eNewsletter

January 2010

Satellite-Terrestrial Networks: Revolutionizing Remote Communications
Dr. Ashok Rao, SkyTerra Communications

In today’s “always-connected” world, consumers now consider reliable wireless communications critical. Co-workers, friends and family demand the ability to connect with each other from anywhere, at any time, via not just phone calls, but also email, social networking tools and other online applications. But for professionals working in remote industries, dependable connectivity is truly crucial. In many cases, their lives even depend on it.

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Ethernet Direct Releases Industrial 2.4 GHz 802.11b/g Outdoor Wireless Mesh System
Ethernet Direct Corp. has introduced its Falcon FWO-800, which is cited as the world’s first industrial 2.4GHZ 802.11b/g outdoor wireless mesh system. The Falcon series FWO-800 is a layer 2 wireless mesh product. It comes with a single radio work in 2.4GHz band, two sets of SSID and time division for backhaul and AP operations simultaneously.

FWO-800 comes with WMM option to enhance user performance and density QoS, supporting bandwidth priority to voice (VOIP) and image (surveillance/IPTV). The device is easy to install and deploy for mobile, outdoor and indoor applications such as a city area, factory floor or plant networking is easy. 

This wireless mesh system is compliant with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11i, IEEE 802.11X, IEEE 802.11e and supports radio modules from 2.412 to 2.462 GHz. The unit has wireless mesh capability with auto connection for best signal route and auto redundancy based on auto best route connection. Additionally, flexible software configuration through WEB GUI interface and Mesh AP Manager utility allows for system management.

Control Microsystems Releases the Accutech FL10 Wireless Float Level Field Unit
Accutech, a division of Control Microsystems, has  launched the FL10 float level field unit, the latest battery powered wireless instrument that offers digital fluid level measurement across a wireless connection to an Accutech base radio.
 
The FL10 field unit interfaces with the low-power Siemens model 2100 digital level sensor, available in 4 ft to 30 ft lengths, and model 1000 (for upgrading existing installations). The two components are easily coupled on site and provide the optimal solution for single float or dual float applications. Once installed, the sensor never requires re-calibration.

The Accutech FL10 features a built-in temperature sensor, has single, dual and quadruple battery options to extend field life, and is available with ± 0.25 inch and ± 0.50 inch resolution.

All Accutech field units automatically report field data to a centralized base radio over distances of up to 5,000 ft (1,524 m). Each unit is self-contained, featuring an integrated 900 MHz frequency hopping, spread-spectrum transceiver, antenna and a long lasting battery for years of maintenance-free operation.

Wolverine 200 Series Gets Class 1, Division 2 Approval
Three models in the Wolverine Ethernet extender series from Westermo have been enhanced with the Class 1, Division 2 approval. This allows the Wolverine series to be installed in hazardous or potentially explosive environments containing volatile, flammable vapours and gases.

Class 1 Division 2 is a location in which volatile flammable liquids and gases are handled but where they are confined, so that ignitable concentrations of these substances are not likely to exist under normal operating conditions. It is difficult to obtain Class 1, Division 2 status, and the units has gone through extensive testing by a third party test house where the Wolverine series was found to meet the US hazardous area classification requirements. The approval enables the units to be deployed in a wider range of applications and environments found in such industries as oil and gas, petrochemical, processing and various other industries that operate in harsh environments.

The Wolverine have also been ATEX approved according to II 3G EEx nA IIT5 which is the european equivalent to Class 1, Div 2. This means that the DDW’s are approved for applications in explosive environments around the world.

Advantech Introduces WebAccess HMI & SCADA  Software Version 7.0
The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech has released its new WebAccess HMI and SCADA software, WebAccess version 7.0.  WebAccess is web browser-based software for HMI and SCADA applications successfully utilized in many industrial applications around the world, including facilities monitoring, building automation, factory automation, process control, manufacturing and machine automation in the chemical, power and energy, telecom, transportation and water and wastewater industries.

WebAccess utilizes a Web browser for both development and run-time. Its architecture consists of three parts: project node (the development platform, Web server and central database server), SCADA nodes (the data acquisition and supervisory control nodes that connect with field hardware and serve live data to clients and the project node), and Web browser clients (to remotely view and control, with graphical animation and live video).  With a Web browser, you can create, configure and manage projects, then view and control in real-time, remotely via an intranet or the Internet.  WebAcccess also supports Thin Clients allowing the use of mobile devices to view and control.

WebAccess 7.0 has many new features. The SCADA nodes works as both an OPC server and client, the dynamic device network service finds dynamic IP devices, compatibility with both Microsoft 7 and Vista and expanded browser compatibility. Additional features include user-defined DLLs that integrate with WebAccess View clients to provide custom dialog boxes, as well as optional building energy management, class room scheduler and demand control to turn off loads to limit energy usage. 

Alpha Energy Launches Online Off-Grid Solar Supply Configurator
Alpha Energy recently launched its Solar Power Supply (SPS) Configurator as a web-based utility. Available to view at www.alpha.com/sps-configurator, this automated tool allows customers to research Alpha Energy’s off-grid solar power supply systems including regional solar insolation values, different rack mounting options, voltages and price ranges.
 
The Alpha Energy Solar Power Supply Configurator leads potential customers through a multi-step process to arrive at a pre-configured SPS system. First users locate the regional solar insolation value. Next users must determine if their electrical requirements including wattage, voltage and whether the electrical load is mission critical. The final steps include deciding on the appropriate solar module racking format, reviewing the selected system and price, and then forwarding the request to Alpha Energy.

Smart Grid Can Generate $110 Million in Annual Benefits for Typical Utility, New Study Finds
A typical electric utility can expect smart grid technology to generate at least $110 million per year through a wide range of benefits, from increased rate of return to lowered carbon emission to new jobs creation, according to an analysis released today by the Utilities Telecom Council (UTC).  The study, Smart Grid Economics:  Making the Business Case for Smart Network Technology, prepared for UTC by consulting firm The Shpigler Group, calculated the economic impacts of a comprehensive smart grid deployment for a typical utility that installs one million electric meters.

Through the creation of a sophisticated financial model, the analysis showed that with smart grid technology system reliability is increased from 99.48 percent to 99.75 percent, reducing outage minutes by 16.8 million customer minutes. Nearly 300,000 tons of carbon emissions would be eliminated on an annual basis and over 9,000 direct and indirect job-years are created. The internal rate of return for the smart network program is calculated at 13.8 percent without accounting for the value customers may place on the increased reliability of the electric grid; when factoring in these benefits, internal rate of return exceeds 35 percent.

GE and FANUC Complete Joint Venture Dissolution
GE and FANUC LTD have announced that the two companies have completed their agreement to dissolve the GE Fanuc Automation Corporation Joint Venture.  This agreement reverts the respective portions of the joint venture back to the parent company and allows each company to focus on its existing businesses and pursue growth in its respective core industry of expertise. 

“Today begins the next phase in GE Intelligent Platforms’ focus to provide our customers with a sustainable advantage through industry-leading technology and the passion and expertise of our people,” said Maryrose Sylvester, President and CEO of GE Intelligent Platforms. “We will continue to invest in our product and solution platforms that allow our customers to compete and succeed in a challenging economy. In addition, we intend to utilize our world-class enterprise software as a platform for faster growth for the entire GE portfolio.”

HART Communication Foundation Supports Accelerated Deployment of Field Device Integration
The HART Communication Foundation is supporting accelerating the deployment of the Field Device Integration (FDI) technology by enlarging the scope of the EDDL Cooperation Team into the new FDI Cooperation.  The FDI Cooperation supports a uniform device integration solution for process industries across all control and host systems, devices and field device communication protocols as requested by end users around the world.

The new cooperation initially consists of major technology trade organizations, FDT Group, Fieldbus Foundation, HART Communication Foundation, OPC Foundation and PROFIBUS Nutzerorganisation, and control equipment supplier companies, ABB, Emerson, Endress+Hauser, Honeywell, Invensys, Siemens and Yokogawa. The addition of these supplier companies, who have agreed to support FDI solutions in their systems and products, will provide valuable resources for the completion of this project.

Novatel Wireless Enters M2M Smart Devices Market in Partnership with Cinterion Wireless Modules
Novatel Wireless has announced its entry into the M2M, smart devices market through a multiyear Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Cinterion Wireless Modules.  Under the terms of the agreement, Novatel Wireless and Cinterion Wireless Modules will combine their core competencies to address the M2M marketplace with Novatel-developed, co-branded CDMA modules utilizing the Cinterion form factor.

“T.Mobile carriers are increasingly focused on M2M opportunities, and we believe the timing is right for us to enter the market and seize opportunities to provide M2M solutions,” said Peter Leparulo, chairman and CEO, Novatel Wireless. “Cinterion’s market share in GSM/GPRS/EDGE/HSDPA technology and its vertical market expertise in the M2M industry, combined with Novatel Wireless’ strong carrier relationships create the ideal collaborative environment. This move extends our total solutions approach to a wide variety of vertical markets, where we will jointly deliver footprint-compatible intelligent, robust and secure M2M solutions.”

Remote Magazine Wants to Hear About your Energy Efficiency Efforts
The upcoming issue of Remote Site & Equipment Management Magazine will feature several energy efficiency related articles. We’re looking for case studies and/or information on individual processes, systems, or facility related steps your company is taking to stream line energy usage. For more information please contact Associate Editor Nick Depperschmidt at nickd@infowebcom.com. 

The Remote 2010 Conference and Expo (October 19-20, 2010, Gaylord Texan • Dallas, TX.) has announced its Call forPapers. This is yourchance to educate attendees on leading advancements in the monitoring and management of distributed equipment and facilities, remote assets, automated process & system controls and device networks. Don’t miss out!

Conference sessions will provide solutions and examples from actual installations, cutting-edge technology direction and application strategies from the companies and users driving the growth in SCADA, M2M, device networking, data communications, networking, system & site security, remote monitoring and automated control, and onsite powering of distributed equipment, networks, facilities and infrastructure systems.

Special consideration will be given to case study style presentations and end-user presenters.
Possible Subject Areas and Submission Guidelines Can be Found at: www.RemoteExpo.com

January 2010
17-21, BICSI Winter, Orlando Fla. Contact www.bicsi.org

20-21, Solar Power Generation, Las Vegas, NV. Contact www.solarpowercongress.com

February 2010
2-3, Grid ComForum, Santa Clara, Calif. Contact www.gridcomforum.com

3-4, SCADA Northeast Asia, Hong Kong, Contact www.scadasummit.com

3-5, RETECH 2010, Washington DC. Contact www.retech2009.com

8-10, 2010 Utility Telecom Forum, Reno, NV. Contact www.utc.org

11-15, TechAdvantave 2010, Atlata, Ga. Contact www.techadvantage.org

15-18, NATE 2010, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Contact www.natehome.com

World Meter Design Congress
March 7-9, 2010
San Diego, CA

The challenges facing meter and systems design engineers in the current environment of change and development are many. Besides ensuring the meter can collect data securely, the quality and functionality of the meter needs to conform to standards and utility and customer requirements, while minimizing costs and maximizing return on investment. Because of evolving market requirements, smart meters also need to be upgradeable as well as interoperable with multiple communication technologies and home area networks.The World Meter Design Congress provides the only forum for the world’s meter design engineers, system architects, research engineers and production professionals to gain insights from over 20 industry-elite speakers into the new requirements and opportunities shaping the design and development of next generation smart metering and grid systems. To download a preliminary program visit www.metering.com/wmdc

Metering, Billing/MDM America 2010
March 7-10, 2010
San Diego, CA

Metering, Billing/MDM America 2010 conference and exhibition is North America’s premium forum where technology meets the customer.  Cutting through the hype of where the industry currently lies, Metering, Billing/MDM America 2010 will focus on the new customer paradigm. With 100 speakers covering four dedicated tracks, a clutch of senior level panel discussions, a choice selection of challenging workshops and interactive networking breakfast sessions, you and your team cannot afford to miss out on Metering, Billing/MDM America 2010. Anne Shen Smith, senior vice president of customer services with San Diego Gas & Electric will be delivering the keynote address. Her presentation will look at the utility perspective of where technology meets the customer, and what immediate impact smart meters will have on the road to full smart grid capabilities. This is a not to be missed event, register today at www.meteringamerica.com

IWCE 2010
March 8-12, 2010
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 360+ 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 5, 2010 and SAVE!

SATELLITE 2010
March 15-18, 2010
National Harbor, MD

The SATELLITE Conference and Exhibition is the premier event providing solutions to the global satellite end-user community.  SATELLITE 2010 will attract more than 9,300 delegates from 70 countries and features more than 300 exhibiting companies plus a full conference program led by more than 300 communications via satellite experts and innovators. The 2010 Conference features focused forums on broadcast, enterprise, military and emerging regions. For more information, visit www.SATELLITE2010.com.

DistribuTECH 2010
March 23-25, 2010
Tampa, Florida

Celebrating 20 years as the leading annual T&D event. 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 information about current resources and new industry technologies, along with networking opportunities than DistribuTECH. Join us for our 20th Anniversary celebration! Visit www.distributech.com for more information.

ISC West
March 23-26, 2010
Las Vegas, Nev.

Join end-users of security, system integrators, dealers/installers and manufacturers from around the world at the one event that connects the entire security industry. ISC West 2010 is your best resource to discover the newest products from leading manufacturers, training and education tailored specifically to your needs, and unlimited networking opportunities!

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