Electronics Automation

ICS Triplex has chosen the Green Hills Platform for Industrial Safety for its next generation of safety-rated, fault-tolerant control and safety systems.

ICS Triplex has chosen the Green Hills Platform for Industrial Safety for its next generation of safety-rated, fault-tolerant control and safety systems. The Green Hills Platform for Industrial Safety - based on the IEC61508 TUV-certified Integrity RTOS - will allow ICS Triplex to design and deliver control systems that meet and exceed the most stringent international safety standards, while providing the highest availability and lowest cost of ownership of any safety-rated control system currently available. The Platform for Industrial Safety includes the Integrity (or Velosity) royalty-free real-time operating system, certified by TUV to Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL3) of the IEC61508 safety standard.

SIL3 is the highest assurance level achievable for an individual software component, such as an operating system.

For over 35 years, ICS Triplex has been a leading manufacturer of safety-critical shutdown and control systems for the world's premier companies in oil and gas, petrochemicals, fine chemicals, aerospace and power generation.

The family of safety systems from ICS Triplex has been successfully installed and maintained worldwide in applications such as emergency shutdown, fire and gas, burner management, electricity distribution control and rocket launch control.

PrismTech is supplying its OpenFusion e*ORB SDR C++ Edition middleware solution to Korea's Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute.

PrismTech is supplying its OpenFusion e*ORB SDR C++ Edition middleware solution to the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), Korea's leading research and development organisation, for work related to commercial software defined radio (SDR) applications. PrismTech's OpenFusion e*ORB SDR solution comprises a suite of SCA-compliant, high-performance, low-footprint CORBA ORBs and related common object services. It is designed and optimised for use in SDR and other low profile, resource-constrained environments, and offers a fully interoperable solution for GPPs, DSPs and FPGAs.

ETRI stated that it selected PrismTech's e*ORB C++ SDR product because it offered the best performance and low-footprint embedded CORBA middleware for developing their SDR handset platform.

In addition, ETRI commented that its decision was also based on the fact that PrismTech is a leader in ICO (integrated circuit ORB) technology, and that the company offered a total SDR development solution with its Spectra Power Tools, e*ORB and ICO offerings.

In addition to being specifically designed for SDR and other resource constrained embedded and real-time applications, OpenFusion e*ORB SDR C++ Edition features many significant advantages over other middleware options, including: lower footprint and overhead, more efficient use of resources, faster throughput, and the most open and configurable architecture.

'Our SDR-related products were developed by SDR developers and were designed to be used by SDR developers', said Steve Jennis, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at PrismTech.

'The result is that we simply created the best ORB for SDR applications and Software Communications Architecture (SCA)-compliant development'.

Sagantec has opened a branch sales and support office in Tokyo, Japan.

Sagantec has opened a branch sales and support office in Tokyo, Japan. Sagantec-Japan began direct operation in October in response to a significant growth of its business in Japan and recognition of the strategic position of the Japanese semiconductor industry in advanced technology implementation and design for manufacturing. With a local team of sales managers and application engineers, Sagantec can now provide advanced EDA solutions and expert technical support for its customers in Japan.

Furthermore, the direct presence of Sagantec in Japan will lead to a closer relationship between major Japanese customers and Sagantec's engineering team.

Sagantec's solutions for accelerating design to production address a real and growing need for Japan's major semiconductor companies - to accelerate time to market of complex IC implementations in leading edge technologies.

'We have seen increased acceptance and broad adoption of our products with most of the major Japanese semiconductor companies'.

'We have built strong business relationships with these companies, and the Sagantec-Japan office will enable us to provide direct and focused support to address the specific needs of each of our customers', said Hillel Ofek, Sagantec President and Chief Executive Officer.

Electromagnetic simulation substantially reduced the cost of the protective shields surrounding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suites at one Chicago hospital.

Electromagnetic simulation substantially reduced the cost of the protective shields surrounding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suites at one Chicago hospital. Use of 3D electromagnetic simulation software, from Vector Fields, enabled engineers at Lindgren RF Enclosures to quickly evaluate different shield materials and thicknesses to achieve the desired level of protection at the lowest price. Also by using simulation as part of the design process they were able to ensure that the shields would provide adequate protection prior to installation, eliminating the need for costly post installation modifications.

Information collated also helped system selection at the initial purchasing stage.

An MRI system generates an image of the body through the use of a very strong magnetic field, which causes every molecule in the body to align within the magnetic field.

The RF signals cause the molecules to vibrate which pickup coils detect.

Since different tissues vibrate in response to different frequencies, an image of the tissues can be generated by the system pulsing at different radio frequencies.

An MRI scan resembles an X-ray but is better for viewing soft tissues such as liver and heart.

The magnetic field of the MRI system is so strong that it would extend great distance and without shielding, present a potential health hazard, particularly to people with pacemakers and metal implants.

Similarly electronic and other imaging systems may be disrupted by the magnetic filed.

Shielding is also necessary to protect the MRI system from the effect of large metal objects such as metallic trolleys or even vehicles passing outside, all of which may affect imaging.

As surroundings and fixtures are particular to an installation each MRI shield is unique.

Time consuming calculations are normally needed to see how well the enclosure would contain the field but even then, exact results would not be known until the shield had been built and readings taken.

The simulation makes the calculations both easier and more accurate and makes it economically viable to check a variety of designs, shapes and materials.

Reduced design times means lower costs, optimised designs lower build costs and post installation modifications are also minimised.

Lindgren engineers chose Opera software from Vector Fields because its graphical user interface makes it easy to 'ring the changes' modelling many MRI systems and configurations.

In addition its powerful scripting language makes it possible to automate the analysis, facilitating evaluation of all the designs.

The package also offers outstanding technical depth and a very robust solver that converges to a solution in even the most complex geometries.

A 2D model of the proposed shield was generated from MRI system data and the architect's plans of the locations and then extended into 3D.

The 3D model was detailed and realistic, and included openings for such as windows and doors.

The program can then divide the model into finite elements.

A comprehensive library of materials data, including B-H properties is held within the Vector Fields system, which equates input data on the particular material parameters, chemical composition, material state from heat-treatment etc as entered by the engineers.

Tosca, a electromagnetic analysis solver, also from Vector Fields, then predicted how well the shield would perform.

Tosca shows where any shield material is saturated by graphs, histograms and contour plots of the magnetic field superimposed on the model, clearly indicating where the material is inadequate and where surplus.

Corrections then re-evaluated provided the final cost effective solution.

Not only did the software package enable Lindgren to optimise several systems for the same hospital, but also assisted in the initial purchase evaluation by being able to quantify costs, build schedules and many other aspects of different types of machine.

The software simulation package from Vector Fields is designed for analyses of any EMI screen currently essential under EEC regulations for all equipment generating radio frequency and electromagnetic fields.

Vector Fields offers a consultancy service particularly for customers with only an occasional requirement for this type of analysis.

A new series of power shielded surface mount (SMT) power inductors is designed for use in local DC/DC power conversion.

A new series of power shielded surface mount (SMT) power inductors is designed for use in local DC/DC power conversion. The new PF0464/PF0465 series, which are available as lead-free components, have a high current rating of 4.5A in a low-profile (3mm height for the PF0464 and 4mm height for the PF0465), small footprint package (7.2 x 7.2mm maximum) with inductance values up to 100uH. Their extended operating temperature of -40 to +125C makes them suitable for high-temperature applications such as telecomms and consumer electronics products.

The PF0464/PF0465 series has a reliable pad design, with lower direct current resistance (DCR) and higher operating temperature than similar power shielded SMT inductors.

This means less increase in the temperature of the inductor at a given DC current, resulting in increased reliability.

The DCR for the PF0464.302 (at 3uH, 3A) is 17mohm typically and 22mohm maximum.

The PF0464.104 (at 100uH, 0.54A) has a 400mohm typical value and 505mohm maximum value.

The PF0465.332 (at 3.3uH, 3.5A) has a 16mohm typical value and 20mohm at maximum value, and the PF0465.104 (at 100uH, 0.65A) has a DCR at 286mohm typical value and 350mohm maximum value.

Tolerances are at +/-20%.

These components are tested to withstand a peak solder reflow temperature of 260C.

These shielded inductors are designed for use in DC/DC conversion applications including distributed power architecture for multiple board equipment such as rack-mount equipment found in telecommunications network infrastructure or in stand-alone equipment like a modem, switch or hub.

The ULN/ULF series of metal-clad wire-wound high-power resistors is designed for motor braking and other applications where space is at a premium and the user must have UL approval.

Designed specifically for motor braking applications and other applications where space is at a premium and the user must have UL approval, the ULN/ULF series of metal-clad wire-wound high-power resistors is now available from Rhopoint Components. The series has a continuous power rating from 50 to 500W with a peak power for a one second pulse of 1.25 to 12.5kW. The devices come marked with the UL logo and have a high dielectric strength of up to 4500V These power braking resistors have extremely low inductance and are available with tab flying lead connections, which are UL approved to conform to UL safety requirements.

They are built into aluminium housings that are both rugged and strong for protection, and whose design allows excellent heat dissipation.

Customisation of the resistors in the range is also possible with thermostatic protection and flying lead length.

Customer part numbers and safety warnings can also be printed on the resistors.

Operating over the temperature range of -55 to +250C the resistors have an insulation resistance in excess of 20Mohm.

These braking resistors are tested for short time overload, moisture resistance, thermal shock, vibration, moisture load life and load life.

The newest catalogue from Farnell InOne offers design engineers a much needed snapshot of the latest and best RoHS compliant technology in the industry.

With RoHS still dominating the market place, the newest catalogue from Farnell InOne - the number one source for RoHS compliant products and information - landed on desks across the UK last week, bringing design engineers a much needed snapshot of the latest and best RoHS compliant technology in the industry. The new catalogue, which is printed on FSC approved paper, is uniquely designed to keep design engineers up to date with RoHS compliant ranges and features the most exciting new technology across transistors, soldering equipment, capacitors, power supplies and discrete semiconductor product ranges. In addition, updates on the legislation are also incorporated, such as information on exemptions as well as the latest status on categories 8 and 9 covering medical devices and monitoring and control instruments respectively making it easy for design engineers to work with the new law in practice.

Gary Nevison, MRO Segment, Electronics Market Manager, Europe and Asia Pacific at Farnell InOne comments: 'Our new catalogue has, as always, been put together with design engineers' needs at the forefront'.

'The result is an easy to use tool that gives a clear view of new RoHS compliant products, without having to wade through unnecessary information'.

'Customers can also go online to find RoHS products in seconds and our highly skilled technicians are only a phone call away for specific queries'.

'We enable people to search and find products in the way that suits them best'.

'Our wide range of support services means we're still the number one place to come for RoHS components and information'.

A new high-voltage laser-discharge ceramic capacitor provides superior functionality in circuits with high peak current and repetition rates.

A new high-voltage laser-discharge ceramic capacitor provides superior functionality in circuits with high peak current and repetition rates. The capacitors are ideal for gas lasers, high energy pulsed power supplies, DC power supplies, lightning arresters and X-ray power supplies. Morgan Electro Ceramics' laser discharge ceramic capacitor uses a strontium-titanate-based dielectric material, which exhibits a negligible piezoelectric/electrostrictive effect.

This allows it to be used in high-peak-current/high-shot-life applications, including those found in gas lasers and other high-energy pulsed power systems.

It also offers low dielectric loss resulting in low self-heating when used in high-power/high-repetition-rate circuits.

Additionally, the high breakdown strength/high permittivity of the material allows for storage of high energy density per unit volume.

This high energy density is maintained over the rated working voltage and temperature range by the dielectric's low capacitance/voltage coefficient and low temperature coefficient.

Hitachi Metals manufactures a full range of planar or sheet transformers for different applications.

Hitachi Metals manufactures a full range of planar or sheet transformers for different applications. These include transformers and inductors for computer power supplies, telecommunications rectifiers, battery chargers, welding, electrical vehicles, inverters for motor control and a wide range of industrial applications. planar transformers can be used to reduce the dimensions of the main switched-mode power supply - a critical area of drive design.

Planar transformers are thermally more efficient than wire-wound types because the surface area to volume ratio is high.

With the reductions to the volume of modern drives creating stringent demands on thermal management, this efficiency is critical.

Hitachi's planar transformers feature typical efficiencies of 98%.

The low leakage inductance is less than 0.2% of primary inductance.

They have a low profile from 5.5 to 12mm; high power versions range from 20 to 50mm height.

Hitachi's planar transformers have a wide working frequency range from 50kHz to 1MHz.

Abacus Deltron has announced the opening of three new offices in Germany, and the addition of 14 distribution technical support and sales professionals to its team there.

Abacus Deltron has announced the opening of three new offices in Germany, and the addition of 14 distribution technical support and sales professionals to its team there. The announcement gives Abacus Deltron a location close to its customers throughout Germany, enabling them to provide world class service at a local level right across the region. The new Abacus Deltron team bring depth of experience in the semiconductor market to the business, broadening the expertise the company offers its German customers.

They will be located in new offices in Dortmund, Hamburg and Kirckheim as well as the existing office in Munich and Stuttgart.

Abacus Deltron operation in Germany and Austria now consists of a team of 87 operating from six offices with one warehouse.

Commenting, Abacus Group Chief Executive, Martin Kent, said: 'Abacus' success is based on having a network of local offices in each country in which it operates, locating technical and commercial support close to the customer'.

'The structure that we now have in Germany reflects that exactly, and provides the right basis for us to move forward and achieve our goal of 5% market share in this significant European market'.

The team will be managed by Juergen Kirtzel, the new General Manager of Abacus Deltron (Germany).

He takes over from Werner Hohmann who has become President of Abacus Deltron (Germany).

This expansion provides Abacus Deltron with a platform to build its current passive and electromechanical business and gain a presence in the semiconductor, wireless and embedded markets.

The team includes Juergen Klimek, a highly respected specialist in the wireless business, who will operate as Wireless Product Manager using his experience as a Business Development Manager as well as his strong technical base.

On the embedded software and displays side, Achim Schneiders brings relevant experience and has been give the position of FAE covering these products.

A new series of low-profile SMT power inductors features an operating temperature range up to 150C, made possible using a high-end powdered iron core material for extremely stable thermal performance.A new series of low-profile surface mount (SMT) power inductors features an operating temperature range up to 150C, made possible using a high-end powdered iron core material for extremely stable thermal performance at elevated temperatures. The parts in the new PG0155 series have a greater degree of reliability than other available inductors of the same package type and do not undergo thermal aging at high temperatures. The parts have a compact footprint of 11 x 10.4mm maximum and a low profile of 3.7mm maximum, making them ideally suited for notebook computer CPUs.

A flat wire coil provides higher current ratings in a low-profile package.

The series incorporates self-terminating lead technology to increase reliability and reduce cost.

PG0155 inductors have a current rating up to 24A with an inductance range of 0.30 to 2.30uH.

The DC resistance range is from 2.2 to 16.5mohm.

In addition to notebook computer applications, the PG0155 series can be used for voltage regulator modules (VRMs), point of load (POL) systems, distributed power architecture (DPA), DC/DC convertors, high-speed servers and workstations, telecomms switching networks, routers and basestation equipment.

The PG0155 series of inductors is available in tape-and-reel packaging.

RoHS compliant parts are available on request.

With a constant eye on technological innovations, Farnell InOne's 2004 UK catalogue and CD contain 16,000 additions, reflecting both its customers' core needs, as well as the latest industry trends.

With a constant eye on technological innovations, Farnell InOne's "hot off the press" 2004 UK catalogue and CD contain 16,000 new additions reflecting both its customers' core needs, as well as the latest industry trends. The seven-book catalogue contains 150,000 products and is a tangible example of the customer benefits arising from the close working relationships between the InOne family of businesses, carrying a comprehensive range from BuckHickman InOne, a leading distributor of tools and industrial supplies. Individual book highlights include: over 3000 new electronic components in Book 2; more than 1500 new connectors and cable products in Book 3; Book 4 has in excess of 5500 new electrical and test products; 400 new process control and automation products in Book 5; Book 6 contains over 1500 new health, safety and hygiene products; and over 4000 new tools and industrial consumables in Book 7.

Farnell InOne maintains its high service promise with 24 hour ordering and free next day delivery on orders made before 2000 BST.

In addition, a further 70,000 products are available online from US sister company Newark InOne, and shipped direct to arrive within 3 days.

Support services also remain a major focus of the Farnell InOne service with access to 250,000 datasheets and free technical support for account customers, dedicated RoHS and WEEE helplines, ProductWatch (its industry leading obsolescence notification system) and ProductFind (its product sourcing tool).

Stephen Makepeace, Regional Director of Western Europe, Farnell InOne, comments: "The 2004 UK catalogue contains 150,000 products of which 16,000 are new, and many of which are up-to-the-minute reflections of work being carried out by design engineers all over the UK.

Every change is as a result of listening to our customers, to what they want and need, and then providing it, which is precisely what Farnell InOne is all about: servicing the true needs of our customers".

Link Microtek, the Basingstoke-based supplier of RF and microwave components and subsystems, has appointed Paul Timberlake as Microwave Product Engineer.

Link Microtek, the Basingstoke-based supplier of RF and microwave components and subsystems, has appointed Paul Timberlake as Microwave Product Engineer. Having been involved in RF and microwave technology throughout his career, Timberlake brings with him particularly extensive knowledge of calibration and test engineering issues. After having completed his apprenticeship as a technician engineer with Microwave Systems, he moved to Astrium Space (Matra Marconi Space UK Ltd), where he was initially employed as system test repair engineer.

He progressed to deputy systems test supervisor and then moved into a procurement role, eventually achieving the position of lead supply chain engineer on a major satellite project.

In his new position with Link Microtek, Timberlake will be dealing with customers in south-west, west and northern England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.

He will be handling Link's own portfolio of in-house manufactured waveguide products, as well as the broad range of RF and microwave components, instruments and subsystems manufactured by the company's principals in the USA, Europe and the Far East.

Epcos has strengthened its UK distribution network by signing a new franchise distribution agreement with Anglia.

Epcos has strengthened its UK distribution network by signing a new franchise distribution agreement with Anglia. The agreement complements Anglia's current passive portofolio which already includes a broad range of Epcos' inductors, chokes, varistors, thermistors, GDTs along with film standard and suppression products. Commenting on the new franchise, Keith Rogers, UK Distribution Manager at Epcos, said: "The appointment of Anglia will be a major benefit to our customers, especially in the challenging supply situation that is developing.

The considerable depth of stock that Anglia holds on Epcos' extensive range of lead free through hole and surface mount products is backed by in-depth quality engineering that ensure that products are readily accepted by customers.

Anglia's product and supply-chain team work constantly to enhance both our relationship and sales".

"Both Anglia and Epcos are delighted with this opportunity", continued Rogers.

"Anglia is able to offer customers dedicated sales contacts backed by a technical help desk staffed by qualified applications engineers.

Together, they provide to users specialist knowledge and practical experience of the latest developments within the electronics industry.

Longer term the combination of Epcos' and Anglia's application and product marketing specialists will bring design support out from the web straight into customers' latest competitive designs for future products".

Steve Rawlins, Group Managing Director at Anglia, added: "Partnering with Epcos is a great step forward for us.

We are confident that with Epcos' comprehensive product range supported by our technical and customer service skills we can give our customers the design solution they are looking for.

It ensures that all users, whether they have the simplest or the most complex needs, have the right solution".