eNewsletter

August 2008

Operators Extend SCADA Investment to Vital Cathodic Protection
Freewave Technologie, Inc.

Aging infrastructure, new state and federal regulations, new unfriendly neighbors, an aging workforce and heightened security restricting site access are burdening company operations with increasing costs and deteriorating operational excellence. Operating managers within energy, municipal and pipeline companies look to extend their investment in high performance SCADA networks in the hopes of gaining greater operational efficiencies and keeping costs in check.

http://www.remotemagazine.com/images/freewave2.pdf  

Telemetric Releases IED Config for The Remote Configuration of IED’s Equipped with RTMs 

Telemetric Corp. has released a new IED Config feature for their Remote Telemetry Module (RTM). This feature allows Telemetric users to remotely change settings and retrieve event logs on Intelligent Electronic Devices (IED’s) used for equipment such as reclosers, switches, capacitor banks and voltage regulators using the manufacturer’s standard configuration software.

IED Config can be added to any Telemetric RTM in operation by updating the firmware in the unit. This feature leverages Telemetric’s alliance with AT&T Wireless to deliver fast and cost-effective IP-based data communications throughout North America. Telemetric RTM units can be installed anywhere AT&T service is available. Telemetric products allow electric utility customers to monitor, control and report changes automatically via Telemetric’s PowerVista applications or integrate directly to SCADA, energy management systems, or other systems.

The IED Config software supports the manufacturer’s own configuration software by using IP tunneling technology over the digital cellular network. Thus, electric utility engineers or technicians can utilize the same familiar software that they use when connecting directly to a device in the field. Security features of the system include the use of a VPN connection, user name and password, multi-factor authentication and data encryption.

Unlike private radio networks that require large investments in communications infrastructure, the Telemetric devices can deliver a cost effective solutions that can be rapidly deployed with no infrastructure investment. Users can be notified of events via text message, e-mail or pager and the information can be delivered to their SCADA or energy management system. They may also view and manage their device information on their own secure account using Telemetric’s PowerVista applications with a standard web browser. Unlike simple modem-based solutions, Telemetric products combine intelligent remote devices with the AT&T digital network to provide powerful applications that are efficient and cost effective.

GreenPeak Launches its Emerald GP500C Communication Controller

GreenPeak Technologies has launched its Emerald GP500C communications controller chip for ultra low power wireless sensor networks. The Emerald GP500C is the only IEEE 802.15.4 standard compliant chip available with extreme low power features that enable energy harvesting solutions for wireless sensor networks.

The Emerald GP500C is a standards compliant communications controller that incorporates a transceiver with a fully integrated communications layer and an on-chip energy manager. Unlike other solutions on the market, the Emerald GP500C device is an autonomous transceiver able to drive and control the data communication instead of being driven by a microcontroller. By reducing energy consumption, this architectural concept enables end nodes to run on energy harvesting devices and to be truly wireless, free of power cords and free of batteries.

Designs using the Emerald GP500C communications controller are fully IEEE 802.15.4 compliant. Developers have the option to use GreenPeak's ultra low power networking protocol that reaches beyond standard implementations while maintaining standard compliance.
The Emerald GP500C consumes a fraction (10 to 25 percent) of the energy of traditional microcontroller based designs by using a lower peak current, an ultra low leakage current and very short transmission times via just-in-time transmission scheduling. The GP500C's low energy consumption allows developers to build sensor systems with a peak current of about 20 mA and a system sleep mode of below 100 nA without compromising the network reliability.

The Emerald GP500C is delivered with a reference design and development kit that allows OEMs to build their own communication modules and applications. The GP500C will also support a wide range of software stacks that can run on different processors including ZigBee Pro as well as low power routing, low power sensing, a micro stack and other application-dedicated low power protocols. In addition, since the GP500C is an integrated solution, all key functions and features are integrated and minimal external components are required. The total system bill of material (BOM) will be lower and makes the GP500C best in class for total system cost, allowing for the opening of mass markets for maintenance-free sense and control applications.

Hear GreenPeak at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!
Session Title: Wireless Sensors Networks Enable Remote Monitoring with no Network Wiring or Power Supplies
www.RemoteExpo.com

Adder Launches CATx KVM Switch to Provide SMBs with Enterprise-Grade Control 

Adder has launched the AdderView CATx 1000. The CATx 1000 is a compact, multiplatform KVM switch with audio support that allows a user to control up to 16 computers connected to the CATx switch via CAT 5 cable locally at the switch or remotely up to 1,000 feet away.
 
The use of CATx cable from the computer to the switch allows for a much smaller switch, reduced cable bulk and more flexibility. Part of the CATx series of Adder KVM devices, the CATx 1000 has been designed to minimize space requirements where space is at a premium and maximize flexibility both in use and location. One or two of the KVM switches can be rack mounted and cascaded with other CATx 1000s to support up to 256 computers.

The CATx 1000 delivers a wide range of features including digital stereo audio, high resolution video, USB device control and an advanced on screen display and serial control for remote switching, power control and synchronizing with other CATx 1000 units.  Users can also leverage security profiles which identify the user prior to handing over control and even duplicate the connection profiles onto other CATx 1000 devices if required.  Another feature is Display Data Channel (DDC) handling where the KVM uses specific information transferred from the display device to ensure correct video is maintained with host machines.

GE Energy Releases New OpFlex Extended Turndown for 9FA+e Gas Turbines

Citing the need in the power industry for additional operational flexibility, GE Energy has introduced OpFlex Extended Turndown, which enables customers to operate their 9FA+e gas turbines with additional turndown without jeopardizing performance, reliability or emissions.

OpFlex Extended Turndown extends the reduced-emissions operating range to lower load levels by increasing gas turbine turndown capability. Currently, the typical turndown minimum for the 9FA+e gas turbine equipped with the DLN 2.6+ combustion system is 40 percent load at ISO conditions. OpFlex Extended Turndown is targeted to provide a minimum of 5 percent additional turndown. By reducing the turndown to 35 percent load, customers are able to reduce the amount of fuel consumed during off-peak hours and avoid shut-down and start-up costs, as well as minimize maintenance requirements associated with shut-downs.

OpFlex Extended Turndown builds upon decades of GE expertise and experience in the area of combustion technology. This software solution optimizes the combustion process and enables power generators to reduce fuel costs significantly. CO2 emissions associated with low-load operation are also reduced, while maintaining low NOx and CO emission levels.

Extreme CCTV's EX36 IP Delivers Networked Surveillance for Utilities

Extreme CCTV has released the EX36 IP camera, combining performance optics, vandal-resistant construction and IP connectivity to provide networked surveillance for water and energy sites.  EX36 IP features IP infrared imaging (i3), which utilizes infrared illumination to deliver high quality images day and night, integrating with IP networks. 

Low-noise images produce lower bandwidth than standard IP cameras, helping ensure properly functioning networks and real-time, instantaneous transmittal of critical surveillance video for improved response to security breaches. EX36 IP incorporates a 45° tilt for vandal-resistant monitoring of an entire room including the area directly below the camera, while 940 nm infrared illumination enables covert night-time imaging.

OSI to Implement a Hot Standby Backup Control Center System for Salt River Project

Open Systems International, Inc. (OSI) has been chosen by the Salt River Project (SRP) to supply SRP’s enhanced next-generation backup control center (BCC) system. OSI’s high availability monarch backup control center architecture, which supports virtual hot standby operation with the primary control center, is the core technology employed.  

SRP provides electricity to more than 935,000 customers in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is part of the critical Southwestern transmission grid that includes large inter-area transfers due to the unprecedented growth in the Southwestern US. This growth and mandated new industry regulations necessitate an enhanced and modern BCC solution that not only maintains NERC regulatory compliance, but also increases system reliability, safety, availability and control.

Benefits SRP can realize by upgrading to OSI’s hot standby BCC solution include faster synchronization time, seamless disaster recovery and seamless database and display updates, as well as automatic failover capability and inter-site process monitoring for optimal control of applications at the backup site. In addition to OSI’s standard applications, the hot standby environment enables custom user applications to be executed at each site and remotely health monitored.

Visit OSI’s Booth at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!
www.RemoteExpo.com

NxtPhase Appoints Cotech Technologies Pvt. as Exclusive Distributor for India

NxtPhase T&D Corp. has appointed Cotech Technologies Pvt. as exclusive distributor of NxtPhase products in India. Cotech has been active in India in the field of high-voltage instrument transformer testing and diagnostics in the electric power industry and will sell and support NxtPhase fiber optic current and voltage measurement systems there. The solutions embrace digital substation technology with full support of transition to IEC 61850 standard.

“India is an important market for NxtPhase,” said Andrea Johnston, NxtPhase CEO, “we have been actively seeking a progressive partner with the technical expertise, market presence, and enthusiasm that Cotech brings.”

“The superior performance of NxtPhase optical instrument transformers can make a significant impact on the way the Indian power infrastructure grows in the next few years, said Mr. S. K. Verma, co-director, Cotech. “We are very encouraged to see the excitement of our customers about NxtPhase products and look forward to hosting technical seminars for our customers next month with NxtPhase staff.”

Mouser will stock a variety of Honeywell products including a broad selection of basic and complex custom controls, pressure sensors, speed sensors, position sensors and thermostats, as well as their Micro Switch product line.
           
"Honeywell's engagement with Mouser is a great addition to our existing channel. Their focus on rapid product introductions and their reach into the electronic design segment is very impressive," said Bradd Schneider, vice president of Global Sales, Sensing and Control, Honeywell International.

Landis+Gyr Advanced Meter Deployment at Ameren Illinois Utilities Reaches Milestone

Landis+Gyr has reached a milestone in its advanced metering deployment for Ameren Illinois Utilities, the electric and gas utility serving 1.2 million electric and more than 840,000 natural gas customers in Illinois. The Ameren Illinois Utilities’ project has passed the halfway mark of a 1.1 million endpoint deployment that began in 2006.

At present, more than 670,000 electric and gas endpoints have been deployed in the more populous areas of the Ameren Illinois Utilities’ service territory. Landis+Gyr’s Energy Management Solutions division is deploying a two-way RF mesh network to communicate with the 1.1 million endpoints.

In addition to meter data retrieval, the utility is considering other applications of two-way advanced metering, including remote disconnect/connect, remote demand resets and interface with home area networking to support real-time pricing programs. As a service provider to a number of university cities, the utility also uses the system to initiate and terminate service for transient student populations, saving thousands of service calls.

Interested in AMI?
If so then yo ushould attend Ember’s presentation at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo:  Leveraging the ZigBee Wireless Standard for AMI Networks
www.RemoteExpo.com

Iconics and IQity Solutions Form Strategic Partnership

Iconics has formed of a strategic partnership with IQity Solutions, LLC, a business improvement consulting firm empowering business performance with next generation consulting and technology enabled business solutions. Iconics and IQity are collaborating to deliver business process management (BPM) improvement methodologies, Lean Six Sigma, value assessment and MES domain expertise in the development of a co-branded lean process management (LPM) suite. The lean technology at the core of the LPM suite is based on Iconics BizViz manufacturing intelligence/business visualization suite.
“Lean manufacturing will extend Iconics’ real-time data visualization and business analytics capabilities to the next level,” said Russ Agrusa, president and CEO, Iconics, “by enabling our customers to recover the hidden value in their current operations helping to drive down overall manufacturing costs.”
“We are excited about the synergies between IQity and Iconics,” said David Gustovich, managing partner and CEO, IQity Solutions, LLC. “Together, we are delivering the next generation in technology-enabled services by offering our proven business improvement capabilities, enabled by a comprehensive LPM suite of solutions that will bring state-of-the-art BPM/Lean/Six Sigma and MES functionality to our clients.”

Visit Iconics Booth at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo
www.RemoteExpo.com

Remote 2008 Conference and Expo Features a Packed Technical Program!

The Remote 2008 Conference and Expo program will feature two new session tracks, totaling 50+ sessions, all tailored for the remote site and equipment management market. These new tracks include two days dedicated to cyber and physical security of remote sites, and a small track covering remote smart services. As well as our always popular remote monitoring and remote networking tracks. This is your one stop for new technology, market updates, and remote site solutions. Don’t miss it!
Remote 2008 Conference Program Sessions: visit website for full descriptions

September
7-10, Autovation 2008, Atlanta, Ga. Contact www.amra-intl.org

9-12, Field Service East, Atlanta, Ga. Contact www.FieldServiceEast.com

10-12, CTIA Wireless IT and Entertainment, San Francisco, Calif. Contact www.wirelessit.com

14-18, INTELEC 2008, San Deigo, Calif. Contact www.intelec.org

15-18, ASIS International 2008, Atlanta, Ga. Contact www.asisonline.org

CTIA Wireless I.T. & Entertainment 2008
September 10-12, 2008
San Francisco, CA

CTIA WIRELESS I.T. & Entertainment 2008 is the largest wireless data event in the internet, wireless and telecommunications industries.
With a focus on wireless data applications, software development, network architecture and solutions, CTIA WIRELESS I.T. & Entertainment 2008 is where professionals across various industries see first-hand how wireless data technology is applied to a multitude of business solutions.
It’s more than just the next generation of wireless data… it’s how you use it that makes it powerful.

INTELEC 2008
September 14 – 18, 2008
San Diego, California.

Register Online Now for INTELEC® 2008 at www.intelec.org

INTELEC 2008 will be held September 14 – 18, 2008 at the Town & Country Resort in sunny San Diego, California.  This year we are “Celebrating 30 Years of Advancements in Communications Energy Systems.”

A comprehensive agenda of technical papers and poster sessions will provide you detailed insight and information into the latest advancements in communications energy systems.  There are also ten technical tutorial sessions that provide additional expertise to attendees which offer continuing education credits.

The exhibition this year will feature over 60 exhibitors that will display the latest energy systems and related equipment designed to support communications.

Register now, online at www.intelec.org.

ASIS 2008 - The World’s Leading Event Dedicated to Security
September 15-18, 2008
Atlanta, Georigia

More than 23,000 security professionals, including industry experts, real-world practitioners, and technology leaders from around the globe will gather to share their experiences, discover new products, and find state-of-the-art solutions.

Attendees will benefit from 175 timely sessions and 16 topic tracks, vetted by security professionals who know what’s important for the current and future needs of the industry. The ASIS Expo hosts more than 950 of the most innovative exhibitors assembled under one roof. ASIS 2008 is your prime opportunity to reach out and explore the impact of worldwide events on security in an unequaled global forum. Early bird rates end August 8. Free Expo Hall Pass and more details available at www.asisonline.org/asis2008.

Interop New York
September 15-19, 2008
New York, USA

Join thousands of business and technology leaders at Interop New York and gain comprehensive insight into the latest IT innovations. Attend 150+ sessions, visit 250+ leading exhibitors, network with peers and learn how to build an IT strategy that improves business agility.  Register today for Interop New York, September 15-19, 2008.  

https://secure.interop.com/2008/ny/portal/registration/CMKDNN61?eventCode=9004

WiMAX World 2008
September 30 - October 2
Chicago, USA

WiMAX World 2008 continues to be the leading WiMAX and mobile broadband conference and exhibition. Since, 2003 WiMAX World 2008 has grown to be the largest, 100% unbiased forum focused on WiMAX and mobile broadband. Developed for the entire WiMAX and mobile broadband eco-system, WiMAX World 2008 features over 200 speakers, best Practice case studies-real WiMAX deployment presentations and over 150 WiMAX and eco-system exhibitors. http://global.wimaxworld.com/

ISA EXPO 2008
October 14-16, 2008
Houston, Texas

One Event, Six Exchanges
ISA EXPO is your best chance to see the latest developments, advancements, practices, and products in automation and control.
Experience the power of an event focused on the technology and techniques of automation and control. Organized around the six core themes central to automation and control, ISA EXPO 2008 provides attendees unlimited opportunity to explore key technologies, discover professional growth, and interact with like minded professionals.
Comprehensive coverage of automation and control technologies and techniques is what ISA EXPO offers in the technical sessions, “open to all” events like the X-Pod briefings and Keynote presentations, and the exhibition. ISA EXPO is your conduit to the information you need to meet your challenges.

SATCON
October 15-16, 2008
New York, NY

SATCON – the Satellite and Content Delivery Conference & Expo, October 15-16, 2008, Javits Convention Center, New York, NY

At SATCON, develop strategies to manage your communications infrastructure including video, data, voice and Internet using hybrid networks including satellite, fiber, mobile and wireless. SATCON is part of the CCW (Content & Communications World) family of events, which also features the IP Media Conference & Expo and HD World Conference & Exposition.    Visit www.satconexpo.com for more information and to register.

ISC East 2008
October 29-30, 2008
New York, NY

Let the best in the industry show you the best in the industry. Come to learn. Come to network. Come to ISC East, the premier event for Northeast security professionals providing innovations and solutions. As a Northeast security professional, you need to stay better informed and better equipped than most when it comes to security. And there’s no better event that brings global advances to your marketplace than ISC East 2008. Register today at: http://www.isceast.com/Remote.

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