eNewsletter

March 2010

Successful Remote Monitoring for Oil & Gas Applications
Business is always striving to be more efficient, to make the most of it’s resources and assets. Remote monitoring of equipment in the field is one way companies such as Toromont Energy Systems Inc. is helping oil and gas companies do just that. By leveraging M2M Data Corporation’s hosted remote monitoring services, it’s increasing the performance and longevity of its natural gas compression equipment in the field, reducing the burden of service technicians and as a result, increasing the client’s operational efficiency.

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GE Digital Energy’s MDS SD2 Wireless Solution Provides a Migration Path from Serial to IP/Ethernet Networks
GE Digital Energy has introduced the MDS SD2, software controlled digital radio that provides long distance communications over licensed radio bands and allows users to deploy IP/Ethernet and serial communications using 200 MHz. This wireless data acquisition solution supports flexible, reliable, secure and efficient data transmission with operation between 216 to 222 MHz in North America and up to 235 MHz in other countries. The SD2 has FCC authorization under Part 80, Part 90 and Part 95, and operates in channel sizes of 5 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz and 50 kHz.

This solution is designed for a variety of data acquisition and SCADA applications such as monitoring and controlling pole-top transformers, reclosers and capacitor banks for utilities, pumps, compressors and flow meters in oil and gas production and remote PLCs and measurement devices in water, wastewater and heavy industrial markets.

The MDS SD2 provides network availability and reliability to support communications to remote assets. This solution increases network flexibility with options that allow users to implement IP/Ethernet, secure AES 128-bit encryption and multiple protocols on their networks. Multiple applications can operate on a single network simultaneously, including remote device configuration and data polling. MDS SD2 also includes two serial ports, provides broad coverage over distances up to 50 miles, and supports a low-power sleep mode for solar and battery powered applications.

The higher transmit power used by the SD to operate in the licensed 200 MHz (MDS SD2), 400 MHz (MDS SD4) and 900 MHz (MDS SD9) frequencies results in a wide area of coverage. The SD’s receiver sensitivity allows for deployment in applications where obstructions would limit the effectiveness of other devices. MDS SD Series radios can be directly added to existing MDS x710 and x790 systems, providing both drop-in compatibility for expansions and replacements, and adding Ethernet support.

CygNet Adds New Integration Capabilities to Deliver Operational Data Across the Oil and Gas Enterprise
CygNet Software has made available the Service Release 1 for its CygNet Enterprise Operations Platform (EOP) 7.2, which delivers new integration capabilities that enable oil and gas companies to more effectively capitalize on the massive volumes of data generated by their field devices and operational systems. The cornerstone of this release is the Enterprise Integration Suite (EIS). EIS includes a set of open, standards-based interfaces that enable business users as well as deep operational and technical experts to reduce the complexity time, and cost involved in integrating real-time operational data into enterprise systems.

CygNet EOP 7.2 Service Release 1 adds more power to the solution, which transforms raw data collected from diverse operational systems and field devices into actionable information. With the addition of EIS, CygNet EOP now provides a collection of interfaces that give both business and technical users the ability to deliver information to the enterprise with greater speed and agility, while ensuring future application upgrade integrity.

Te Enterprise Objects layer includes a set of Web services that use integration standards like XML, Java Messaging Service (JMS) and HTTP. These standards allow EIS to transfer operational data into back office transactional systems and other third party applications used by oil and gas enterprises. For example, a Web service can feed field operations data directly into an o ERP module, such as an enterprise maintenance application. In addition to Enterprise Objects, the EIS suite delivers standard connectors that CygNet EOP “power users” can use to facilitate process control, programming and system administration.

Gain 17 Additional Serial Ports and Ethernet Communications with the New SEL-3610 Port Server
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL) has introduced the SEL-3610 port server, the latest addition to SEL’s secure communications lineup. The SEL-3610 expands serial port availability and secures Ethernet access to serial products.

The port server adds 17 additional serial ports for communications processors and/or computers and communicates over Ethernet using Secure Shell (SSH), Telnet or raw TCP protocols. With SSH, the SEL-3610 provides secure engineering access and restricts all unconfigured logical and physical ports.
With the port server, users can simplify configuration and maintenance from a secure (HTTPS) web interface, eliminating PC configuration software. Customers can configure and manage serial ports, IRIG-B time source and security features from the web interface.

Users can Synchronize time accurately for event logs or for time-sensitive applications like synchrophasors. The port server synchronizes and sends IRIG-B or Network Time Protocol information. Additionally, the SEL-3610 collects logs centrally with Syslog protocol. The unit can log and store 60,000 events locally or to three remote servers.

Solmetric Introduces Enhanced Site Analysis Tool
Solmetric Corp. has introduced the Solmetric SunEye 210, a handheld electronic instrument for solar site evaluation. Building on the features of the SunEye 110, the SunEye 210 provides analysis of shade and solar access for site evaluation and energy production estimates using a calibrated fisheye lens and digital image processing.

The SunEye 210 comes in a new rugged enclosure, enabling one-handed operation and improved user control. It includes the convenience of an integrated electronic inclinometer, compass and optional GPS. The SunEye 210 features a full-screen live preview mode in which the sun paths adapt to the orientation of the instrument, giving instant feedback on solar access. The SunEye 210 has a high resolution screen, extended battery life, stylus holder and dedicated quick-launch buttons, and comes standard with a rugged hard carrying case.

Hikvision Releases 5-Megapixel Network Camera
Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd. has released its DS-2CD886MF-E 5-Megapixel network camera. Using the latest H.264 video codec based on TI’s DaVinci platform, the Hikvision DS-2CD886MF-E delivers a compressed video stream with resolution of up to QSXGA (2,560 by 1,920) at eight frames per second and HD 1080P at full frame rate, while supporting HDMI for high-definition video display as high as 1080P resolution.

With 1/2.5 inch progressive scan CMOS image sensor, the DS-2CD886MF-E is able to capture minute image detail and can offer a high-definition panoramic view of moving objects in short time. Local card storage (SD/SDHC) is also supported for non-stop recording even when the network connection is interrupted.

In addition, the DS-2CD886MF-E 5-Megapixel network camera has advanced auto iris, allowing it to perform in various lighting conditions by selecting the optimal iris position automatically. With the ICR filter auto switch and electronic shutter control, the product offers crystal clear images in low-light scenarios. The DS-2CD886MF-E also supports PoE, two-way audio and e-PTZ, making the product well suited for securing areas where clear images and great image detail are required.

77 Percent of North American Utilities Polled Rank Distribution Automation as Top Smart Grid Application
GTM Research has completed its 2010 North American Utility Smart Grid Deployment Survey. This survey includes analysis of the trends emerging as utilities across the continent roll out smarter grids. The three primary deployment concerns are systems integration, data management solutions and electric vehicle integration, each receiving marks over 50 percent when asked where the biggest technology gaps exist.

“Many North American utility executives hold smart grid initiatives as a very high priority,” said David J. Leeds, smart grid analyst, GTM Research. “70 percent of survey respondents regard smart grid projects as either a strong priority or the highest priority relative to their overall business plans between now and 2015.”

The survey draws on over 30 smart grid deployment questions posed to decision makers at more than 50 North American utilities. The report provides insights about the near-term issues and longer-term plans for the developing smart grid market. The report includes information on AMI/Smart Grid deployment schedules, priority for building out a networked grid, connecting the Smart Grid to customers, plans for distribution automation, policy and integration, and the integration of renewables, storage and PHEVs.

Elecsys Corp. Acquires SensorCast, LLC
Elecsys Corp., a provider of M2M communication technology solutions, integrated displays and custom electronics for critical industrial applications, has acquired of SensorCast, LLC. SensorCast provides integrated data collection and reporting solutions to the pipeline and energy exploration industries. Its solutions encompass data acquisition hardware, proprietary communication protocols and a secure web-based data management systemand  have been deployed to monitor and control critical assets on pipelines, oil and gas wells, storage tanks, pump stations and other critical infrastructure.  Data from devices monitored by SensorCast technology can be integrated with existing SCADA and database systems, allowing customers to expand their control systems to manage remote assets.

Elecsys acquired substantially all of the assets, including accounts receivable, inventory, and fixed assets, as well as all of the intellectual property and intangible assets, and assumed certain liabilities of SensorCast in exchange for $35,000 in cash and 266,325 unregistered shares of Elecsys Corp. common stock.  The Company expects revenue from SensorCast solutions to exceed $1,000,000 over the next twelve months.

Freestyle Technology and Silver Spring Networks Sign Agreement to Provide Smart Grid Products
Freestyle Technology and Silver Spring Networks have executed an agreement to integrate Freestyle Technology’s open application and distributed microprocessor platform with Silver Spring Networks’ Smart Energy Platform. This agreement will lead to the development of next-generation products to provide a new range of Smart Grid features and services for all utilities and consumers.

 Freestyle Technology’s open application and distributed microprocessor platform links communications, metering and other sensory systems across transmission, distribution, retail and consumer networks. Silver Spring’s secure, IP-based Smart Energy Platform enables improved connectivity between stakeholders and provides the potential for better distributed monitoring and management including Home Area Networks.

A Difficult Year for the Global PLC Market Draws to a Close
It has been an difficult year for most PLC suppliers. Global PLC revenues are estimated to have been 19.1 percent lower than in 2008. According to IMS Research, in its recently published report “The Worldwide Market for PLCs- 2009 Edition”, the world market for PLCs and directly associated software and services was estimated to have been worth $7,800.6 million in 2009. It is forecasted that the market will not recover to the 2008 level until the second half of 2012.

No region has been insulated from the effects of the economic downturn. EMEA, the largest market for PLCs, has been the most badly affected. The main factor behind this is that Germany, the most important market for PLCs in EMEA, suffered the largest contraction during the global recession. After a sharp fall in the German export business, improvement in activity is forecast to be slower than elsewhere, especially until the middle of 2010. Conversely, the 2009 market contraction was least marked in Asia; this market is forecast to grow the fastest from 2008 to 2013, with a revenue CAGR of 6.0 percent. This is due to improved prospects in China and India, in part reflecting substantial macroeconomic stimulus, and a faster than expected turnaround in capital flows.

PLC revenues contracted painfully in almost all sector of industry in 2009. However, a few markets were less affected by the economic downturn, including those like electrical power, transportation and water treatment supporting infrastructure development. These markets were largely helped by various government stimulus packages, which helped to create new demand for automation products such as PLCs. Sectors closely associated with consumer goods (such as food, beverage and tobacco machinery, packaging machinery) and a few emerging industries such as renewable energy also helped to sustain demand for PLC products. These industries are all forecast to show growth globally over the period 2008 to 2013.

The consensus of many major PLC suppliers is that market recovery is expected to begin slowly in 2010, as government investment filters through to many more of the major discrete and process industries that use PLCs. However, recovery is unlikely to be V-shaped, and the coming year will remain challenging for the global PLC suppliers.

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

March
21-25, OFC/NFOEC 2010, San Diego, Calif. Contact www.ofcnfoec.org

23-25, DistribuTECH, Tampa Bay, Fla. www.distributech.com

23-25, Utility Products Conference & Expo, Tampa, Fla. Contact www.utilityproductsexpo.com

23-25, CTIA Wireless, Las Vegas, Nev. Contact www.ctiawireless.com

23-25, ISC West, Las Vegas, Nv. Contact www.iscwest.com

24-25, GlobalCon 2010, Philadelphia, Pa. Contact www.globalconevent.com

29-31, AWRA Spring Specialty Conference GIS & Water Resources VI, Orlando, Fla.
Contact www.awra.org

29-31. Transmission and Distribution Europe 2010, Amsterdam, Netherlands, Contact www.td-europe.eu

30-31, Mile High Industrial Automation Conference, Denver, Colo. Contact. www.mhiac.com

The Technology World in One Location!
Top design engineers, system engineers and technical managers from multiple markets and industries will be converging in Dallas this fall, October 18-20, to attend six leading technical events that are being co-located for the first time ever. Make plans today to attend!

Battery Power 2010 • Thermal Management & Technology Symposium
REMOTE Site & Equipment Management 2010 • Energy Efficiency Expo 2010
Antenna Systems 2010 • Electrical Manufacturing & Coil Winding Expo

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.

CTIA Wireless
March 23-25, 2010
Las Vegas, Nev.

The International CTIA WIRELESS® show represents a $1 trillion global marketplace that brings together every component of the wireless and broadband ecosystem. For 25 years, International CTIA WIRELESS® has been THE premier marketplace for all things wireless and 2010 is guaranteed to be another crucial and groundbreaking event for the industry. Join us in Las Vegas, March 23-25. Early bird pricing ends February 16 -- register now at www.ctiawireless.com!

ENTELEC 2010
April 13-15
Houston, Texas

The ENTELEC 2010 Conference & Expo provides an incredible opportunity to take advantage of cutting edge technical education and training, hands on exhibits and product demonstrations, and industry networking.  Take advantage of the energy industry’s most comprehensive technical conference with seminars, round tables and discussions that focus on real-world challenges, applications and provide take-away solutions.  The education program has been “re-engineered” to include open discussions and more interaction with peers and vendors that will provide attendees with more information, options and eventually, more solutions.  The 2010 conference will also include several seminars focused on professional and career advancement. Check out our Schedule of Events at www.entelec.org

Sensors Expo & Conference
June 7-9, 2010
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center - Rosemont, IL

For 24 Years, Sensors Expo & Conference Has Been the Leading Industry Event Focusing Exclusively on Sensors & Sensor-Integrated Systems!  The in-depth conference program features the world's leading authorities, in a carefully designed program, including topics such as: Energy Harvesting, Wireless Networking, Low-Power Sensing, Bio-Sensing, MEMS & MCUs, Monitoring Tools & Applications, Novel Approaches to Measurement, Power/Smart Grid Monitoring & Control, and more!  PLUS – save months of time researching, by examining solutions to your toughest sensing challenges from best-in-class vendors on the Expo floor!  Whether you're looking to find the latest sensing solutions, evaluate emerging standards, find and compare suppliers, or solve new design challenges, you can't afford to miss Sensors Expo & Conference!  Visit www.sensorsexpo.com for details!

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