eNewsletter

December 2008

Wireless IP Communications for SCADA and Distribution Automation Applications
Bharath Kumar, Product Manager
Open Systems International, Inc.

In the utility world’s current smart grid or intelligent utility networks initiatives, the key to efficient network management is the availability of real time information about these continually growing systems. To enable this real time data flow, it has become of utmost importance to have connectivity across the SCADA system with a high bandwidth media. This article details the various options available for IP based wireless communications and in particular the successful use of the GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) and the CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) networks for the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Distribution Automation (DA) Systems. 

Continue Article in PDF here: www.remotemagazine.com/images/OSI.pdf

Phoenix Broadband Releases Expandable Monitoring System

Phoenix Broadband Technologies has introduced its new ContactAgent expandable, modular monitoring system. The system consists of the ContactAgent master unit, which has eight user-defined contact inputs and two user-controllable relay outputs. The capability of the master unit is expanded by up to eight RIM (remote input module) and ROM (remote output module) slave modules. RIM and ROM units connect to the ContactAgent master unit with commonly available CAT-5 ethernet cables.

The master unit provides power to the slave units and communicates with them over the daisy chain. Each RIM adds six additional contact or analog inputs to the system, and each ROM adds four controllable latched Form-C relay outputs. Each slave module also has temperature and humidity sensors built-in, as well as an included AC mains voltage sensor.

The ContactAgent master unit is ethernet networkable and supports common TCP/IP protocols including HTTP, SMTP, DHCP, TFTP and SNMP. The unit has a built-in web server that implements complete monitoring, control and configuration capabilities, as well as an email client that can send alarm messages to several recipients. Alarms are user definable and any input can measure analog voltages with user-defined alarm thresholds. The unit can also be monitored and controlled by any SNMP compliant software.

New Yokogawa DXAdvanced R3 Data Acquisition And Display Station

The Yokogawa DXAdvanced R3 is the newest and most capable version of the DaqStation data acquisition and display stations. DXAdvanced R3 includes a host of new functions including custom graphics users can now design custom display screens that are unique for their application. A new alarm annunciator display mode using ISA sequencing is also included. The DXAdvanced R3 is now an intelligent annunciator system with data display and recording functions that can replace common annunciator lamp panels. Historical data review is much easier due to a new calendar display and search tool, and enhanced trend history functions.

Additional functions include multi-batch recording where channels can be grouped and recorded to discrete batch records with independent start and stop control. Two model ranges are offered- DX1000 with two 12 universal inputs, 5.5 inch color display and the larger DX2000 with  four 48 universal inputs and 10.4 inch color display.

Open network connectivity has been a hallmark feature of all DXAdvanced models. In addition to MODBUS RTU and TCP, new EtherNet/IP and PROFIBUS DP protocols aid installation on control networks. DXAdvanced R3 can interface with PLCs and other control products as a data source or to add graphical data display and recording functions. An external input option allows the DX2000 to handle up to 300 additional inputs from external I/O such as Yokogawa’s MW100 data acquisition system, for a total system capacity of 348 inputs.

All DXAdvanced R3 models include 80 MB or optional 200 MB of non-volatile, internal flash memory and use standard Compact Flash removable media for secure, long-term data storage. An optional USB interface supports data retrieval with USB memory devices and configuration with a USB keyboard.

Freewave and Arcadian Networks Deliver 700 MHz Wireless Radio

FreeWave Technologies and Arcadian Networkshave delivered a new 700 MHz wireless radio to serve the energy industry. The announcement comes just six months after the two companies announced a joint strategic partnership back in March of this year.

The delivery of the 700 MHz radio to the marketplace provides an opportunity for electric utilities and oil and gas companies to incorporate ISM band radio technology and wireless data solutions on a 700 MHz private, licensed and secure communication platform as a single, seamless and integrated smart grid or smart field solution. Arcadian Networks and FreeWave will each market, sell and distribute FreeWave's 700 MHz radio.

The FreeWave Technologies 700 MHz family of board level radios provides performance and versatility in a small footprint that is well suited for internally mounted applications. The board level radio offers a cost-effective solution that allows customers to incorporate wireless communications into a wide variety of applications. With interface options available, a 6 to 30 VDC input voltage, a temperature range of -30°C to 70°C, surface mount design and no additional RF shielding. This board level product has flexibility for use in US applications.

Connect One Releases Small and Versatile Embedded WiFi Module

Connect One has released the Nano WiReach, an embedded WiFi bridge that connects any embedded device to 802.11b/g wireless LANs with minimal programming. Measuring 1.7 by 3.3 cm, the Nano WiReach’s multiple hardware interfaces and extensive firmware functionality make it an advanced and versatile WiFi solution for embedded devices.

Nano WiReach includes a full suite of Internet protocols and applications, enabling immediate and full–featured connectivity for embedded solutions without any WiFi driver development or porting. The WiReach’s firmware also supports several modes of operation including Lan to WiFi bridge, serial to WiFi bridge, full internet controller mode, embedded IP routing and PPP emulation. 

Nano WiReach includes RMII, USB, SPI and fast UART interfaces for integration into existing or new designs. It is available in two versions, one with an antenna connector and one with a built-in antenna. Nano WiReach offers an advanced level of Internet security. It includes the latest WiFi encryption algorithms, WPA/WPA2, in both PSK and enterprise modes, and Internet SSL encryption algorithms. In addition, it serves as an inherent firewall, protecting the embedded application from attacks originating from the Internet.

Nano WiReach supports 10 simultaneous TCP/UDP sockets, two listening TCP sockets, SMTP, MIME, POP3, FTP, Telnet and HTTP/HTTPS clients, an HTTP/HTTPS embedded Web server with a website for the host application and one for configuring the module. Nano WiReach supports 64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2 (PSK and Enterprise) encryption, AES-128/256, SHA-128/192/256, 3DES; the SSL3/TLS1 protocol for a secure client socket session and a secure FTP session.

New Security Module Designed Specifically for SCADA Protocol And Modbus

Byres Security, Inc. and MTL Instruments have built a security module designed specifically for managing leading SCADA protocol and Modbus TCP. Named the Tofino Modbus TCP Enforcer Loadable Security Module (LSM), the unit performs detailed analysis and filtering of all Modbus TCP message, and is certified by Modbus-IDA. It allows owners of control and SCADA systems to regulate Modbus network traffic to a high level of detail, thereby increasing network security, reliability and performance of critical systems.

Deep packet or content inspection for web email or traffic has been offered in IT firewalls for several years, but nothing has been available for the process control or SCADA world. Modbus traffic could either be allowed or blocked by a standard firewall, but fine-grained control was impossible. Since the smooth flow of Modbus TCP traffic is critical to the average industrial facility, engineers usually opted to let everything pass and take their chances with security.

Additional features include enhanced security and protection for any Modbus TCP device, including filtering of invalid traffic that could cause denial of service or system failures. The module also enforces read-only access to safety instrumented systems for enhanced isolation and safety.

Compliance Functionality Enhanced in New Release of Crossbow NERC CIP Solution

GarrettCom, Inc. has enhanced features for its CrossBow NERC CIP solution, including enhanced server redundancy, additional options for meeting requirements for system backup and recovery, and easier management and administration for NERC CIP reporting and scheduling requirements. A core component to the enhanced solution is the newly released CrossBow 3 Secure Access Manager from Bow Networks.
 
Additional redundancy and database mirroring options via a move to Microsoft’s SQL Server database provide enhanced uptime and additional tools for meeting CIP-009 requirements for system availability and recovery. Meanwhile end user interface enhancements that allow users to organize authorized IEDs in easily accessed user-defined graphical directories. 

New enhanced password administration allows for automation of password updates across a large community of IEDs or other critical cyber assets (CCAs).  NERC CIP requires periodically updating device passwords, and the populations of IEDs and other CCAs, such as Magnum DX router/firewalls in substations may number in the thousands, makes automated update tools a necessary administrative aid.

Sierra Wireless and ProSoft Technology Discuss Joint Initiative to Provide Cellular Solutions for Industrial Automation

Sierra Wireless and ProSoft Technology are in negotiations toward an initiative to offer industrial automation and control solutions through ProSoft Technology’s global sales channels consisting of more than 600 distributors.

Certified for use in hazardous environments, Sierra Wireless Mobile and M2M devices have been workhorses in the utilities and automation industries for over a decade. ProSoft Technology offers over 600 products supporting 60 plus different industrial communication protocols, providing the expertise for customers looking to integrate and leverage cellular with their automation and control applications.

“We’re looking forward to working with ProSoft Technology to provide a robust automation and control solution,” said Justin Schmid, vice president of marketing and business development, Sierra Wireless Mobile and M2M group. “By coupling the intelligence of ALEOS with ProSoft Technology’s expertise in serving the automation market, we believe we can create a very compelling product offering.”

“Our customers are asking ProSoft Technology for easy to deploy cellular connectivity. Combining robust industrial cellular technology from Sierra Wireless, deployment ready options through our data service partners, and industrial protocol pre-configuration – ProSoft Technology simplifies industrial cellular” said Kevin Zamzow, strategic product marketing manager, ProSoft Technology. “ALEOS intelligence, rugged design and Class I Div 2 certification make these devices perfectly suited for the industrial automation market.”

Active Power Receives Two Multimillion Dollar Orders from Caterpillar

Active Power, Inc. has announced two new orders from its OEM partner Caterpillar. The first is a follow on order for ten 900 kVA UPS systems. These systems are scheduled for delivery in first quarter 2009. The second order is for six 900 kVA systems with delivery scheduled for later this year.

“We are pleased to see the continued market momentum our OEM partner is experiencing, which is evidenced by the selection of Caterpillar for these large system deployments,” said Jim Clishem, president and CEO, Active Power. “These two orders exemplify the confidence the market is placing in flywheel technology and its inherent benefits of energy and space efficiency, high reliability and environmental sustainability.”

Emerson’s Smart Wireless Devices Protect Hot Tanks at Hunt Refining

Emerson Process Management’s smart wireless network is protecting hot asphalt tanks at the Hunt Refining Company, Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Several hot tanks at the refinery are fitted with wireless temperature transmitters as a means of keeping control room operators informed of conditions inside the tanks. This enables them to maintain temperature uniformity in the tanks to prevent formation of “cold spots” where trapped moisture can lead to extensive damage with repairs costing up to $200,000 per tank.

At Hunt Refining, operators need to keep asphalt at process temperatures above 212°F in about 10 tanks. This avoids formation of cold spots.  When very hot asphalt (at 300°F to 400°F) is added to a tank, the hot fluid may melt through the currently stored asphalt and reach cold pockets where any moisture present can flash off violently. There is a real potential for tank roof failure if operators do not recognize these cold spots and take corrective action.

Three Rosemount wireless temperature transmitters were positioned 120° apart around the outer circumference of the tank and one to two feet above the bottom. The Smart Wireless Gateway for these transmitters was located about 400 feet away near the I/O building with a repeater between the tank and gateway to assure reception of all signals transmitted on the self-organizing wireless network.  Two-wire Modbus communication carries the temperature data from the Smart Wireless Gateway to the refinery’s distributed control system. Emerson’s AMS Suite predictive maintenance software is connected along with the Plant Information (PI) network, so the wireless field devices are added to all wired devices managed by this software. Wired or wireless, the data appears the same.

Each wireless device on a self-organizing network can act as a router for other nearby devices, passing messages along until they reach their destination. If there is an obstruction, transmissions are simply re-routed along the mesh network until a clear path to the Smart Wireless Gateway is found. Although the transmitters at Hunt Refining are spaced evenly around the tank and not within sight of each other, their transmissions easily “bend” around the tank and then on to the repeater and gateway.

Mobile Satellite Ventures Selects Telesat to Manage In-Orbit Operations of Its Next Generation Satellites 

Mobile Satellite Ventures (MSV) and its joint venture partner Mobile Satellite Ventures (Canada) Inc. have selected Telesat to manage in-orbit operations of both the MSV-1 and MSV-2 next-generation satellites to be launched into respective US and Canadian orbital slots.

The agreement calls for Telesat to conduct in-orbit operations of MSV's two next satellites, currently scheduled for launch in 2009 and 2010, from its Satellite Operations Center in Ottawa, Canada, and its back-up facility in Mount Jackson, Virgina.  When launched, MSV-1 and MSV-2 will be two of the most powerful commercial satellites ever built enabling the company's network to provide seamless, transparent and ubiquitous wireless coverage of the US and Canada. 

"In the satellite communications industry it is critical to select a highly experienced and qualified satellite operator to fly the company's most valuable resource - its spacecraft,” said Robert M. Sorbello, vice president for Space Segment for Mobile Satellite Ventures.  "MSV and Telesat have built a record of success over the past decade backed by a strong operational relationship.  We are confident that we have chosen the best possible organization to provide in-orbit management of our two next generation satellites that will offer integrated satellite-terrestrial communications across North America.”

Buy Your Remote 2008 Conference Proceedings Show CD Today!

Were you unable to attend the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo?  If so, now is your chance to learn about the latest advancements in remote monitoring, networking, onsite power, security and remote smart services from the comfort of your office chair.

The Remote 2008 Conference Staff is offering the show’s proceedings CD for a small cost of $290. Check out the presentations in PDF format, learn about our sponsors and exhibitors and view video of a select number of show presentations. All on one CD - act now!

Visit Webcom’s Online Store to Purchase the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo Proceedings CD: www.infowebcom.com/conf_cdorder2008.php

Don’t Miss DistribuTECH 2009!
February 3-5, 2009
San Diego Convention Center
San Diego, CA

DistribuTECH encompasses automation and control systems, IT, T&D engineering, power delivery equipment and water utility technology. No other event in the industry provides more of the current resources, new industry technologies and networking opportunities than DistribuTECH.

Highlights:

1. Attendance of more than 5,800 utility industry professionals
2. Three-day exhibition showcasing 275 leading power and water companies
3. Networking events designed to connect you with key colleagues
4. Utility University courses
5. Breakfast Roundtable discussions
6. Breakfast Keynote
7. 59 educational conference sessions and 12 conference tracks
8. More than 200 of the industry’s top speakers
9. TransTECH- the transmission technology conference co-located with DistribuTECH
10. Solar Metering & Performance Monitoring co-located with DistribuTECH
11. Project-of-the-Year Awards

Register before November 21, 2008 and Save $200! Visit www.distributech.com to register now!

Utility Products Conference & Exposition
February 3-5, 2009
San Diego Convention Center- San Diego, CA

Brought to you by Utility Products magazine, this event will be your resource for product knowledge. Bringing the pages of Utility Products magazine to life with buyers and sellers of CATV, telecom, water and power equipment together in one place for a unique product experience.

Key benefits of attending:
• Four specialized conference tracks tailored for the hands-on utility worker
• Utili-Skills Academy courses with industry certifications
• Indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing the newest products and services for utility companies
• Product demonstrations and hands-on training offering practical solutions to everyday problems
• Breakfast roundtable discussions
• Networking events to connect you to key colleagues
• Utility Career Guidance Workshop and Job Fair
This is an event you can't afford to miss. Go to www.utilityproductsexpo.com to register now!

2nd Annual World Meter Design Congress
February 23-24, 2009
San Francisco, CA, USA

The first World Meter Design Congress has shown that the metering industry is undergoing a transformation – the emergence of the smart grid, new communications technologies, new standards, the rise of advanced metering, increased meter data, energy efficiency, end-customer issues, new component solutions, and globalisation – these developments are all shaping the way meter systems are architected, designed, styled, packaged and manufactured.

This international event provides the only meeting place for the worlds meter design engineers, system architects, research engineers and production professionals to gain insights into the new requirements and opportunities shaping the design and development of next generation metering systems.

The program includes specific technical focus areas including: AMI and meter design requirements to enable international AMI roll-outs; component technologies; HAN technologies; smart design for smart customers; international rollouts and meter design as well as breakfast roundtables discussing system requirements for smart grid applications (23 February 2009) as well as design for AMI on 24 February 2009. Please find additional information on www.metering.com/design or contact Julia Barton-Hill: julia.barton-hill@spintelligent.com

3rd Annual Remote Service Implementation
February 23-25, 2009
Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA

The 3rd Annual Remote Service Implementation Conference, February 23-25, 2009, at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA.

www.iqpc.com/us/RSI

Attend this year’s event and

• Improve your overall strategy for remote services by assessing all the steps needed to have an efficient remote service
• Increase remote services deployment excellence by integrating technology with back-office operations and your service workforce
• Increase the quality of your services by utilizing cutting-edge technology
• Decrease costs and increase the efficiency of your customer service by successfully tackling the complexity of security compliance and security standards implementation

IWCE
March 16-20, 2009
Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV.

IWCE is the pre-eminent integrated communications systems event for the working world. 

Having the ability to receive the right information has never been more important. If you are responsible for the dependability, reliability and interoperability of your organization’s communication system, then IWCE is your must attend event.  IWCE provides the applications and systems you need in order to communicate anytime, anywhere.

 Make connections with 355+ leading edge exhibitors and collaborate in an educational environment that delivers meaningful information that allows you to do a better job. 

From Land Mobile Radio…to Wireless Mobility…Voice…Video…Data…and everything in-between…Communications Technology is Changing…and so is IWCE.

Register by February 16, 2009 and SAVE!  www.iwceexpo.com

Metering, Billing/CIS America 2009
March 22-25, 2009
Miami, FL

In its 10th anniversary year, Metering, Billing/CIS America conference and exhibition will examine the changes and developments effecting the utilities industy. With four dedicated tracks (metering, grid, billing and water), a host of interactive breakfast smart sessions, comprehensive instructor-lead workshops, and a stand-alone MDM seminar, Metering, Billing/CIS America 2009 stands to deliver engrossing content in an excellent networking environment. For further details please contact ryan.matthews@spintelligent.com or visit our website www.meteringamerica.com

ATA 2009
April 26-28, 2009
Las Vegas, NV

ATA's Annual Meeting is the premiere forum for the healthcare industry to discuss clinical and business issues related to telemedicine. The meeting includes hundreds of presentations, posters, workshops and exhibits.

 If you are involved with telemedicine technology solutions for healthcare, the ATA Annual Meeting is the single-most important event of the year. More than 2400 attendees from all over the world are expected. Scores of new presenters will participate in ATA 2009, keeping your personal continuing education experience fresh and relevant.

Click Here for More Information.

For a free subscription to the print version of the magazine,click here.

To be removed from this distribution list please click here
To change the status of any contact information, call 720-528-3770.