotes connected enterprise

The keynote presentation by Kris Dornan at the Rockwell Automation Fair stressed the connected enterprise concept.

Industrial networking company acquired

Advantech announced that it entered into an agreement, to acquire B+B SmartWorx Inc., a privately-held company based in Ottawa, Ill., for $99.85 million as they look to enhance their business reach in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.

How IIoT improves operations: Impact of OPC UA

The Industrial Internet of things (IIoT) will change many aspects in manufacturing as well as the rest of the industries of the world, including how we conduct day-to-day life. Managing asset models is one of the parts of the industry that is already adopting the change the IIoT brings with it.

Modbus gateways for control rooms, data centers

Moxa's MGate MB3660 series of redundant Modbus gateways are designed to address the management of multiple devices in control rooms and data centers and allows administrators to establish communications with large numbers of new or existing RTU and ASCII serial devices across an Ethernet network.

Wireless-based corrosion monitoring system

Emerson Process Management’s Roxar corrosion monitoring system is designed to optimize production processes and features technology that can detect internal corrosion at the pipe wall for enhanced safety.

Developments in wireless communication for industrial use

Recently the wireless industry has seen new advances in Wi-Fi-enabled devices in the commercial space. New features to improve throughput are becoming standard for many commercial devices.

EC: WISE-4000 Series

Network Integration I/O - Ethernet, wireless: The Wise IoT I/O modules allow connectivity to both IT applications via RESTful API in JSON format and control applications via the Modbus/TCP protocol. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Honorable Mention.

EC: APR-3100N

Network Integration - Wireless products: The APR-3100N is an industrial 802.11a/b/g/n wireless AP/VPN/router. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: EJ Series EtherCAT I/O System

Network Integration I/O - Ethernet, wireless: EtherCAT plug-in modules from the new Beckhoff EJ series offer a highly efficient I/O solution to implement platform concepts in medium- and large-scale machine production. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: ER series EtherCAT box I/O

Network Integration I/O - Ethernet, wireless: Robust ER series EtherCAT box I/O modules feature die-cast zinc housings that provide exceptional performance in severe environmental conditions, such as the heavy-duty and automotive industries or in robotics. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: Cisco Industrial Wireless 3700 series

Network Integration - Wireless products: The Cisco IW3700 Series provides advanced 802.11ac (up-to 1.3 Gbps) wireless mesh networking in a compact form factor. It is qualified for extreme industrial environments and specifically designed for rail, transportation, mining, manufacturing, and outdoor applications. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.

EC: Digi XLR PRO

Network Integration - Wireless products: The Digi XLR PRO is a high performance, long-range 900 MHz radio that offers reliable wireless communications for serial and Ethernet devices over long distances. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: WaveContact

Network Integration I/O - Ethernet, wireless: WaveContact solves challenging requirements of process automation, monitoring and control by providing highly capable Class 1, Division 1 wireless I/O and data logging and aggregation. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: ioLogik 2542-HSPA-T I/O module

Network Integration I/O - Ethernet, wireless: Moxa's ioLogik 2542-HSPA-T is a smart, compact, and rugged I/O module that makes it easy and cost-effective to monitor analog and discrete inputs in harsh environments over an HSPA connection. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Awards Winner.

EC: UC-8112-T-LX wireless gateway

Network Integration - Wireless products: The UC-8112-T-LX is a compact Linux-based programmable wireless gateway featuring Verizon 4G LTE certification and a 1-GHz ARMv7 processor for remote data logging, wireless routing, protocol conversion, and other industrial automation applications. This is a Control Engineering 2016 Engineers’ Choice Honorable Mention.

Internet of Things specification released

The Open Interconnect Consortium Inc. (OIC) announced the public availability of its candidate Internet of Things (IoT) specification, which is a cloud-native architecture for the IoT documented in a formal specification that can be implemented in a variety of ways.

OEM controllers with IoT and telematics connectivity

Divelbiss Corp.’s VB-2XXX base OEM controllers with IoT and telematics connectivity, flexibility for interfacing to and controlling equipment, communicating with various serial bus protocols, and logging system data.

HMI series with Ethernet connectivity and internal router

Automated Control and Monitouch's V9 series of human-machine interface (HMI) screens are designed to provide information for automation applications and has an internal VPN router that is designed to enable communication to any device that is connected via Ethernet.

IO module for local wireless control

SignalFire's Multi Input/Output (MIO) Module is designed to connect directly via Modbus with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or be configured to perform autonomous local control where an input can trigger a relay output when a set threshold is met.

What kind of fieldbus is needed for Industry 4.0?

High connectivity and powerful communication capacity are necessary between equipment and servers to realize the dream of connecting smart manufacturing with all things. Fieldbus foundations are seeking new ways to adapt the new needs of the industry.

Made in China 2025: Chinese government aims at Industry 4.0 implementation

The “Made in China 2025” plan, known as the Chinese version of “Industry 4.0,” was printed and distributed by the State Council, symbolizing the government’s ambition to implement the concept. The plan proposes four measurements to assess the industry’s maturity in Industry 4.0, including creativity, quality benefit, integration of industrialization, and information and green development.

WLAN design preparation and needs analysis

A client’s needs and requirements for designing a wireless local area network (WLAN) should not be overlooked; performing a needs analysis will allow the designer to manage the client’s expectations and avoid misunderstandings and liability.

Touch panel HMI with communication protocol support

Phoenix Contact's TP 3000 series of human-machine interface (HMI) operator panel has software that supports many communication protocols, such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and OPC DA.

WLAN design basics and wireless network considerations

Designing a reliable, secure, and available wireless network requires considering many factors. Rational planning and design, based on a thorough preliminary evaluation, can ensure that a wireless local area network (WLAN) will work the first time and allow ease of expansion without disruption.

Bluetooth bar code scanner, RFID reader, machine vision software

Jadak's HS-2R Bluetooth bar code scanner, FM-5Z RFID reader, and Clarity machine vision software are designed to help original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) solve health care scanning, inspection, and tracking challenges. The scanner can be integrated with robotic systems.

Wireless bridge with redundancy protection

Moxa's AWK-3131A wireless AP/bridge/client is designed for harsh industrial settings and features AeroLink Protection redundancy, which is designed to prevent a single point of failure from bringing down an entire network.

Wireless test solution for manufacturing

National Instruments' Wireless Test System (WTS) is designed to lower the cost of high-volume wireless manufacturing test and multiply throughput on the production floor and allows manufacturers to improve instrument utilization when testing multiple devices in parallel.

Seven best practices for wireless cyber security

A good, solid understanding of effective cyber security is needed to protect information in a world where wireless communications are standard can have long-reaching effects on a personal and professional level. Note the following seven tips for wireless cyber security and link to more details on each.

IEEE 802.11ah, energy efficiency, extended battery life for wireless devices

Wireless tutorial: The addition of power saving algorithms to the IEEE 802.11ah standard is designed to allow associated devices to run for weeks or even years without a battery replacement. The standard specifies traffic information map (TIM) and non-TIM as two modes of power saving.

Wi-Fi standard designed for large-scale sensor, IoT applications

The IEEE’s new sub GHz Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ah, is designed for large-scale sensor and Internet of Things (IoT) applications and is designed for large areas containing a vast number of client devices that typically rely on battery power and low bandwidth applications such as sensor networks.

Industry 4.0 group looking to expand influence

Platform Industrie 4.0 is looking to broaden the understanding that Industry 4.0 needs to be understood as a project for society. The group is planning to create close alliances with various associations in the public and private sector, as well as with the general populous, to bring greater awareness of what the digital economy can do for Germany.

Wireless transmitter implementation: Design aspects

How to select wireless transmitters: With the advances in wireless technologies and development of communication standards, battery shelf life, ease of installation, and reliable maintenance, increased data use is attracting many customers in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) business.

Ask Control Engineering: How can I get the most value out of the next automation project?

Site poll suggests how to realize automation’s untapped potential for projects. Replacing old automation technology with new technology performing the exact same functions rarely provides the business value improvements necessary to justify the investment. Automation, properly applied, is the best value a company can make.

DC current clamp meter series

Fluke's a3003 FC Wireless DC Current Clamp and a3004 FC Wireless DC 4-20 mA Current Clamp have been added to Fluke Connect's system of wireless test tools and can send measurements to Fluke Connect-enabled master units as well as the mobile app.

How to best design an HMI system

A proper interface between a machine and its human operator greatly impacts efficiency and ease of use and should promote a harmonized connection between the two. This tutorial provides guidance on how to best build that connection though a human-machine interface (HMI).

Top 5 Control Engineering articles, May 25-31: HMI-historian integration, Salary and career survey, controller selection criteria, more

Articles about HMI-historian integration, the Control Engineering salary and career survey, controller selection criteria, HMI-historian integration benefits, and platform-based tools overcoming the IIoT’s complexity were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from last week, May 25-31. Miss something? You can catch up here.

Analog/digital IO system for industrial applications

Sensoray's model 826 multifunction analog/digital I/O system is designed for industrial measurement and control, motor control, and data acquisition applications.

Connect multi-touch industrial displays with 100 m of cable

Beckhoff Automation's CP-Link 4 is a connection technology that enables up to 100 m cable runs for industrial multi-touch displays that use a wide range of screen sizes and formats and connection options and requires no special software or drivers.

Industrial switch for network bandwidth situations

Rockwell Automation's Allen-Bradley Stratix 5400 switch is an all-gigabit option designed to help manufacturers achieve higher network speeds for high bandwidth applications and supports Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing.

Mobile app platform updates include email notification, simulated tag database, low-cost enhancements

Opto 22's groov 3.0 is an update to the platform with added features like email event notifications, enhancements to the interface development environment, and options to select the platform most suitable for the user.

Profile measurement for web solution applications

Honeywell Process Solutions' (HPS) ZipLine Scanning Measurement Device is a self-contained scanning measurement device designed to provide high-speed measurement of flat sheets.

Data recorder and Ethernet switch for harsh environments

HBM Inc.'s CX23-R data recorder and the EX23-R Ethernet switch make the SomatXR data acquisition system are can operate at temperatures as low as -40 C and as high as +80 C.

Long range wireless access points for Ethernet and serial communications

Weidmuller's two licensed frequency data modems that offer long-range communications and features that provide dynamic network optimization and intelligent routing for high reliability and deterministic power management.

Integrating wireless into an industrial Ethernet application: Questions and answers

Control Engineering archived webcast on the topic of integrating wireless into an industrial Ethernet application (also the February cover story) had many audience questions, more than time would allow. Answers that follow including the following topics: wireless product details, wireless network design, and wireless security. Also link to the archived webcast, industrial wireless tutorials, and the February wireless cover story.

Robust control starts with robust mechanics

During the design process it is imperative to relay the sensory requirements to the mechanical designers to ensure consistent, accurate, error-free control of our automated equipment.

Conformance and interoperability testing

Compatibility is just a marketing term. Testing of conformity is nice to have, but customers are more interested in interoperability. With CAN controllers, different test plan implementations can lead to different results. CiA and other consortia organize so-called plug-fests, where prototypes and just released devices are tested on interoperability.

Enabling industrial Ethernet on existing wiring

Product Exclusive: PCN Technology’s InterMax addresses the repurposing of Profibus, Modbus, Data Highway, and Blue Hose serial networks and is designed to be installed between IP automation equipment and existing serial wiring to turn the copper wire into an industrial Ethernet network.

Case studies: Wireless remote monitoring

Application Update: Two case studies examine using wireless communications to connect a flowmeter to a control system at the Wards Island Water Pollution Control Plant and to connect emergency showers at two Monroe County Pure Waters facilities. Online extra: Hear the March 10 webcast (archived): Integrating wireless into an industrial Ethernet application.

Gateway enables M-bus measuring devices to be monitored

HMS Industrial Networks' Anybus M-Bus to Modbus TCP gateway is designed to decode data from measuring devices to be monitored from Modbus-TCP networks.

Wireless Bluetooth transmitter for measuring sensor inputs

Omega's UWBT series is designed to measure different sensor inputs (such as thermocouple, RTD, relative humidity, and pH) and transmit the data to the user's smartphone or tablet via wireless Bluetooth communication.

Vibration meter designed to share data in real-time

Fluke's 805 FC Vibration Meter is a portable multifunction screening tool that can share data via Fluke Connect and is designed for frontline mechanical troubleshooting teams that need reliable and repeatable measurements.

Quality of service in wireless communication

A means of prioritizing voice and video data to address latency issues and provide good quality of service (QoS) is needed when transmitting voice or video data over a wireless medium.

Carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance

Carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) is the term for the several methods used in WLANs to avoid collisions, which uses distributed control function (DCF), the mandatory access method in IEEE 802.11 communications.

In-chassis Profibus interface

ProSoft Technology's Profibus DPV1 master and slave modules are an in-chassis Profibus interface designed to reduce configuration and start-up time and can scan the Profibus network.

FieldComm Group collaborates on Foundation fieldbus, HART technologies, FDI

Post-merger planning of the Fieldbus Foundation and HART Communication Foundation organizations focuses on reassuring members and users that support and investments in both communications technologies will continued and that the board, working group committees, and end-user council will balance interests of HART, FF, and FDI for devices, systems, and interface suppliers.

2015 Engineers’ Choice Award Winners Announced

A total of 26 winners and 27 honorable mentions were named for the 2015 Engineers' Choice Awards, which were voted on by Control Engineering's print and digital audience.

Carrier sense multiple access with collision detection

Wireless tutorial: Carrier sense multiple access with collision detection (CSMA/CD) is a logical and temporary connection used in wired networks to allow two transmitting stations to achieve error-free communication across the shared medium.

Industrial automation company establishes office in U.S.

Kyland Technology, which specializes industrial communication and automation, announced the addition of Kyland Corporation, its Americas office, which will be based in Golden, Colorado.

Industrial wireless field units: 12 criteria for an effective technology choice

Industrial plants across the world continuously strive to improve their efficiency, enhance the quality of their products, and extend the lifetime of their installations. These 12 criteria will help you choose the best matched wireless technology to boost efficiency, increase resources, and reduce cost.

9 ways to avoid crisis upgrades to automation IT

Engineering and IT Insight: No one may want to claim support for old automation or IT systems. When systems are old and without support, documentation, or labels, it may become a matter of: If you touch IT, you own IT. See 9 practical ways to avoid crisis upgrades.

Microwave/RF assembly calculator for PCs, tablets, smartphones

Gore's Microwave/RF Assembly Calculator is designed to calculate insertion loss, VSWR, and other parameters for different cable types and features an online interface that can be used on PCs, tablets and smartphones.

A/D and D/A converter offers high sampling rates

VadaTech's FMC225 is a FPGA Mezzanine Card (FMC) that is both an A/D and D/A converter targeted towards radar, LTE/Broadband communications systems, ATE, physics, and video/broadcast requirements.

Communications interface option for CNC systems

NUM Corporation's NUMConnect is a communication interface option that complies with the open MT Connect interoperability standard and is designed to be fitted to new or existing systems and simplify the integration of CNC machine tools.

Industrial networking manufacturer changes company name, adds global partner ecosystem

B&B Electronics has changed its company name to B+B SmartWorx to reflect a continued investment in Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and has launched its Connected Intelligence Global Partner Ecosystem for the IoT landscape.

Medium arbitration helps prevent wireless interference

Industrial wireless tutorial: Medium arbitration, or medium contention, is the collection of methods used to ensure that all users can use the medium in a shared manner without interference. Understand these concepts to prevent wireless interference.

DC/DC converter series has digital controls

Murata Power Solutions' OKDx-T/50 series of 50 Amp digitally controlled point-of-load (PoL) DC-DC converters that are designed for telecommunications, wireless infrastructure, and data networking equipment.

Modulation techniques

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Modulation is the process by which the bits comprising the transmitted data are converted to the voltage levels that will be mixed with the carrier, amplified, and sent to the antenna; it is a conversion and mixing of raw data with a carrier wave that is oscillating at the channel center frequency.

Characteristics of IEEE 802.11n and 802.11ac deliver same performance for one quarter the cost of wired systems

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: IEEE 802.11n and the newest amendment, 802.11ac, are viable contenders for the future of networking due to their speed and reliability. Wireless technology can achieve the same results for about 25% of the cost and provide speed, reliability, and increased range of coverage over comparable wired systems.

Understanding modulation and coding schemes

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Modulation and coding schemes (MCS) are used to determine the data rate of a wireless connection using high-throughput orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (HT-OFDM).

Improve PLC and DCS programming with a mental model

Engineering and IT Insight: Develop a mental model to address real-time programming, which differs from web development or classical programming. Base real-time programmable logic controller (PLC) and distributed control system (DCS) programs on models of functional programming, encapsulation, hierarchy decomposition, and petri nets. Do not accept unstructured and poorly designed PLC and DCS code.

Travelling wave UHF antenna creates RFID reading zone

Harting's Ha-VIS Locfield travelling wave UHF antenna is designed to to create a passive RFID reading zone with one antenna for warehousing, logistics, transportation, and other manufacturing applications.

Receptacles and panel adaptors added to code connectors

Harting's complementary code components—straight and angled PCB receptacles and M12-to-RJ45 panel adaptors as well as an M12 gender changer have been added to the har-speed M12 X-Code connectors to facilitate Gigabit Ethernet installations in machine and plant automation.

Trends in system integration

Four system integration experts offer their insights on manufacturing and what lies ahead for the industry. System integrators are vital to sustaining growth in manufacturing.

Wireless adaptor allows instruments to act as ISA100 wireless devices

Yokogawa’s multi-function wireless adaptor is mounted on a wired device that transmits/receives digital ON/OFF signals or receives 4–20 mA analog signals, which enables it to function as an ISA100 Wireless device.

Wireless bridge series expanded, can replace cabling

HMS Industrial Networks' Anybus Wireless Bridge series has been expanded to include industrial Ethernet over WLAN, industrial Ethernet over Bluetooth, and serial over Bluetooth.

OFDM: Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: OFDM is not actually a spread spectrum technology; it is a specialized form of multiplexing. OFDM multiplexes data onto 52 orthogonal subcarriers using one of several modulation techniques.

Multi-purpose Modbus scanner

Precision Digital's Vantageview PD6730X Modbus Scanner is a rugged, NEMA 4X/IP65 Modbus master, slave, or snooper designed for accurate display of and quick access to information, locally or remotely, in wet or dirty environments.

MIMO and spatial multiplexing

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Multiple in, multiple out (MIMO) is a technology taking advantage of an wireless access point's (AP's) multiple radio arrangement to use multipath and increase system reliability and performance.

Propagation revisited: Wireless multipath

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Multipath occurs when a radio frequency (RF) signal travels over many different paths between the transmitter and receiver, arriving at different times at the receiver, which is a particular problem for WLANs. Know the 4 signal conditions of multipath.

Plant floor visual management system

Red Lion's ProducTVity Station is a plant floor visual management system that displays KPI data and andon messages for factory floors, processing plants, or any place where performance needs to be tracked and monitored.

WLAN architectures

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Data planes in a wireless network allow designers to properly design and specify a WLAN using the segregation of roles as a framework by which the several different network topologies are implemented.

Wireless AP/bridge/client for industrial users

Moxa's AWK-3191 is a 900 MHz wireless access point/bridge/client designed to support data rates of up to 54 Mbps and distances up to 30 km line-of-sight for industrial users in harsh industrial conditions.

Using Internet of Things in pharmaceutical packing

IoT technology standards, adoption will drive its potential. John Kowal, the director of business development at B+R Automation, argues that the technology already is in place.

The management, control, and data planes

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Data planes in a wireless network allow designers to properly design and specify a WLAN using the segregation of roles as a framework by which the several different network topologies are implemented.

Industrial Modbus gateway expands network connectivity

The Matrikon Industrial UA Modbus Gateway is a native Modbus communicator that can connect to any device that uses the Modbus protocol over serial or Ethernet connections on one side and makes it available to OPC UA clients on the other via OPC UA over Ethernet.

More Wi-Fi terms and definitions

Industrial wireless tutorials: We've recently received correspondence asking about several terms that were left out of our previous article dealing with Wi-Fi terms. Following are several terms for which a definition was specifically requested by a reader. Thanks for writing in.

Wireless optimizer for noisy industrial environments

nCap Technologies’ WiFi Optimizer helps solve the challenge of consistent wireless in the noisy industrial environment and uses a proprietary algorithm that monitors the packet flow in and out of the device and makes signal quality adjustments in real time.

EC: TPC-1582H touch panel computer

Hardware — HMI, Operator Interface, Thin-client: The TPC-1582H touch panel computer is the first to use Intel's 4th generation core i3 processor and comes with Advantech iDoor technology. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: Controller p300

Machine & Embedded Control — PLCs: The Controller p300 combines logic and visualization in a compact device and is ideally suited to machine applications which only require a low processing power—designed for simple to medium complexity control and visualization solutions This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: MachineStruxure controllers

Machine & Embedded Control — PLCs: MachineStruxure is a comprehensive suite of compact logic-based controllers designed to reduce cost, optimize design time, and enable faster time to market. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

EC: STF-401C series converter

Network Integration — Network Hardware: The STF-401C series is an industrial compact RS-232/422/485 serial to fiber media converter. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: MGate 5105-MB-EIP

Network Integration — Network Hardware: The MGate 5105-MB-EIP is a compact DIN-rail mount Industrial Ethernet Gateway that provides bi-directional data exchange between EtherNet/IP and Modbus (TCP and ASCII/RTU) devices and equipment. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

EC: EP1816-3008 EtherCAT Box

Network Integration — Signal Conditioning, Diagnostics: The EP1816-3008 EtherCAT Box from Beckhoff Automation is a feature-packed I/O solution with built-in tilt monitoring in longitudinal and transverse directions. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: MINI Pro signal conditioners

Network Integration — Signal Conditioning, Diagnostics: Phoenix Contact's 6-mm MINI Pro analog signal conditioners provide easy installation for converting, isolating, filtering or amplifying analog signals, while requiring up to 65% less space than traditional signal conditioners. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

EC: Sinusfilter Plus++

Network Integration — Signal Conditioning, Diagnostics: The Sinusfilter Plus++ output filters are designed for common-mode, high-frequency interference. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: Wzzard Intelligent Sensing Platform

Network Integration — Wireless Products: B&B Electronics' Wzzard is an easy to use, complete wireless sensor connectivity platform featuring edge decision-making which transcends the traditional SCADA data reporting model and instead enables more efficient, intelligent, reliable and scalable IoT networking. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: AWK-1131A-US 802.11a/b/g/n industrial wireless AP/client

Network Integration — Wireless Products: The brand new AWK-1131A is a tiny but mighty 802.11a/b/g/n wireless access point and client with the ability to support speeds of up to 300 Mbps, while still maintaining a compact, rugged form factor. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: Radioline wireless platform

Network Integration — Wireless Products: Phoenix Contact's Radioline wireless platform offers wire replacement for simple I/O and serial communication, without the use of software. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: Industrial Cellular Gateway

Network Integration — Wireless Products: ProSoft Technology’s Industrial Cellular Gateway not only gives users the ability to monitor remote devices and equipment; it also integrates with EtherNet/IP-based PLCs/PACs by supplying information such as data usage and signal strength. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: Allen-Bradley Stratix 5100 wireless access point

Network Integration — Wireless Products: The Stratix 5100 wireless access point can function as a work group bridge that connects multiple IP addresses simultaneously, offering access to more detailed production data, increasing productivity, and efficiency on the plant floor. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

Architecture of the Industrial IoT: Questions and Answers

The Architecture of the Industrial IoT webcast with Mike Fahrion, B&B Electronics director IoT product and strategy, had extra questions beyond those answered verbally and recorded in the now-archived webcast. Answers follow on industrial Internet of things topics including industrial network size, IPv6, cooperation between IT and operations, and security, among others.

Top 5 Control Engineering articles, September 29 to October 5: Open- and closed-loop controls, Wi-Fi terms and definitions, state-based control advantages, more

Articles about open- vs. closed-loop control, Wi-Fi terms and definitions, four advantages of state-based controls, nano sensors, and wireless propagation fundamentals were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from last week, September 29 to October 5. Were you out last week? Miss something? You can catch up here.

WLAN devices

Industrial wireless tutorials: WLAN devices are generally classified as being either infrastructure or client devices, and understanding how access points work and what their purpose is regardless of your WLAN device is important when working from a fixed or mobile location.

Direct replacements for wireless transmitter series

Adaptive Wireless Solutions (AWS) has released a line of industrial wireless transmitters that are intended to be a direct replacement to the Honeywell XYR5000 wireless family, which are designed for process automation applications.

Wi-Fi acronyms, wireless buzzwords, WLAN nomenclature, wireless terms

Industrial wireless tutorials: WLANs (wireless local area networks) have a language, an “alphabet soup” of acronyms and buzzwords designed to facilitate deeper discussions of the technology used. Learning the industrial wireless language (wireless glossary of terms) helps in understanding wireless technologies.

Wi-Fi and the OSI model

Industrial wireless tutorials: The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a conceptual model used to organize the various functions of data communications by segregating the distinct functions into a seven-layer model from the Physical layer. Learn how the OSI model relates to industrial wireless communications.

Communication groups approve merger

The HART Communication Foundation and Fieldbus Foundation have approved the merger proposed by their respective boards and will become a single entity called FieldComm Group starting January 1, 2015.

Hybrid circular connector for signals, data, power

The M23 hybrid circular connector by Phoenix Contact transmits signals, data and power and has a centrally located protective earth (PE) ground as well as four power contacts and four signal contacts.

New day for wireless control

Technology Update: Wireless control technology will be available to more users than previously. With this simple, secure, reliable wireless control solution, it’s a new day for process operations.

Wi-Fi standards

Industrial wireless tutorials: Understand the IEEE Wi-Fi standards, what each standard provides, benefits of standardization, and Wi-Fi Alliance device certification.

Wireless propagation fundamentals

Industrial wireless tutorials: Understanding wireless propagation fundamentals will help you understand what can happen to a wireless signal and how that can influence wireless signal reliability. See 6 diagrams to illustrate wireless propagation. Learn the 4 results of multipath.

Radio math

Industrial wireless tutorials: Learn how to determine a link budget, that is, how much power is needed to effectively transmit data over a reliable radio link. See the decibel (dBm) and milliwatt (mW) conversion table.

CAN and the Internet of Things

To bring CAN nodes into the IoT world, we need to make them talking to other things.

Technology and services inside High Roller Observation Wheel communications

Technology and services update on engineering the communications for the project includes more diagrams, more application and project details, and a list of Moxa communication equipment used, from the engineering experts involved. See related application update article.

World’s tallest observation wheel: industrial communications

Case study: The world’s tallest observation wheel, the 55-story High Roller in Las Vegas, leverages industrial wireless and self-healing fiber-optic networking equipment for position tracking and control. No ordinary Ferris wheel, High Roller is part of a $550 million complex and can carry 40 people per cabin in the 30 minute ride, more than 2200 passengers per hour. Engineering design experts involved included leaders from theme park, bridge-building, gondola, and civil engineering industries. See related technology and services update article with diagrams.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules integration

Laird's 45 series Wi-Fi modules and BT830 series Bluetooth modules can be integrated for enterprise security and roaming.

Deploying a reliable physical infrastructure for process

The Internet of Things (IoT) is changing the plant floor in radical ways, and companies are learning they need to put together a viable physical infrastructure. One metal processing company realized this and implemented a structured and engineered approach to ensure its investments for its short- and long-term future. See advice from that case study; learn more in a webcast.

Refrigerator magnets: wireless cooling

New theory predicts magnets may act as wireless cooling agents, according to MIT researchers.

Antenna basics, antenna types, antenna functions

Industrial wireless tutorials: What you need to know about industrial antennas, antenna functions, and antenna capabilities.

Wireless dual band radio for access point, client, bridge, repeater

Antaira Technologies' APN-320N(-T) simultaneous dual band radio incorporates two independent radios and can be set up to operate as either an access point, client, bridge, or repeater.

Two industrial communication boards agree to unify

The Fieldbus Foundation board and the HART Communication foundation board have agreed to support merging to create a new industry organization and will complete the membership ballot by the end of summer 2014.

Industrial wireless serial device servers have bridge mode and Wi-Fi for easy setup

Product Exclusive: Antaira Technologies introduces new advanced industrial wireless serial device servers. The new Antaira STW-600C series provides serial to wireless Networking and more advanced technologies, such as bridge mode and Wi-Fi direct.

Wireless pulse data logger for sensors

Omega Engineering's OM-CP-RFPULSE2000A is a wireless data logger that records pulse output signals from sensors like flow meters and anemometers and has a digital display that shows the recorded data in real time.

Wi-Fi Spectrum: ISM, U-NII, FCC Rules

Industrial wireless tutorials, Wi-Fi explanation: Wi-Fi is part of the 12 industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands. Newer Wi-Fi standards allow for the bonding of multiple channels to allow up to 160 MHz wide channel combinations for faster data rates, multiple transceivers, and a theoretical throughput of up to 7 GBPS when the latest ratified Wi-Fi amendment, IEEE 802.11ac, is fully implemented.

Vertical antenna line is omnidirectional, IP67 rated

Laird's Ultra Phantom low profile vertical antenna product line is an omnidirectional low profile UHF antenna designed that is IP67 rated, allowing it to operate in challenging environments and harsh conditions.

Comparative modulation: Spread spectrum modulation terms and definitions for wireless networking

Industrial wireless tutorials: Modulation is, simply put, a mixing of the carrier wave with the data to be transmitted; analog or digital signals are combined with a carrier producing a hybrid signal, which is then demodulated at the receiver. This is the underlying theory behind all modulation-demodulation schemes. See the terms and definitions for related wireless networking acronyms.

Radio frequency basics

Industrial wireless tutorials: Any radio frequency (RF) discussion quickly expands to the entire technology surrounding the generation and propagation of a radio signal or wave. Here’s what you need to know.

Wireless temperature transmitter and adapter

Moore Industries' THZ WirelessHART Temperature solution is designed to transmit critical temperature and HART diagnostic information in challenging and harsh conditions.

Energy harvesting for Internet of things

Wireless energy harvesting technology opens market for devices communicating on the Internet of things (IoT), and product lifecycle maintenance (PLM) helps it grow.

What is wireless?

Industrial wireless tutorials: Wireless communication, unlike wired, relies an unbounded medium to transfer information. Wireless local area networks (WLANs) use electromagnetic radiation to transmit information between nodes without wires (a bounded, physical medium).

Wireless for stationary applications: Answers to webcast questions

Daniel E. Capano answers some Control Engineering wireless webcast questions below that the June 10 webcast didn’t have time to address at the end.

Industrial network assessments

Industrial network assessments, tips, and advice: Is your legacy industrial network infrastructure ready for Ethernet, wireless, mobility, and other demands of today and tomorrow? Take this 4-question assessment, see 8 cabling issues, heed 3 implementation steps, avoid these pitfalls, and get help, if needed.

When secure data matters, use this modular industrial connectivity device

Product Exclusive: eWon introduces the Flexy, what it calls “the first modular and flexible industrial connectivity device featuring extension cards.” With the eWon Flexy, it is possible to build the connectivity solution needed for each application and project. The base module allows four extension cards for many connectivity options: Ethernet/Serial/MPI, WAN, Wi-Fi, Dialup, 3G and 4G.

Serial communication boards with RS485 technology

Moxa's PCI Express x1 serial cards the CP-116E-A, CP-118E-A-I, and CP-138E-A-I, are designed to work with RS-485 technology and are compatible with Windows, Linux, and Unix operating systems.

The wireless revolution

Industrial Wireless Tutorials: Everything will be connected to everything else, wirelessly. Ethernet began wirelessly, and the Internet of things will benefit from wireless expansion, especially IEEE 802.11 wireless standards. The wireless spectrum is worth billions of dollars and will help create even more value. See related webcast.

Top 5 Control Engineering articles, June 2-8

Articles about programming PLCs, smart I/O systems vs. fieldbus networks, programming in motion, things noncontrol people should know about control engineers, and centralized controls were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from last week, June 2-8. Were you out last week? Miss something? You can catch up here.

How to integrate new with legacy wireless systems: 4 considerations

Old to new wireless network integration: Blending the traditional with the new in an increasingly wireless world requires careful attention to capabilities of old wireless technologies and new wireless technologies, such as 4G LTE, upgraded Wi-Fi, and low-energy Bluetooth. While wireless upgrades add capabilities, a well monitoring site application shows that no wireless technology is yet the best, or the most cost effective, for every purpose.

Industrial-grade IP gateway for connecting Ethernet, serial devices to cellular networks

Moxa's OnCell G3111-HSPA IP Gateway is a 3G communication device suitable for mission-critical wireless applications. It has technology to provide stable cellular connectivity to make it easy to manage and monitor remote devices.

Developments to watch: Will one super network end Ethernet wars?

Could the IEEE Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) effort unify industrial networks and fractured Ethernet communications? If it succeeds, it could boost productivity significantly to refocus time, effort, and resources on more productive things.

Point-to-point preconfigured wireless outdoor bridge

The APX-120N5 by Antaira is a point-to-point preconfigured pair of units designed for rapid deployment in wireless bridge applications and features an IP67 waterproof housing and an adjustable antenna elevation.

Goodbye Windows XP; Hello IsXP?

Microsoft Windows XP support ends April 8. What happens April 9? Three things to remember. NEW: Updated with answers to reader feedback on April 14.

Industrial cellular gateway for secure wireless Ethernet

The ICX30-HWC by Prosoft Technology is designed to deliver secure wireless Ethernet and serial connectivity to remote devices and equipment over 3G cellular service including PLCs, DCS systems, and communication towers.

Interconnecting devices, Internet-wide

Control Engineering International: “Our mission is interconnecting devices throughout the Internet,” announced eWon, a Belgium company, in an interview by Control Engineering Czech Republic.

Improve remote HMI and OIT access

Mobile HMI: Smartphones and tablets combined with industrial software can improve remote access to human machine interfaces (HMIs) and operator interface terminals (OITs). Mobile workers demand remote access solutions optimized for smartphones and tablets. Fortunately, there’s an app for that.

Touch screen interface panels have 800 MHz CPUs, 50,000 hr backlights

AutomationDirect's EA9 series operator touch panels are equipped with 800 MHz CPUs, 64k colors, and 50,000-hr backlights and three serial ports as well as an Ethernet 10/100BaseT port.

Apps for Engineers: File preview apps for iOS and Android

CFE Media’s Apps for Engineers is an interactive directory of more than 170 engineering-related applications for Android and iOS, created by various companies. We’ve organized apps by category, company, and type. This month, gain access to our file preview category.

Wireless server series

Advantech's EKI-1361 and EKI-1362 wireless device servers are designed for use in areas where signal strength and reliability may be affected and use MIMO 2x2 technology to transmit two signals simultaneously.

Getting to interoperable automation and controls

ExxonMobil is working with automation suppliers, incorporating standards, delivering interoperability, and lowering costs. You should do the same. Virtualization can help.

Connectivity of things: Wireless for the last 100 m of IoT

Internet of things (IoT) has huge potential for wireless as 90% of the market will be in the last 100 meters, according to some estimates. Which wireless technologies suit what applications?

Apps for Engineers: Vision apps for iOS and Android

CFE Media’s Apps for Engineers is an interactive directory of more than 170 engineering-related applications for Android and iOS, created by various companies. We’ve organized apps by category, company, and type. This month, gain access to our vision category.

Are Microsoft technologies still best for process control systems?

Engineering and IT Insight: Process control architects and designers are questioning the 15-year wisdom that you cannot go wrong by picking the Microsoft environment for a process control system. See 6 critical requirements for process controls.

Apps for Engineers: Energy apps for iOS and Android

CFE Media’s Apps for Engineers is an interactive directory of more than 170 engineering-related applications for Android and iOS, created by various companies. We’ve organized apps by category, company, and type. This month, gain access to our energy category.

Industrial wireless network

Moxa's AWK-5232 Industrial a/b/g/n Wireless AP/Bridge/Client delivers high-speed wireless connectivity with up to 300 Mbps data rate and can be used as a drop-in solution for hard-to-wire deployments or a TCP/IP network.

Top 5 Control Engineering stories, Jan. 26-Feb. 1, 2014

Were you out last week? Miss something? Here are Control Engineering's five most clicked articles from last week, Jan. 26-Feb. 1, 2014, including articles about engineering customer service, wireless network security, solar-power devices, PLCs and PACs, and thermal PID loops.

Apps for Engineers: Parts and pricing, voltage measurements, mechanical formulas

CFE Media’s Apps for Engineers is an interactive directory of more than 170 engineering-related applications for Android and iOS operation systems, created by various companies. This month, gain access to a CTC controller, a parts and pricing app, wireless voltage measurements, and mechanical formulas.

Configuring control systems through wireless devices, remote I/O: With great power comes great responsibility

In the new world of wireless devices and remote I/O we have the power to create control configurations that use I/O and that are not physically connected to the controller running the control loops.

Ethernet case study advice: Take care with cabling and infrastructure, improve poor existing designs

A system integrator advises on the importance of correct cable installation and verification, Ethernet infrastructure design, and how to minimize the impact of an existing poorly designed network, based on three case study examples. See additional photos in webcast.

Apps for Engineers: Sound meter, friction calculator, mechanical basics

CFE Media’s Apps for Engineers is an interactive directory of more than 170 engineering-related applications for Android and iOS operation systems, created by various companies. This month, gain access to a sound meter, a friction calculator, a filter replacement app, and SCADA visualization.

Using licensed radio frequency bands for long-range wireless Ethernet

Eaton’s Elpro division releases wireless Ethernet modem using high-power licensed radio to send data over long distances.

Touchscreen paperless data recorder includes remote access capabilities

ABB's RVG200 paperless data recorder incorporates advanced features to give operators easy and secure access to process data for on-site operators, including secure remote data access from portable networked devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablet computers.

EC: Wireless Mesh I/O and Gateway

Network Integration - I/O systems: The WI/-I/O9-U2 is a wireless tranceiver and gateway with onboard I/O contacts than can be scaled to over a hundred points with built in meshing (self healing) and gateway functionality. This is a Control Engineering 2014 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: FL WLAN 5101

Network Integration - Wireless products: FL WLAN 5101 offers wireless networking at up to 300 Mbps via the 802.11n standard in a narrow, industrial package. This is a Control Engineering 2014 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: 802.11abgn Fast Industrial Hotspot

Network Integration - Wireless products: The 802.11abgn Fast Industrial Hotspot is an advanced, high-speed wireless Ethernet solution designed for critical manufacturing and process control systems. This is a Control Engineering 2014 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

PINA General Assembly looks ahead to growing industrial Ethernet deployments

Profibus Profinet North America discusses the future of industrial networking in its 2013 General Assembly. It isn’t a matter of how, but how soon Ethernet will be the primary method in process and discrete manufacturing environments, even the device level. Video: Carl Henning and Michael Bowne discuss messages from the event.

New sensor networks will measure business variables, not the process.

Emerson Process Management reckons a move to “pervasive sensing” will more than double the existing $16 billion measurement market by helping production facilities enhance site safety, reliability, energy efficiency, and more.

Leading industrial communication foundations discuss potential merger

The HART Communication Foundation and Fieldbus Foundation announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to discuss the benefits and industry impact of merging into one organization.

Industrial Ethernet gateways for upgrading or retrofitting

Moxa's MGate 5105-MB-EIP and MGate 5102-PBM-PN industrial Ethernet gateways are designed for transparent connectivity solutions and can automatically scan devices and have built-in Ethernet cascading.

Cellular M2M boom drives massive growth for value-added services market

Cellular M2M connections will drive the value-added services market to reach $10 billion by 2017 as interconnectivity between electronics objects continues to expand.

Wireless sensor with self-contained push button

Banner Engineering's SureCross Wireless Q45 Sensor Family has a self-contained push button for direct operator communication that can operate on a two-point, six-point, or multi-point system.

3.5G wireless connects remote devices, mobile equipment

Lantronix launches 3.5G wireless device for connecting remote devices and mobile equipment. High-speed cellular product provides industrial-grade intelligent gateway and Ethernet-to-cellular routing for rapid machine to machine (M2M) deployment.

Mobile communication modules for 3G, 4G, 4G LTE

The SEA 9751/9754 mobile communication modules by S.E.A. Datentechnik enable users monitoring and developing measurement systems to remotely access their application and have 3G and 4G speed, respectively.

IT vs. OT: Bridging the divide

Traditional IT is moving more onto the plant floor. OT will have to accept a greater level of integration. Is that a problem or an opportunity?

Radiating cables can solve tricky wireless communication

Leaky feeders can improve communication with moving devices and complex environments.

M2M Wi-Fi module

Lantronix's xPico Wi-Fi module is a compact, embedded wireless device server has simultaneous access point and client functionality and is optimized for easy and secure wireless functionality for M2M applications.

Remote mounted WiFi antenna

Electro Industries/GaugeTech's (EIG) ANT18769 is a remote, mounted wireless (WiFi) antenna that features a magnetic base and mounting for better line of site reception.

Combine old and new wireless industrial networks

Application update: Existing and emerging industrial standards can be used effectively for rugged industrial applications and other hostile environments. Volcano Eyjafjallajokull exploded, but the wireless monitoring network there survived. For extreme wireless performance, watch for IEEE 802.11ad, WiGig wireless, with 60 GHz, 7 Gbit/sec capabilities.

Ethernet adoption in process automation to double by 2016

Industrial Ethernet nodes in process industries are projected to rise to 8.7 million units in 2016, up a whopping 96% from 4.4 million in 2011. See chart.

Low-power wireless projected to make waves in remote controls

Approximately 450 million RF remote controls will ship between 2013 and 2018, with the percentage of RF remotes reaching up to 18 percent of all such devices by 2018.

Smart Factory 1.0 is helping China’s industry to upgrade

Control Engineering International: China’s “Smart Factory 1.0” proposes that domestic manufacturing equipment should provide digitization and networking, with the third generation of research and development, facilitating concept, innovation, virtual simulation, and rapid prototyping.

IEEE 802.11n wireless access points gain enhanced speed, functionality

New firmware provides Moxa's AWK-3131 and AWK-4131 models with improved throughput up to 150 Mbps, automatic backup configuration through Moxa's ABC-01 unit, auto-negotiation for 4-pin Ethernet cables, and other performance improvements.

ISA100 platform handles complex data packages from specialized devices via wireless

Honeywell Process Solutions uses tunneling within the protocol to carry proprietary data. Video: Soroush Amidi explains the latest developments with ISA100 and Honeywell’s OneWireless program.

Getting the basics right, first

Engineering and IT Insight: Proper infrastructure, policies, and procedures for manufacturing IT are critical groundwork before applying the latest technologies to manufacturing.

Industry prepares for the next industrial revolution

Automation companies share views on the fourth industrial revolution, Industry 4.0, according to Control Engineering Europe.

Specifications published on low power consumption radio technology

ETSI has published the first Technical Specification (TS 102 939-1) on DECT ULE (Ultra Low Energy), which is intended for home automation and other M2M applications.

Industrial wireless monitoring and sensing

Applying industrial wireless applications to monitoring and sensing can serve as a risk management policy. Strong communications address many challenges facility operators face during process transformations.

How to choose industrial wireless components

For industrial wireless networks, choosing the best accessories helps ensure a high-quality wireless network. Most problems in newly installed wireless networks result from poorly chosen or poor-quality accessories. Don’t make selection of wireless accessories an afterthought.

New wireless infrastructure and instrumentation platform

Yokogawa announces Wireless Anywhere to expand use of field wireless systems based on ISA100.11a.

Wireless technology tips from Control Engineering wireless webcast

More wireless technology tips and answers follow, resulting from feedback and questions submitted during a Control Engineering wireless webcast.

Biomass power plant deploys wireless instrumentation for predictive maintenance

Enomondo S.r.l. uses new field instruments to extend its visibility into a new boiler and complex fuel pre-treatment operation.

Research: Wireless use in industry

What wireless technologies are being used for industrial applications? IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, and wireless are widely used. More information is being gathered.

How sustainable is an industrial fieldbus infrastructure?

More industrial automation component vendors are offering Ethernet provision as standard on their devices.

Is HF or UHF industrial RFID better?

Identify the right RFID technology: Knowing the difference between HF and UHF is important for industrial applications.

Passive 6-port M12 junction box

The 6-port M12 passive junction box by Turck integrates multiple devices into a single unit. It has two discrete signals per port, allowing the unit to provide up to 12 discrete signals and has IP67-rated ingress protection.

Industrial wireless Ethernet network

The FL WLAN 5101 by Phoenix Contact has wireless networking up to 300 Mbps and uses Cluster Management (CM) technology to simplify network management.

Delegate named for communication standard group

Bill Conley was named by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) as a delegate for oneM2M, which is a group dedicated to ensuring global functionality for machine-to-machine (M2M) systems.

Talking to transmitters

I/O systems have to offer multiple communication options to accommodate different types of field sensors and transmitters.

Infinite wireless

Control Engineering International: Remote control, wireless instrumentation, wireless retrofits, and wireless power transmission technologies will increase the value of industrial wireless applications.

Automation budgets: more than automation

Think Again: When considering an automation, controls, or instrumentation project, look beyond the price of equipment, software, and networks toward many extended, often unquantified, benefits.

Ensuring industrial Ethernet performance, reliability

Reliability, bandwidth, and determinism continue to be critical performance concerns for industrial Ethernet users.

Combining wireless, photoelectric sensing technologies

Technology Update: Wireless and photoelectric sensing technologies have merged to create sensors without wires.

EC: UC-8481 Multiple-WAN Mobile Computing Platform

Hardware - Industrial PCs: The UC-8481 is an exceptionally flexible mobile computing platform capable of fusing Ethernet and serial-based terrestrial communication equipment with multiple wireless communication technologies like GPS, HSPA+ Cellular, 802.11 Wi-Fi, and specialized mPCIe radio cards. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.

EC: SPECTRE 3G Cellular Router

Network Integration - Wireless products: The rugged Spectre 3G cellular router wirelessly connects M2M equipment via the cellular telephone network where wired connections are impractical, wirelessly extending local M2M networks connected via Ethernet 10/100, RS232, RS422, RS485, or I/O connections. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice Award winner.

EC: GXM 2.4 GHz Global Transceiver Module (GXM-T)

Network Integration - Wireless products: Small form factor GXM-T wireless radio enables OEMs to leverage existing designs for international markets where 900 MHz spectrum is unavailable and has full ETSI, FCC, IC, RoHS and UL Class 1 division 2 Certifications. This is a Control Engineering 2013 Engineers' Choice finalist.

Moving information across an enterprise

When there is more and more data available, how does that get turned into useful information and distributed across an enterprise? Video: Ravi Gopinath explains strategies for enterprise control implementation.

Leader Under 40: Chris Ashworth

Sr. R+D Engineer, Wilson Electronics - AAS Pre-Engineering, Dixie State College; BS, Brigham Young University; MS, Brigham Young University

RTU use expands, must make full use of advantages

Control Engineering International: Use of remote terminal units began in the U.S. oil and gas industry in 1980s and has expanded to electricity, environmental protection, heating networks, water conservancy, and long-distance pipelines. It expanded into transportation, metallurgy, petro chemistry, logistics, and agriculture. Control Engineering China asks a Chinese expert about RTU trends.

Configurable cellular router

The Spectre 3G cellular router by B+B Electronics is designed to wirelessly connect for enterprise and industrial M2M communications and extends local networks connected via Ethernet.

Wireless gateway module for industrial wireless sensor network

Banner Engineering SureCross B2Q Gateway Module was developed to provide embeddable, dependable and cost-effective communication capabilities for the company’s Q45 wireless sensor network.

Cellular router connects Ethernet, remote LANs

Product Exclusive: Spectre 3G cellular router from B+B Electronics connects Ethernet equipment and remote LANs via the cellular telephone network, with secure Ethernet connections, for cable-challenged applications.

Cellular communications for industrial automation

Technology update: Cellular communications can help industrial automation, infrastructure, and systems management applications. As buildings and infrastructure applications add automation, they may use industrial wireless machine-to-machine (M2M) communications for remote, cost-effective monitoring and control of telemetry systems, sensors, cameras, industrial equipment, and other systems.

Where is all the wireless process instrumentation?

The catalog of native wireless instrumentation devices is still pretty thin. What’s holding this process back?

Multimode embedded wireless module uses 2 cellular standards

Sierra Wireless adds multimode HSPA+ and EV-DO module to the Sierra Wireless AirPrime SL Series. Using the AirPrime SL9090 embedded wireless module, customers can address multiple operator networks with one product.

Self-contained wireless photoelectric sensor

Banner Engineering SureCross Q45 is the world’s first self-contained, wireless standard photoelectric sensor designed for control and monitoring applications, the company said.

Wireless instrumentation deployments growing quickly

HART Communication Foundation reports that WirelessHART-installed networks exceed 8,000 at major manufacturing sites worldwide.

Wireless gateway equipped with native EtherNet/IP output

Emerson’s Smart Wireless gateway reduces the time and cost to establish a wireless field network with an EtherNet/IP PLC.

5 Best Ways to Extend Ethernet

For many applications of TCP/IP networking, the 100-meter range limit of copper Ethernet cable becomes a problem. With conversion and extension, networks can cover distances that are measured in kilometers.

Free online tool aids wireless instrumentation network planning

The Smart Wireless planning tool from Emerson helps users design a customized WirelessHART network.

Adapter adds WirelessHART capability to many wired instruments

Bullet adapter can be added to analog transmitters to increase communication options, including diagnostic data transmission.

Rapid migration to embedded SIM forecast for cellular M2M

Approaching 100 million embedded SIMs are forecast to be shipped for use in cellular machine-to-machine (M2M) communications in 2016.

Cellular Ethernet device, application server

PremierWave XC by Lantronix is designed for vertical markets and allows remote wireless access of almost any serial equipment or device.

New IEEE 802.11n industrial Wi-Fi access point

Product Exclusive: Technologies announces the upcoming release of the new APN-300N industrial wireless access point, with the newest 802.11n Wi-Fi standard to provide up to 300 Mbps throughput.

Implementing wireless solutions for industrial communication applications

Wireless technology has limitations, but like any technology, it is very powerful when properly applied. Consider these factors before implementing wireless devices, including power, response time, and range, among others.

Plant integration of wireless steam traps

Case study notes show how multiple vendors’ technologies enable successful wireless monitoring of steam traps.

Sensor-actuator wireless industrial network technologies

When deciding among wireless industrial networking technologies, remember that there are different kinds of wireless. For industrial applications, there are at least four, and two are compared in the radar graphic shown.

Industrial wireless for automobile manufacturing

Why and how are automobile manufacturing plants moving to wireless network technologies? Reasons include less cable failure, easier diagnostics and reconfiguration, and faster return on investment.

Harvested energy powers industrial automation sensor networks

Ultra-low-power radio frequency transceivers enable a new class of short-range industrial automation sensor networks powered by harvested energy.

Industrial Ethernet WLAN module

Weidmuller industrial Ethernet WLAN Access Point / Bridge / Client wireless connectivity device is IEEE 802.11a/b/g compatible.

Compact 90-degree hybrid microwave couplers

Hybrid microwave couplers from Krytar cover ultra broadband frequency from 1.4 GHz to 26.5 GHz.

Wireless LAN for industrial applications

Back to Basics: What are the differences between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless LAN in industrial applications?

Rugged cellular modems resist power surges

The M100CDMA cellular modem by Richardson RFPD is designed with a high voltage range and is resistant to power surges, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.

Industrial rugged Ethernet switch, many ports

The Octopus OS32 series by Belden adds Gigabit Ethernet via M12 ports and enable high data rates and reliable transmission via twisted pair cables for public transportation

8-way power dividers

Krytar's power dividers use proprietary design to produce matched-line directional dividers (MLDD) and can be manufactured to meet military specifications.

WiFi technology for industrial environments

Set up a wireless infrastructure to support a wireless mobile workforce. Here’s advice on industrial environments, challenges include environment, signal integrity, and protocol selection.

Hybrid microwave coupler

Krytar's hybrid coupler, model 3014320, is designed to split and combine signals in amplifiers, switch circuits, and antenna beam-forming networks in commercial and military applications.

Measurement suite for WLAN mobile devices

The PXI 3000 series has added 802.11ac support to strengthen its wireless communication strength for manufacturers who perform RF parametric tests.

Broadband signal analyzers

Scout, Hunter, and Explorer Signal Analyzers by Aeroflex cover a wide range of applications including communications signals for commercial, military and aerospace applications.

Wi-fi transmitters for harsh, rugged environments

The wSeries Wi-Fi sensors by Newport are designed for demanding industrial applications and harsh outdoor environments. They are powered by batteries or an AC power cable.

Wireless sensor system provides web-based monitoring

The zSeries by Newport provides Web-based monitoring for temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure in critical applications and can transmit up to 300 ft.

Industrial wireless bridge can use Power over Ethernet

The APX-3100 IEEE 802.11b/b/n wireless bridge from Aaxeon Technologies is IP67 rated and features a 600mW radio for faster communication and also features IEEE 802.3af PoE compatibility.

Industrial wireless: Field device mesh network 101

With wireless transmitters, there are no wires to troubleshoot. If designed properly, the data goes from the transducer to the control via multiple wireless paths. Here’s how wireless communication is handled between wireless field devices and the host application.

IEEE 802.22(WRAN) expected to help Internet of Things, Smart Grid in China

IEEE recently published the WRAN 802.22 Standard (Wireless Regional Area Networks), which could have deep impact within China, especially with Internet of Things (IOT) and Smart Grid.

Wireless access point gains wider access

Honeywell is offering a wireless Access Point from Cisco Systems to expand its industrial wireless products and services.

EC: LNP-602AGH-T 6-port industrial unmanaged PoE switch

Network integration – Ethernet hardware: The LNP-602AGH-T from Aaxeon Technologies is an industrial Ethernet switch with four PoE+ gigabit ports and two SFP ports that can provide up to 30 W of power to each injector port. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: SureCross Performance DX80 wireless I/O

Network integration – Wireless I/O: The SureCross Performance series is a long-range wireless I/O solution from Banner Engineering that can be powered by dc, solar, or battery options. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

EC: I/O Expansion device

Network integration - Wireless I/O: I/O Expansion is modular I/O from FreeWave Technologies that provides universally configurable I/O and the industry's best measurement accuracy to new and existing wired and wireless process automation systems. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: WirelessHART Adapter

Network integration - Wireless I/O: The WirelessHART adapter from Phoenix Contact makes plant retrofit and expansion projects much simpler and faster by eliminating or supplementing 4 mA to 20 mA signal wiring. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

EC: WiSI remote sensor monitoring and I/O system

Network integration - Wireless I/O: WiSI is an all-in-one radio, integrated solar panel, 10-year maintenance-free energy storage, IP-67 rated outdoor/weather-proof data acquisition and control device from Rugid Computer designed for rapid deployment to monitor and control remote sensors. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: Rosemount 708 Wireless Acoustic Transmitter

Network integration – Wireless products: The Rosemount 708 Wireless Acoustic Transmitter provides constant visibility and accurate measurement of critical steam traps without the effort of a manual inspection, enabling plants to dramatically decrease steam trap failures and reduce fuel costs by 10% to 20% each year, according to Emerson Process Management, Rosemount division. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice award winner.

EC: NL900S Data Transceiver Radio

Network integration - Wireless products: The NL900S Data Transceiver Radio from RF Neulink is an effective, high-power solution for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint wireless systems in the 900 MHz unlicensed band. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

EC: WI-MOD-E-G Wireless Industrial Ethernet Modem

Network integration - Wireless products: The WI-MOD-E-G wireless industrial Ethernet modem from Weidmuller provides wireless Ethernet communications in process/automation applications connecting to PLCs, DCS/ SCADA, data loggers, or field instruments with an RS232/485 or Ethernet port/interface. This is a Control Engineering 2012 Engineers’ Choice honorable mention.

Video solution to enhance safety, security

The OneWireless Video Solution allows plants to enhance perimeter security using industrial video cameras over the OneWireless network.

Paper mill in Sweden uses wireless instruments to fulfill environmental requirements

Rosemount conductivity transmitters help Korsnäs Gävle prevent discharging pollutants into local waterways.

Wi-fi wireless sensor system

The W-series wireless transmitters are designed to measure analog voltage and current, temperature, humidity and barometric pressure.

IO module replacements: Intelligent marshalling, integrated networking

I/O wiring can be among the most challenging of upgrades. When replacing input/output connections, what are key considerations? Thad Frost, manager, research, development and engineering, Invensys Operations Management, offered answers.

IO module replacement without disturbing field wiring

I/O replacements can be among the most challenging (and perhaps feared) of upgrades, and, if necessary, may be accomplished by replacing I/O modules, leaving wiring intact, according to Amanda Smith, product marketing specialist, DCS and migration solutions, Invensys Operations Management.

Architecture for mitigating effects of external faults

Choosing tools and techniques for creating fault-tolerant control environments and networks.

IO module replacement advice: Check shielding, ground loops, electromagnetic noise

I/O wiring can be among the most challenging (and perhaps feared) of upgrades. When replacing input/output connections, what are key considerations? John Lehman, Dataforth Corp. engineering manager, offered answers to some key questions.

IO module replacements: Check documentation, controller programming, grounding

I/O wiring can be among the most challenging (and perhaps feared) of upgrades. When replacing input/output connections, what are key considerations? Kurt Wadowick, I/O systems product specialist, Beckhoff Automation, offered answers to some key questions.

Red Lion parent acquires Sixnet

Spectris plc, an instrumentation and control company and parent of Red Lion Controls, announced Oct. 6 that it acquired Sixnet for $72 million, soon after closing a $475 million purchase of Omega Engineering. Sixnet manufactures flexible industrial Ethernet switches, automation, and wireless solutions, and employs about 110 people.

Wireless IO advantages: More data, less work

New I/O products provide more measurement and control for processes, optimization, and asset condition monitoring with less effort, wirelessly.

Communicating wirelessly with CAN networks

CiA has been developing new methods for improving communication through remote and wireless technologies.

Wireless corrosion and sand monitoring system

Emerson Process Management's Roxar CorrLog + Sandlog wireless transmitters are designed to integrate downstream and upstream assets.

Low-energy wireless SCADA used for water application

Water and wastewater utility in Bogotá, Colombia, used an extremely low-power-consumption SCADA system with a data logging support feature, allowing the use of time stamps.

Wireless sensor networks to grow to $2 billion by 2021

IDTechEx's research indicates that the market for wireless sensor networks will grow from $.45 billion to about $2 billion in the next 10 years. Current and emerging applications include ...

IO expansion for wireless data radios

Freewave's IO Expansion modules have access times up to 192 IO points and have non-isolated inputs to reduce the number of external components.

Mission critical network design seminar in September

Belden presents the Hirschmann industrial networking conference in Dallas, TX, which will be focused on mission critical network design.

Communicating Diagnostic Data in a Legacy Environment

A wireless add-on device captured diagnostic information that helped solve an intermittent flowmeter problem.

Data acquisition modules support wireless, USB, Ethernet, are backward compatible

National Instruments expands NI CompactDAQ Platform with single-slot chassis offering wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity and delivering maximum performance and ease of use in simplified, portable format, NI said, about this NIWeek introduction.

Multipurpose wireless gateway available on Sprint network

Sierra Wireless joining with Sprint's network for the Airlink GX400 is designed to make cellular communications easier for transportation, industrial machine-to-machine (M2M) and enterprise applications

Wireless sensors, ‘plug-and-sense’ Ethernet gateway for wireless sensors released

Monnit Corp. has added seven low-cost wireless sensors to its line of broad application sensors.

Star, mesh networking tools simplify wireless application development

Microchip Technology's MiWi Development Environment has expanded to include the ZENA Wireless Adapters and the 8-bit Wireless Development Kit to make wireless implementations easier.

Energy harvesting: challenges for wireless monitoring applications

Energy harvesters deserve the attention they're receiving, the advent of what can be made possible through the use of ambient energy to power devices has intrigued a wide variety of technologists, developers and adopters.

Industrial wireless receiver for material handling, heavy transportation applications

Honeywell’s Limitless Wireless Din-Rail Receiver connects up to 14 limit-less inputs to programmable logic controllers.

Hybrid wireless sensor networks best practices

Wireless sensor manufacturer Libelium seeks engineers to respond to survey on advanced control protocols to enhance control systems, specifically on hybrid wireless sensor networks.

Adding Ethernet protocol options

If your device has to be able to communicate using more than one industrial Ethernet protocol, the number of options is growing.

Over the air programming with 802.15.4, ZigBee

New OTA technology from Libelium allows a network to be re-programmed in a couple of minutes by using multihop routing.

New long range wireless system

Omega’s HPWS Series allows users to remotely monitor the status of up to four discrete switches over long distances, up to 8 miles, via wireless.

WirelessHART Seminars for Users, June-October

Vendor-neutral educational seminar for Users presented by the HART Communication Foundation: Using WirelessHART Communication in Process Industries. Dates are June 14, June 30, Sept. 19, and Oct. 27, 2011.

WLAN firmware gets update

Belden’s Hilcos 8.50 firmware integrates Hirschmann Access Points and Clients into Profinet and Ethernet/IP Networks without the need for additional management software, the company said.

Fieldbus Foundation brings more information through HSE with Wireless and Remote I/O

WIO (Wireless and Remote I/O) allows plants to access high data requirement devices directly in fieldbus hosts via HSE (high-speed Ethernet).

High-power radios, high-density I/O for industrial sensor networks

Banner Engineering’s new line of wireless I/O gateways and nodes features increased range between makes industrial wireless solutions available to remote areas, with up to 6 miles between devices.

Fieldbus Foundation enhances physical layer specifications

Updates to H1 physical layer specifications promote better device installation and integration.

Company announces launch of OTA

Libelium has announced the release of OTA, which is designed to improve wirelesss sensor networks for unlicensed frequency bands and low power protocols.

Think Again: More data, better decisions

Wireless data acquisition doesn’t automatically mean you’ll turn data into information to make better decisions, but automated, real-time data gathering beats manual data entry. Wireless can save up to 90% of wired network installation costs.

Wireless sensor network program expanded

National Instruments introduces new WSN gateway and measurement node to extend communication and measurement capabilities.

New daughter board is released for service applications

Microchip Technology has released a new M2M Pictail Daughter Board to help designers with fleet-management, location-based service applications

Wireless networks connecting with industrial users

World shipments of industrial products that are wireless-enabled are reportedly set to grow from an estimated 1.2 million to over 3 million in 2015.

AS-interface gateways provide seamless communication with standard, safety networks

Pepperl+Fuchs' ENX Series AS-Interface Gateways supports Modbus/TCP and Ethernet/IP protocols with advanced features for enhanced network performance and diagnostics retrieval.

Wireless Ethernet radio transmits data from high interference remote locations

Phoenix Contact's TWE-Basic is a Trusted Wireless Ethernet radio that transmits Ethernet data from remote locations with high interference.

Communication technology provides simple, secure wireless communication

WirelessHART from the HART Communication Foundation has earned international standard status.

Choosing output formats for instrumentation transmitters

Why isn’t it easier to offer user selectability of signal format for field devices?

Industrial wireless spread-spectrum wireless radios use 2.4 GHz spectrum

FreeWave Technologies offers the GX product line operating in the globally available 2.4 GHz spectrum with the release of the GXM, GXCP, and GX-C Serial radio.

Fieldbus Foundation schedules 2011 North American seminars, training

Fieldbus Foundation's 2011 North American end-user seminar and developer training schedule is available. Seminars help process industry end-users understand the economic benefits of the FOUNDATION automation infrastructure. Developer training gives control and instrumentation suppliers vendor-neutral instruction on fieldbus technology. Link to details and to global events.

Data radios for robust industrial wireless data connectivity

FreeWave Technologies' LRS data radios are designed for robust industrial wireless date connectivity using licensed spectrum outside the USA.

Ultra-low energy radio for wireless sensor networks, environmental monitoring, smart metering

Toumaz's TZ1053 Telran ultra-low energy wireless radio offers low-power continuous use radio in sub-1GHz ISM band.

Cloud instrumentation in a process plant?

Will devices communicating via the cloud replace other wireless technologies or wired devices?

MEMS Technology to be highlighted at Sensors Expo and Conference

Sensors Expo provides programming, showcase of the newest MEMS products and services, education on what is to come for MEMS. MEMS technologies integrated into sensors can offer higher accuracies and require less or no recalibration. The event is June 6-8 in Rosemont, IL, near Chicago.

Control Engineering asks Sierra Wireless about industrial networks, AirVantage

Sierra Wireless launched the AirVantage Smart Automation, an extension to the company’s AirVantage cloud platform for machine-to-machine (M2M) applications. Control Engineering asked additional questions about automation, comparisons with other industrial network options, integration, and security.

What’s a plugfest?

Slow horses need not apply. This is about cross-manufacturer device interoperability.

Wireless standard organization conducts “plugfest” to test device interoperability

ISA100 Wireless Compliance Institute brings Honeywell, Yokogawa, Nivis, GE, Yamatake, Fuji Electric, and R3 Sensors devices to verify working interoperability.

Tank level system extends into inventory management functions

Raptor system from Emerson integrates multiple tanks and devices into a scalable system designed to oversee larger bulk liquid storage facilities.

Specification defines expanded structure for interfacing remote I/O over HSE network

The Foundation High Speed Ethernet Remote I/O preliminary specification from the Fieldbus Foundation defines the first in a series of interoperable gateways to bring I/O back to plant automation systems over the international standard, high-speed network.

Creating your own cellular network

If you want to use cellular communication for remote I/O and devices, does that mean signing up with a commercial carrier?

Inside Machines: Wireless Ethernet, PLCs add productivity to Blue Bell Creameries

Upgrade with Siemens Scalance WLAN and Simatic PLCs adds productivity and eases training on aging automated storage and retrieval system for Blue Bell Creameries, a Texas-based ice cream maker.

Connections without Wires: How wireless technology creates new paths to productivity

Webcast: Industrial wireless technology is already settling in as a proven networking technique for device-level and data backhaul applications. Learn which wireless protocols to use in what applications, considering reliability and security. Now available for on-demand viewing.

Bluetooth for industrial applications

Dear Control Engineering: I was listening to the recent Webcast about Wireless, and one of the presenters was talking about Bluetooth. How many different devices can use that without interfering with each other? Fortunately, that Webcast is available for on-demand listening, so you can hear the presentation again if you like. Bluetooth is an interesting wireless protocol that uses IEEE802.15.1 radios and grew up in the consumer electronics space, but it is making inroads in industrial applications.

Wireless instrumentation helps boost production, cut costs at Argentine natural gas producer

Tecpetrol uses data from Rosemount wireless transmitters. Results in production increase of $4 million while reducing maintenance costs by 62% and supervisory control costs by 35%.

Industrial cellular service packages for wireless communication with remote I/O

ProSoft Technology releases industrial cellular service packages with pre-activated industrial-grade 3G communication.

EC: WirelessHART gateway

Network Integration – wireless - Phoenix Contact - WirelessHART gateway. The rail-mount gateway can connect up to 250 WirelessHART field devices, converting the HART data to Modbus TCP, while the integrated WiFi (802.11 b/g) transceiver can serve as a backhaul connection. This is a Control Engineering 2011 Engineers' Choice (EC) Award winner.

EC: OneWireless R200

Network Integration – wireless -Honeywell Process Solutions - OneWireless R200. OneWireless is an industrial wireless network that can be designed to meet all applications requiring the flexibility and cost offered by wireless technology. This is a Control Engineering 2011 Engineers' Choice (EC) nominee.

Murphy’s 7 laws of industrial wireless communications

Applying wireless technologies for industrial communications doesn’t have to be as tough as Murphy’s Law (if anything can go wrong, it will), if you remember these Murphy’s 7 laws of industrial wireless communications. Wireless troubleshooting tips follow, including the number-one cause of wireless woes.

Cover story: Troubleshooting Industrial Ethernet

It’s a problem when gremlins invade factory automation systems: Is the network at fault? As industrial automation systems gravitate more to industrial Ethernet, tools and techniques have improved to troubleshoot network problems. See the advice below; take an online network diagnostics survey. Hear podcast network troubleshooting interviews.

Wireless test system improvements

New updates to the WirelessHART Test System improve performance, tool usability and technician productivity.

Long-range wireless transmitters for process measurements

Omega Engineering UWXL Series industrial wireless transmitters offer flexibility for process measurement applications. Capable of ranges to 450 m (1,500 ft) line of sight (LOS), the UWXL transmitters are designed for a variety of applications, including temperature, infrared temperature, relative humidity, process transducers with standard voltage or current outputs, flow (pulsed frequency), and pH.

Agreement aims to help water plants reduce energy usage, improve water quality

GE Intelligent Platforms collaborates with U.S. EPA for a system to increase the effectiveness of the municipal drinking water distribution network. Goal is delivery of better quality water while using 10% to 15% less energy.

Evaluate network plant floor coverage before using Ethernet

Just as the adoption of machine control over industrial networks broadened over a period of years, so too is the pool of companies now looking at leveraging the power of Ethernet to gain a competitive edge by linking manufacturing and business operations. Industrial Ethernet: Control Engineering September 2010.

Hydrostatic liquid level sensor suited for sanitary and wash-down environments

Level transmitter complies with 3A standards and is ideal for food, beverage, dairy and pharmaceutical applications.

Wireless device gateway with integrated WLAN backhaul

The integrated WLAN lets the gateway be installed in the field closer to the monitored devices in a clustered network topology, effectively creating several smaller networks with a wireless connection to the host system.

Ethernet protocol detente

 I'm out in Scottsdale, AZ, at the moment attending the PI North America General Assembly. (In years past, this would have been the PTO General Assembly.) Maybe it's just my imagination, but it seems that some of the Ethernet based protocols, including ProfiNet and its competitors, may be losing some of their combative nature and the Ethernet wars may be deescalating sooner than the earlier fieldbus wars. This is based on anecdotal observation, but here are a couple reference points: Mike Bryant, director, was introducing the group's new Website, All Things Profinet, and he mentioned that it is aimed at users that have never tried an industrial Ethernet protocol, rather than trying to convert users away from EtherNet/IP or Modbus TCP.

Mission critical Ethernet network design advice from Belden seminar

Industrial Ethernet networking has become mission critical, according to Belden Inc. (BDC-NYSE). The designer and manufacturer of cable, connectivity and network advice is serving up advice through its Hirschmann brand in a seminar, Sept. 19-22, 2010.

NIWeek 2010: Explore technologies, gain competitive advantages

National Instruments NIWeek 2010 opens Aug. 3 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. NI calls the three day meeting “the world’s leading graphical system design conference.” Visionary inspiration, eye-popping technology demos, and productivity tips are among areas covered, NI says.

Control Engineering Webcasts

View the latest Control Engineering Webcasts

High-powered IP67 outdoor wireless access point/bridge: Aaxeon Technologies

IP67 rated 802.11b/g high-powered outdoor wireless networking access point/bridge, from Aaxeon Technologies, acts as access point and repeater at the same time.

IEC approves WirelessHART as first international wireless standard for process automation

Final IEC vote confirms broad global acceptance of WirelessHART by end users and suppliers, says HART Communication Foundation.

Managed Ethernet switch, EDS-691 Series from Moxa

Moxa EDS-619 compact modular managed Ethernet switch is designed for high-port-density industrial networking communications.

Freewave adds new models to IO Expansion Wireless Data Radios

Three new models of the FreeWave Wireless IO Expansion line provide additional IO to any serial network.

Wireless I/O controllers: IoLogik W5340 Wireless RTU from Moxa

Moxa ioLogik W5340 Wireless RTU is designed for remote monitoring, and harder wiring environments.

An end-user view on wireless instrumentation

What do end users want from wireless, and a wireless standard? Exxon-Mobil's instrumentation team leader weighs in on the ISA100.11a standard.

From Milling Machine to Friction Stir Welder

Control and monitoring software upgrades existing machine tools easily, while a new wireless link supports two-way communications.

News and comment: Can WirelessHART and ISA100 converge?

Emerson Process Management offers its thoughts on how the two main competing wireless instrumentation protocols can come together.

Wireless sensor breakthrough: Datacom via contact lens

Swiss startup puts MEMS sensor, ASIC, RF link in a tiny package that gathers and sends real-time data.

Translate RS-232 to 5 protocols: Exemys RME

Exemys offers a way to transform old sensors to smart devices.

Belden: Hirschmann Mach 1040 Gigabit Ethernet Switch for high network availability, safety

Belden: new Hirschmann Mach1040 Gigabit Ethernet Switch delivers high network availability and operational safety.

Wireless sensor networks: Next 10 years

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs), self-organizing, self-healing networks of small "nodes," have huge potential across industrial, military, and other many other sectors, according to IDTechEx.

Global machine-to-machine communications may get easier with Vodafone, Verizon Wireless, nPhase alliance

New integrated wireless platform offers customers an easy way to roll out M2M solutions across Europe and the U.S., nPhase said.

Freewave: Next generation license-free spread spectrum radio

New Freewave FGR2-PE combines serial and Ethernet wireless connectivity for smart grid applications such as distribution automation for long distance wireless data communications.

Wireless corrosion monitoring transmitter

CorrTran MV online corrosion monitoring transmitter provides real-time measurement of conductivity and conditions leading to general and localized corrosion.

Protocol compatibility, multiple I/O types: Wago

I/O module compatibility, ability of a node to accommodate multiple I/O types, and I/O module size, are important I/O topics, says Wago.

NI Wireless Sensor Network

National Instruments National Instruments Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) platform is a complete remote monitoring solution that consists of NI LabView graphical programming software and low-power, reliable wireless measurement nodes. NI software integration allows end users to create complete solutions to meet the unique needs of their application, including hybrid wired and wireless systems and...

Aaxeon industrial managed Gigabit Power over Ethernet switch

Aaxeon LNP-1002GN Lanolinx industrial Ethernet switch can power up to eight devices via Power over Ethernet (PoE). It has eight 10/100TX ports and two combo ports; combo ports can be 10/100/1000TX or Gigabit fiber using an SFP module (small form factor pluggable), allowing copper or fiber. This is a February 2010 Control Engineering North American print edition Product Exclusive.

Control panel design advice

Do you know someone who has a useful and interesting control panel design story to tell? Giving advice about control panel design and construction, like any tutorial, can be a challenge. How much does your audience know? Should it begin with a review of basic design principles or should the tutorial go right to the most important attributes—advanced or basic? Consider doing a tutorial video.

GE Intelligent Platforms: TranSphere TS Wireless I/O

TranSphere TS Wireless I/O from GE Intelligent Platforms is an integrated, scalable family of wireless communication products for analog and discrete I/O signals.

RS-232 to wireless: Aaxeon Airolinx BTS-1000A Bluetooth to RS-232 Converter

Airolinx BTS-1000A from Aaxeon is Bluetooth 2.0 Class I certified and allows any device with a RS-232 port to communicate wirelessly without software or system changes. See photo.

Microchip Technology acquires ZeroG Wireless

Deal enables embedded Wi-Fi solutions for PIC microcontrollers, Microchip says, of the Jan. 11 announcement.

Wireless I/O, IWLAN interface

The Siemens Simatic ET 200pro IWLAN from Siemens Industry Inc. saves significant communication cabling and installation costs by delivering wireless connectivity from any distributed I/O station, the company says. Compatible with Siemens line of ET 200pro I/O and specialty modules, the rugged IP67-rated IWLAN interface can be directly mounted on a machine, eliminating the need for installation ...

Control system cyber security worries

What do process control system owners worry about? Here are some cyber security concerns sent in by readers in a recent survey.

Engineering with Ethernet

The debate about Ethernet’s viability on the plant floor is no longer an issue for most engineers. Their concerns now focus on the variety of specifications and possibilities for industrial Ethernet—ranging from protocols, switch architectures, and Power over Ethernet to safety concerns, legacy network connection issues, and wireless possibilities.

Wireless networks: Adding cellular technology to the industrial toolbox

Can cellular networks provide a practical alternative for industrial use? While it may not be your primary wireless technology, Moxa explains that in certain applications, cellular is practical and economical.

Core module speeds development of low power wireless multimedia devices

Digi International claims three firsts with this product: first wireless enabled core module based on Freescale's i.MX51 processor, first with 802.11 a/b/g/n, and first to support MS Windows CE 6.0 R3.

Application close-up: Wireless devices support equipment monitoring

Two companies that depended on operators and clipboards to monitor equipment condition find wireless devices improve performance while minimizing installation cost.

Wireless Technology as a Work in Progress

Strategy and tactics: Process industry users, vendors discuss obstacles to implementation, appropriate applications, and standards for plant-level wireless.

ISA to move to knowledge-based event

Automation Week to replace ISA Expo in 2010.

ISA 100.11a wireless demonstration project in operation

Wireless system installed at Arkema chemical plant seeks to prove device and infrastructure interoperability using equipment from multiple vendors operating under same standard.

Device-level benefits of industrial Ethernet

Ethernet improvements, smart remote I/O and peer-to-peer technology can lead to better, more flexible control.

WirelessHART components now available from P+F

Capitalizing on open system interoperability, Pepperl+Fuchs launches wireless infrastructure devices designed to work with any device platform.

Wireless Ethernet access point with advanced functionality

"Turbo roaming" and dual-RF design for redundancy join other advanced features on the AWK-5222 wireless access point / bridge / client from Moxa Technologies.

PowerXpress Model H100USB HART field device power supply kit

Power solution kit enables fast and safe HART device configuration. The PowerXpress kit eliminates multiple connections and facilitates reliable device communication.

National Instruments introduces wireless sensor network platform

National Instruments now offers a wireless sensor network (WSN) platform. The platform is said to be a complete remote monitoring solution that consists of NI LabView graphical programming software and new low-power wireless measurement nodes. The wireless measurement nodes are powered by four AA batteries for up to three years, making them suitable for long-term deployments.

Honeywell chooses Tofino firewall for OneWireless system

Tofino security device will sit between the OneWireless networks and Experion PKS to block harmful traffic. Hirschmann also partnering with Byres for security devices.

Radar level gage with wireless capability

Honeywell releases new OneWireless version of FlexLine radar level gage equipped for ISA100.11a data communication.

Honeywell ISA100.11a-ready wireless radar gauge

Honeywell wireless radar tank level gauge increases flexibility, lowers installation costs by capturing wide range of tank measurements. It also measures temperature, pressure, water, and overfill.

Engineer more, faster

Mark T. Hoske, editor in chief Higher efficiency can get an engineer’s attention, especially where improved operations intersect with more effective personal workflow. In the 2009 Mind of the Engineer survey by Reed Business Information, 66% of engineers said that doing more with less would be the most significant change in their jobs in the next two years.

Wireless: Invensys, Wonderware look at OEM, end-user adoption

While customers of human-machine interface (HMI) software and process controls differ in their wireless understanding and abilities, users understand that wireless industrial applications will continue to expand, say two Invensys experts.

Wireless security: Moxa offers WPA2 Personal and Enterprise

Among wireless options, Moxa Technologies currently supports WPA2 Personal and Enterprise, good for security, the company says.

Wireless: Initial focus is WirelessHART, says P+F

Initial wireless focus for Pepperl+Fuchs is WirelessHART, though P+F also is open to ISA100.

Wireless: Banner Engineering working with Nivis to offer ISA100, WirelessHART

Banner Engineering is evaluating a solution to support ISA100 and WirelessHART through a relationship with Nivis.

Industrial networks: Anybus surpasses one million modules shipped

The one millionth Anybus communications module was produced in May 2009. It took HMS Technology 10 years to reach this milestone, but the second million mark will come faster.

Cooper Bussmann training tour: Arc-flash reduction, current limits, SCCR

Cooper Bussmann 2009/2010 Productivity Through Protection Training Tour begins a two-year trek with Crescent Electric branch events, covering arc-flash reduction and safety, current limitation, interrupting ratings, short-circuit current ratings (SCCR), selective coordination, and more.

ISA100 committee approves industrial wireless standard

The ISA100 Standards Committee on Wireless Systems for Automation has voted to approve a major new industry standard, ISA100.11a, "Wireless Systems for Industrial Automation: Process Control and Related Applications." The approval, by 81% of the voting members of the committee, including 23 of the 24 end user members, follows two rounds of balloting and refinements to the document.

High-throughput industrial wireless Ethernet radios

N-Tron’s 702M12-W supports 802.11a, b, g, and n in a rugged IP 67 enclosure.

SNAP PAC provides wireless IEEE-802.11 Ethernet as standard

Opto 22 provides both wireless and wired Ethernet as standard on its controllers.

Integrating wireless instrumentation

Resource offers nuts-and-bolts suggestions for getting wireless instrumentation data into your control systems.

Tutorials for Automation & Controls

Access all current and historical Control Engineering editorial tutorials. Tutorials How-to information covering Industrial and Process Automation, Discrete Control, Mechatronics, Green Manufacturing, System Integration, and Information, Process, and Machine Control. Designing PID responses Peter Welander, April 1, 2010 There are many ways of setting PID strategy to make a controller respond the way you want it to. It all depends on what you think should happen.  More Mechanical Engineering Career Assessment Mark T.

Wireless instrumentation and infrastructure on a very small budget?

One inventor uses obsolete cell phones as low cost wireless instrumentation transmitters. Cheap, yes, but is it for you?

Test results for CPIS system

Unique cell-phone based instrumentation system performs well in plant environment.

HART releases interoperability test tool for wired and wireless HART devices

Specialized tool automates testing for compliance to the HART Standard, ensuring interoperability across vendor platforms.

Fieldbus Foundation: Wireless, remote I/O demos, Asia growth, scholarships

End-users in the U.S. and four other countries will demonstrate Foundation fieldbus wireless and remote I/O and wireless capabilities. Other news includes naming of advisory council members and scholarship recipients.

Commentary: Are you using wireless for control?

If you aren't, you're already behind. Wireless for control applications is in widespread use today.

Hardened Ethernet switches support Patriot Coal mine safety, measurement

Get industrial Ethernet implementation tips from this rugged GarrettCom application, with additional advice, links, and photos.

ISA creates working group for wireless factory automation standard

Work on ISA’s wireless family of standards reached another milestone, bringing the factory automation community one step closer to having an industry-wide standard for wireless interconnection of automated machines. The 68 eligible members of the ISA 100 Working Group overwhelmingly voted to create ISA 100 Factory Automation Working Group 16 to “develop and maintain requirements an...

Ethernet drives industrial network growth

In its newly released “Supply Side Analysis Reports,” part of its annual “Industrial Networking Global Market Intelligence Service,” VDC Research reports that the worldwide market for industrial infrastructure wireline networking products exceeded $1.8 billion in 2007, and forecasts it will increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.

Industrial managed PoE switch CME-822E selected for platinum mines

Platinum mines use extended temperature CME-822E, industrial-grade, 10-port managed Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch with SFP flexibility, according to Ethernet Direct.

Wireless networks: ISA creates wireless factory automation standard working group

New working group will develop ISA 100.16 standard for factory automation under the ISA 100 family of wireless networking standards.

Joint initiative to explore cellular solutions for industrial automation

Discussions center on ProSoft Technology’s incorporation and distribution of Sierra Wireless mobile and M2M (machine to machine) devices using Sierra's ALEOS embedded intelligence.

What makes a system open?

In the recent Control Engineering Webcast, “Bridging Gaps with Wireless,” one participant claimed another's wireless system was an “integrated but closed architecture.” While fisticuffs were avoided on air, it did prompt moderator Peter Welander (Control Engineering process industries editor) to consider what makes a system “open.

History of industrial wireless

Peter Welander, Control Engineering process industries editor, recently interviewed Kris Pister, CTO and co-founder of Dust Networks. This interview has now been posted on the Control Engineering Website as a podcast. Following the interview, Welander said, “I'm not sure I'd characterize Dr. Pister as the father of industrial wireless exactly, but his efforts certainly resulted in some ma...

Machine control: Lack of wireless interoperability concerns industrial automation engineers

Lack of interoperability is one of various concerns plaguing engineers considering adoption of wireless technology.

New podcast: One road to wireless instrumentation

Dr. Kris Pister, Dust Networks, discusses his journey to today’s wireless mesh networking devices and offers a look ahead.

Wireless manager for instrumentation and control devices

RemoteCom from Anybus simplifies remote management and control for instrumentation and control devices.

Commentary: What makes a system open?

Calling an industrial wireless system “proprietary” or “closed” is a marketing kiss of death. But do we agree as to what “open” architecture really means?

Wireless: Create stronger connections today

Industrial wireless capabilities are quickly being extended well beyond the limitations of self-contained instrumentation and supporting systems. This Control Engineering editorial Webcast explores how wireless technology can be used to bridge communication gaps. Specific approaches discussed include: Discover how you can create stronger, flexible, and cost-effective wireless connections for y...

HART: ISA104 demo, test specs, first field device specs

HART Communication Foundation (HFC) supported the ISA104 demo at ISA Expo 2008; HART 7 test specs provide compliance verification for new products, and the first field device was verified using the specifications. Additionally, more process automation suppliers committed to WirelessHART....

Challenges of ultra-low-power wireless sensor networks in manufacturing environments

A wide spectrum of industrial applications can benefit from ultra-low-power wireless sensor networks, including monitoring and control of temperature, vibration, humidity, position, tank levels, storage, robot movements, safety, and security. Also read...

Wireless, cable, diagnostics, demo: Foundation fieldbus

Fieldbus Foundation and ISA collaborate on wireless initiative; there’s a new Central and Eastern European Marketing Committee; the first H1 fieldbus cable was registered; Diagnostic Profiles Specification was released; and ISA104 had a demo at ISA Expo 2008. See photo.

WirelessHART advances: New specification approval and devices begin shipping

If you've been waiting for this technology to be realized, it's time to take another look.

Emerson unplugged: Wireless technology highlights user conference

Emerson Process Management Smart Wireless transmitter monitors BP calciner fan bearing temperature. Photos courtesy of Emerson Process Management. Austin, TX — Emerson Process Management Among them:•••The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) named WirelessHART Communication Specification (HART 7.1) a publicly Available Specification (IEC/PAS 62591Ed. 1) on Sept.

IEC approves WirelessHART

The WirelessHART Communication Specification (HART 7.1) was approved last month by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) as a Publicly Available Specification (IEC/PAS 62591Ed. 1). The national committees of 29 separate countries participated in the approval ballot, reflecting the technology’s international support.

Integration: 2 efforts use Internet protocol for industrial networks

Cisco, SAP, and Sun are among 25 charter members of IPSO Alliance, which offers education and Interoperability testing for embedded Internet Protocol (IP) applications. MTConnect, an IP network, was discussed at IMTS as a new open, royalty-free standard for greater interoperability among machine tools, controls, devices, and software applications.

Wireless buzz: IEC considers WirelessHART; new ISA courses; wireless transmitter

The latest wireless buzz includes a WirelessHART submission to IEC, new courses to learn about industrial wireless technologies from ISA, and a new wireless transmitter. See photo and links to more information.

You can knock, but you can’t get in

There is a new form of network control called Network Access Control (NAC) that will have a major impact on industrial Ethernet networks. NAC has been in the IT press for several years, but it has only recently starting to hit mainstream IT organizations. NAC is the general name given for systems that manage device access to wireless and wired networks.

Off to Houston: Plan now to attend ISA Expo

Still the place to see instrumentation and industrial networking equipment.

Chemical company processes critical data via wireless Ethernet

A chemical company switch to wireless communications saved money by eliminating costly trenching and increased reliability compared to an earlier hard-wired system.

Wireless: Learn from others to help your industrial wireless application

Thinking of applying industrial wireless technologies? Application advice from others can help your implementation go more smoothly. Six industrial or rugged wireless applications follow involving these companies.... 

Wireless networks for water and wastewater plant: easy, timely info access

Stricter regulation, aging infrastructure, and the need for increased operational efficiency plague water facilities. Wireless-enabled systems help ensure better operational decisions and management of plant assets, says Moxa. See photo.

Honeywell wireless equipment ready for ISA 100

Honeywell Process Solutions (HPS) has announced an updated version of its OneWireless network equipment that anticipates the coming ISA100.11a industrial wireless communication standard. The company says this new release is the process industries' first mesh network with ISA100-ready hardware. The network can be upgraded to the ISA100.

Why Go Wireless: Benefits and Challenges of Wireless Remote Monitoring by National Instruments

Significant time and money has been invested in researching the use of wireless technology for remote monitoring. Yet, significant wireless deployments are just beginning to materialize in industry. There are many advantages in eliminating cables in remote monitoring applications, but there are also many challenges. As standards such as Wi-Fi and ZigBee continue to mature for use in wireless sensor networks, those challenges are being addressed.

Three-in-one wireless device

Moxa Technologies AWK-3121 industrial wireless device is expected to be available at the end of this month. It will support more IEEE 802.11 standards and higher security levels than previous models, including wireless communication in the 5.8 and 2.4 GHz bands. This is a July 2008 Control Engineering North American print edition Product Exclusive.

Belden, Ferraz Shawmut expand; Leviton in control

Belden combined European business units including Hirschmann; Ferraz Shawmut parent acquires majority stake in Zhejiang Mingrong Electrical Protection; and Leviton Manufacturing Co. Inc. buys controlling share of itself from Thomas & Betts Corp. for approximately $300 million.

Open advancement: Motorola invests in industrial wireless supplier Apprion

Motorola , through its venture capital arm Motorola Ventures, is investing in Apprion , a specialist in open industrial wireless networks and applications. With the Motorola Ventures investment, Apprion has raised more than $23.5 million.Apprion's ION System enables industrial facilities to cost-effectively deploy and manage multiple wireless applications as one unified, integrated system. Its IONosphere is an onsite controller that manages data services, workflow, security, monitoring and maintenance, and third-party application integration across wireless plant networks.

Bigger and better: Reliability of wireless in industrial apps is on the rise

While advancements in wireless technologies give rise to reliable wireless sensors and sensor networks, a reduction in the cost of mature technologies such as Zigbee and Wi-Fi have led to new applications and larger deployments. New analysis from New York-based Frost & Sullivan , titled Industrial Wireless Systems for Monitoring & Control , finds the reliability of wireless systems has increased considerably—driving them to new applications. “Industrial wireless systems decrease installation costs by eliminating the need for wires, while also enabling sensing in remote and harsh industrial environments,” notes Frost & Sullivan Technical Insights Research Analyst Vishnu Sivadevan. “These systems comprise a significant mode of collecting additional data from field devices, machines, and processes, thereby enabling better maintenance and management of machines and processes.” Industrial wireless systems are used for a broad spectrum of applications such as wireless sensing, wireless condition monitoring and control, as well as real-time location of people and assets in various manufacturing sectors. Wireless sensor networks enable managing production processes, material handling systems, people, and movement of assets. Wireless systems also play an important role in the cost-effective automation of manufacturing systems.

WirelessHART OEM Acceleration program

AirSprite Technologies has announced the AccelerATE WirelessHART OEM Program. According to the company, AccelerATE gives HART field device manufacturers a simple, quick, low-cost path to enable their product lines to comply with the WirelessHART specification. Participants in AccelerATE will work with the company to investigate the wireless readiness of their products, integrate their device-sp...

Wireless: Converge ISA100.11a with WirelessHART?

ISA100 standards committee on wireless systems for automation has created a new subcommittee to address options for convergence of the ISA100.11a and WirelessHART standards.

Industry event: Sensors Expo & Conference, June 9-11

Register now for exhibits and conference sessions. Venue is close to Chicago O'Hare airport.

ODVA, DeviceNet: New CIP specs; ControlNet added; 2009 meeting

ODVA will publish new editions of the specifications for CIP Networks, enhancing the EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, CompoNet, ControlNet, and CIP Safety technologies. More interoperability....

Embedded, wireless devices, dynamic IP routing

A new Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Working Group wants to develop a framework for applications ranging from factory automation to....

Listen in: Wireless developments for Air Force may influence industrial applications

Will current research on wireless communication for fighter aircraft form the basis for tomorrow's wireless instrumentation?

ISA100.11a: the 4-20 mA standard for the 21st Century

ISA100 Wireless Compliance Institute, with support from General Electric, Honeywell, and Nivis, demonstrated prototype ISA100.11a wireless standard-based products at the 2008 International Industrial Wireless Conference in Chongqing, China. The vision, say some involved, is a single, efficient, wireless network.

Online Newswire

Get fresh news daily at www.controleng.com, including these stories, which first appeared April 14-22, 2008:

You can go home again

I’m going to take issue with Thomas Wolfe and the title of his novel “You Can’t Go Home Again,” because this column is evidence that you can, in fact, go home again. For those of you who may not remember, I was the editorial director of Control Engineering from 2003 to 2005. While much has remained the same since I was last at the editorial helm of Control Engineering, ...

Industrial Wireless Applications: Who’s doing what today?

Participate in a short survey about your plans and applications, and learn first what others are doing.  

Unification demo: ISA100 wireless technologies at China conference

ISA100 Wireless Compliance Institute, with support from General Electric, Honeywell, and Nivis, demonstrated prototype ISA100.11a wireless standard-based products in the ISA100 booth at the 2008 International Industrial Wireless Conference.

FPGAs enable flexible network gateway design

With the introduction of wireless field-side standards, such as WirelessHART and current efforts in SP100.11a standardization, gateway implementers are faced with making difficult tradeoffs between the robustness of any wireless solution being offered and the battery life of wirelessly-enabled sensors in the field.

Network gateways

Industrial communication network gateways translate messages from one protocol to another. The function can be embedded in a chip, in a device or board that may be embedded, or in a standalone device. Other devices, such as a PC, can provide gateway (or device server) functions. A gateway, notes Helge Hornis, manager, intelligent systems group, Pepperl+Fuchs, must fully understand the content o...

PoE: Industrial 5-port power-over-Ethernet switch

Compact, rugged 5-port unmanaged Ethernet switch with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology connects and power Ethernet devices over one cable.

First: Taking orders for WirelessHART automation products

Orders are being accepted for WirelessHART-enabled products, based on the recently approved open standard.

Industrial wireless: Podcast with Honeywell’s Jeff Becker on SP100 wireless

HPS argues: Hold out for more versatile wireless standard.

Capitol voice: Automation Federation strategies evolve

Automation has a voice on Capitol Hill, says The Automation Federation, as the umbrella group plans what's next.

New podcast: Dust Networks provides the radios

Giving voice to wireless instrumentation.

Bluetooth gateway reduces cable headaches for motion systems

The new industrial Wireless Network Platform from connectBlue enables an industrial connection free of cabling concerns.

Industrial Ethernet: Most important for process automation system buyers

Oak Brook, IL — Industrial Ethernet connectivity is, by far, the most important integration-related feature, according to respondents of a recent survey of Control Engineering readers saying they buy or specify process automation systems. How important?

Winners: Networks/Communication Hardware & Software

Winners of the 2007 Engineers' Choice Awards - Networks; I/O; communications hardware & software

Fiber optic vs. copper: 5 reasons fiber wins

Fort Lauderdale, FL – Fiber-optic cables are steadily replacing copper wires for signal transmission in many manufacturing, process control, and SCADA applications. Here are five reasons why fiber optics are preferable to copper cabling.

Wireless analysis: Avoiding the mistakes of history?

Perhaps I’m being overly optimistic, but it looks like wireless providers and standards groups may actually be working together to create useful standards for wireless instrumentation and control networks, avoiding some of the problems of the “fieldbus wars.” Moreover, this cooperation may actually save you money and aggravation. Here’s what we’ve seen lately. WirelessHART is already in place and equipment built under this protocol will soon be available, bringing interoperability at the device level from a wide range of suppliers. This protocol, developed relatively early in the larger wireless instrumentation history, will have a huge influence on what follows.

WINA wireless Webcast: Ready for primetime? Control Engineering moderates

Thursday, Dec. 13, 2007, is the "Is Wireless Ready for Primetime?" Webcast. While there is a $90 registration fee for the WINA (Wireless Industrial Networking Alliance) event, 2-3:30 p.m. ET, aims to provide clarity in the use of wireless for industrial process automation market.

Ethernet-based video vs. analog-based video

Video surveillance is a hot topic today in many industrial applications for a number of reasons, says Ira Sharp, lead product marketing specialist for Phoenix Contact’s Interface Wireless products. Some applications involve simple monitoring for vandals. Other systems go further to watch and monitor process applications through video.

4 examples on how industrial Ethernet video can help

Industrial Ethernet video capabilities can help manufacturing be more efficient in at least four ways.

Apprion Ion Wireless video monitoring application

Currently, wireless broadband is spreading rapidly across the plant floor for communication and automation. With the addition of an IP-based video monitoring application, the Apprion Ion System provides these plants with a secure, reliable, low-cost way to significantly increase automation and satisfy regulatory mandates. In separate, but related news, Apprion also announced new hazardous environment-rated versions of its Ionizer.

Industrial Wireless Guidebook by Moxa

The latest development in industrial device networking is the adoption of wireless technology for industrial applications. This is a very exciting development with potentially enormous benefits for system integrators and end users. However, many users may have questions about the different technologies that are available and how best to adapt them to specific applications. Other users may wish to gain a basic understanding of wireless technologies and applications but not know where to begin.

Wireless access point, repeater

ProSoft Technology has added the 802.11abg Industrial Hotspot to its RadioLinx product line. The RLX-IHW functions as a wireless access point, repeater, or client. Designed for global installations, it offers high-speed wireless Ethernet communications including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP, and DNP over Ethernet for linking automation systems, Ethernet I/O, video cameras, and plant network acces...

Wireless connectivity line

Weidmuller offers a new line of industrial wireless products as an alternative to signal and data wiring in a line designed to provide secure, reliable wireless connectivity solutions for applications from simple input/output (I/O) connections to complex data-bus interconnections. The line, provided in a joint effort with ELPRO technologies, includes radio frequency (RF) units, protocol convert...

Wireless technology progress: WirelessHART approved; ISA-100 work continues

The first open wireless communication standard for process measurement and control was approved and released Sept. 7 as part of the HART 7 standard, according to the HART Communication Foundation (HCF), as separate work on the ISA-100 group of wireless standard continued. Other HART improvements include advanced, exception-based reporting; time-stamped data; and better diagnostics.

HART, ISA agree to collaborate on wireless standard

The HART Communication Foundation (HCF) and ISA entered into an agreement to collaborate and investigate opportunities to incorporate WirelessHART into the work of the SP100 Committee. HCF announced on Sept. 24 that it granted a copyright license to the ISA allowing the ISA100 committee access to the HART Protocol Specification, including WirelessHART for the purpose of evaluation and considera...

Treaty: HCF, ISA to collaborate on wireless standards

The HART Communication Foundation (HCF) and ISA have entered into an agreement to collaborate and investigate opportunities to incorporate WirelessHART into the work of the SP100 Committee.

Editorial: WirelessHART moves into its next stage. Should it?

On September 7, the HART Communication Foundation board voted on and passed the HART 7.0 specification which includes the wireless protocol which has been dubbed WirelessHART. This in itself is not surprising, except for the fact that Jack Bolick, president of Honeywell Process Solutions and member of the HART board, made a last-minute call for his colleagues to vote “no” on the proposal. He suggested they support ISA SP-100 , which is still being formulated, as a better alternative.

HART 7 released with WirelessHART standard, a 1st for process control

The first open wireless communication standard for process measurement and control was approved and released Sept. 7 as part of the HART 7 standard, according to the source, HART Communication Foundation (HCF). Other improvements include advanced, exception-based reporting; time-stamped data; and better diagnostics. Related products are expected in first quarter 2008; later for various certifications.

Updated: Honeywell opposes HART, favors ISA-100 wireless; HART responds

Honeywell says it intends to vote “no” in a HART Communication Foundation board meeting tomorrow, opposing the HART 7.0 specification for inclusion of WirelessHART. In a letter to Control Engineering (below), Jack Bolick, president of Honeywell Process Solutions, suggests that HART adopt ISA-100. HART responded in kind.

Embedded: High security, 32-bit device networking module

Lantronix Inc. announced the MatchPort AR, a turnkey, application-ready programmable device server module that delivers highly-secure industrial Ethernet connectivity and advanced Web server capabilities for under $40 in volume quantities.

Analysis: When will wireless be ready for control functions?

The conventional wisdom is that wireless instrumentation and networking in process environments will be limited to secondary systems until users feel it has proven itself, assuming it moves out of those roles at all. Today, wireless technology is fine for level measurements on a tank farm, vibration readings on a compressor, and other low criticality monitoring operations. But what will it take for companies to feel confident enough to recommend it for actual control functions? I asked companies that deal with control systems what they might want to see to answer that question positively. “Before users will become fully comfortable with the idea of using wireless technology for closed-loop process control, their comfort level will have to gradually increase in stages,” says Hesh Kagan, director of technology marketing at Invensys Process Systems .

Using MODBUS for Process Control and Automation

MODBUS is the most popular industrial protocol being used today, for good reasons. It is simple, inexpensive, universal and easy to use. Even though MODBUS has been around since the past century—nearly 30 years— almost all major industrial instrumentation and automation equipment vendors continue to support it in new products.

3 Approaches to Process Plant Wireless

One of the words circulating in industrial wireless discussions is infrastructure. Just as there is wired networking infrastructure, any situation where there will be more than a simple point to point device installed will require additional equipment to support the application. For someone considering where and how best to use wireless networking for industrial plant floor solutions, the topic...

Ethernet: Rugged 5-, 8-port switches

Irvine, CA–The XPress-Pro SW series, new family of industrial Ethernet switches from Lantronix Inc., adds five and eight-port managed and unmanaged hardened Ethernet switches to the XPress line of industrial device servers, six new products in all.

Wireless: Learn more about WirelessHART via Internet presentation

One of the interesting subplots of the wireless standards debate going on right now is the development of the WirelessHART protocol at the same time the ISA SP100 committee is doing its work. HART Foundation executive director Ron Helson and chief engineer Wally Pratt were invited to present an overview of their technology to the ISA SP100 committee. You can hear their presentation and see their slides via the Internet.

Wireless: Products, insights for reliable implementations

Wireless products and education on how to implement wireless technology came in separate announcements from Phoenix Contact , Apprion , and ISA . New industrial digital UHF wireless radio modems and the next generation of a system for industrial application networking are the products. The event intends to provide professionals with insights into the current state of wireless technologies for manufacturing and control systems. Phoenix Contact’s UHF industrial radios provide protected FCC-licensed wireless communication and a high level of data protection.

Phoenix Contact expands wireless technology products, services

Middletown, Pa.—With the importance of wireless technologies in industrial applications growing, many companies are expanding their wireless product lines.

Wireless: Mesh Systems partners with Coronis for wireless networking

Coronis Systems, a developer of ultra-low-power (ULP) and long-range wireless solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with wireless sensor networks (WSN) integrator, Mesh Systems, headquartered in Appleton, WI. By integrating Coronis’ off-the-shelf sensors and modules such as Waveflow, Wavesense, Wavetherm, and Wavenis-enabled OEM cards, Mesh Systems’ clients are able to qu...

Phoenix Contact: Customer technology center opens in Houston

Phoenix Contact opened its new Customer Technology Center in Houston on May 2, a move said to bring the company closer to its customers, especially those in the process control and energy industries. Top company officials from the U.S. and Germany held a news conference and hosted tours to mark the opening of the 15,000 sq ft CTC.

Wireless: Conference on automation insights

ISA has announced a two-day conference entitled "Wireless Solutions for Manufacturing Automation: Insights for Technology and Business Success," to be held July, 23-24, 2007, at the Marriott Vancouver Airport in Richmond, BC, Canada.

Research: Wireless Ethernet use increases in industrial networking

Wireless Ethernet (Wi-Fi) networking is being deployed extensively in industrial applications, with greater use expected, according to research firm Venture Development Corporation (VDC) outlined in a recently completed six-volume global markets and user requirements market study for wireless and wireline network infrastructure products used in industrial facilities.

Tech Tips September 2006

September 26, 2006 TECH TIP OF THE WEEK: Vision triggers process steps Using machine vision as to trigger process steps seems a bit like using a jack hammer to crack a walnut, but that ain't necessarily so. While most machine vision systems use multi-megapixel cameras and sophisticated image-analysis algorithms, there are smaller, low-resolution imagers available, and not all analyses are compute intensive. There is a class of applications now being mainly served by relatively dumb sensors, such as photocells and proximity switches, that can be better served by slightly more sophisticated low-end vision equipment. Take, for example, the application shown in the accompanying photograph.

Energy harvesting for wireless networks

EH300 and EH301 Epad energy harvesting modules from Advanced Linear Devices Inc. capture, accumulate, and store power from a variety of sources and supply it to wireless sensor networks, remote controls, and other applications.

Wireless HART: Report from the user’s roundtable

The Wireless HART user's roundtable meeting happened in February, as scheduled. It was offered by the HART Foundation as an opportunity for concerned end users to hear about the progress of the new wireless communication standard and offer feedback as to the direction the committee is taking. Of the 25 or so people who attended the roundtable event, there were perhaps three who qualified as end users, if one uses a broad enough definition. One was a logistics officer for the U.S.

Belden to buy Hirschmann citing Ethernet, wireless, fiber-optics allure

Belden agreed to purchase Hirschmann Automation and Control GmbH (HAC) from HgCapital, a European private investor, for approximately $260 million in cash. Belden says HAC is “a leading supplier of industrial Ethernet solutions and industrial connectivity,” citing that as a reason for the acquisition, along with HAC’s wireless and fiber-optic technologies.

Wireless in machines: Energy harvesting technology gets real

While other companies have been working on similar technology, analog semiconductor device developer Advanced Linear Devices (ALD) claims to be first to produce functional energy harvesting modules designed specifically to capture, accumulate and store power from a variety of low-grade energy sources and supply it to wireless sensor networks, remote controls and a multitude of other applications. "Energy Harvesting modules provide a crucial link between the source of the energy, such as piezoelectric or thermoelectric materials, and the application," said Bob Chao, president and CEO of ALD. The power generated by piezoelectric or thermoelectric materials, for example, often occurs at infrequent or random intervals and is usually insufficient to directly and dependably power the energy harvesting circuitry and the application. Circuits built with conventional, off-the-shelf components are often incapable of providing the efficiency needed to make energy-harvesting practical. The ALD modules have especially high energy efficiency to make energy harvesting a reliable and long-lasting source of power. They are completely self-powered and always in the active mode, ready to harvest energy from sources that generate intermittent energy impulses with varying source impedances.

Wireless technology: Device bridges the gap between RFID, sensor networks

Keeping up with the flood of wireless industrial instrumentation and networking equipment can be difficult. Hardly a day goes by without a new product of some sort. Occasionally, a technology emerges that offers an intriguing new wrinkle and closes a gap between different levels of coverage. Machine Talker Inc .

More power over Ethernet

Ethernet technology is moving closer to the instrumentation and device level, but progress has largely stalled at the programmable logic controller (PLC) “barrier” for several reasons. One of these is providing power for individual devices, and another is wiring topology. Two major advantages of conventional fieldbus platforms are the ability to carry power to instruments and bit-l...

Update on wireless: Wi-Fi meshing to double by 2010; no-wire sensing expands

Scottsdale, AZ —Wi-Fi meshing, which allows wireless access nodes to achieve a longer range by using each other as repeaters, is becoming increasingly common in several markets, says In-Stat. More than 50,000 Wi-Fi mesh AP (access point) unit shipments are expected in 2006, with almost 100,000 unit shipments expected in 2010, the high-tech market research firm says. Incompatibility among systems, however, is a potential hurdle for the growth of the technology.

News: You can sound off on proposed Wireless HART Standard

The HART Communication Foundation will host a special user roundtable to discuss the coming Wireless HART Communication Standard on Monday, February 12, at the Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando. This meeting is part of the larger ARC Advisory Group Worldwide Strategy Forum also that week, although attendance at the roundtable is free and does not require registration for the ARC event. If you are an automation professional and concerned what form and direction this standard takes, you can attend to hear what your peers have to say and add your own voice. This standard will have a major influence on wireless instrumentation and networking, so if you're looking at using this technology in your plant, do not underestimate its importance.

Smart wireless sensors improve control, save money

Wireless Sensors CUSTOM ADVERTISING NEWSLETTER To SUBSCRIBE | To UNSUBSCRIBE | CHANGE YOUR PROFILE | PRIVACY POLICY December 11, 2006 Top Story Smart wireless sensors improve control, save money ''Deploying sensors throughout our plant shows us the health of our process, and where we're wasting money. The more sensors we have, the more information we capture, and the more thoroughly we can control what's going on. Wireless sensors give us the ability to monitor places and processes we never could before.' Mesh technology simplifies FDA compliance Temperature monitoring increases aluminum rolling production Sensor combination helps slash compressed air costs If you are considering wireless sensors, you are not alone.

Extending the platform: Network-ready system-on-chip products

Hayward, CA — Dust Networks is extending its product platform to include network-ready system-on-chip (SoC) products, the company announced today. The new offerings combine extremely low-power radio technology with the Time Synchronized Mesh Protocol (TSMP) in an easy-to-integrate mote-on-chip (MoC) that reportedly sets new power and performance benchmarks for reliable wireless sensor networking. MoC products require no external components and no embedded programming, reducing OEM development time and cost for wireless sensor networking. SoC products provide a quantum reduction in power consumption, using 80% less power than comparable commercially available radios.

Industrial Ethernet: implementation advice

Just as there are choices in industrial networks, various protocols have emerged to serve the industrial Ethernet space. Network experts gathered in Chicago last month at Siemens ’ invitation to discuss trends and offer advice. “Don’t wait” seemed to be a recurring theme among speakers at the two-day Chicago conference. “People are really looking at how to implement industrial Ethernet, trying to figure out what to use, thinking about what applications to connect, as people drive to one network for all experiences and functions,” said Jeremy Bryant, automation market network specialist, Siemens Energy & Automation .

Wireless networking: Temperature sensing network simplifies FDA compliance

Pharmaceutical companies have critical responsibilities for safe manufacturing processes for the sake of their customers and to comply with FDA regulations for monitoring and documenting production. When one company wanted to deploy a new temperature monitoring network on existing production lines, it chose wireless technology to simplify installation while reducing cost and downtime. System integrator GE Sensing selected Sensicast 's SensiNet products to provide centralized data collection which integrated with its existing software infrastructure. The subject manufacturing lines are spread out over three buildings on the plant campus.

ISA 2006: Free standards, addition of wireless group

Among announcements at ISA Houston 2006 last month: ISA members will get to download the group's standards for free as of January, and adding the Wireless Industrial Networking Alliance (WINA) joined the Automation Federation. More ISA news follows in this issue. The Oct. 17 ISA Executive Board standards decision "allows the society to continue to grow its standards programs and fund future in...

Research results: Smart sensors, networks find way into diverse applications

Palo Alto, CA —Smart sensors and sensor networks are finding their way into almost all industries, recent research from Frost & Sullivan indicates. A vast number of technologies and products have been developed and many more are under development, the report goes on, observing that as sensors have become an integral part of most industries, their high-volume applications have increased their efficiencies of scale, lowering prices and promoting their adoption in other devices. Examples cited included the use of MEMS accelerometers in laptop hard disk drives and the increased use of smart sensors in environmental monitoring systems as a result of natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina. "Smart sensors and wireless sensor networks offer numerous market benefits," says Mahaneeya Raman, F&S technical insights research analyst, "and while the last few years have been called the information age, we are now looking at a sensor age with the enmeshing of the physical world with cyberspace." Such systems facilitate the detection of data and events, and apart from their tracking benefits, wireless sensor networks also enable devices and objects, in addition to information, to be catalogued and itemized, Raman went on. Other noteworthy findings include expected further miniaturization of wireless sensors.

ISA Expo 2006: Wireless technologies, need for engineers mark show, conference

Houston, TX —Following its theme of "Automation Without Limits," ISA Expo 2006 hit a wide range of topics at its annual event held here last week, discussing everything from secure wireless Ethernet to the need for more engineers. New products and new technologies dotted the show floor as attendees braved torrential rains to participate in a technical conference called by several "the best ever." The exhibit floor was host to the introduction and display of such products as Krohne 's Optiswirl vortex flowmeter, which features integrated pressure and temperature compensation. Model 4070C measures operating, normal volumetric, and mass flow of conductive and non-conductive liquids, gases, and vapors even in fluctuating pressures and temperatures, and it uses the company's intelligent signal processing technology.

Blending wireless expertise for sub-1Ghz ZigBee sensor networks

ZMD AG, a global supplier of high-precision sensor and wireless semiconductor solutions, is working together with Renesas Technology America , a subsidiary of Renesas Technology Corp., a microcontroller supplier, to offer sub-1GHz, ZigBee wireless-sensor networking products. They will combine ZMD44102 (a sub-1GHz transceiver for ZigBee) and Renesas’ highly integrated M16C microcontroller with full-scale ZigBee software support. ZMD44102 is based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, operating in the 868MHz and 915MHz bands. It has a range of over 250 m at 0 dBm output-power and a highly integrated hardware MAC for automatic protocol management.

Wireless LAN for controllers

WL01 industrial wireless LAN extension for IPC@Chip controllers SC123 / SC143 from Beck IPC makes it possible to connect to mobile and distributed automation devices via TCP/IP without proprietary wireless technologies.

Harbor Research 2006: machines will talk more

Machines will communicate much more in coming years, according to a report for all major wireless and wireline technologies for the M2M (machine to machine) pervasive Internet (PI) market, covering eight key vertical market sectors and more than 300 device types by Harbor Research. The report covers buildings, consumer/professional, energy, healthcare/life science, industrial, retail, and secur...

Digi International acquires wireless company, MaxStream

Minnetonka, MN — Digi International Inc. acquired MaxStream Inc., described as a “fast-growing, privately held corporation and a leader in the wireless device networking market.” The acquisition is a merger transaction for $38.5 million of cash and stock, with $19.25 million paid in cash and $19.25 million in Digi stock. The companies made the announcement July 27. Based in Lindon, UT, and employing 49 people, MaxStream generated $10.4 million in revenue and $1.3 million in net income, or 12.7% of revenue, in the year ending Dec.

Wireless sensor networking

Smart-Mesh XT wireless sensor networking system is designed to enable OEMs to deliver wireless products that meet industrial requirements for reliability, low power, and ease of installation.

Wireless partnership helps with utility fault restoration

ABB Distribution Automation introduced a GPRS-based Arctic IEC-104 Gateway to add efficiency to fault restoration and maintenance at utilities; the product has been used at a Finnish power company. The product is jointly specified with Viola Systems , a provider of industrial-grade wireless M2M (machine-to-machine) connectivity products. Koillis-Satakunta Power Utility in Finland needed to remotely control a large number of disconnector stations scattered over a wide and challenging geographical area. GSM data delivered poor usability with high price tag, according to ABB.

Sensors Expo 2006 draws a crowd, offers new products

Stanley used a variety of receptor and environmental sensors, artificial intelligence, and a dual GPS to help guide it through its 132-mile journey through the Mojave Desert. Rosemont, IL —More than 3,000 attendees and nearly 200 exhibitors helped drive the 20th annual Sensors Expo and Conference to a successful conclusion. The event, held June 5-7 in a Chicago suburb, focused on sensors and sensor-integrated systems.

Connections: ArcNet interface, wireless unit, dual-barrier strip

Recently introduced network-related products include an ArcNet-USB interface from Contemporary Controls, a spread-spectrum wireless network interface from Radiotronix, and a Buchanan 0.375-in. centerline JC6 series dual-barrier strip from Tyco Electronics.

Sensicast wireless targets temperature, energy, PM

Sensicast Systems plans to focus its wireless offerings for measure temperature measurement, energy, and predictive maintenance (rotating equipment condition) applications, according to ARC Advisory group. The new Sensicast corporate strategy, called the “Sensicast Wireless Advantage,” will develop complete reference designs in collaboration with a set of sensor companies. These designs will remove customized engineering as a barrier to wireless measurement, making it a more attractive option for applications of these sensors. In other news, Sensicast has been committing resources to the wireless HART working group and the ISA SP100 standards activities, noting that its better to gain benefits of low-cost wireless measurement today than wait for completion of standards. ARC says the challenge for Sensicast (and others) is to overcome end-user's uncertainty about performance of a wireless system in an industrial environment. Read also “ Measure more without wires .” — Richard Phelps, senior editor, Control Engineering.

ISA-SP100, HART work on wireless

Several wireless standardization efforts continue. The ISA (Instrumentation, Systems, and Automation Society) Wireless Systems for Automation Standards committee (ISA-SP100) is working to define needs and guide related standard development and implementation. HART Communications Foundation (HCF) is working on a wireless HART implementation, expected by year-end.

High-speed wireless communication gateways

Bakersfield, CA—ProLinx wireless gateways from ProSoft Technology enables the connection of various Profibus field devices and allows data sharing between devices.

Ethernet radios offer secure wireless communication

Middletown, PA—Wireless Ethernet radio products from Phoenix Contact provide wireless communication said to be "truly secure" and offer "an unprecedented level of data protection."

Peru’s largest copper-producer digitally automates smelter

Emerson Process Management announced that Southern Peru Copper Corp. (SPCC) has selected PlantWeb digital plant architecture, with FOUNDATION fieldbus technology, for digital automation of its smelter near Ilo, Peru.

ZigBee wireless promotion grows: Siemens joins board

San Ramon, CA — ZigBee Alliance adds Siemens to its list of “promoter level” supporters. The non-profit association promoting an open standard for wireless control devices made the announcement last week. Siemens joins Honeywell, Mitsubishi Electric, Motorola, Freescale Semiconductor, and Texas Instruments, among others on the ZigBee board of directors.

Battery-powered DIN-rail-mount wireless transmitter

Adalet Wireless’ DIN-rail-mount industrial wireless-system is now available with a battery powered transmitter option for applications with no available power source. The 1 W wireless transmitter offers a low-cost wireless option with the benefits of battery power for ease of installation and set-up. Users can now monitor application wirelessly with a battery life up to five years.

Networking tutorials, including expanded wireless content

Irvine, CA —Tutorials are an important information asset for engineers, so Lantronix Inc. has updated its popular networking materials. As part of the Lantronix Web site “Learning Center,” the updated information expands the popular networking educational tools that have provided a solid foundation and understanding of basic networking protocols and techniques for many years.

Yes to M2M, if connecting components improves business

Interconnecting various control components and the machines they’re in is worthwhile if doing so improves business, according to recent research. Such interconnecting machine-to-machine (M2M) technologies have the ability to link and coordinate every switch, valve, motor, machine or light in a facility. Industrial plant and commercial facility managers said that in the last 5 years the standard IP network has changed the way they work, according to a summer “2005 Bench-mark Study—Technology Adoption Trends in Plants and Facilities,” in North America, by FiveTwelve Group.

Triple-protocol wireless LAN

Scalance W wireless-LAN system from Siemens Energy & Automation operates over three wireless protocols. It provides data rates of up to 54 Mbits/second and operating speeds of 2.4 GHz (802.11b and g) or 5 GHz (802.11a). Featuring deterministic control for client modules, the LAN frees up bandwidth and ensures critical data are received and transmitted when and where they are needed most.

Digital network connectivity grows in level measurement

Digital networks transport an increasing share of continuous measurement information, according to a new Venture Development Corp. (VDC) market-study on the global process level measurement market. Forecast continuous pro-cess-level measuring-device shipments to North American market—network connectivity basis (% of $; and with and without digital): This trend is part of the ongoing shift...

Wireless monitoring for HACCP compliance

Bolton, and Kendal, U.K. — An agreement to jointly offer service-based solutions for the food industry was announced by: Comtech Holdings Ltd .—a leading machine-to-machine (M2M) provider, and Invisible Systems Ltd —a value added reseller.Invisible Systems delivers local wireless-monitoring solutions to food end-users within factories, retail stores, and transportation. Solutions include automated temperature monitoring for Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) compliance and recording of corrective actions, where information is delivered to end users on a service basis.

Invensys’ new, secure-wireless strategy + enhanced EDDL

Invensys Process Systems ’ (IPS) new wireless-communications strategy utilizes a comprehensive managed-network approach. Its methodology—for all wireless devices, regardless of vendor or application—is based upon shared access-point technology and common data-and-security models. IPS aims to assure appropriate levels of integration, robustness, and security for all industrial and enterprise wireless-applications. “Wireless communications will provide a powerful new enabling technology for asset performance management,” says Chris Lyden, IPS’ vice president of marketing.

Sensor networking is topic of consortium meeting

What’s real and what lies ahead for sensor networking (and its enormous potential to revolutionize products and services) will be topics covered in the first symposium and open house by Boston University Sensor Network Consortium (SNC), on Nov. 18, 2005. More than 150 participants are expected—academic, industry, and venture-capital members of the sensor networking community, SNC says, about its BU Emerging Technologies and Best Industry Practices symposium. SNC is a partnership of start-up technology innovators, corporations, and researchers working in sensor networking.

Wireless instrumentation, sensor link

AWJA industrial wireless system designed for manufacturers of sensors and monitoring instrumentation provides a wireless link to any sensor or instrument that uses a contract closure or analog 4-20 mA signal.

ZigBee good, but not perfect fit for industrial applications

ZigBee is flexible enough to satisfy a wide range of applications, but manufacturers should look beyond it. This for more radio frequency agility, edge devices with high network reliability, and other advanced services that benefit industrial devices and systems, according to a new strategy report from ARC Advisory Group (www.

M2M: When machines talk back, it’s a good thing

Skilled listeners know that even machines that haven't been networked communicate quite a bit through their behaviors: cycle time, throughput, vibration, motion, and wear—the sights and sounds of manufacturing. Most people know, or have heard, about people who can put a hand on a machine and diagnose a myriad of ills.

M2M: When machines talk back, it’s a good thing

Skilled listeners know that even machines that haven’t been networked communicate quite a bit through their behaviors: cycle time, throughput, vibration, motion, and wear—the sites and sounds of manufacturing.

Accutech launches wireless instrumentation for hydrostatic level measurement

Hudson, MA—Accutech has added a new Wireless Level Field Unit to its industrial wireless instrumentation products.

Free and easy wireless, RFID

Hype around wireless and RFID technologies might suggest you can: But is wireless free? And is RFID so easy? Since wireless technology increasingly has proved itself reliable for industrial use, the best approach, if you're new to wireless, is to free your mind. What would you measure if you had a low-cost way to get data from a sensor to a logic device? Suppose you have an already designed, ex...

Exclusive: Wireless LAN for data exchange

Scalance W wireless LAN from Siemens Energy & Automation operates over three wireless protocols in one system.

Crossbow, Richards-Zeta form alliance

Crossbow Technology Inc. and Richards-Zeta Building Intelligence Inc. recently formed a business and technology alliance to deliver wireless sensor networks and building intelligence to end-users.

Elpro adds lifetime warranty to industrial wireless products

Elpro Technologies has initiated a lifetime warranty for its products manufactured from Jan. 1, 2005.

In-Stat reports that wireless PAN, ZigBee market could shoot up 200% by 2009

Scottsdale, AZ—Implementation of IEEE 802.15.4 wireless personal area network (PAN) technology and ZigBee-compliant nodes/chipsets could grow by a 200% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2004 to 2009, while annual shipments may surpass 150 million units in 2009, according to new research by In-Stat.

Sensors Expo 2005: Helicomm shows ZigBee-ready wireless sensor, control platforms

Chicago, IL—Helicomm is demonstrating its integrated platforms for wireless sensor and industrial control applications this week at Sensors Expo 2005, June 6-9, at McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center.

Sensors Expo 2005 spotlights nanotechnology, automotive, aerospace, homeland security

Chicago, IL—To best cover the impact of sensor technologies, Sensors Expo & Conference 2005 this week at McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center, June 6-9, is featuring workshops, symposia, and seminars on sensor integration and applications from many industries and businesses.

Sensors Expo 2005: EnOcean releases energy-harvesting wireless module

Chicago, IL—An innovator of energy-harvesting wireless technologies, EnOcean Inc., is introducing its tiny STM100 solar-powered wireless sensor module this week at Sensors Expo 2005, June 6-9, at McCormick Place’s Lakeside Center.

Power-over-Ethernet switch

Four-port Magnum PS14P PoE Power Source Convenient Switch reportedly is the first industrial-grade switch to offer an IEEE 802.3af standards-compliant way to power and connect small devices such as IP phones, surveillance cameras, wireless access points, and sensors, at the edge of an industrial network.

Industrial Ethernet: Powerlink, EtherNet/IP

At least eight organizations represent seven Ethernet protocols targeting industrial networking applications. Here are updates about two Ethernet protocols: Ethernet-Powerlink and EtherNet/IP. Information on other industrial Ethernet protocols can be viewed in the "Online Extra" addition to this article, below.

Multi-channel wireless system available for multi-feed transmission points

Adalet Wireless is offering a multi-channel, wireless base radio as part of its industrial wireless solution.

GarrettCom says PoE switch enables applications

GarrettCom Inc. reports that it’s bringing the flexibility and cost savings of Power over Ethernet (PoE) IEEE 802.3af to industrial applications by introducing its four-port Magnum PS14P PoE power source-convenient switch.

Wireless: Simple, Safe, Secure, Successful

Everybody's doing it. You can too. First, try to ignore all the billowing hype, sunshine pumping, prophecies of doom, and other nebulous and/or extreme baloney presently latched onto wireless. Forget about all the cell phones, laptops, Blackberries, and other convenience-based settings where wireless is traditionally used.

Sensors Expo 2005 to focus on growth, diversity, wireless

To help users make the best use of a sensors market expected to surpass $15 billion by 2008, the upcoming Sensors Expo & Conference 2005, June 6-8, at McCormick Place, will explore the latest trends in an information-packed conference program, and reflect those trends on its show floor with new product announcements, application presentations, expert-led industry focused...

Pushbuttons, Switches Still Compete in Controls

To read the original print article click here. These days, the term “operator interface” conjures up thoughts of multiple touchscreens, color graphics, an air-conditioned control room, and a sprawling processing plant. Software-enabled control systems represent the latest in HMI technology, and, although they are becoming more common as new plants are built and older systems are updated, they are still far from dominant in factory automation and control. Conventional control panels—the simple original electrical operator interface design (pushbuttons, switches, and pilot lights)— still link the operator to the process in many, if not most, facilities.

Ember to launch new products, services, partnerships

Ember Corp. reports that it will unveil several new ZigBee-related products, partnerships, and services in 2005 to help users to build new ZigBee wireless solutions.

Wireless: Are you ready?

Wireless technology has taken over our everyday lives—from remote controls, to cell phones, to wireless Internet connections in our homes. The ease of deploying these technologies in our offices and homes has contributed to massive worldwide growth and expansion that is not expected to slow down any time soon.

I&C at NMW 2005: Sensors, monitoring system among show highlights

Among instrumentation and control products on display at National Manufacturing Week (NMW) 2005 in Chicago this month were several sensors from MTS Sensors, pressure sensors and sensing film from Sensor Products LLC, and an intelligent predictive condition monitoring system from ITT Industries.

Tendril, Ember developing Web Services for ZigBee networks

Boston, MA—Ember Corp. and Tendril Networks have formed a partnership to help users quickly and easily build applications that draw information from ZigBee networks.

ZigBee Alliance finalizes specification for interoperable wireless standard

San Ramon, CA—The ZigBee Alliance reports that it has ratified the first ZigBee wireless specification, which it says will help users develop and deploy powerful, efficient, cost-effective, low data-rate monitoring, control, and sensing networks.

Helicomm launches ZigBee development platform

Caldba, CA—To provide design, development, and deployment solutions for semiconductor vendors and OEMs, Helicomm has released what it reports is the industry's broadest collection of ZigBee-ready development tools and wireless products.

NEC launches ZigBeeT-ready wireless network module

NEC Engineering Ltd., in cooperation with NEC Electronics Corp. and Chipcon AS, has introduced a module compatible with IEEE 802.15.4 and ZigBeeT wireless network standards for use in industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

Crossbow offers $14,000 in prizes for wireless mesh networking applications

Crossbow Technology is offering five cash prizes totaling $14,000 to any software developer that can demonstrate a wireless sensor network application that positively impacts society.

M2M Device Networking: Enabling New Possibilities for Preventive Maintenance by Advantech

Today, most businesses rely on networks for sharing information among employees and customers. Yet this is only a+ small piece of the information that can be shared. Machines and appliances – essentially any electronic or electro-mechanical device with a sensor, controller or microprocessor – contains a great deal of information about its status, performance and usage.

Wind River releases three platforms for connectivity, security, messaging

Alameda, CA—Wind River Systems Inc. recently introduced three market-specific platforms (MSPs) that reportedly support all phases of the device software development process from concept to deployed product.

Sensor Interface Standard Rides Again

Reports of the demise of the IEEE 1451 Smart Transducer Interface Standard have been greatly exaggerated—to paraphrase Mark Twain. Though not actually ailing, the standard was delayed in limbo, until developers began using its recently approved IEEE 1451.4 section. This part of the standard adds a memory component to smarten sensors, and adds self-identification using transducer electroni...

ProSoft buys industrial radio line from Locus

Bakersfield, CA—ProSoft Technology Inc. reports it recently bought Locus Inc.’s industrial radio product line.

Dust Networks launches SmartMesh networking system

Dust Networks recently launched its SmartMesh wireless mesh-networking platform for enterprise-class monitoring and control solutions.

Securing network security

Industrial network security is increasingly focusing on networks as they continue to evolve beyond their historical isolation. Networks are making themselves and their data accessible via Ethernet TCP/IP, IT-related systems, and/or the Internet, and are facing the inherent vulnerabilities of these technologies.

AutomationDirect presents – A Ripe Market for Operator Interfaces

A custom advertising newsletter from Control Engineering & AutomationDirect| September 8, 2004 A Ripe Market for Operator Interfaces To paraphrase a famous automobile commercial by saying "This is not your father's operator interface" would be a massive understatement of an analogy. If you've been in industry more than just a few years, you've seen for yourself a number of the changes that have taken place with the products that were once known as man-machine interfaces, before becoming the more politically correct human-machine interfaces, and which are now more commonly referred to as operator interfaces. Control Engineering and Reed Research Group (both a part of Reed Business Information) recently conducted a research study on operator interfaces to learn more about user requirements and purchasing plans for these products.

EXCLUSIVE: NEMA-4X rated industrial wireless keyboard

DW-5K keyboard/pointing device from Ikey claims to be the first wireless unit with full-sized 116-key functionality that is industrially hardened and NEMA-rated.

EXCLUSIVE: Industrial wireless keyboard is NEMA-4X rated

DW-5K keyboard/pointing device from Ikey claims to be the first wireless unit with full-sized 116-key functionality that is industrially hardened and NEMA-rated.

Cirronet, DPAC partner to enable 802.11b wireless data links

Cirronet Inc. and DPAC Technologies recently formed a nonexclusive partnership to integrate DPAC's Airborne industrial 802.11b wireless modules into new Cirronet products slated for U.S. distribution later this year.

Mesh sensor networking demand increases

Demand for wireless sensor networking in manufacturing is increasing largely because of users anticipating increased reliability and scalability of mesh networking, according to a recent study by ON World Inc. With thousands of nodes per network likely to be commonplace within five years, the research firm projects that 168 million nodes could be deployed in 2010, which it...

Mesh sensor networking demand increasing

San Diego, CA—Demand for wireless sensor networking in manufacturing is increasing largely because of users anticipating increased reliability and scalability of mesh networking, according to a recent study by ON World Inc.

Agilent, Sun form Java open-source development community

Palo Alto, Santa Clara, CA—Agilent Technologies Inc. and Sun Microsystems Inc. recently formed the Java Distributed Data Acquisition and Control (JDDAC) open-source community for developing Java applications and libraries for wide-area distributed sensors and controls.

Ethernet users adopting XML, Profinet, FOUNDATION fieldbus

Users of industrial Ethernet are increasingly seeking to use the XML (eXtensible Markup Language) protocol in both wiredand wireless applications, according to recent research by Venture Development (VDC) Corp.

Millennial Net releases sensor network management software

Detroit, MI; Cambridge, MA—To provide superior development and integration capabilities for ease of deployment, Millennial Net Inc. has introduced its Sensor Network Management (SNM) software and application programming interface (API)

Sensors Expo 2004: Sensimesh aids deployment of Crossbow’s wireless sensor networks

Detroit, MI—To help users and OEMs build and test sensor networks using Crossbow Technology’s hardware, Sensicast Systems has introduced its Sensimesh development system for Crossbow’s wireless sensor nodes.

Sensors Expo 2004: Helicomm shows ZigBee-based wireless imaging platform

Carlsbad, CA—Helicomm is demonstrating a prototype of an integrated platform, Wireless Image SensorNet, at Sensors Expo 2004, June 7-10, at Cobo Center in Detroit.

ZigBee Alliance announces 27 new member companies

San Ramon, CA—The ZigBee Alliance reports that 27 new member companies recently joined its organization, bringing its total membership to more than 70 companies.

NMW 2004: Cisco’s Intelligent Networked Manufacturing strategy

Chicago, IL—Cisco Systems Inc. announced at National Manufacturing Week 2004 that its Cisco Intelligent Networked Manufacturing strategy emphasizes greater visibility and flexibility across an entire manufacturing operation. satisfaction.

Millennial Net launches 2.4-GHz wireless sensor networking devices

Cambridge, MA—To bring new functionality and flexibility to the wireless sensor networking market, Millennial Net Inc. has released its 2.4-GHz i-Bean endpoints, routers and gateways.

Visualization tool handles Ethernet support

IntraVUE is a new network and device visualization tool, developed by Network Vision Inc., which gives control engineers ability to handle all of Ethernet's basic support functions. It runs on a network-connected computer and is compatible with industrial Ethernet protocols EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, FOUNDATION fieldbus HSE, and Profinet.

U.S. Department of Energy and Honeywell to develop industrial wireless technologies

Honeywell recently announced it has been selected to negotiate a $10 million project, co-funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), to develop wireless sensor technologies that can meet plant floor operational control challenges.

MillennialNet, Ferro jointly producing battery-free, wireless sensor networks

MillennialNet Inc. and Ferro Solutions have formed a technology partnership and successful demonstration of a battery-free version of Millennial’s i-Bean wireless sensor networking device. MillennialNet manufactures hardware and software for self-organizing, wireless sensor networks. Ferro develops energy-harvesting technologies.

AutomationDirect, Cirronet developing wireless automation products

Atlanta, GA—Cirronet Inc. and AutomationDirect announced Oct. 8 that they’ve formed a partnership to tailor Cirronet's wireless products to the needs of AutomationDirect's industrial automation customers.

Sensors Expo 2003: DVT, MillenialNet show solutions

Numerous innovative solutions were exhibited at the recently concluded Sensors Expo 2003 at the Rosemount Convention Center, including:

Sensors Expo 2003: Millennial Net aids wireless sensor networking

Rosemont, IL—Millennial Net Inc. (Cambridge, MA) launched June 2 at Sensors Expo 2003 its i-Bean 5000, the latest version of its ultra-small, ultra-low-power, wireless sensor networking device.

Wireless solutions expected to grow 47% per year to +$8 billion by 2007

San Mateo, CA—Open standards and key vertical market applications will ignite the market for low-power, low-data-rate wireless technology (LR-WPAN) and help it grow at a 47% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) to more than $8 billion by 2007, according to a market research study released April 22 by the Wireless Data Research Group (WDRG).

Wireless troubleshooting package gathers, analyses, transmits data

Computational Systems Inc. (CSI, Knoxville, TN), Emerson Process Management's mechanical equipment monitoring group, introduced the 4100 MicroAnalyzer, a self-contained, wireless, troubleshooting package. CSI reports that 4100 can be deployed in minutes to gather, analyze, and transmit vibration, stress wave, and temperature data.

Exclusive: Industrial Ethernet software aims for ”revolution”

Ethernet continues to make inroads on the factory floor with additional momentum from major automation suppliers' solutions such as EtherNet/IP (implicit messaging) and ProfiNet (version 2). To support time-critical applications, network engineers have implemented advanced functional technologies, such as multicast and UDP (user datagram protocol), rather than simple transactional activities of...

Get the most value

Considering a system integrator to help with your next automation and control project? Control Engineering provides this annual print-based reference tool, and Control Engineering Online delivers the year-round Web-based guide, to help provide exactly the expertise you need. This year's updated information, again delivered by Control Engineering consulting editor, Vance VanDoren, has more...

Like being there

There's nothing quite like being there... live and in-person. Trade shows are great for learning from others, taking technology "test drives," as well as for making and renewing relationships. It's no secret that travel and exhibitor budgets remain tight. So it's even more important for your job success that we take you there through Control Engineering, Control Engineering Europe , Control En...

DON’T MISS any of Control Engineering’s exclusive ISA 2002 coverage

ISA 2002 index of coverage : Control Engineering's editorial staff is on-site at ISA 2002 to provide exclusive, up-to-the-minute coverage of the show and conference. Don't miss any of the important news items listed below. For more background on the show and conference, click here to read Control Engineering . October 29, 2002: ISA 2002: Status report on Interkama 2004 October 28, 2002: ISA 2002: GE Fanuc updates software, hardware October 25, 2002: ISA 2002: More photo highlights from the show floor October 24, 2002: ISA 2002: ''Last retort'' panel encourages industry activism ISA 2002: Entivity partners with Phoenix Contact; Posco touts $6.25-million savings ISA 2002: Dolch shows wireless display and fully sealed PC October 23, 2002: ISA 2002: Smar Research debuts HART-compatible modems ISA 2002: OPC Foundation demonstrates OPC Data eXchange ISA 2002: Photo highlights from the show floor-October 23, 2002 October 22, 2002: ISA 2002:Control Engineering's Vance VanDoren edits advance control book ISA 2002: Fieldbus Foundation growing by leaps and bounds ISA 2002: 10 system integrators form Automation Alliance Group ISA 2002: Vaisala launches handheld humidity, temperature meter October 21, 2002: ISA 2002: FDT Group demonstrates universal field device interface ISA 2002: ProSoft introduces wireless modem solutions.

ISA 2002: ProSoft introduces wireless modem solutions

Chicago, IL—To maximize network flexibility, reliability and performance in industrial control applications, ProSoft Technology Inc. (Bakersfield, CA) is introducing RadioLinx, its new industrial, wireless modem, at ISA 2002 at McCormick Place.

AeroComm’s embedded RF-232 protocol aids FHSS transceiver installation

Lenexa, KS—AeroComm announced Oct. 8 that it has developed a transparent protocol that simplifies the wireless integration process by allowing for plug-and-play installation. This new "RF-232" technology is embedded in compact AeroComm's AC4424 industrial-temperature, 2.4-GHz, FHSS transceivers.

Axcess’ wireless sensor and alert system enables wireless sensing

Dallas, TX - Axcess Inc. unveiled Aug. 13 a wallet-sized device, selling for less than $20, that can turn standard alarms, biosensors and chemical sensors into wireless sentries, capable of sending alerts over landline or wireless systems. The company says its device will enable rapid, economical deployment of pervasive sensor networks, which was a key need highlighted in a recent National Research Council Report on Counter-Terrorism.

Control Engineering’s E-News Letter for Embedded Control – May 2000

In this issue: Phoenix Contact scores at conference Microsoft woes What do you think about? May's Control Engineering Windows CE advances Jim Pinto opens web site Hot memory technology Phoenix Contact scores at conference Over 400 engineers, technicians, and systems integrators attended the first Industry Forum at Phoenix Contact to learn about open systems, distributed I/O, and other technologies. I had the privilege of hosting a panel session that included Mark Knebusch (Phoenix Contact), Mike Klein ( Steeplechase ), Russ Agrusa ( Iconics ), Emilio Matt ( Microsoft ), Sam Hoff (integrator Patti Engineering ), and Kevin Jones (integrator Pak/Teem ). The story was open systems, distributed I/O, PC- based control (integrators are adopting it), and, especially, OPC for open communications. Aside from the occasional 'that would be a monopoly' joke, questions involved Linux, fieldbus wars and the future of Ethernet, and how to build a PC-based system for maximum uptime.

News analysis: Annual ARC Forum generates discussions over role of “open”

Orlando, Fla. - The annual gathering of automation suppliers and users sponsored by analyst firm ARC Advisory Group generated even more discussion than usual-especially in the hallways after the presentations. ARC president, Andy Chatha, gathered an impressive array of industry leaders to address the almost 400 attendees on the state of the automation industry today.

Automation leaders give reasons to buy now

Orlando, Fla. - Leaders from several major automation firms, glad 2001 is over, expressed interest in partnering with customers to help manufacturers improve plant-floor processes and solve business problems. Justification for needed upgrades in automation, controls, and instrumentation points to connection and optimization, not only plant-floor processes, but the enterprise and supply chain, as well.

Control Engineering HMI eNewsletter for Janurary 2002

In this issue: HMI in January Control Engineering Change The Next Computer Interface Touchpad Keyboard Intermec launches mobile computers Large display for control or conference room Organic light-emitting diode displays Cool products Control Engineering News HMI in January Control Engineering January's HMI article is an introduction to XML and its related technologies. While once it was cool to embed 'web pages' in a controller, now, it's embedding information-serving capability using XML. By the way, if you want to see an example of some live XML data, check out the Opto 22 web control demo . You can turn on a lamp, check the temperature and start/stop a wheel - all over the web.

Sensors Expo Showcases Innovation

Sensors Expo Spring 2001 will feature more than 200 exhibitors, conference presentations, and an interactive poster session. More than 200 companies are expected to exhibit products and services at Sensors Expo Spring 2001 on June 5-7 at the Stephens Convention Center (Rosemont, Ill.) Free conference sessions include "Workshop on Wireless Sensing" from 9 a.

Wireless sensor network

Thousand Oaks, Calif.—HiDRA (highly deployable remote access) wireless sensor network simplifies installation and enhances sensor use. The network of communicating nodes can be placed on individual pieces of factory-floor machinery. Each node connects to a variety of sensors, and contains a processor to convert raw data into information, and a low-power radio to transmit information.

Dick Caro resigns from IEC fieldbus subcommittee

Dick Caro officially tendered his resignation Feb. 1 as convenor of the IEC SC65C/WG6 fieldbus committee. With the recent passage of the IEC ballot on the final draft of the IEC 61158 fieldbus standard, he fulfilled his agreement to finish work on WG6. Mr. Caro had led the subcommittee since 1993.