Product Exclusive: Fuji Electric Corp. of America introduces a series of next generation HMIs for the U.S. market; the Monitouch V9 Series Programmable Operator Interface HMI ranges from 8.4-in. to 10.4-in. and includes standard models to replace the V8 Series, and offers a step-up line known as V9 Advanced.

Control Engineering International: Alarm systems design, management, and procurement advice is available in the third edition guide from Engineering Equipment and Materials Users' Association (EEMUA), reports Suzanne Gill from Control Engineering Europe.

Upgrades: The Siemens Simotics FD motor series and Energy Analytics services aim to expand areas where Siemens motors can be used and savings for energy use in industrial applications.

GE Intelligent Platforms is consolidating its control platforms, starting with OPC-UA, into one integrated architecture to provide a broader reach and system impact.

Yokogawa has received a contract to execute a FEED project to consolidate control rooms and systems for JX Nippon Oil's Mizushima-A oil refinery in Japan.

System 800xA Minerals Library 5.1/4, by ABB is a fully parameterized process control system solution designed to enhance productivity in the cement and minerals industries.

Robotic Industries Association (RIA) has announced its updated ANSI/RIA R15.06-2012 standard. This first update since 1999 (now harmonized with the international standard ISO 10218:2011) is a major step forward for users and manufacturers of robotics in the U.S.

Lenze's updated version of drive dimensioning software boasts user enhancements and a specific motion designer for precision dimensioning and drive optimization in winding applications.

Application: Existing drives were not accurate enough to provide desired results and were not offered with conduit fittings. The solution provided was cost effective and more energy efficient than prior drives used and eliminated the PLC and control panel for logic.

Eaton M-Max VFD provided QuantumFlo with a cost-effective, more energy-efficient solution than prior drives used. The more accurate Eaton M-Max drive with IP21 conduit kit allowed QuantumFlo to meet energy and functionality needs, while eliminating the PLC and control panel for logic.

Invensys Off-sites Software Suite 2.2 adds new updates to improve functionality for terminal and blending applications.

Internet promises of better remote access, monitoring, and tweaking of automation systems have been slowed by malware and other security issues; options are available for secure remote access programming.

Yokogawa releases enhanced version of ProSafe-RS safety instrumented system extending connectivity and environmental operating limits.

Fieldbus Foundation releases new version of DesignMate to simplify planning, validation, and documentation of H1 segments.

Electric motors have received predominant attention from energy-efficiency standards and regulations due their vast industrial usage and well-documented design, performance, and test specifications. Major efficiency improvements have been obtained at the motor level but are reaching diminishing returns and economic limits. Recent developments focus on the larger “driven system” connected to the motor for continued efficiency gains.

At almost every Machine Safety Seminar I hear someone ask: “How do I know that a consensus standard has been updated?”

We’ve made some minor changes to several machines over the past six months but none of these modifications included the safety system. Our engineer said that there was no change in operator safety. Do we have to update the risk assessments anyway? See ANSI B11.0 – 2010 Safety of Machinery – General Requirements and Risk Assessment; OSHA recommended.

The first new operating license in 34 years was approved in early February 2012 by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for two reactors at Southern Nuclear Operating Co.’s Vogtle power plant located near Augusta, Ga. Other license approvals are pending. The industry is at a crossroad with positive and negative developments. Link to photos, videos.

The new web site improves the user experience by simplifying access to product and technical information. Membership upgrade offered.

The EyeVision software by EVT has been revised, allowing compatibility with CoaXPress cameras in addition to PC interfaces like USB, GigE and FireWire.

Invensys releases ArchestrA System Platform 2012 and Workflow 2012, core elements of InFusion Enterprise Control System. Video: Maryanne Steidinger explains the concepts behind business process management and Invensys’ broader software offerings.

Windmill Software’s newest version of the ComDebug data logging and com port troubleshooting software allows users to quickly identify and correct communication errors.

Emerson Process Management's Rosemount 5300 and 5400 transmitters can now communicate via Modbus and LevelMaster (ROS) protocols

The discussion early in August is back in the headlines as hackers gain stolen documents to pose as Google.

For point-to-point and bus-based configurations, new low-power solenoid valves offer economies for PLCs, DCSs, and other control devices and use of easier, less expensive, smaller gage wiring. They are the same price as the previous low-power generation. More savings accrue due to smaller footprints, easier reconfiguration, and greater reliability.