T1/E1-over-IP Gateway Features Low Latency And is ... · T1/E1-over-IP Gateway Features Low Latency...

June/July 2008 www.RemoteMagazine.com A Webcom Publication

...on page 19

SCADA...on page 4

T1/E1-over-IP Gateway Features Low LatencyAnd is Industrial Hardened

...on page 12

City of Phoenix Chooses UCOS forWater/Wastewater Automation

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Semaphore has introduced the S20 SHDSL modem, which

provides dual Ethernet transmission at high speeds over cop-

per wire pairs. The modem enables conversion

of an existing copper wire infrastructure into a

high-speed Ethernet network when installing a

new SCADA or telemetry system, even if it

spans distances previously unattainable by con-

ventional DSL technology

The Semaphore S20 SHDSL modem extends

communication speed and reach without the

additional investment of installing new commu-

nications media. An alternative to wireless

technology, the S20 SHDSL's unique repeater

capability enables communications over exist-

ing copper wire networks spanning up to hun-

dreds of kilometers. The modem is well suited

for railway, pipeline, utility and power trans-

mission applications that presently employ cop-

per wire communications networks.

The S20 uses G.SHDSL (Symmetric High-bit rate Digital

Subscriber Loop) technology for sending and receiving high-

speed symmetrical data streams over a single pair

of copper wires at rates between 192 kbps to 2.31

mbps. Also known as G.991.2, G.SHDSL is an

international standard for symmetric DSL devel-

oped by the ITU.

Semaphore's implementation is a rugged

design that is suitable for industrial applica-

tions, which require operation over a wide tem-

perature range. The S20 provides transparent

Ethernet connectivity and supports any stan-

dard, IP messaging such as Modbus TCP.

Symmetric communication also allows video

and voice transmission.

Configuration of the S20 is extremely simple

and uses a web interface to display DSL and

Ethernet port status and configure line speeds,

network address, and authentication permissions.

Semaphore Releases SHDSL Dual Ethernet Modem

When Failure is not an Option When Failure is not an Option Enhancing the Reliability of Environmental

Monitoring Systems

What good is an environmental

monitoring system that cannot be relied

on for continuous, 24/7 supervision?

Choosing a monitoring system is

important, and considering the

demand for such systems is based

on security they provide, it is pointless

to investtime and money into something

that is not completely reliable. In this

exclusive Remote Magazine article,

CIMTechniques explores this subject and more.

...on page 14

www.remoteexpo.com

www.selinc.com

Volume 8, Issue 3

Editor & PublisherDavid Webster

Director of ContentShannon Given

Associate EditorsNick Depperschmidt

Jeremy Martin

Assistant EditorsHeather Krier Joanna Larez

News EditorsScott Nash, Karen Poulson, Jessi Carter,

Jeremy Fleming, Sue Hannebrink

Finance & AdministrationMarsha Grillo, Director

Julie Williams, Office Manager

Advertising, Sales and MarketingScott Nash, Account Executive

Jessica Thebo, Jennifer Graham, Kristin Reming

Production Manager Julie McCann

Customer Service/CirculationDatabase/Directories

Mark Vang, Circulation ManagerJulianne Wood, Andy Gurukovich,

Ross Webster

REMOTE SITE & EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT magazine (ISSN #1535-0347) is a publication of Webcom Communications Corp.Subscription free for qualified US, (six issues) $44 for non-qualifiedUS, $60 in all other countries. Single copies are $20 each plusshipping. Back issues are available. Payment must be made inUS funds in order to process the order. Direct all subscriptioninquiries, orders and address changes to Fulfillment Services.Third-class and fourth-class postage paid in Denver, Colo.Periodic postage paid in Greenwood Village, Colo. and atadditional mailing offices.

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Photocopy Rights: Permission to photocopy for internal or per-sonal use, or the internal or personal use of specific clients isgranted by REMOTE SITE & EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT for usersthrough Copyright Clearance Center, provided that the basefee of $2.50 per copy of the article, plus $1.00 per page is paiddirectly to the Copyright Clearance Center, 222 RosewoodDrive, Danvers, MA 01923 USA (508) 750-8400. For governmentand/or classroom use, the Copyright Clearance Center shouldbe contacted. The rate for this is 3 cents per page. Specify ISSN# 1535-0347 REMOTE SITE & EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT.

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Editor’s Note

June/July 2008 Remote Site & Equipment Management 3www.RemoteMagazine.com

June/JulyContents

Even though it’s still six months out, theRemote 2008 Conference and Expo isalready creating quite a buzz! We had arecord response to our April call for papers,and in this issue we’re announcing thebiggest preliminary program in the show’s his-tory. Check out pages 20 & 21 to learn more.

The best part is we’re still not done! I’veextended the call for papers deadline, andwe’re looking for a few more presentations toround out the program. Specifically we needyou onsite power gurus to step up and pres-ent! We’re also looking for a few remote mon-itoring based sessions, and exhibit hall space isfilling up quickly. You can contact Scott Nashat [email protected] to sign up.

I’m proud to say that while we’ve beenhard at work crafting a quality program forthe show, that in no way means we’ve for-gotten about the magazine. This June/Julyissue is jam packed with a slew of new prod-ucts, great application features and fourinformative articles.

You’ll find a great article on page 16 cov-ering cathodic corrosion pipeline monitoringtechnology, and Fluidmesh has contributed apiece on using wireless mesh networking tech-nology for surveillance applications. Check itout on page 32, and thanks for reading!

Nick DepperschmidtEditor, Remote [email protected]

Table of Contents

page 4

page 30

page 18

Next Generation Corrosion Data Management Tool Released . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Uplogix Enhances Secure Remote ManagementAppliance for Managing Distributed Networks .10

Remcom Launches Enhanced Version of Wireless InSite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Popcorn-Ball Design Doubles Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Intelligent Video Offers Louisville Water TreatmentPlant Protection Against Security Risks . . . . . . . .30

City of Phoenix Chooses UCOS for Water/WastewaterAutomation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

When Failure is not an Option: Enhancing theReliability of Environmental Monitoring Systems . .14

Operators Extend SCADA Investment to VitalCathodic Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Improving Sensitivity of RF based AMI FrontEnd Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Wireless Mesh Networks: Traditional Uses and Video-Surveillance Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Marketplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37Web Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38New Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Calendar of Events/Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . .39

SCADA

Networking

Onsite Power

Features

Departments

Security

page 13

www.remoteexpo.com

mailto:[email protected]

Next Generation Corrosion DataManagement Tool Released

Corr MD, a data management and integration tool is

being released by DNV CCT, in cooperation with DCG,

Inc. The Corr MD

is designed to

prevent corrosion

and increase the

availability of

pipeline data,

this maintaining

vital information

regarding the

integrity of both

onshore and offshore

pipeline systems.

One of the driving forces behind the development of

Corr MD was a study conducted by DNV CCT and

NACE International on the enormous cost of corrosion in

the US. The study estimated that corrosion is costing

pipeline operators approximately $7 billion per year.

Acknowledging this reality, the pipeline industry has

long been asking for an integrated decision tool that can

manage corrosion data and data for integrity assessments.

With the release of Corr MD, DNV CCT and DCG

aim to take the first step towards achieving a complete

set of integrated decision tools needed to manage

pipeline integrity threats. Operators need to know what

information to collect in order to ensure that corrosion

activities, such as monitoring and mitigation, are man-

aged properly. Corr MD provides both guidance for col-

lecting the data and directions for proper usage and data

management. Unlike current risk-management and cor-

rosion assessment tools, Corr MD manages information

from a multitude of corrosion monitoring and test

results, such as gas analysis, coupon monitoring, liquid

composition, residues, inhibitor and biocide use and

operational conditions, etc.

Corr MD software can be customized based on client

input to ensure that the exact needs are met. The tool

includes interactive, logic-driven data entry forms and

can be used both as a stand-alone application and with

network-wide usage, providing centralized data man-

agement with multi-user access. User-defined reporting

parameters, data assessment, record retention and auto-

mated task scheduling support the requirements and

assist in compliance with 49 CFR 192 and 49 CFR 195

in the US and CSA Z662 in Canada. The tool also offers

tiered security levels and image-storing capacity and is

compliant with Pipeline Open Data Standard (PODS),

Orbit+Pipeline and other industry-recognized risk and

integrity management systems.

The first release of the program focuses on internal

corrosion management, but subsequent releases will tar-

get key integrity tools required for corrosion manage-

ment, activity planning and budgeting.

Control Microsystems Releases itsSCADAPack 350E andSCADAPack 357E Controllers

Control Microsystems has introduced its

SCADAPack 350E and SCADAPack 357E, two addi-

tions to the SCADAPack

E-series family. These

products respond to the

growing demand for

interoperability and reli-

able communications by

featuring native DNP3

and IEC 60870-5 and

multi-vendor connectivi-

ty. AGA12-2 encryption

ensures data integrity for

billable applications or critical operations. Both prod-

ucts share the same hardware platform as Control

Microsystem’s SCADAPack 300 series.

“The SCADAPack E-series controllers are a com-

pletely distinct product line from the original

SCADAPack series,” said Dale Symington, VP product

strategy, Control Microsystems. “DNP3 and IEC 60870-

5 allow the slave controller to store a time-stamped

event whenever data points change and the continuous

recording means there are never holes in the data even

when communication links go down.”

The IEC 61131-3 programming environment pro-

vides support for two logic applications running simul-

taneously on the same E-series controller. Integrators

can load their own password-protected application offer-

ing core functionality for the market industry, while

leaving the second application for the end-user to add

custom control if needed.

E-series controllers support a full-featured FAT32

(PC compatible) file system and command line. The

command line provides direct access to the file system

and configuration commands that would otherwise be

sent via the E-series Configurator software, and it is

accessible over FTP, Telnet, DNP3 or local serial port.

Visit Control Microsystem’s Booth at the

Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!

www.RemoteExpo.com

Thermal Mass Flow Meter OffersOptional Profibus

Aalborg has released

the model XFM ther-

mal mass flow meter

that features in option-

al Profibus DP inter-

face. This low cost

smart meter is

designed for conven-

ience and can be pro-

grammed remotely.

The XFM meter can store calibration data for one to 10

gases and conversion factors for up to 32 gases. Accuracy

is ±1 percent of FS at calibration temperature and pres-

sure. Additionally, the meter’s automatic sensor zero off-

set adjustment can be activated locally with a mainte-

nance push button or remotely via a digital interface.

XFM features include aluminum and stainless steel

models, digital interface RS485, RS231 (with or without

LCD displays) and optional Profibus DP (with I&M

functionality). Also available are programmable totaliz-

er, high/low flow alarms, self-diagnostic tests, 23 differ-

ent volumetric flow or engineering units and internal or

user-specific K-factors.

Monitor Multiple Battery MonitoringSytsems on One Screen

NDSL Cellwatch

has released its

Cellwatch Central, a

server application

that constantly moni-

tors multiple

Cellwatch systems

over an internal net-

work or across the Internet.

“Until Cellwatch Central,” said David Brown, CEO,

Cellwatch, “corporate and government entities with

multiple buildings and multiple battery rooms have had

limited options for pulling their battery monitoring sys-

tems together on one screen. Cellwatch Central pulls

together the condition and alarm data from different

Cellwatch systems on one server and then provides data

to multiple web viewers throughout a network.”

Remote users can view and interact with real-time,

summary condition data such as alarm status, battery

condition and alarm history. Cellwatch Central uses a

standard web browser and consolidates the data on a

dedicated desktop or rack mount server PC.

Numerex Corp. has released FastTrack, a hosted, turn-key, remote monitoring solu-

tion for integrators, enterprises and end users. Designed to wirelessly

monitor and control remote processes, events, conditions and devices,

FastTrack is a secure end-to-end solution that comes standard with all

of the components required for large and small-scale remote monitor-

ing and control applications. The main components include the AnyNet

GSM-based wireless device, M2M network and an intuitive, hosted,

Web-based application.

Optimized to improve remote operational efficiencies, FastTrack

brings the benefits of wireless M2M to virtually any type of industry

with remote monitoring and control requirements including highway

and transportation, utilities, security, SCADA and agriculture, and a

variety of wide area monitoring situations, such as pipeline temperature

sensors, pressure measuring points, flow monitoring, discrete level

monitoring and pulse generating sensors.

FastTrack provides an alternative to lengthy application and device

development projects allowing customers to pilot, test and deploy proj-

ects immediately. Flexible, customizable and easy to install, FastTrack

enables users to monitor and control all of their remote sites from the

web. The secure web portal is easily administered by non-IT personnel

allowing such benefits such as real time network activation for devices, easy cus-

tomization of I/O tag names and alert messages. FastTrack also allows

users to remotely receive selected data and alarms on any Web-enabled

or email enabled device and through customizable Web services.

FastTrack utilizes SMSXpress to deliver real-time data between

remote devices and facilities. Beyond the network services, Numerex

also provides network management services to assist customers in

deployment efforts, private labels for VARs, custom billing services,

and around-the-clock technical and end-user support from initial acti-

vation through the life of the product.

The FastTrack solution includes the AnyNet GSM wireless device.

With multiple I/Os and a serial interface, the AnyNet supports a variety

of industrial and commercially available sensors. AnyNet communicates

to a variety of Web services,including data presentation, account and

unit management, billing and support services. Each service can be tai-

lored to end-user requirements depending upon the specific application.

Numerex plans to offer its newly acquired satellite services,

OrbitOne, integrated within FastTrack. This will allow customers to

deploy both GSM and satellite devices and control and monitor both

through a single user interface.

4 Remote Site & Equipment Management June/July 2008

Products & ServicesSCADA

www.RemoteMagazine.com

Numerex Launches FastTrack Secure, Hosted M2M Solution

www.digi.com/rsmquiz

Onset Computer Corp. IntroducesNew Water Level Data Logger Kits

Onset Computer Corp. has introduced two new water

level data logger kits that combine high accuracy water

level measurements with out-of-the-box convenience.

The starter kit includes a HOBO water level logger,

HOBOware software and an Optic USB base station.

The deluxe kit includes two HOBO water level loggers,

HOBOware software a HOBO waterproof data shuttle

and a carrying case.

"Our customers have been using HOBO water level

loggers in a wide range of monitoring applications, from

estuary research to groundwater monitoring, and have

selected our water level loggers due to their 0.01-foot

accuracy, reliability and value," said Paul Gannett, prod-

uct marketing manager, Onset. "Now, the industry’s eas-

iest to deploy logger just got easier to purchase with

these money-saving kits.”

The HOBO water level logger is a pressure-based

water level recording device that combines research-

grade accuracy and durability with low cost. It provides

0.05 percent of full-scale accuracy with multiple ranges

and up to 0.005-foot resolution.

The included HOBOware software is an intuitive

graphing and analysis software package. HOBOware

offers a number of convenient features such as easy

pressure-to-level conversion, and a Barometric

Compensation Assistant, which compensates for baro-

metric pressure changes.

The HOBO water level logger offloads data to a PC

or Mac computer via a convenient USB-based optical

interface, which provides high-speed, reliable data

offload in wet environments. Its optical design elimi-

nates the need for failure-prone mechanical connectors

found in many traditional water logger products, and

provides for fast and easy data offload.

The HOBO water level logger starter kit is $604 and

the deluxe kit is priced at $1,137.

ComBrio Releases VSI AutomationAnd Control for RemoteMonitoring and Management

ComBrio, Inc. has expanded its virtual service infra-

structure (VSI) product suite to address the needs of

enterprises in the automation and process industries for

secure and controlled remote access of their automation

and process-control network environment.

VSI Automation and Control is the first complete

RPS suite that provides plant managers and automation

engineers a cost efficient and secure solution for remote

monitoring and management of SCADA elements and

applications such as programmable logic controllers

(PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS) and master

control units (MCO). The purposely built RPS solution

addresses the end-to-end needs of plant managers by

providing them with a homogeneous platform to address

both internal access controls, along with third party ven-

dor services into automation network environments.

Through the use of VSI Automation and Control,

manufacturing, production, power and fabrication

organizations can increase availability and productivity

of their process-oriented and discrete control systems.

The VSI solution allows remotely located support and

service personnel with the ability to gain secure, con-

trolled and accountable access to SCADA devices locat-

ed behind the operations network firewalls.

“There have been many advances in embedded man-

agement of today’s automation/process control equipment,

said Dave Boulos, vice president of product management,

Combrio. “This coupled with the adoption of Industrial

Ethernet for SCADA inter-device and inter-vendor com-

munications, has opened up the opportunity for plant man-

agers to improve productivity and increase uptime by

leveraging a centrally located or distributed resource pool

to monitor and service plant network segments remotely.

However, manual process and the complexity of managing

remote connectivity have impacted the adoption of IP-

based remote automation network management, VSI

Automation and Control solves this problem.”

VSI Automation and Control provides users all the

components required to remotely monitor and manage

SCADA devices without the need for VPNs, dial-up

lines or specialized de-militarized zones to protect the

automation and process control networks from corpo-

rate and external security risks. Additionally, VSI

Automation and Control enables plant managers to take

advantage of third party remote services offerings, or

leverage additional product expertise if required to

assist in troubleshooting or preventative maintenance,

while still meeting the companies security and compli-

ance requirements.

Hear ComBrio, Inc. Speak at the


Session Title: Achieving Great Profits from RemoteManagement in the Industrial Environment

www.RemoteExpo.com

Tollgrade Launches DistributionGrid Monitoring Product Line

Tollgrade Communications, Inc. has launched a cen-

tralized remote monitoring system, called LightHouse.

This line provides a means for electric power utilities to

deploy technology for real-time grid intelligence, imme-

diately detect faults, help to minimize the impact of out-

ages and optimize utilization of assets, with a goal to

improve overall efficiency of energy delivery.

A LightHouse sensor, mounted directly on the electri-

cal conductor, continuously monitors key circuit parame-

ters and transmit data over a wireless network to a central

location, reducing time of detecting a problem on the

grid, identifying its location and restoring service.

“For many years the distribution grid relied on

visual observation from field crews or calls from

customers to alert the power company of a prob-

lem,” said Steven Day, executive director,

Tollgrade. “We recognized a compelling need for

robust and flexible sensor technology in a mar-

ketplace that requires continuous performance

and in an industry that is seeking ways to opti-

mize the performance of distribution grids.”

The LightHouse product line is a system of com-

ponents that includes a wireless sensor, an aggrega-

tor device that collects data, and software that will

enable viewing, maintenance and reporting func-

tions in real-time. The line has been in development

for more than a year and is available as a beta prod-

uct for utility evaluation pilot programs.

6 Remote Site & Equipment Management June/July 2008 www.RemoteMagazine.com


www.controlmicrosystems.com

www.avalanwireless.com




GE Fanuc Intelligent PlatformsLaunches Proficy HMI/SCADACimplicity 7.5

GE Fanuc Intelligent Platforms has released the latest

version of its supervisory control solution, Proficy

H M I / S C A D A

Cimplicity 7.5, offer-

ing diagnostic tools,

security, development

tools, connectivity

and flexibility.

“Cimplicity 7.5

extends the product’s

ability to develop and

improve supervisory

monitoring and control projects,” said Gimmi Filice,

Cimplicity product manager, GE Fanuc. “Whether

upgrading an existing system, or implementing a new

project, Cimplicity 7.5 will provide users with the power,

flexibility and ease of use they need.”

Some of the notable enhancements are digital graphi-

cal replay (DGR), enhanced screen navigation, and

easy-to-use application deployment. The digital graphi-

cal replay, part of the enhanced screen navigation,

allows users to go back in time and replay Cimplicity

screens based on logged historical data. Events can be

replayed in real time, slow motion or fast forward to

analyze systems leading up to alarms and trouble shoot

or optimize applications.

A new timesaving capability for developers and oper-

ators is the screen navigation bar. Frequently,

HMI/SCADA developers add a method of navigation to

their application, requiring them to build buttons or

frames containing links to other screens. Cimplicity 7.5

has made configuring navigation as simple as drag and

drop. By dragging screens into a hierarchy, users can

build a task bar menu, with options to color code and

have other attributes so that operators can locate screens

quickly and make them more effective.

To facilitate time-consuming deployment of changes

in large applications, Cimplicity contains an application

deployment system to allow development changes to be

propagated automatically to all the viewers in the sys-

tem helping reduce total cost of ownership. By simply

configuring when and how you want to deploy the

changes, viewers will then detect changes, copy the

necessary files and alert the operator that changes are

coming that can be deferred if needed, or configured to

force the change.

In addition to the standard client/server architecture in

Cimplicty, an advanced viewer gives even more flexibil-

ity for how to architect a system. The advanced viewer

allows users to visualize data captured by the server just

like the standard viewer, with the option of capturing data

directly from OPC DA servers locally or on the network.

Often applications need simple enhancements or the abil-

ity to grab a piece of information local to the viewer.

Rather than going to the server and configuring a data

point to make the data available to the viewer, the view-

er can access the OPC data directly. This provides flexi-

bility in architecture, and the ability to enhance the local

application without modifying the server.

With the growing need for securing HMI/SCADA sys-

tems, and the increased dependence on IT standards,

Cimplicity has added Windows Domain Security integra-

tion. This allows users to take advantage of current IT

configurations, so that they can assign roles and

resources in Cimplicity based on Windows groups. The

software will use the configured Windows Domain to

authenticate user credentials and the IT rules that come

with it for password expiration, rules and more.

With the release of Cimplicity 7.5, GE Fanuc has

increased the value of the combined Cimplicity and

Proficy Historian solution. Enhancements to the integra-

tion allow users to log alarm data to Historian in addition

to data that was already logged there. Additional flexibil-

ity allows you to configure the system to log to SQL his-

torian or both, or split up the data and alarm logs.

National Instruments Expands CSeries Family for High PerformanceData Logging

National Instruments has released four new C series

modules for data-logging applications including vibra-

tion/acoustical data logging and temperature and pressure

testing. The NI USB-9219, USB-9229 and USB-9239

provide USB, bus-powered connectivity to the C series

while the NI 9234 AC/DC-coupled dynamic signal acqui-

sition module

offers selectable

IEPE signal condi-

tioning for engi-

neers measuring

h i g h - a c c u r a c y

audio frequency.

The C series

combines signal

conditioning, direct sensor connectivity and data acquisi-

tion into a small module for each measurement type that

can be inserted into any C series chassis to create a vari-

ety of systems. There are more than 40 C series modules

available for different measurements including thermo-

couple, voltage, RTD, current, resistance, strain, digital

(TTL and other), accelerometers and microphones. The

new modules, which expand the NI offering of 24-bit C

series modules for data-logging applications, are

enhanced with the inherent data acquisition and analysis

features of NI LabVIEW software.

The bus-powered four-channel universal C series

modules are designed for multipurpose testing in any NI

CompactDAQ or CompactRIO chassis, or with the NI

USB-9162 single module carrier. With the new USB-

9219 universal module, engineers can measure up to 11

types of signals from sensors such as strain gages, RTDs,

thermocouples and load cells. With channel-to-channel

isolation, an entire system, including the device under

test, is protected from harmful voltage spikes up to the

isolation rating. In addition to safety, isolation eliminates

measurement errors caused by ground loops.

Measurement ranges for the USB-9219 include up to

±60 V and ±25 mA, making it well suited for in-vehicle

data-logging applications that often require 12 V or 42 V

of measurement range. The USB-9229 and USB-9239

high-speed data-logging modules acquire 50 kS/s sam-

ples per second per channel and include anti-aliasing fil-

ters to eliminate unwanted signals for monitoring appli-

cations such as structural health, machine conditioning,

electrical power and environmental monitoring. The

USB-9239 operates at ±10 V for precise, high-speed sen-

sor measurement, while the USB-9229 operates at ±60 V

for sensors with a higher output range such as proximity

probes used for vibration data logging.

The NI 9234 dynamic signal acquisition module is

more suited for vibration and acoustical data log-

ging because engineers can turn on or off IEPE

conditioning as well as select AC or DC coupling.

The module delivers 24 bits of resolution, 102 dB

of dynamic range and anti-aliasing filters. The NI

9234 module can be used with the NI Sound and

Vibration Measurement Suite, which includes the

Sound and Vibration Assistant to simplify acquir-

ing and analyzing noise and vibration signals by

offering a stand-alone, interactive analysis and

acquisition environment. The stand-alone soft-

ware makes it possible to continually interact

with varying data analysis settings while logging

data to disk for future analysis.

Engineers can use C series modules with the

USB-9162 single module carrier and NI

CompactDAQ and CompactRIO hardware.

Combining this hardware with LabVIEW soft-

ware creates a user-defined data-logging applica-

tion. With LabVIEW graphical programming,

engineers can create custom user interfaces and

take advantage of more than 600 math and analy-

sis functions.

Hear National Instruments Speak at the


Session Title: Incorporating WirelessMeasurements with Wired Data Acquisition Systems

www.RemoteExpo.com

www.arguson.com



Fluid Conservation Systems andDatamatic Integrate LeakDetection Solutions

Halma Water Management’s Fluid Conservation

Systems (FCS) and Datamatic Ltd. have partnered to

provide a wireless leak detection system to customers in

the US and international water utilities markets. By

combining FCS’s Permalog leak noise sensors and

Datamatic’s Firefly, the new system allows utilities to

check their entire distribution system for leaks simulta-

neously with meter reading.

Deployed throughout the distribution system,

Permalogs attach magnetically to valves and use

advanced algorithms to discern the acoustic sig-

nature of leaks from background noise. Leak

noise data is collected by the RoadRunner Mobile

or handheld that is simultaneously performing

normal automatic meter reading (AMR) opera-

tions. A digital leak noise correlator can then be

used to pinpoint the leak’s location. Armed with

this precise location information, repair crews can

quickly find and repair leaks.

"A single eight-gallon-per-minute leak will

waste more than four million gallons of water in

a year, said Rich Sanders, business development

manager, Datamatic. “Small leaks that stay hid-

den eventually become big leaks, causing main

breaks, sinkholes, flooding and serious service

disruptions. This new system will allow commu-

nities to quickly identify and fix leaks, conserving

valuable resources."

New Panel Meter Features Built-In Outputs with DualSetpoint Capability

Red Lion Controls, Inc. has introduced the

Paxla, an extension of the company’s series of

Pax Lite panel

meters. This meter

is the first Pax Lite

model featuring

control capability

by adding two

Form C relays

capable of switch-

ing up to 5 amps. Paxla can accept DC current,

DC voltage or process input signals, scaling them

to a desired readout for a wide range of applica-

tions. Plus, the Paxla is simple to program using

its front panel buttons and jumpers.

Paxla delivers a bright five digit, 0.56 inches

high red LED display with programmable scaling

and decimal points. In addition, it offers a newly

designed universal power supply, accepting 50 to

250 VAC or 21.6 to 250 VDC. In addition a 24

VDC excitation output is available for increased

application flexibility. Plus, once front panel pro-

gramming is complete, the front panel buttons

can be disabled through a user input setting.

Paxla meets CE requirements and features a

NEMA 4X/IP65 sealed front bezel, providing

excellent reliability in harsh industrial environ-

ments. In addition, Paxla features an optional cus-

tom unit overlay with backlight, and it offers min-

imum and maximum display and capture.

Brooks Instrument EnhancesIts 4800 Series Mass FlowMeters/Controllers

Brooks Instrument has made several updates to

its latest mass flow meters/controllers. The model

4800 series now has digital

communications via RS-232

and a downport connection

option. In addition, it is the first

of Brooks' mass flow devices to

be fully RoHS compliant.

The RS-232 digital, one-to-

one communication protocol

allows the customer to provide a

setpoint and receive the process

value, select one of nine gases for the calibration curve,

access the valve override function, and access the re-zero

function. The RS-232 protocol will come built-in to the

product as part of its standard package.

Optional downport connections are also available on the

4800 mass flow meter/controller. In order to keep the advan-

tage of the 4800 series small footprint, Brooks utilized a

proprietary standard downport option. This option allows

top mounting for ease of maintenance and installation and

also offers additional space savings over traditional mount-

ings because there is no point-to-point tubing necessary.

The RoHS Directive places restrictions on the use of

certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic

equipment. This directive bans new electrical and elec-

tronic equipment containing more than agreed levels of

lead, cadmium, mercury and certain other materials from

being distributed in the EU. The 4800 series is Brooks'

first, fully RoHS compliant MFC.

www.phoenixcon.com/wireless




Uplogix Enhances Secure Remote ManagementAppliance for Managing Distributed Networks

Uplogix has announced the

general availability of Envoy

and Envoy Management Station

(EMS) v3.4, a fully-integrated

remote management platform.

The enhancements in this new

version helps large IT organiza-

tions further automate routine maintenance and recovery tasks to alleviate the risks,

complexity and costs in managing dispersed networks.

“Remote management is an area we are seeing a lot of demand in by our customer

base,” said Chris Boykin, CEO, Got Net Security. “This new version has allowed us to

expand our service offering to include an intelligent product that will more than meet

customer expectations of what an integrated remote management appliance can do. As

network architecture and IT infrastructures become more increasingly complex, new

approaches and technologies like Uplogix are required.”

Version 3.4 of Uplogix’ architecture integrates an always-available, secure and intel-

ligent direct connection to the remote devices it manages. In comparison, traditional net-

work management tools are not equipped to automate routine maintenance and recovery

tasks because they depend on the network being available, and thus rely on people to do

the work. The Uplogix solution is a new approach that significantly reduces labor costs

and allows IT professionals to focus on more critical responsibilities.

One of the enhanced features includes improved user authentication flexibility. By

enhancing the security model to expand beyond global settings, IT administrators now

have the ability to choose user authentication options on a more granular level, prom-

ising only the right users have the right access to the right devices. Envoy integrates

with the third party authentication systems including TACACS, RSA SecureID, Secure

Computing’s Safeword and Radius. Envoy also supports bonding between primary and

secondary Ethernet ports. If a connection to the primary interface is lost, Envoy can

failover the secondary interface, ensuring devices are always accessible and available.

Formerly transferred through Secure Copy Protocol (SCP), data files capturing device

changes such as configurations, alerts and events, can now be archived more efficiently

through a HTTPS session. Configuration and key management challenges are mini-

mized, thus improving overall performance of large enterprise-wide implementations.

Uplogix has developed an SRM appliance that integrates critical access, control and

enforcement (ACE) remote management functions to alleviate the risk, complexity and

costs inherent in managing distributed IT infrastructures such as branch offices and

remote datacenters. This includes secure always-available access to distributed devices,

as well as local automation and control of routine maintenance, configuration and

recovery tasks.

Hear Uplogix Speak at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!

Session Title: Ensuring Constant Connectivity and Secure Access to Remote Locationswww.RemoteExpo.com

NetSupport Manager Remote Control Software NowOffers Smart Card Support

NetSupport has released the NetSupport Manager 10.3 remote control software.

The newest release of NetSupport Manager has significant enhancements in the areas

of security and improvements to scripting, command

prompt and multi-monitor support. NetSupport Manager

also now works in an environment where Remote

Desktop is also in use.

New features include smart card support, scripting

enhancements, remote command prompt enhancements

and extended multi-monitor support. With the smart card

option any smart card login performed on the control PC

is redirected and application on the client PC. Meanwhile

the remote login function and script editor uses colors to

differentiate between comments, functions and keywords.

Meanwhile the remote command window now stores pre-

viously executed commands during the active session.

NetSupport Manager supports all other Windows plat-

forms from Windows 95 on, Mac OS, Linux, Solaris, PPC,

Win CE and Windows Mobile platforms.

RLE is First to Introduce Distance Read LeakDetection with Ethernet Capabilities

RLE Technologies has released of the

SeaHawk LD2000, a Web-enabled, distance

read leak detection system. The LD2000 pin-

points the location of any conductive fluid on

up to 2,000 feet of RLE patented SeaHawk

Leak Detection Cable (SC).

The SeaHawk LD2000 is designed to work

in conjunction with SC cable. When a conduc-

tive fluid comes in contact with SC cable or SeaHawk zone spot detectors (SD-Z), the

system pinpoints the location of the leak. Within seconds, the LED flashes in alarm and

the LED display provides a distance measurement so that the location of the leak can

be determined.

Unlike any leak detection system on the market, the LD2000 system includes features

such as direct alarm notification via email or SMS to cellular devices, and a Web inter-

face that allows users to view status and modify system configurations. Notably, the

LD2000 allows for simple integration with existing building management systems (BMS)

via Modbus and BACnet and/or network management systems (NMS) via SNMP.

Yokogawa Integrates Plant Resource Manager withPepperl+Fuchs FieldConnex Diagnostic Module

Yokogawa and Pepperl+Fuchs have released a new solution for managing the phys-

ical layer of Foundation fieldbus H1. This is being released as one of the diagnostic

solutions of Plant Resource Manager (PRM) R3.02.

PRM is a key component of Yokogawa's VigilantPlant Asset Excellence initiative.

PRM integrates and manages maintenance information, monitors online conditions and

records historical data of assets ranging from field devices to plant equipment. The

seamless integration of the Pepperl+Fuchs Advanced Diagnostics Module (ADM) and

Diagnostics Manager software into PRM R3.02 enables users to access a consolidated

supervisory window within the PRM R3.02 environment. Now customers can view

summary information on individual segments that provides details on each connected

http://www.prosoft-technology.com



field device, enabling efficient root-cause analysis in real-time and keeping plants oper-

ating smoothly.

In addition to supporting the use of powerful tools such as oscilloscopes and data his-

torians, ADM’s unique commissioning wizard can reduce up to 80 percent the amount

of time required for the critical plant start-up phase. ADM’s online monitoring capabil-

ities provide actionable information through PRM’s user interface, indicating changes

in the fieldbus physical layer before they become critical. Via PRM R3.02, all infor-

mation can be displayed on the operator stations of Yokogawa's Centum VP production

control system.

The integration of the FieldConnex ADM interface has widened the scope of PRM's

asset management capabilities, helping operators make decisions by providing easy

access to actionable information on the health of their Foundation fieldbus segments,

therefore ensuring the maximum availability of the physical layer.

ZigBee and EOL Make ElectricOutlets Smart

Energy Optimizers Limited (EOL) has devel-

oped a ZigBee-based plug-in electricity meter

that can help companies and households shave

hundreds to thousands of dollars off their elec-

tricity bills. The UK company’s device, called the

plogg, allows home and building-owners to mon-

itor how much electricity is being used by indi-

vidual appliances and electronic devices so that

energy efficiency can be improved.

The plogg is a combined smart meter plug and

data logger, based

on Ember’s

ZigBee wireless

technology run-

ning on a

Telegesis module.

It can be attached

to any electrical

appliance or

device that uses a standard UK 13 amp or

European 16 amp plug. A plogg for the North

American market is currently under evaluation.

The plogg stores the measured electricity data

and wirelessly communicates this information to

a PC, mobile phone or building management sys-

tem anywhere in the world through an Internet-

linked Ethernet gateway. For instance, a restau-

rant chain could use ploggs to monitor energy use

by refrigeration and air conditioning units, with

all the information collected at a central point via

the Internet. Upon discovering that some air con-

ditioners were left on after business hours, the

plogg would allow them to switch off air condi-

tioning units by remote activation, or alert a man-

ager that a unit needs servicing. The plogg meters

can support a range of other wireless-based ener-

gy saving devices as well, such as temperature

and light level sensors.

Using Ember’s EM250 ZigBee “system-on-

chip” transceiver and EmberZNet PRO wireless

mesh networking software running on a Telegesis

module, a network of ploggs can self organize to

provide robust coverage of the home or building.

The plogg can act as an end device, a router or

ZigBee coordinator. It is available as a stand-

alone end-user device, or part of an energy report-

ing network, or as an embeddable device for

OEM products.

In addition to measuring power consumption, a

real-time clock function allows time-of-use

metering information for multi-rate applications.

Data logging can be set from one minute to one

month. The meter samples voltage and current

signals 50 times per AC cycle, at a sampling rate

of 2,520 Hz.

“Telegesis embedded devices provided us with

a straightforward, cost effective and importantly,

a quick route to market,” said Shaun Merrick,

general manager, EOL. “With the release from Ember of EmberZNet PRO 3.1, we now

have the means to deliver micro building management systems, incorporating compat-

ible energy controls such as light, presence and temperature sensors.”

The EM250 is an 802.15.4/ZigBee compliant semiconductor system that integrates a

programmable microprocessor, RF radio, network protocol stack and memory into a

tiny, single-chip solution (7 mm on a side). It offers EOL dramatic reductions in com-

ponent size, cost and power consumption, and increased range due to its very high sen-

sitivity. The EM250 runs EmberZNet PRO 3.1, Ember’s enhanced ZigBee PRO com-

pliant networking stack.

Hear Ember Speak at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!

Session Title: Leveraging the ZigBee Wireless Standard for AMI Networkswww.RemoteExpo.com

www.moxa.com/usa

Application FeatureSCADA


Rich Chaplin, Senior Project Manager CSI

In less than nine days, live, and with no downtime, the City of Phoenix Water

Department recently installed a new control system at its five-million-gallon-a-day

Cave Creek water reclamation plant. The following story tells how the City of Phoenix

Water Department was able to accomplish this feat, as well as drastically reduce devel-

opment time for its new five-site automation system. It also tells how the city is sav-

ing millions of dollars and thousands of hours by using

UCOS, a state-of-the-art distributed control system, at its

water/wastewater facilities.

Phoenix is one of the fastest growing cities in

America, and that has put enormous pressure on the

city’s water/wastewater requirements. With continued,

increasing growth, the City of Phoenix Water Services

Department needed to dramatically upgrade the automa-

tion efficiencies at all of its water treatment, waste treat-

ment, and reclamation facilities.

City Management staff and the City Auditor’s

Department management chose to install a UCOS sys-

tem developed by Control Systems International (CSI)

headquartered in Lenexa, Kan. This decision followed a

two-year, department-wide study that involved the

preparation of new, state-of-the-art process control stan-

dards and an evaluation process that has been thorough-

ly reviewed by Phoenix Water Services.

In the final evaluation, the patented UCOS system was chosen over Rockwell

Automation and Westinghouse Process Control as the best technology to meet the

future control system needs of the City of Phoenix Water Services Department.

“It is noteworthy that in addition to CSI being the lowest priced and most respon-

sive proposer, they also were the overwhelming choice of two separate evaluation

committees,” stated the Water Services Department’s funding request to the Phoenix

City Council.

UCOS is replacing existing systems that are “obsolete or systems of lesser tech-

nology” at four sites: the 23rd Avenue wastewater treatment plant, the 91st Avenue

wastewater treatment plant, the Union Hills water treatment plant, and the Cave

Creek reclamation plant. UCOS will also be installed at

the North Gateway reclamation plant, which is cur-

rently under construction.

CSI started by creating a detailed design document,

including functional specifications, implementation

standards for control strategies, human-machine inter-

face (HMI) graphics, and tag definitions. CSI then used

patented features in UCOS to embed those specifica-

tions into a water/wastewater-specific library of object-

oriented device templates. This device template design

process ensures consistent implementation of the speci-

fications throughout all the projects and any future

water projects.

UCOS greatly reduces system development time

because the UCOS device library of pre-configured,

pre-tested templates allows easy replication of devices

with just the click of a mouse. This enables me to

design control strategies in a visual environment with

logic and tag definitions graphically displayed. The functionality of the control

scheme can then be applied to any similar facility. In essence, once one water treat-

ment facility is designed with UCOS, the same pre-tested and pre-configured device

templates and control strategy can be applied to subsequent facilities. This has saved

the Phoenix Water Services Department hundreds of hours in development and

implementation time.

UCOS operates on Windows 2000 and is an open system that configures to most off-

the-shelf hardware. In fact, UCOS means User Configurable Open System. This also

saved the City of Phoenix Water Department time and money because they didn’t have

to replace any of the existing hardware and I/O subsystems at four plants.

The Cave Creek reclamation plant was CSI’s first cut-over. They started there by

creating a “maintenance of plant operations” document which detailed the functional-

ity of each of the plant’s four controllers. With that information, CSI could then deter-

mine the best sequence in which to replace the old controllers with UCOS field con-

trol units (FCUs).

At Cave Creek CSI replaced an obsolete and unsupported GE/Parsons-XLS DCS

with UCOS but did not replace any

of the OPTO-22 I/O. This saved

thousands of dollars because none

of the I/O had to be rewired, test-

ed, or debugged.

No fieldwork was required at

this site, and the cut-over was done

live, so there was no downtime for

the system conversion. This was

important in that the Enhanced

Surface Water Treatment regula-

tions require the plants to remain

“100 percent operational,” and that

plant continued to reclaim four to

six million gallons of water each day during cut-over.

Since the GE/Parsons system was originally installed with redundant controllers,

CSI simply unplugged one side of the I/O chain and plugged it into our UCOS FCU.

This was done sequentially with each I/O chain until all four UCOS FCUs were in

place and fully operational.

In all, 2,500 real-world I/O points and 1,000 Modbus protocol points are controlled

by three operator workstations, employing 135 HMI screens. What took CSI eight and a

half days to cut over would have taken at least three months, if not longer, for a standard

PLC system, and cut-over would have been tedious and difficult, at best. It is also doubt-

ful that a live cut-over could even be engineered in three months with a PLC system.

By not having to rewire any existing hardware, CSI removed part of the human error

element from the equation, and since this UCOS project is pre-configured and pre-test-

ed we were able to check our system interface in a matter of minutes. While preparing

for the Cave Creek cut-over, CSI also developed and implemented new procedures and

standards that will make all future cut-overs run even more smoothly.

Next CSI will cut over the Union Hill Water Treatment site, which treats 160 mil-

lion gallons of water each day. Currently, Union Hill operates on a Siemens/TI system


City of Phoenix Chooses UCOS for Water/Wastewater Automation

Outside view of the reclamation plant

The City of Phoenix’s Water Department went with UCOS to automate its fivemillion gallon a day reclamation plant.

www.dcbnet.com


Application FeatureSCADA

that uses Wonderware HMI, Siemens/Texas Instruments PLCs, and I/O. Managing and

enforcing standardization of this type of configuration is difficult, so the Phoenix Water

Services Department is having CSI replace the entire system except for the field wiring

and fiber network.

Phoenix Water Services wants to use Modicon I/O, so CSI will use the existing

wiring but replace all of the Siemens I/O racks with new Modicon racks. Since UCOS

interfaces with a wide variety of off-the-shelf I/O, we have configured the UCOS FCU

to scan the new Modicon Quantum I/O. One UCOS FCU can control up to four differ-

ent I/O brands at the same time.

Union Hill’s control stations are not currently integrated into the other Phoenix

Water Services DCS. As part of the automation project CSI will integrate those stations

into the UCOS system and also integrate the entire Cave Creek site into the system.

Since Cave Creek and Union Hill share some resources and personnel, both sites will

be managed as one.

UCOS will monitor and control two different kinds of I/O at the two different sites.

Both facilities will have the same look and feel on

the HMI screens, and personnel from either plant

will be able to operate Cave Creek from Union

Hill or vice-versa.

When all five plants are upgraded with UCOS,

operators who have proper security will be able

to monitor and control any other plant on the sys-

tem from any plant on the system. When the proj-

ect is completed, UCOS will monitor and control

more than 22,500 real-world I/O points across all

five sites.

In addition to the five sites mentioned, the

Phoenix Water Services Department has included

in the contract a 100-percent option clause, which

will permit it to install UCOS at five additional

water production sites in the future. And because

UCOS can readily adapt to new technology with-

out downtime, UCOS will help keep the City of

Phoenix’s water and wastewater facilities operat-

ing smoothly, efficiently, and cost-effectively

long into the future.

Rich Chaplin is a senior project manager forControl Systems International, Inc., Lenexa,Kans. Chaplin has more than 18 years of experi-ence in designing and implementing control andsupervisory control and data acquisition(SCADA) systems from pipelines to petrochemi-cal distribution terminals.

CSI promoted Chaplin from project managerto senior project manager in 1995 to superviseCSI’s involvement with the new 155 billion dollar(HK) Hong Kong Airport. The airport usesUCOS for three distinct systems: (1) The General

Building Management System (GBMS), providing control and monitoring of equipmentwithin the terminal building; (2) UCOS airfield SCADA, providing control and moni-toring of the airfield and landside areas including the water/wastewater system andvehicle tunnels; and (3) the FUEL FACS+ fueling system, providing control and moni-toring of the tank farm and fuel distribution system. The combined systems involve morethan 30,000 real-world I/O points and 640 remote locations spread out over the 12 mil-lion square-meter airfield.

You can find out more about Chaplin’s work with Control Systems International atCSI’s UCOS website, www.ucos.com.

Submit Article Ideas and Case Studies to Remote Magazine!

Contact Nick Depperschmidt for more information:

[email protected] or 800-803-9488 x.111

Interior shots of the Cave Creek reclamation plant

www.tessco.com/go/power


FeatureSCADA


Megan Thibault CIMTechniques

Everyone knows the theory “quality over quantity.” This is especially true in the envi-

ronmental monitoring system industry, where the emphasis is not on simply having a

system but rather on the quality of the system that makes it one that you can depend on.

What good is an environmental monitoring system that cannot be relied on for contin-

uous, 24/7 supervision? Considering that the demand for such systems is based on the

security they provide, it would be pointless to invest time and money into a monitoring

system that is not completely reliable.

Now, how would one describe a monitoring system that continues to monitor and

record data, even during network outages? That answer is much more definite

because reliability is what the end-users of monitoring systems would rather invest

their efforts and capital budgeting in. The manufacturer of such systems has listened

to the need for a high level of security and reliability, and the environmental moni-

toring systems that are developed with this in mind are on the highest quality level

and worth every penny of investment.

Because choosing a monitoring system is such an important decision, it should not be

taken lightly. It should entail research and comparison shopping on the part of the end-

user. Since the industry for these systems provides as many options as it does applica-

tions, it often becomes difficult to sort through the variety of manufacturers and their

offerings. When an end-user knows what he or she expects from an environmental mon-

itoring system, it becomes much easier to narrow the choices. An example of the gen-

eral system architecture below shows how simple an environmental monitoring system

can be, allowing end-users to easily understand the process.

The motive for the investment in a monitoring system is the security it provides facili-

ties, and as the demand for monitoring systems increases, so does the end-user’s expec-

tation for the level of reliability and security it promises.When failure is simply not an

option, end users should look for the following capabilities in a monitoring system to

create a low-risk environment:

Redundant Sensors These sensor probes got their name by having two intelligent sensors built in each,

which are self-validated every time a measurement is taken. Instead of relying on a

single sensor, both sensors monitor the desired parameter. Therefore, redundant sen-

sors simultaneously collect data from a single source but have the values for two

exclusive measurements. The monitoring station instantly compares the two values

reported by the sensors, and if they have a difference greater than desired, warnings

are dispersed to the proper personnel. This provides the ultimate in reliability by

adding another sensor in each probe, and essentially, creating a monitoring system

within itself for a very reasonable cost. Many parameters, such as temperature, which

is the most common, can be measured by redundant sensors, expanding this useful

characteristic to the monitoring of humidity, differential pressure, CO2 levels and

much more. Relying on twice as many sensors without increasing the number of

probes is as important to ensuring reliability as it is unique to the industry.

Localized Alarm Processing Alert capabilities are one of the most important functions of a monitoring system

since alerting key personnel to evolving situations allows them to take the necessary

actions to avert a pending problem. Another way to obtain a highly reliable monitor-

ing system is to have warning and alarm capabilities housed within the monitoring

station that is directly connected to the sensors. Therefore, if a network failure, server

outage, or LAN drop occurs, the alert capabilities remain on guard, continue to func-

tion properly, and alert personnel of abnormalities via local visual and audible alarms.

A simple pushbutton should be provided to acknowledge and silence the alarm while

the problem is being addressed. This makes the monitoring station distinctive in this

aspect because, unlike typical systems, it does not completely rely on the server to

process and send alerts. Monitoring systems that do not have local alarm processing

lose the ability to alert personnel of problems in data during network outages that

cause the server to go offline. However, the monitoring station’s localized alarm pro-

cessing still continues even when the server or network is down, making the system

fault tolerant, fool-proof, and anything but typical.

When Failure is Not an OptionEnhancing the Reliability of Environmental Monitoring Systems

The following drawing is of a Redundant Temperature Sensor Probe

www.reesscientific.com

www.sensaphone.com


FeatureSCADA

Data BufferingWhen communication faults occur, there can be gaps in collected data. To prevent this,

monitoring stations should have the ability to buffer continuously and store all data

within until the connection is re-established. Having at least sixty hours of local data

storage during communication faults should suffice through most server or network

problems. One of the system’s major strengths is its I/O flexibility and the ability to

communicate over standard Ethernet networks to monitor remote locations. Networks

do occasionally go down, so monitoring stations are designed to continue handling the

imperative functions. Comparing this again to a typical system that loses alarm capa-

bilities, a typical system also does not prevent gaps in data. This is another example of

how the one-of-a-kind monitoring station is a hardware component that never, ever

stops monitoring, recording, and alerting, and, as a result, enhances the dependability

of the remote monitoring system as a whole.

Battery Back UpThough battery back-up is seemingly the sim-

plest characteristic of a secure monitoring

system, its importance is not overlooked.

Having a reliable battery back-up is the pred-

ecessor to all of the capabilities previously

mentioned. This provides a low cost of own-

ership since the use of lithium batteries can

power the monitoring station for multiple

years, depending on the number of outages.

This means that battery replacement is rarely

required and only after an unusually long

series of power failures. In conjunction, the

system should monitor its own battery power

supply by sending alerts when replacements

are needed. Again, this exemplifies a monitor-

ing system that can be relied on for its

automation, therefore relieving the burden

from the shoulders of facility managers.

The system described here has a solution that

fits a broad scope of needs for years to come.

All of these key functions ensure the reliabili-

ty needed by both facilities and the organiza-

tions that accredit them. Implementing a sys-

tem that not only meets, but exceeds standard

requirements allows end-users to have a mon-

itoring solution for the present and future.

All in all, these four important components

and characteristics, redundant sensors, local-

ized alarm processing, data-buffering and bat-

tery backup, work together to ensure that a

monitoring system runs continuously and

accurately, even during server problems, net-

work outages, and LAN drops. Purchasing an

environmental monitoring system without

these key features would be a loss for any

facility. To ensure a low-risk environment and

money well-spent, ask about these offerings

when deciding which system to implement for

the years to come. Make sure that your effort

is worthwhile by purchasing and implement-

ing a system that never leaves you stranded.

The purpose of a monitoring system is to consistently watch over sensitive materials,

where failure is not an option. Keep this in mind as you search for an environmental

monitoring system that you can understand and count on, and it will the best co-work-

er one could ever ask for.

CIMTechniques offers a wide range of data acquisition, monitoring, and supervisorycontrol solutions through its CIMScan family of hardware and software products.CIMScan systems are designed to perform flawlessly in critical applications where dataintegrity and continuous operation are of paramount importance. Even with this capa-bility, every system can be configured and maintained by ordinary people with averagetechnical skills. For more information please visit www.cimtechniques.com.

The following drawing is of a remote monitoring stationthat houses the capabilities discussed above.

www.tadiranbat.com

David J. Southern P.E., Product Development Manager FreeWave Technologies, Inc.

Changing Business ClimateAging 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 invest-

ment in high performance SCADA networks in the hopes of gaining greater operational

efficiencies and keeping costs in check.

Likewise, operation professionals look to their investments in SCADA networks and

remote automation also to gain new operational efficiencies. Originally planned for

integration to remote terminal units, and programmable logic controllers, SCADA sys-

tems now are used for AMR/AMI applications, and operators are looking for even

greater leverage of their existing systems.

A New DirectionA large municipal water company in Denver, Colo. is experimenting with a new,

low-cost remote monitoring solution specifically designed to monitor integrity man-

agement and corrosion prevention systems. Leveraging its existing SCADA infra-

structure, it hopes to extend remote monitoring to critical cathodic protection systems

as well.

Cathodic Protection (CP) systems for storage tanks, pipes and other buried infra-

structure are often located in remote locations making them difficult to maintain and

operate, let alone operate at peak performance. In some cases, unauthorized third par-

ties strip the critical rectifiers and wiring and sell them for scrap, leaving tanks and

miles of expensive metal unprotected. Theft results in an increased risk of damage or

even total failure of a system from corrosion. Compounding operational difficulties of

remote systems are site access issues stemming from land use disputes, Homeland

Security and urban sprawl.

The cost of implementing properly installed and well-maintained CP remote moni-

toring equipment pales in comparison to the annual costs required to repair even a sin-

gle leak. Reports estimate corrosion is responsible for costing US industries more $270

billion per year, almost 3.1 percent of the GDP. The desire to reign in those costs has

never been greater. Corrosion leading to leaks, lost revenue, groundwater contamina-

tion and other adverse scenarios affecting overall water quality, supply and/or public

safety now can be prevented like never before through technological advances in the

remote monitoring of critical tanks, pipes and casings.

Since the 1800s, when the first metal pipe was buried in North America, roughly 2.3

million miles of pipe and corresponding valves, tanks, vaults and structures were buried

to carry vital water supplies across the country. Much of this buried infrastructure now

celebrates its 50th year and some of this infrastructure is beginning to show its age by

a few notable, recent and tragic events.

As tank and pipeline grew

operations throughout North

America, so grew federal and

state regulations governing the

industry. Recent legislation

passed by the US Congress fur-

ther develops the legal implica-

tions of pipeline integrity man-

agement. At the heart of this

growing legislative effort is the

protection of public safety, the

environment, irreplaceable

national energy reserves and the

US economy.

Recent tragic events at the local, state, national and international levels place increas-

ing focus on the protection and integrity of all US pipeline operations. Evidence of this

increased national public awareness is demonstrated by the recent passage of the

Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of December 2002, and the Pipeline Inspection,

Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of 2006. Both Acts serve not only to illustrate

growing awareness, but also to educate the industry on pipeline operation best practices.

The Pipeline Safety Improvement Act of December 2002 mandates significant

changes and new requirements in the way the pipeline industry ensures the safety and

integrity of its pipeline facilities, including:

• Each pipeline operator must prepare and implement an Integrity Management

Program (IMP)

• Participate in planned-excavation one-call notification programs

• Increase the penalties for violations of safety standards

• Authorize state participation in interstate pipeline oversight

• Offer a multi-agency program of research, development, demonstration and

standardization to enhance the integrity of pipelines

• Develop an inter-agency task force to expedite environmental reviews when

necessary to expedite pipeline repairs

Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of December of 2006

requires certification procedures of annual and semi-annual pipeline integrity reports by

a senior executive officer of each pipeline company to certify that the officer has read

the report and, to the best of the officer’s knowledge, that it is true and accurate.

Site access issues stemming from land use disputes, Homeland Security and urban

sprawl, compound operational difficulties for remote systems. Recent tragic interna-

tional events led many landowners, municipalities and government agencies to restrict

access to sensitive areas making them onerous to enter for maintenance purposes. Many

airports, office towers and mass transit sites are now “off ls” for routine CP mainte-

nance checks. Restrictive site access procedures leave miles of buried infrastructure

unmonitored and sometimes unprotected.

Rising energy prices, steel prices and labor costs add to operating budget shortfalls.

The cost of repairing or replacing buried metal assets steadily rose over 300 percent

through the last 10 years and is projected to continue. One analyst speculates that

pipeline integrity issues alone could drive energy prices higher by 27 percent.

New Development in FHSSNew spread spectrum wireless data communication technology, first developed in

the 1930s, known as Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS), is based on the con-

cept that most radio frequencies are underutilized. FHSS allows multiple users to simul-

taneously operate across a spectrum of radio frequencies. Provided all radios within the

data communication network operate at the same frequency and then all hop to new fre-

quencies at the same time and in the same hopping pattern; then effective, safe, trouble

free data communications exist.

An analogy of FHSS technology is illustrated by imagining a group of people wish-

ing to carry on a conversation using Citizen Band (CB) radios. As long as all parties are

on the same channel, they can communicate, and if they wish to keep others out of their

conversation, they can carry on a private conversation by all agreeing to move from CB

channel to CB channel on a random, yet, agreed upon, pattern of CB channel hopping.

As long as all parties hop from channel to channel on the same pattern, at the same time,

they can carry on an effective conversation. If they take roll call upon arrival at the new

channel, they can further improve communication security. In some remote cases where

a third party does hit the current CB channel at the right time, they only get part of the

message, which means little to the third party.

FHSS Cathodic Protection Remote Monitoring TechnologyKey advantages of this new technology as applied to remote monitoring include no

monthly recurring fees or costs, no initial or monthly licensing fees, no lengthy legal

contracts, minimized network interferences, network security and it operates behind


FeatureSCADA


Operators Extend SCADA Investment to Vital Cathodic Protection

www.campbellsci.com/m2m


FeatureSCADA

company firewall. Additional benefits include

ownership of data, open protocol communica-

tions, system flexibility, infinite repeatability,

maximum implementation into cabinetry and

minimized field wiring

The new FHSS wireless CP remote monitor

units (CP RMUs) automatically monitor and

report key corrosion protection activities includ-

ing pipe-to-soil potential, rectifier output volt-

age, rectifier output amperage, rectifier input

power status, critical bonds, interference points

and interruption control. Modern CP RMUs

monitor ambient temperature and, if connected

to a solar power generation system, also will

monitor the back up battery supply voltage.

The new FHSS wireless field located CP

RMUs remotely monitor rectifier and pipe-to-soil

voltages, currents and potentials and record them.

Field data then is wirelessly collected from the

field devices by a computer located in a central

office or through a SCADA system for CP opera-

tor evaluation and monitoring.

Cathodic protection systems are highly sus-

ceptible to transient lightning surge. In addition

to being directly connected to the field piping

structures, CP rectifiers are also attached to over-

head power lines making them more likely to

receive damage from near strike lightning. To

protect sensitive wireless electronics, manufac-

turers use fully isolated relay, sampling capacitor

technology for maximum protection.

SCADAMany companies already own and operate a

SCADA network and can easily integrate these

new remote monitoring devices through existing

RTU’s, PLC’s or radio networks.

For companies that don’t have SCADA, they

can deploy, low cost data logging software readi-

ly available for less than the cost of a desktop

computer. Below, is an example of this new CP

data logging software.

Central data collection systems automatically

inform CP Professionals of immediate system

operation requirements leading to optimization in

keeping critical CP equipment online and operat-

ing within guidelines. As a result, remote sites no

longer are difficult to monitor.

Take a Test Drive Before You BuyA great way to learn more about new CP

remote monitoring technology is to test drive it

before you buy. Manufacturers offer no obliga-

tion, demonstration systems prior to making key

purchasing decisions. A test drive is easy to

implement by first selecting a half dozen test

points and a central office location and by pro-

viding the manufacturer or vendor with the site

coordinates. For the purpose of the test drive, CP

data either can be collected using the data logger

software or by coordinating with your CP RMU

provider to design a plan to integrate the equip-

ment into the existing SCADA architecture.

Normal test drive intervals depend largely on the size and type of system deploy-

ment. However, 30/60/90 day test drives are not uncommon.

David Southern is a professional, licensed engineer with 25 years experience in cor-rosion prevention and industrial automation. Currently, Southern manages world-widedevelopment of wireless, license-free, cathodic protection remote monitoring systemsfor FreeWave Technologies. For more information please visit www.freewave.com/CP7or call 866-676-4046.

Hear David Southern and FreeWave Technologies Speak at the Remote 2008

Conference and Expo. While You’re at it, Visit Their Booth!

Session Title: Pipeline Integrity AutomationLearn More At: www.RemoteExpo.com

www.greentechnewsmag.com

Wago’s RJ-45 Connector OffersTool-Free Ethernet Connectivity

The new eight pole 750-

975 Ethernet connector from

Wago Corp. is a pluggable

RJ-45 connector that substan-

tially decreases the time need-

ed for Ethernet wiring. Unlike

traditional Ethernet connec-

tors, the 750-975 features

insulation displacement con-

tact that provides tool-free, in-the-field conductor wiring.

Users simply insert a pre-stripped conductor and lower

the locking mechanism.

“The 750-975’s unique design makes it well suited for

applications that are in close proximity to machines, such

as those in suspended ceilings or distribution boxes

because there is no need for expensive crimp tools or

time-consuming preparation for the conductor ends,”

said Mark DeCramer, product manager, Wago-I/O-

System. “The RJ-45 connector can reduce Ethernet

wiring time by as much as 80 percent, which can con-

tribute to lower overall operational costs.”

The pluggable RJ-45 connector offers IP 20 protection

for conductors ranging in size from AWG# 26-23 while

color-coded IDC terminations provide instant conductor

recognition. The connector accommodates both shielded

(UTP) and unshielded (STP) conductors and the trans-

mission rates meet Category 5e requirements (according

to ISO/IEC 11801 and EN 50173-1) for high signal

integrity. The 750-975’s contacts are vibration-proof,

pull-out resistant and gas-tight while offering the addi-

tional convenience of being re-wireable.

SensorLogic's XpressIQ ServiceSuite Speeds Time-to-Market forM2M Applications

SensorLogic seeks to revolutionize the M2M market

with the launch of its XpressIQ Service Suite.

SensorLogic's new software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering

is designed to decrease the time-to-market for M2M appli-

cations. With XpressIQ, M2M applications that might nor-

mally take six months to a year to develop can be com-

pleted and ready for deployment in less than 90 days.

"The Xpress IQ Service Suite provides a better, faster

way for developers to create M2M applications,” said

Greg Jones, vice president of marketing and business

development, SensorLogic. “It's like building a Web page

using common design tools from everyday Web site edi-

tors. You can add and remove content items that display

device data, choose from professional layouts and brand

using color and design themes. It's that easy.”

SensorLogic is the first company to offer fully-inte-

grated, SaaS-enabled location, monitoring and control

applications that combine network communications,

application tools for customization and hosted services.

Prior to XpressIQ, M2M developers could spent count-

less hours on research, development, contract negotiation

and vendor management.

By standardizing and simplifying the backend

requirements, SensorLogic has enabled users to focus

on utilizing feature-rich, drag-and-drop develop-

ment tools to customize applications and use

branding elements to create a truly unique look

and feel. Wireless communications networks are

already integrated into the system, further reduc-

ing development effort and speeding up the

process to get devices connected. Having all the

benefits of a SaaS platform, there is no software to

install, no infrastructure to manage and simple

subscription pricing makes it easy for developers

to get started quickly.

Remcom Launches EnhancedVersion of Wireless InSite

Remcom has

released a new

version of

Wireless InSite,

its electromagnet-

ic wave propaga-

tion and RF plan-

ning software.

Wireless InSite

release 2.4 offers many enhancements, including a

Communication System Analysis Module,

improved analysis of wideband signal propagation,

modeling of atmospheric ducting effects and plane

wave sources for modeling airborne and satellite

based transmitters. Another new feature is the


Products & ServicesNETWORKING


Laird Technologies, Inc. has released a new generation of intelligent wireless mod-

ules from its EZURiO business unit. These modules allow M2M designers to quickly

add 802.11 connectivity to virtually any product at a low cost.

Despite the millions of available Wi-Fi access points, it is

difficult to embed wireless connectivity into machines.

Laptops are typically the only devices utilizing wireless

capability, until now. EZURiO’s intelligent wireless mod-

ules allow designers to connect devices not previously con-

nected in three steps.

For existing products, EZURiO’s cable replacement mode

provides an automatic, ad-hoc, configurable link between

products with no need for any hardware or firmware changes

beyond connection to an RS-232 port. Products with an on-

board processor can be modified to enable wireless connec-

tivity by using the high-level control interface of EZURiO’s

802.11 modules. All the designer needs to understand are

basic concepts such as search and attach to design a fully con-

nected product.

For new product designs, the internal processing power of EZURiO’s modules can

replace the need for any other processor. Coupled with UWScript, a fully featured and

wireless-aware scripting language, complete products can be designed around

EZURiO’s modules. These modules allow designers to bypass the steep wireless

learning curve and evolve from concept to production in applications such as remote

metering, ePOS, fleet management, energy conservation and more.

EZURiO’s pre-approved, dual processor 802.11 modules

bring wireless connectivity into the scope of any product, how-

ever meager its processing capabilities. Little bigger than a

postage stamp, the modules include a complete 802.11 device

server, a UART interface for data and control, 12 GPIO lines,

and two 10-bit ADCs. A tightly integrated web server can

access these signals for remote display or accept external con-

trol commands. One of the processors also runs an embedded

interpreter with EZURiO’s UWScript language, providing full

wireless connection control, as well as the capability to auto-

run user application scripts.

These feature-rich wireless LAN modules are 25 by 35 mm

in size, include industrial strength WLAN drivers and TCP/IP

stack, full UART interface, secure WEP and WPA2 implemen-

tation, as well as Bluetooth co-existence and co-location support.

Its low-power operation is well suited for battery powered applications and are avail-

able with either an integrated or external antenna. A low-cost development kit is

available for fast prototyping.

EZURiO, Ltd. Introduces New Intelligent Dual Processor 802.11 Modules

www.satelnorthamerica.com

www.lem.com

recently released Real Time Module for obtaining nearly

instantaneous physics-based path loss predictions for

communication links in urban environments.

"Most of the enhancements in Wireless InSite Release

2.4 are aimed at providing fast and accurate EM propa-

gation solutions to engineers engaged in the analysis and

design of wireless communication systems," said Joseph

Schuster, project supervisor, Remcom. "Improvements to

the interface and the way that information is organized,

as well as the availability of several time-saving mod-

ules, enable users to achieve faster results."

Wireless InSite allows RF communications engineers

to accurately analyze the impact of the physical environ-

ment on the performance of wireless communication sys-

tems. The software provides a broad range of site-

specific predictions of propagation and communi-

cation channel characteristics in complex urban,

indoor, rural and mixed path environments. In

addition to modeling the blockage and scattering

of the signal produced by the physical environ-

ment, the solutions also account for any changes

in the received signal due to using directional

transmitting and receiving antennas.

A key advantage of Wireless InSite is its use-

fulness for a wide variety of purposes. These

range from communication system planning to

performing more fundamental electromagnetic

wave propagation analyses. The software's flexi-

bility is the result of combining physics-based

numerical methods with a user interface that is

well-stocked with features.

The Release 2.4 user interface module runs on

the Windows XP and Vista operating systems.

The propagation analysis modules run on both

Windows and Linux operating systems and can

take advantage of multiple processors to reduce

the computation time.

T1/E1 Over IP Gateway Features Low Latency and isIndustrial Hardened

Featuring low latency and an industrial hard-

ened option, the new model TC3845 T1/E1-over-

IP-Gateway from TC Communications brings

added flexibility to IP network connectivity.

Compact and simple to configure, the TC3845

achieves absolute minimal latency (end-to-end

processing delay) by using high-performance

buffering and forwarding technology. The unit

transmits four channels of T1/E1, or any combina-

tions, over Layer 2/3 networks in point-to-point or

multi-point applications. Key features include traf-

fic monitoring and statistics, network time server

(NTS), remote firmware upgrade and temperature

monitoring. Typical applications include extending

voice, video and data across IP networks.

Each T1/E1 channel is independent and trans-

parent to protocols and signaling that run over

T1/E1. All applicable standards and line codes

are supported. For proper functionality, each T1

and E1 channel utilizes 6 Mbps and 8 Mbps of

bandwidth, respectively.

Setup, diagnostics and management are

accessed via Web, SNMP, serial console and

Telnet. Diagnostics include LED indicators and

local and remote loopback to assist with trou-

bleshooting and maintenance. The TC3845S

offers Rate Limiting on bandwidth utilization and

supports QoS for packet prioritization. Power

redundancy is standard. An extreme temperature version

is also available with an operating temperature range of -

40°C to 80°C.

Trango Releases Carrier EthernetMicrowave Backhaul Solution

Trango Broadband Wireless has introduced an addition to

its line of point-to-point licensed microwave native Gigabit

Ethernet wireless backhaul products, the TrangoLINK Apex.

TrangoLINK Apex delivers up to 800 Megabits per second

capacity and can be configured with two units to double the

capacity up to 1.6 Gigabits per second. A distinguishing char-

acteristic of the TrangoLINK Apex is its integration into a sin-

gle all-outdoor unit (AOU).

The TrangoLINK Apex features two data ports including

an optical/fiber interface and a Gigabit Ethernet interface. It is

also the industry’s only AOU to feature Hitless Adaptive

Modulation, a real-time RSSI LED display and hot standby

1+1 link protection.

With low latency, TrangoLINK Apex is well suited

to deliver traffic for time-sensitive high-bandwidth

services. It supports 99.999 percent service availabili-

ty and is designed for carrier/WiMAX/cellular back-

haul networks, Wireless Internet Service Providers

(WISP), Enterprise/Campus wireless connectivity,

broadcast, and Municipal/Government wireless appli-

cations, 3G/4G, as well as other mobile and fixed wire-

less applications.



http://www.mobilesystemsintegrators.com/

www.remoteexpo.com

New Connect One Solutions Internet-Enable M2MConnectivity For Legacy Devices

Connect One has released two new external device servers for secure machine-to-

machine (M2M) IP connectivity. The Secure iLAN and Secure iWiFi enable any device

with an RS-232/RS-485 port to immediately communicate over the Internet in a fully

secure manner using LAN or Wireless LAN, respectively.

The Secure iLAN and Secure iWiFi allow

devices previously requiring on-site technician

visits to be remotely monitored and configured

over IP networks in a completely secure manner

from a home, office or on the road. Secure iLAN

and Secure iWiFi include an integrated web

browser that enables existing devices to be

accessed using a web browser. In addition, exist-

ing devices can communicate via e-mail, file

transfers and other Internet protocols. Monitoring

equipment can therefore use the Secure iLAN to e-

mail a control center or technician if a certain

threshold is exceeded.

Both the Secure iLAN and Secure iWiFi are

based on ConnectOne’s CO2128 Internet con-

troller chip. Features include an integrated web-

server, high speed serial interface, hardware based

SSL-standard encryption, firewall functionality

and remote configuration, management and

firmware upgrades. The system also features a full

suite of internet protocols and applications,

including TCP/UDP, SMTP/POP3, MIME, HTTP,

WAP, FTP and TELNET.

“Connectivity has become a critical component

for many companies to achieve efficient, cost-effective services,” said Ariel Shulman,

Connect One’s vice president of sales. “Legacy devices challenge that bottom-line

efficiency, yet the cost of replacing them is also prohibitive. With Secure iLAN and

iWiFi, this problem is solved. Industrial machines, controllers and other systems using

serial communications can instantly be on-line, configured, managed and monitored

over the Internet.”

The Secure iLAN0 can connect to any 10/100 LAN, while the Secure iWiFi con-

nects to any existing 802.11b/g wireless LAN.

Integral Ethernet Communications for Liquid Analytical Measurements

AquaSensors, LLC has released a high performance Ethernet communications

adapter as an integral option for any online DataStick liquid analytical measurement

system. This product makes it possible to measure, calibrate, configure and diagnose

any DataStick system through an Ethernet

connection without the need for an externally

mounted analyzer.

The adapter is less than an inch in diameter

and plugs into the back of any DataStick as an

integral part of the sensor assembly. It can be

ordered with a cable of any length and plugs

into any Power over Ethernet (PoE) enabled

switch or power injector. It can be accessed

with a static IP address with any web browser,

and it automatically detects and uses

Ethernet/IP or Modbus TCP protocols when used with industrial PLC's.

The IP address for each device can be customized for the requirements of the net-

work. The AquaSensors Ethernet adapter features an embedded webpage that provides

all measurement, configuration, calibration and diagnostic information automatically,

regardless of the sensor type. AquaSensors also provides software tools to identify and

configure any Ethernet enabled DataStick on a network.

The DataStick measurement system features pre-calibrated plug-in sensor heads that

provide 24-bit data directly to a PLC or computer system. No intermediate analyzer

boxes are necessary. Measurement parameters include pH, ORP, conductivity, resistiv-

ity, free chlorine, dissolved oxygen, dissolved ozone, drinking water and high-range

turbidity and suspended solids.

Sierra Wireless USB Modem Fits Style and FeaturesInto Less Space

Sierra Wireless has introduced the latest, and the smallest, addition to its USB

modem product line. Named the Compass 597 USB modem, this unit combines high-

speed mobile broadband access to EV-DO Revision A networks with

a microSD card slot for convenient storage, all in a cleanly designed

USB stick.

Though the Compass 597 USB modem is small, and also feature-

rich with TRU-Install software installation to simplify setup and a

microSD memory card slot for expanded functionality. The USB

modem is also the only product in its class to include a connector for an

external antenna, allowing users in remote areas or fringe network cov-

erage to extend and strengthen their connection to the network.

The Compass 597 USB modem can reach data speeds of up to 3.1

Mbps on the downlink and 1.8 Mbps on the uplink with EV-DO

Revision A Networks, while also being compatible with earlier net-

work technologies. Meanwhile, a built in GPS antenna design and

Sierra’s Tru-Locate technology support mobile operator location based

services for accurate and fast time-to-signal fixes. The USB modem also features Tru-

Install software technology that makes installation for first time users quick via the

modem, with no CD required.

Hear Sierra Wireless Speak at the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!

Session Title: Reducing Costs and Increasing Efficiency Through Analog to Digital Migration

www.RemoteExpo.com

FCI Develops Customized Solutions for E1/T1 andVDSL Applications

FCI has developed several customized I-O connector solutions for E1/T1 and xDSL

applications, including a cable connector and a board connector solution. These solu-

tions are designed for use in the telecom industry.

The E1/T1 transmission protocol is used to trans-

mit voice and data between devices and runs at a

speed of 2 Mbit/s. ADSL and VDSL (-2) solutions run

at higher speeds, up to 100 Mbit/s and are capable of

supporting new high bandwidth applications.

“Although in both cases the data transmission takes

place over a single twisted pair of copper cable, most

of FCI's cable connector solutions are customized to

accommodate a customers specific needs,'' said

Remco Innemee, global telecom market manager, FCI.

“Requests vary based on the connector system, cable, cable management and cabinet

requirements including meeting over-voltage specifications like ITU-T K20.”

FCI's range consist of solutions from eight up to 72 pairs per connector and are

designed to connect to cost-effective shielded cable options.

Based on the Metral IDC (insulation displacement contact) technology, FCI is capa-

ble of using standard building blocks, to market these customized solutions at limited

development cost and in a relatively short development time addressing the customer's

need for short time-to-market.




ConnectOne’s iWiFi

ConnectOne’s iLAN

www.carlsonwireless.com

Phihong Develops SNMP-Capable 8-Port MidspanFor SOHO Applications

Phihong USA has developed a low-cost, 8-port midspan that is Simple Network

Management Protocol (SNMP) capable. Designated the POE125U, the midspan

enables remote monitoring without the

need for on-site personnel while lower-

ing the cost of implementing PoE for sin-

gle points of backup in small office

(SOHO) environments as well as wire-

less access points and IP cameras for

security applications.

"PoE makes physical support easier

and more affordable," said Keith

Hopwood, vice president of marketing, Phihong USA. "With Phihong's PoE solutions

designed specifically for SOHO applications, phones, access points and security cam-

eras can be easily moved and added since they are working off existing data cables,

saving a company time, hassle and money. The addition of SNMP capability allows for

remote camera monitoring and reset without additional personnel."

Because it is fully compliant with the IEEE802.3af standard in detection, dis-

connect and voltage control, the Gigabit-compatible 8-port POE125U midspan pro-

vides a cost-effective method for powering VoIP phone systems and multi-camera

security systems. This midspan provides up to 15.4 W of power per port, requires

no power management and one UPS keeps phones and cameras working even when

the power is cut.

Phihong midspans are designed for Gigabit systems to enable high power for

10/100/1000 Base-T networks. The POE125U midspan provides over-voltage, over-

current, and short-circuit protection to prevent permanent damage after a shortage.

Sixnet Extends Cellular Modem Line with theBlueTree 6000 Series

Sixnet LLC and BlueTree Wireless Data, Inc.

have integrated their respective technology to bring

a new generation of rugged cellular data modems

targeting the Telemetry, SCADA, business continu-

ity and mobile data markets. The BlueTree 6000

series modems have been designed to meet the needs

of the specific cellular data applications in which

they serve. Each modem has application specific

functionality enabling Sixnet customers the most

appropriate cellular modem for their specific appli-

cation requirements.

The 6000 series modems will support both

CDMA EVDO and GSM HSPA protocols. Standard

features include rugged metal casing, Class 1

Division 2 certification, AC adapter options,

USB, Serial and Ethernet Ports, multiple mount-

ing options including DIN Rail, built-in routing

functionality and IP Pass-Thru.

The 6000 series of modems come in three vari-

ations, the BT-6600, BT-6601, BT-6601EB and

the BT-6621. The BT-6600 is designed for busi-

ness continuity and features landline backup con-

nectivity, landline replacement, real time video

monitoring and remote office capability.

The BT-6601 modem is suited for telemetry

and SCADA applications including oil & gas,

electric utilities and waste / water management

industries. The BT-6601 offers high speed inter-

net connectivity over the EVDO Rev. A cellular

network to M2M applications for real-time

remote access, monitoring and control of

remote devices. By combining standard device

interfaces with BlueTree's powerful internet

connection management, the BT-6601 adds

intelligence to any machine-to-machine solu-

tion, thus providing reliable communication to

business assets.

The BT-6601EB modem features integrated

Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability that

enables installation where power outlets are

impractical or not readily available.

The BT-6621 industrial router features an

integrated five Ethernet port layout and is

designed specifically for applications requiring multiple Ethernet port connectivity.

Key applications include business continuity, remote offices and Internet access for

multiple user or devices in the field. Large geographical cellular coverage makes the

BT-6621 a compelling landline replacement solution. BlueTree's embedded connec-

tion manager augments this benefit by guaranteeing an always on connection with

advanced fail-proof mechanisms.

Digi Launches Secure WiFi to Cellular Access Point Digi International has introduced the Digi

Wi-Point 3G, a PC card based 3G cellular

router with integrated Wi-Fi access point. It

acts as a cellular-to-Wi-Fi hotspot and pro-

vides secure, high-speed Internet access to

remote workgroups and devices. It works

with more cellular PC data cards than any

other cellular router, enabling Internet con-

nectivity virtually anywhere a cellular signal

is available.

SpaceDev, a developer of space technology

systems, products and services, uses the Digi

Wi-Point 3G to allow its engineers to send data

back to company headquarters from remote rocket testing sites.

"We test rockets at least two miles from civilization, so we usually have no

wired connectivity, said Jon Martin, director of IT, SpaceDev. “The Digi Wi-Point

3G allowed us to set up an on an 'on the fly' hotspot so our engineers could send

data back to headquarters. It was simply plug-and-play, and we were up and

going in 30 seconds. We tried both Sprint and Verizon cards and found that both

worked instantly."

The Digi Wi-Point 3G supports more than 40 cellular PC data cards around the

world, including PCMCIA and PCI Express cards (with appropriate adapter). It is a

three-in-one router with integrated 802.11b/g Wi-Fi access point, 10/100 Ethernet and

global cellular network access via virtually any carrier supplied PC data card. It is

small, easy to deploy and enables drop-in networking to devices that are hard to reach

or do not have convenient access to wired connections.

"The Digi Wi-Point 3G allows remote sites and devices to wirelessly connect to the

Internet or securely integrate into a corporate network," said Larry Kraft, senior vice

president of global sales and marketing, Digi International. "It is suited for applications

such as temporary networks, remote Wi-Fi hotspots, mobile/transportation deploy-

ments, disaster recovery, security and more."

The Digi Wi-Point 3G features enterprise class security, including IPsec VPN,

WPA2 encryption and a full featured firewall. It also includes GPS support (with qual-

ified PC cards), failover to dial-up modem and auto-detection of the cellular data card

for seamless field upgradeability.



www.precisionquincy.com




Siemens Wireless ModulesExpands its Scalable M2M ProductOfferings with Four New Modules

Siemens Wireless

Modules has released

four scalable M2M

modules to fit a wide

range of applications

and business needs. This

entirely new product

platform, comprised of

the MC75i, TC65i and

TC63i modules, offers

optimized performance,

a more compact size and

enriched features.

Additionally, the MC55i

module offers improved functionally and an ultra thin

form factor while remaining compatible with is prede-

cessors, the MC55 and 56.

In addition to shared technology – quad-band GSM,

TCP/IP functionality and M2M intefaces such as serial,

or I²C bus – the MC75i, TC65i and TC63i are equal in

size, mounting arrangement and command set, ensuring

full compatibility. Key enhancements include operation

under -40°C, ARM 9 processors and customized jam-

ming attack detections. The MC55i packs quad-band

GSM/GPRS baseband, TCP/IP connectivity and a RIL

driver for Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 based devices

into a very compact package and features an extra stable

mount, full shielding and MC55/56 compatibility.

Each module’s performance varies in terms of data

transmission speed and can be integrated for varying

M2M needs including cost and power sensitive applica-

tions such as metering, security, remote maintenance and

control, POS, PCMCIA cards, laptops, etc.

The MC75i is designed for EDGE (enhanced data

rates for GSM evolution), the fastest transmission stan-

dard in GSM. This module features TCP/IP stack, serial

USB ports and RIL driver for Microsoft Windows

Mobile based devices.

The TC65i is a JAVA virtual machine that performs at

a high level and is a open platform module. This device

runs on embedded hardware like the ARM9 processor

and memory, which is tuned to aligned to it. The unit

leverages this platform and processor combination along-

side GPRS technology, a TCP/IP stack and an array of

industrial interfaces such as SPI, I2C bus, AD/DA con-

verter and GPIOs to speed up time to market and cut

development costs.

The TC63i features GPRS Class-12 functionality, an

integrated TCP/IP stack and comes without the onboard

software developer platform. It’s well suited for applica-

tions where a microcontroller is already available and

only a high-performance wireless communications con-

nection is needed. It embodies the grow as you go bene-

fits of this triple module package. It can be used to satis-

fy basic GPRS needs, and then as demand for EDGE

technology grows, switched to the MC75i with reinvest-

ing to redevelop the application.

The MC55i comes with a SIM application toolkit and

packs quad band GSM/GPRS, TCP/IP connectivity

based on GPRS Class 10 data transmission and RIL driv-

er for Mircosoft Windows Mobile 6 based computing

into a thin form factor. Its extra mount, full shielding and

small size make it suited for PDAs, smartphones and

mobile computing applications including laptops, PCM-

CIA card, security, metering, etc.

The MC75i, TC65i and TC63i measure 33.9 by 30 by

3.3 mm, and are backwards compatible with the MC75,

TC65 and TC63. The MC55i measures 35 by 32.5 by

2.95 mm, and is backwards compatible with the MC55

and MC56.

AES-IntelliNet Introduces New FullData Internet/Radio AlarmCommunications Modules

AES-IntelliNet has introduced a new Full Data

Module named the AES 7090 VoIP-TAP. This product

was created to address problems the security industry has

experienced over the past several years, which include

the rise of VoIP, the demise of plain old telephone serv-

ices (POTS) and the technology standards obsolescence

with cellular communications. The VoIP-TAP is designed

to enroll seamlessly to the AES-IntelliNet mesh alarm

communications networks.

The AES 7090 VoIP-TAP product represents the latest

version of the AES 7067 IntelliTap Full Data Module.

The AES 7090

VoIP-TAP pro-

vides for dual-

communicat ion

via the Internet

and AES-

IntelliNet mesh

radio. The VOIP-

TAP sends full

data to be

received by the

AES Central

Receivers and incorporates all current functions and

capabilities of the AES 7067 IntelliTap. In addition, the

new VoIP-TAP data module allows the AES-IntelliNet's

MultiNet system to communicate directly with the digi-

tal dialer communicator within the alarm panel and takes

advantage of existing broadband connection within the

alarm communications subscribers.

The added features and functions are in response to

problems the security industry has faced and is facing

now including, alarm panel incompatibility with Voice-

Over IP networks, the unavailability of telephone lines in

the protected premise and avoiding the disruptions and

costs encountered when cellular technology standards

change as recently experienced with the AMPS issue.

The AES-IntelliNet's alarm system is a self healing,

long range wireless mesh radio communication network

and works in conjunction with the Internet to provide

customers the ability to monitor alarms in multiple

regions from one location, without recurring monthly

communications costs or infrastructure fees typically

associated with remote monitoring. The AES-IntelliNet

mesh network also offers a more reliable, faster means of

communicating alarm signals to central monitoring sta-

tions without relying on telephone lines or cellular serv-

ices that are vulnerable to line cuts, weather conditions,

radio jamming and recurring monthly costs.

Firetide Introduces Wireless Public Safety Tri-Band Mesh andAccess Infrastructure

Firetide Inc. has added tri-band (2.4, 4.9, 5 GHz) capa-

bility on its HotPoint access points and HotClient client

premises equipment (CPE) to augment the tri-

band functionality of its HotPort mesh nodes. The

combination of user-controlled spectra, indoor

and outdoor configurations, backhaul perform-

ance of up to 70 Mbps and end-to-end manage-

ment provides Firetide customers with added

flexibility for public safety, commercial security,

municipal and industrial deployments.

“The option of using licensed or unlicensed

bands in mesh and access networks allows public

safety agencies to choose the band that best fits a

particular area to maximize coverage or reduce

interference,” said Detective Chris Jensen, Drug

Enforcement Bureau, Phoenix Police

Department. “The ability to shut down public Wi-

Fi access or other non-essential communications

in case of a major incident or other emergency,

and redirect all bandwidth to mission critical

communications, gives us peace of mind if we are

asked to share our wireless infrastructure.”

Wireless video surveillance over the licensed

4.9 GHz public safety band is growing exponen-

tially in the US, with significant deployments in

Chicago, Dallas, Boston, Phoenix and West Palm

Beach, Fla., among others. Most public safety

agencies in the US already own a 4.9 GHz license

and plan to use it for access. Wi-Fi access allows

patrolling officers to tap into the video surveil-

lance network to monitor live video feeds as they

respond to incidents.



Wireless access deployments in a public safety setting

enable high-bandwidth communications, such as 20

Mbps wireless offload of recorded in-car video over a

secure connection, alleviating the need to manually plug

and unplug digital video recorders during patrol shift

changes. In contrast, a cellular data adapter delivers a

maximum of 1 Mbps throughput.

The benefits of the new tri-band functionality extend

to industrial and commercial security customers as well,

as they now have the flexibility to select between 2.4 and

5 GHz access for optimal network performance.

Firetide’s end-to-end management and control allow net-

work managers to provide varied levels of service by

type of traffic, video, VoIP or data, and by type of client

device, video camera, laptop or access control

system. Firetide also delivers enterprise-class

access functionality, bringing network security,

management and scalability to outdoor public

safety settings. These features include client

authentication and accounting, multiple virtual

access points, load balancing, VLAN tagging and

rogue device detection.

Intuicom Launches NavNetSeries of RF Datalinks forMilitary/Aerospace Market

Intuicom, Inc. Government and Defense

Systems Group has released its NavNet series of

long-range RF datalinks for military and aero-

space users. Designed for tactical operations, the

NavNet series product line provides robust data

transport with 100 percent accuracy over secure

Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS)

VHF/UHF channels.

Building upon Intuicom’s defense products,

the NavNet series represents the company’s next

generation wireless tactical data networks for

both COTM (communications on the move) as

well as fixed position applications. Offering five

models, the NavNet series is available in a

diversity of military frequencies, meeting

requirements for a broad set of applications

including blue force tracking, command and

control, remote sensor monitoring, and video

reconnaissance in support of airborne, terrestri-

al and naval operations.

The NavNet series employs Intuicom’s RF

technology with leap-ahead data transport that

results in a product family providing 115 kbps

throughput, embedded GPS and up to 60 mile

LOS range. Supporting full network addressabil-

ity of both smart and dumb data devices, the

NavNet series offers models equipped with

Ethernet, serial and GPIO interfaces.

“The NavNet makes Intuicom’s latest genera-

tion data transport and GPS tracking technologies

affordable and available to tactical units,” said

Tom Foley, president and CEO, Intuicom, Inc.

“By building upon our prior military program

experience and hardware platform, the NavNet

series is not only uniquely positioned to satisfy the

needs of dynamic ops and TTE (Test, Training, &

Exercises) but also provides an upgrade path for

customers with legacy products.”

AirWalk Introduces the EdgePoint Femtocell

AirWalk Communications has introduced EdgePoint, a

femtocell that extends cellular service to areas of poor cel-

lular reception. The devices serve as low-power access

points, operating in licensed spectrum, to connect mobile

devices to the mobile carrier's network via the Internet.

By deploying the 7 by 7 by 2 inch femtocells at cus-

tomer sites, cellular carriers can reduce the customer

churn typically associated with poor reception. This

enables carriers to reduce their operating costs by using

existing home IP backhaul technologies for the

EdgePoint traffic, eliminating the pressure to build out

their networks in fringe areas.

EdgePoint is simple to use just plug directly into a DSL

or cable broadband connection. The femtocell is pro-

grammed for existing handsets computers. Users can

guarantee good reception, including smooth handoff of

calls originated on EdgePoint to the macro network, and

can work with their carriers to secure certain service

plans. The EdgePoint eliminates existing landline phones

and supports calls on one number, on one cellular service.

The EdgePoint architecture combines a base station

transceiver, base station controller, and network inter-

faces into a single unit and can be configured for either

1xEV-DO Rev. A or 1xRTT. With a range of about 250

feet, EdgePoint is well suited for single family home and

smaller office settings.

www.batterypoweronline.com


FeatureNETWORKING


Günther Schlegel, Sr. RF Applications Engineer,EPCOS SAW

The number of RF based AMI (Advanced Metering

Infrastructure) systems being deployed is steadily

increasing. The RF front-ends of such AMI systems must

have very good sensitivity while proving to be immune

to any interference coming from different RF-based

applications. These interferences must neither hinder the

data transmission nor make it impossible to receive the

measured data. The figure below shows a typical trans-

ceiver design used in an RF based AMI systems.

The transmitter section of the AMI transceiver con-

sists of a balun which is transforming the differential sig-

nal coming from the RF output of the IC to a single ended

signal. After passing through the SPDT switch and the

PA, the RF modulated signal is filtered by a SAW filter.

This SAW filter suppresses the harmonics as well as the

spurious emission generated by the internal PLL (phase

locked loop) of the Transceiver IC. The antenna then

transmits the data to the meter.

The receiving path is where the trigger signal for data

transmission is being received. This consists of a SAW

filter right after the antenna, a second SAW filter for

increasing selectivity and the balun which transforms the

unbalanced signal into a balanced one.

SAW Filters vs. LC FilteringVery often, chip manufactures promote their ICs with

the statement “no SAW filter necessary”. When compared

to the suggested discrete filter solutions SAW filters show

many advantages with regards to technical parameters.

Even wide band SAW filters provide better selectivity and

insertion attenuation together with low temperature coef-

ficients. In the figure below, a comparison of an LC filter

to a wide band SAW filter is shown at 915 MHz.

High selectivity is important especially to suppress

interferences coming from other RF transmissions, such

as cellular radio for example, which is very close to the

most common ISM band used for meter reading trans-

ceivers, 902 to 928 MHz. The performance of LC filters

is very sensitive to component tolerances and to changes

in temperature. Designing a LC filter with the shown

selectivity also increases insertion attenuation. In the

above example, the LC filter has an insertion attenua-

tion3 dB worse than that of the SAW. Looking at fig. 1

it can be seen, that this front-end uses two SAW filters to

provide a better selectivity. The performance of this

structure can be seen in figure 3.

The disadvantage of this circuit topology is the

increased insertion attenuation due to the two SAW fil-

ters in series. Since the filters are located right after the

antenna, they directly influence the sensitivity of the

receiving chain. Measurements for sensitivity are the

noise factor and the noise figure of the system. The noise

factor describes the signal to noise ratio at the input of a

two port element relative to the signal to noise ratio at the

output of the two port device.

Where Si is the signal at input, Ni the

noise at input, SO the signal at output

and NO the noise at output of the two

port device. The noise factor is a

linear figure and can be converted

to the more common logarithmic

noise figure by using formula (2).

As an example the noise level at the input of a two port

device shall be -90dBm, signal level at input -40 dBm. At

the output of the two port device – assuming a gain of 20

dB and a noise figure of 2 dB - the noise level shall be at

-68 dBm and the signal level at -20 dBm. The unit dBm

in this case describes the RF- or noise power in dB rela-

tive to 1 mW (extended form: dBmW). For proving the

correctness of above formulas, the power levels are con-

verted to linear values.

Using the first formula, the noise factor can be calcu-

lated to F = 1.5849. Inserting F into the second formula,

the noise figure can be calculated to NF = 2 dB.

It can be seen, that for simple noise calculations with

only one two-port device there is no need to convert the

power levels to linear values. A simple addition of the

“dB” values does the same job.

For two or more two port devices cascaded like it is

done in figure 1, a more complex formula has to be used

and the power levels given in dB have to be converted to

linear values first. Formula (3) shows how to calculate

the noise factor when more than one two-port devices are

cascaded. The final noise figure NF1-n can be calculated

using formula (2) again.

Whereby Fn, Gn is the noise factor and gain of

the respective two port device.

Now it is fairly clear, that theoretically the most

important noise figure determining device in a

receiving chain is the first two port device right

after the antenna. The noise figure of that device

sets the range, where the total noise figure must be

located. An ideal circuit topology will have a low

noise figure and high selectivity. The following 4

examples examine how to develop such a topology.

For simplicity reasons the calculations are

done without Tx/Rx switches and baluns. The

insertion attenuation (IA) of the SAW filters; the

gain (G), noise figure (NF) and the noise factors

(F) of the LNA, and the receiver IC are all

assumed to be equal for all examples.

The gain of a SAW filter is supposed to be

equal to its insertion attenuation. The noise figure

of a SAW filter is supposed to be the negative

value of its IA.

Improving Sensitivity of RF Based AMI Front-End Systems

Figure 1: AMI transceiver with power amplifier and two SAW filters

Figure 2: Selectivity of wide band SAW filter vs. 3rd order ChebyshevLC filter

Figure 3: Selectivity of single SAW compared to dual SAW topology

Formula 2: The unit of thenoise figure is decibel (dB).

www.infowebcom.com

FeatureNETWORKING


Since the gain of the

SAW is negative the

noise figure of the

receiver IC has a big

impact on the noise

added to the incoming

signal. This means the

noise floor increases by

more than 10 dB, or, the

signal to noise ratio is

decreased by 10.9 dB.

This in turn reduces sen-

sitivity of the receiver.

The advantage of this

structure is the blocking

of interfering signals out of band of the SAW which

in turn protects the internal LNA of the Rx IC from

being put into saturation. To reduce the noise figure

drastically a stage with a high gain and a low noise

figure has to be put in front of the SAW. The next

example shows a structure with a much lower NF.

By choosing this kind of front end structure the

NF can be reduced by more than 8 dB compared

to the former SAW – Rx IC structure. The LNA

with its high gain and very low noise figure is

now the first stage after the antenna and reduces

the impact of the SAW and the Receiver IC to the

NF. A further advantage of the SAW in this exam-

ple is to increase selectivity. The SAW is con-

nected differentially to the input of the Rx IC.

Since most of the Rx chips provide a balanced

(differential) input, the SAW filter can also be

designed with balanced output, providing the

matching function, and eliminating the need for a

balun. Common mode rejection ratio and selec-

tivity can be increased by using this topology.

The challenge with this topology is that the

receiver is more sensitive to strong interfering

signals; like cellular radio for example.

Often AMI sensors are equipped with an addi-

tional cellular radio functionality to transmit con-

sumer data to, for example, an interrogating base

station. During cellular transmission the strong

signal can be applied to the input of the LNA right

after the antenna by electromagnetic coupling or

other parasitic coupling on the pcb. This strong

signal may put the LNA into saturation and make

the receiver blind for the consumer data sent by a

different sensor in a mesh network. At the end this

data will not be received. To avoid this, a front-

end structure can be used as shown in example #3.

Example 3 shows a topology providing a compro-

mise between lower noise figure and improved

immunity to interfering signals. Here a noise figure of

4.88 dB can be achieved, which is still much lower

than the first approach in example #1. The SAW fil-

ter right after the antenna protects the LNA and

reduces the probability of the LNA being put into sat-

uration. Depending on how close the interfering sig-

nal is located to the passband of the SAW filter, the

possibility of the usage of a second SAW in front of

the LNA shall be taken into consideration. This improves

selectivity and reduces the interfering signal as can be seen in

figure 3. NF will be then be reduced to ~6dB, which is much

better than 10.9dB. Since discrete LNAs provide a single

ended output, a balanced matching structure between the

LNA and Rx IC is necessary.

Example #4 shows a

final topology which

optimizes the use of

SAW filters for maxi-

mum selectivity and

sensitivity in a receiv-

er front-end stage.

This extended version of a receiver front-end provides

a noise figure of 5.37 dB. Compared to example #1 it

means that this Rx front-end including the internal LNA

of the Rx IC, adds 5.53 dB less noise power to the noise

floor present at the antenna input. Considering that 3dB

less means half the power and 6dB less a fourth of the

power, it gives a good impression about the advantages

of this kind of front-end topology.

An improved sensitivity and selectivity together with

the advantage of improved common mode rejection

through balanced operation of the second SAW filter char-

acterizes this configuration. Therefore it is presented here

as the most suitable topology for RF based AMI systems.

For more information visit www.epcos.com

Example 1: SAW filter – Rx IC

Example 3: SAW – LNA – Rx IC:Example 4: SAW – LNA – SAW – Rx IC


Products & ServicesONSITE POWER


20 kW Generator Features Built-InTransfer Switch

Power outages due to severe weather or rolling black-

outs are becoming more prevalent. For wireless providers

and users the outages

pose numerous risks,

the most important

being the inability to

communicate. A solu-

tion for ensuring wire-

less sites continue

operating when severe

weather or rolling

blackouts strike is to

install a standby power

generator that automatically restores power when utility

power is unavailable.

To help these problems Generac Power Systems, Inc.

is now offering a 20-kilowatt generator with a unit-

mounted transfer switch, named the model 4920 that

saves time, space and money for wireless companies.

Because the transfer switch is mounted inside and pre-

wired to the generator, money is saved because installa-

tion costs are typically lower and no additional space (on

a pedestal or building) is required to mount an external

transfer switch.

“For wireless carriers that are deploying back-up

power in quantity, the 4920 model is an amazingly

affordable alternative to gaseous powered fuel cells,”

said Clement Feng, executive vice president and chief

marketing officer, Generac “At around $7,000 per gener-

ator (switch included) a carrier can back-up 10 sites for

about the same cost as only one fuel cell of the same

power rating.”

The generator runs on clean burning fuel, either natu-

ral gas or liquid propane (LP) vapor, so there are none of

the fuel storage, spillage, spoilage or odor concerns that

are common with gasoline or diesel models. Because of

their favorable emissions profile, gaseous-fueled genera-

tors are becoming increasingly popular with wireless

companies as a “green” solution for backup power needs.

A tough, textured powder coat finish that provides

durability and all weather protection is used on these

units. They also come equipped with an all-aluminum

enclosure to better withstand the elements in highly cor-

rosive environments.

EnerSys Releases DataSafe 16 VFront-Terminal UPS Batteries

EnerSys has introduced the first 16 V front termi-

nal battery for UPS markets. The DataSafe 16 V bat-

tery provides more power in less space, easier access

and cost benefits.

"EnerSys is proud to introduce the first 16 V

front terminated

va lve- regula ted

lead acid (VRLA)

battery designed

specifically for

UPS applica-

tions," said Steve

Vechy, director of

UPS and Utility

Marketing, EnerSys. This is also a major step

forward for our entire industry in supporting

UPS applications."

The DataSafe 16 V UPS battery is available in

two sizes: 500 W per cell (WPC) and 925 WPC.

The DataSafe 16 V batteries require only 44

square feet to support a typical 750 kVA UPS sys-

tem with a full 15 minutes of run time. The VRLA

batteries used for UPS applications are designed

to back-up the primary power system, typically

supplying power for 15 minutes until the backup

generator is fully operational. Until now, these

batteries were limited to 12 V batteries.

DataSafe UPS batteries require 20 percent less

space and scale easily to large capacity systems,

minimizing the number of strings needed for larger

UPS systems thereby reducing costs. The DataSafe

16 V battery fits within many existing cabinet

designs, eliminating additional expenses for costly

slide-out trays or to upgrade from 12 V batteries.

By using a popcorn-ball design, tiny kernels clumped into much larger porous spheres,

researchers at the University of Washington are able to manipulate light and more than

double the efficiency of converting solar energy to electricity.

"We think this can lead to a significant breakthrough in

dye-sensitized solar cells," said lead author Guozhong

Cao, a UW professor of materials science and engineering.

Dye-sensitized solar cells, first popularized in a scien-

tific article in 1991, are more flexible, easier to manufac-

ture and cheaper than existing solar technologies.

Researchers have tried various rough surfaces and

achieved higher and higher efficiencies. Current lab pro-

totypes can convert just over one tenth of the incoming

sun's energy into electricity. This is about half as efficient

as the commercial, silicon-based cells used in rooftop pan-

els and calculators.

The UW researchers did not attempt to maximize the

overall efficiency of a dye-sensitized solar cell to match

or beat these previous records. Instead, they focused on

developing new approaches and compared the performance of a homogeneous

rough surface with a clumping design. One of the main quandaries in making an

efficient solar cell is the size of the grains. Smaller grains have bigger surface area

per volume, and thus absorb more rays. But bigger clumps, closer to the wave-

length of visible light, cause light to ricochet within the thin light-absorbing sur-

face so it has a higher chance of being absorbed.

Other researchers have tried mixing larger grains in with the small particles to scat-

ter the light, but have little success in boosting efficiency.

The UW group instead made only very tiny grains, about

15 nanometers across. Then they clumped these into larg-

er agglomerations, about 300 nanometers across. The larg-

er balls scatter incoming rays and force light to travel a

longer distance within the solar cell. The balls' complex

internal structure, meanwhile, creates a surface area of

about 1,000 square feet for each gram of material. This

internal surface is coated with a dye that captures the light.

The researchers expected some improvement in the

performance but what they saw exceeded their hopes.

The overall efficiency was 2.4 percent using only small

particles, which is the highest efficiency achieved for this

material. With the popcorn-ball design, results presented

today at the conference show an efficiency of 6.2 percent,

more than double the previous performance.

"We first wanted to prove the concept in an easier material. Now we are working

on transferring this concept to titanium oxide," said Cao. “Titanium oxide based dye-

sensitized solar cells are now at 11 percent maximum efficiency. Cao hopes his strat-

egy could push dye-sensitized solar cells' efficiency significantly over that threshold.”

Popcorn-Ball Design Doubles Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

www.remotemagazine.com/r-sub.php


Products & ServicesONSITE POWER

Solarcraft, Inc. Develops NewMobile Solar Generator

Solarcraft, Inc. has developed a new state of the art

mobile power generator. This

portable system can travel to

any location and provides tem-

porary power where grid power

isn’t available.

“This system was custom

developed for one of our cus-

tomers and it can be utilized by

many markets, said Kevin

Conlin, vice president, Solarcraft,

Inc. “This is a perfect solution

where solar alone is insufficient.

Because the unit is portable and can travel to any

location it provides maximum reliability at an opti-

mum cost with very minimal maintenance. ”

The Mobil Solar Generator will provide from

100 to 1000 watts of continuous power at 12, 24,

48 volts DC or volts 120 AC. Suitable applica-

tions for this system include communications,

radio, repeaters, instrumentation, remote moni-

toring, security and access control and is definite-

ly the answer to any emergency disaster relieve or

any other application where power is unavailable.

Tripp Lite Releases Modular 3-Phase UPS SystemsConfigurable up to 160 kVA

Tripp Lite has introduced a

new line of SmartOnline

Modular 3-Phase UPS Systems

for 120/208 V applications.

Three models are available

(SU40K, SU60K and SU80K)

with individual capacities rang-

ing from 40 kVA to 80 kVA,

system capacities up to 160

KVA and operational efficien-

cies up to 97 percent.

"Tripp Lite's new Modular

3-Phase UPS Systems offer

reliable installation and econom-

ical operation and maintenance,” said Paul

Wampach, Tripp Lite's 3-Phase UPS System

product manager. "They maximize availability

for mission-critical systems, lower installation

and operational costs, while facilitating efficient

and timely service performance. The modular

architecture and 1+1 parallel capability will fit

well in countless organizations, even those pur-

suing tier 4 system availability.”

Tripp Lite's new UPS Systems feature self-

contained, hot-swappable 20 kVA power mod-

ules. SU40K, SU60K and SU80K models feature

multiple modules to provide N+1 redundancy for

critical loads. In the unlikely event that a module

fails, the remaining modules compensate to sup-

port the load. The new models also feature 1+1

parallel capability, enabling two units connected

in parallel to either provide 2N system redundan-

cy or increased power capacity.

In a parallel redundant configuration, each

UPS supports 50 percent of the load. If one UPS

is subsequently removed or taken off line for

maintenance, the second UPS will support the full

load automatically. Parallel connection can also

be employed to double overall capacity.

Therefore, two 80 kVA units can be connected in

parallel to support a load of 160 kVA.

The SmartOnline Modular 3-Phase UPS

Systems also help facility managers to control

installation and operating costs. Producing less than 3 per-

cent input Total Harmonic Distortion (THDi), they enable

a 1:1 sizing of the UPS system to a generator set. Low

THDi helps generators to run cooler, lengthening genera-

tor service life, and eliminating the need to oversize gen-

erators, cables and breakers. Advanced IGBT inverter

technology assures high-efficiency UPS operation, reduc-

ing cooling costs and lengthening UPS service life.

Battery Rack Addresses Need forBackup Power in Networks

Telect, Inc. has released a battery rack to tackle com-

munications service providers' requirements for backup

power solutions in central office, wireless and remote site

applications. The rack, engineered to withstand earth-

quakes in Zone 4 Seismic areas, accommodates batteries

manufactured by all major manufacturers, offering users

the versatility to meet the requirements of several backup

power and other battery applications.

Each rack includes five shelves, which hold up to four

batteries each, for a total of 20 batteries in a single rack.

Each rack is tested and certified to Zone 4 Seismic rat-

ings, providing a solution for earthquake-prone areas. By

accommodating a variety of battery types, users can

incorporate different brands of batteries in a single rack

design, thereby streamlining purchasing and increasing

confidence in overall performance.


Lumenera Releases Two NewIntelligent Megapixel Cameras

Lumenera Corp. has released two new intelligent

camera models that respond to security threats in real-

time. The Li165 and Li175 provide unique, tangible

results by preventing intrusions, attacks and vandalism

while in progress.

The Li165 is specifically designed for critical surveil-

lance applications with low-light conditions and/or fast

motion where the ultimate in megapixel image quality is

required. Streaming full 1,376 by 1,032 megapixel reso-

lution at up to 15 frames per second, the Li165 transmits

high quality MJPEG or H.264 images across a standard

10/100BaseT network interface. The Li165 combines

added sensitivity and extremely low noise levels for per-

formance in poor lighting conditions. The high-end glob-

al shutter CCD is well suited for capturing images of rap-

idly moving vehicles.

The Li175 combines 1.3 megapixel image quality

with video analytics to help automate surveillance in

any environment. A CMOS sensor provides images at

up to 21 frames per second. This camera has powerful

peak white inversion and anti-blooming features for

dealing with intense glare from reflected sunlight or

headlamps on vehicles.

Features such as Power Over Ethernet (PoE), analog

loop-out, advanced dc-iris control and improved software

interface are standard. Cameras are future proofed with

on-going software developments and analytic enhance-

ments that are remotely upgradable via the IP Network.

Integration with NVRs/DVRs is simplified with

OVReady - a standardized, open-platform XML inter-

face. Optional true day/night variants are available with

a field-proven filter mechanism to provide outstanding

nigh time performance when paired with infrared light-

ing. Lumenera can also provide a selection of weather-

proof enclosures.

Through Lumenera’s partnership with ObjectVideo

(OV), OV OnBoard is fully embedded into a DSP within

the camera. Embedded analytics push intelligence to the

edge of the network for optimal system efficiency, espe-

cially for large network installations. Users have three

levels of ObjectVideo licenses to choose from, depend-

ing on the level of monitoring functionality required

Wurldtech Introduces AchillesHealth Check Program forOperators of Critical Infrastructure

Wurldtech Security Technologies has launched the

Achilles Industrial Cyber-Security Health Check pro-

gram. Achilles Health Check is designed to provide a

quick assessment of current cyber-security readiness

according to industry leading methodology and recom-

mended practices in addition to providing a blue-

print for future security implementations.

"Our mission is to provide operators with

industrial cyber-security solutions and advocate

security and safety to all industrial organiza-

tions,” said Tyler Williams, president and CEO,

Wurldtech Security Technologies, Inc.

“Operators are now empowered to make better

informed decisions based on their unique secu-

rity needs and requirements.”

The Achilles Health Check provides evalua-

tion of the cyber-security vulnerabilities and

exposure risk of SCADA and process control sys-

tems by testing against industry standards and

recommended practices. By leveraging the test-

ing technology of the Achilles evaluation plat-

form, the solution includes a core set of tests

designed to identify actual cyber risk profiles

unique to each system. The key component of the

Achilles Health Check is its ability to help estab-

lish priorities for a targeted security program

based on actual risk exposures, empowering


Products & ServicesSECURITY

Arteco has recently installed an intelligent video solution (IVS) for the Louisville

Water Treatment Plant, in Louisville, Ohio. Among the most significant problems

water facilities face in the prevention of water contamina-

tion is security. Due to the tough environmental elements

and because these facilities are located remotely where

intrusion is hard to detect, water treatment plants often

present a major challenge to basic video security.

The Louisville Water Treatment Plant is owned and

maintained by the city of Louisville, the utility provides

water resources to more than 3,300 households and busi-

nesses in the community. With a constant goal to provide

a safe and dependable supply of drinking water, The

Louisville Water Treatment Plant recently turned to

Zadar Technology, Inc. and Arteco to proactively combat

water contamination.

“Water facilities present a high security risk to contam-

ination due to outdoor open access, this risk can be mini-

mized by implementing appropriate protective measures,” said Ken Zadar president,

Zadar Technology, Inc. “Intelligent Video offers a proactive and cost-effective solu-

tion to water utilities, giving a higher security guarantee for their public service.”

To solve the treatment plants problems, Arteco mounted an outreach program that

educates executives in these facilities about the unique aspects of video analytics that

provide a practical, efficient resolution. The Arteco IVS

detect and alerts in real-time, helping to increase the effi-

ciency and response rate of personnel who are responsible

for a multi-camera site.

Utilities will typically set up virtual perimeters around the

fence of the water treatment plant. Should a dog wander into

this perimeter or trash be blown in it, the system holds

steady. But if a man approaches the gate of the tank the sys-

tem detects the size and orientation immediately and triggers

an event within the IVS. At the utility control center, an alert

sounds and a red box appears on a video monitor that draws

attention to the violated area. Security then uses this infor-

mation to take the appropriate countermeasure.

“Through our work with great partners like Zadar

Technology, Inc., many new customers are understanding

the true benefits of Intelligent Video,” said Steve Birkmeier, vice president, Arteco.

“The real-time alert capability adds a pro-active layer to security with built in video-

verification that is unique to any product in the industry.”

Intelligent Video Offers Louisville Water Treatment Plant Protection Against Security Risks

Products & ServicesSECURITY


operators with a more meaningful method to plan indus-

trial security strategies and programs.

As part of the Achilles Health Check, Wurldtech is

also rolling out a partner program and is actively work-

ing with industrial security service providers and con-

sultants to provide this essential service. Various partner-

ship levels and pricing models are available.

Hear Wurldtech Speak at the


Session Title:Technical Network SecurityAssessments:Understanding Your Vulnerabilities

www.RemoteExpo.com

Yokogawa Selects Tofino asIts First Approved IndustrialFirewall Solution

The Tofino Industrial Security Solution has

been selected by Yokogawa Electric Corp. as the

first industrial firewall,

giving Yokogawa’s

Centum CS 3000 pro-

duction control system

and Stardom network-

based control system

customers access to

this new security tech-

nology. Jointly devel-

oped and marketed by

MTL Instruments and Byres Security, Inc., the

Tofino Industrial Security Solution is designed

specifically for industrial control operations in

critical industries such as oil and gas, manufac-

turing, utilities and power generation.

Tofino’s are small, industrially-hardened secu-

rity appliances that are deployed throughout a

refinery or industrial plant and centrally managed

for a coordinated security approach. Each Tofino

security appliance is placed in front of one or

more mission-critical control devices, such as the

Stardom industrial controller as well as the sub-

system interfaces of CS 3000 which run the open

industrial protocols, and then tuned to meet the

security requirements of those systems.

The approval of the Tofino Industrial Security

Solution will give Yokogawa’s SCADA and

process control equipment customers the much

needed ability to deploy Defence-in-Depth secu-

rity in their industrial systems. The solution pro-

vides multi-layer security, and the approval came

after months of extensive testing and analysis of

the Tofino Industrial Security Solution by the

industrial automation and control giant.

“The Yokogawa testing process is extremely

rigorous,” said Byres security development

manager, Scott Howard. “I was very impressed

with the competence and level of focus dis-

played by the Yokogawa team – nothing went

unnoticed or untested.”

“If companies want to meet the new

ANSI/ISA-99 security standards it is critical they

divide up their plant operations into security

zones and then protect each zone in the most

appropriate manner, said Eric Byres, security

expert and CTO, Byres Security, Inc. “It is no

longer good security practice or cost effective just

to lump everything together behind one big fire-

wall and pray that you are secure.”

The Tofino Industrial Security Solution is

unique in the industry, designed by control engi-

neers for control engineers, so that they can focus

on keeping a system reliable yet secure, thus

meeting or exceeding all the available standards

and regulations.

Industrial Video & Control ExpandsRapid-Deploy Camera Line

Industrial Video &

Control Co. (IVC), has

released its RD line of rapid-

deploy camera systems.

“The cellular camera we

introduced last year has

been extremely successful

for certain temporary or

remote video surveillance

needs,” said Norman Fast,

president, IVC. “We are now

expanding our line of rapid-

deployment cameras to incorporate a variety of commu-

nication and mounting options. This will provide our cus-

tomers a broader range of capability options.”

The systems are engineered for easy transport and set

up. They include IVC’s Relay Server and View Station

enterprise-class video management software packages.

This software facilitates remote viewing and control of

live and stored video from the rapid-deployment cam-

eras, and easy integration with wired and legacy cam-

eras. As the video is IP-based, customers can easily

share video with other stakeholders. For instance, if a

university deploys such a system on campus to monitor

a unique event, campus police can easily share video

with local authorities.

http://www.antennasonline.com/ast08_index.php


FeatureSECURITY


Umberto Malescim, president and co-founderFluidmesh Networks, Inc.

Wireless mesh networks have undergone much aca-

demic research over the past twenty years. The Defense

Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) funded

research of mesh networks because of their inherent reli-

ability and flexibility, in the hope of applying them to

military applications. Mobile and nomadic communica-

tion in the battlefield or in hostile environments was the

original optimum application of mesh networks.

The absence of any single point of failure makes mesh

architecture the ideal network topology where many-to-

many communications are possible but one doesn’t want

to rely on layered and stellar architecture. Every node is

a peer node in a mesh network, and there is no higher

layer or controlling node that can be destroyed to bring

down the entire network. The unmatched reliability and

flexibility that a mesh-capable transmitter offers, com-

pared to traditional wireless devices, are making wireless

mesh the preferred network architecture for high-end

wireless video-surveillance, condition-monitoring and

wireless SCADA systems.

Self-Forming and Self-Healing Mesh NetworksNodes in a wire-

less mesh network

are powerful

devices that run

advanced mesh

routing algorithms

designed to evaluate

and select the opti-

mal path for every

transmitted packet

in real time. The

dynamic mesh rout-

ing algorithm allows

the routing of packets and video streams around obsta-

cles, sources of interference or low-quality links, increas-

ing reliability and flexibility at the same time.

Wireless mesh devices are completely auto-config-

urable, the routing protocol finds other mesh devices

nearby and the location of the base units attached to the

wired network. If a link goes down, the nodes in the net-

work will immediately notice the failure and change their

preferred path to avoid the failed link.

Routing of Packets in a Wireless Mesh NetworkRouting in a wireless environment is conceptually

similar to routing over the Internet, but is different in

terms of evaluating the quality of a particular path. While

Internet routing is based on minimal hop count, the qual-

ity of wireless links in a mesh network is crucially impor-

tant. Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of

Technology (MIT) recently discovered that minimum

hop count is not effective for wireless routing. Rather, a

metric involving link-quality measurement is needed to

create reliable wireless mesh networks. This discovery

broke most of the layered abstractions developed by the

“inventors” of the Internet in the 80’s and 90’s and estab-

lished new ways of thinking about wireless routing.

It’s easy to see the importance of link quality in a wire-

less environment. Wireless links tend to have high pack-

et-loss rate and the transmitter needs to resend the lost

packets multiple times, wasting valuable bandwidth.

Consequently, it’s often preferable in a mesh network to

take a longer yet

more reliable path

rather than the

unreliable direct

route to the end

point. Often the

shortest path

would require

multiple retrans-

missions per pack-

et, wasting band-

width and increas-

ing delays.

By continuously probing the different wireless links,

every mesh node builds and updates statistics regarding

every link available. These link-quality tables are then

used by the routing protocol to compare every possible

path and pick the optimal one at any given time.

Origin of Wireless Mesh Networks and Their Traditional Uses

Many defense-related applications of mesh networks

involved highly mobile and battery-powered units, cre-

ating challenging technical problems whose solutions

are still in their infancy. However, mesh networks for

data transmission, video-streaming or temporary com-

munications in case of natural disasters are a reality

today, with several different products focused on differ-

ent types of applications.

Challenges in Streaming Video Over Wireless Mesh Networks

Video-streaming and video-surveillance have been one

of the latest additions to the list of possible applications

for mesh technology. However, high-resolution video-

streaming over a mesh network presents several technical

challenges: bandwidth is always scarce when dealing with

high resolution video and a multi-hop transmission may

decrease usable bandwidth and increase delay. For exam-

ple, a video packet that goes through three hops absorbs

three times the bandwidth compared to a video packet that

is only one hop away from its destination.

Advanced mesh products solve these challenges by

operating multiple radios simultaneously. In this way, the

video stream can use many different channels to create

high-bandwidth and low-delay paths. Operating multiple

radios increases the bandwidth by spreading the trans-

missions on multiple non-overlapping channels while

decreasing the delay of the network. At every hop the

packets go through, the mesh transmitter can choose the

best frequency to reach the following node, therefore

optimizing not only the path but the frequency spectrum

usage, as well.

Routing in a multi-hop, multi-radio mesh net-

work requires, however, advanced routing algo-

rithms and powerful processors embedded in the

transmitter. The optimization work is computa-

tionally expensive and the processor needs to

continuously crunch and solve complex opti-

mization problems in real time.

Wireless Mesh Networks:Traditional Uses and Video-Surveillance Applications

Wireless mesh and video surveillance usedin an urban environment. In a wireless mesh network, the shortest path

may have a low success probability (30 per-cent success rate) than a longer path (90 per-cent/90 percent/80 percent = 65 percentsuccess rate).

In a single-radio mesh network, adding a hop decreases thetotal available bandwidth by half because every packetsneeds to be transmitted twice.

www.infowebcom.com/newsletters_form.php


FeatureSECURITY

Advantages of Using Wireless Mesh Networks forVideo-Surveillance Applications

Mesh architecture is the solution to several problems

faced by security system integrators when they work on

wireless video-surveillance systems. Mesh devices are

completely auto-configurable and capable of deciding

how to transmit packets based on the present conditions

of the channels rather than on pre-determined configura-

tion values.

Reliability and flexibility are intrinsic benefits of mesh

architecture. Unpredictable sources of interference do not

need to be anticipated as the network will identify the

position of the source of interference and start routing

packets around low-quality links. Airports and seaports

are typical locations where mesh architecture solves sev-

eral problems at once.

Airplanes taxiing on the ground are often unpre-

dictable and moveable sources of interference. During

the design and the installation of a mesh-based CCTV

system, it’s not necessary to identify every possible posi-

tion where an airplane can be interfering in the video

streaming quality. The mesh network itself will find alter-

native paths in case some of the links are not usable due

to interference. Similarly, using traditional wireless tech-

nology in commercial seaports is also very challenging

because loaded container ships are almost moving build-

ings, making the design of a traditional static wireless

network almost impossible. However, using a mesh-

based architecture, video-streams will change their path

in case a container ship docks in the middle of a wireless

link impeding transmission through that particular path.

The transmitter will always have an alternative to reach

the base station.

Using traditional point-to-point solutions large obsta-

cle like hills, buildings or forests require the installation

of high towers or poles to create line-of-sight between the

antennas. Video-streams don’t have to overcome these

obstacles when taking a mesh-based approach but can

simply be routed around them. Line-of-sight is not

required from the camera directly to the base station, it’s

only needed for the next node in the mesh network that

will then relay the stream to the following one and so on

until the packets reach the base station.

Automatic Solution for Exogenous InterferencesLarge industrial areas are often characterized by a high

density of RF devices, and the problems related to

exogenous interferences deriving from other

transmitters are rather frequent.

The types of interferences that may occur

are due mainly to:

• Other transmitters operating on frequencies

close to or coinciding with those used (e.g.,

Wi-Fi networks, Hiperlan data networks, and

analog radio links for various purposes

including video-security);

• Different devices whose operation creates

interferences in the bands affected by the tran-

smission (e.g., radars or microwave ovens).

Conversely, low-frequency (UHF, VHF) radio

equipment or cellular towers are not sources of

interference for most 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radio

equipment. Only extreme physical proximity of

the antennas could result in reduced transmis-

sion performance.

Interference is one of the most complex phe-

nomena that need to be tackled in the area of radio

transmission. It must be addressed simultaneous-

ly at different levels using the least busy channels,

while also introducing redundancy into the sys-

tem so that it can assist with automatic adjustment

in case of unexpected interferences.

During preliminary inspections and installation,

it‘s important to be able to evaluate any possible interfer-

ences caused by other wireless networks existing in the

area. (A Wi-Fi device in listening mode or a spectrum ana-

lyzer may be used to identify them.) It’s also always

advisable to ask the customer about the existence of other

radio devices in the area, their carrying frequency, their

bandwidth and power. Careful planning can solve a large

percentage of problems relative to interferences.

When operating on license-free bands, keep in mind

that the absence of a wireless network on the day of test-

ing doesn’t mean that one cannot be installed in the near

future. Consequently, it’s important to introduce redun-

dancy into the network and use dynamic equipment that’s

able to identify new interferences and respond to mini-

mize their effects. This approach usually requires the use

of smart radio equipment, often of the mesh type, set to

perform constant transmission channel analysis and to

select in real time the best pathway within the network

and/or channel most free of interference.

ConclusionMesh topology is undoubtedly a step forward in wire-

less networking applied to video-surveillance applica-

tions. Reliability and flexibility unmatched by any other

wireless solution are intrinsic in this innovative architec-

ture, where every node in the network is an “intelligent”

router capable of forwarding packets received from near-

by units and deciding in real time the optimal path based

on the channel and network conditions.

Mesh networks also enable the installation of wireless

CCTV and SCADA systems where other wireless solu-

tions fail, such as in the presence of moveable obstacles

or sources of interference. Mesh networks are also allow-

ing the design and installation of condition-monitoring

and security systems with the reliability of a wired net-

work but a higher flexibility than any point-to-point or

point-to-multipoint wireless system.

About the Author:President and co-founder of Fluidmesh Networks,

Umberto Malesci is one of theleading designers and develop-ers behind Videomesh technol-ogy and architecture. He hasextensive experience in aca-demic research in the field ofwireless networking, workingas a researcher at MIT CSAIL(Computer Science andArtificial IntelligenceLaboratory), at the Media Lab in Cambridge, MA and atIMSC in Los Angeles.

Mr. Malesci received a Bachelor of Science inElectrical Engineering and Computer Science as well asa Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering andComputer Science, both from the Massachusetts Instituteof Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, MA (USA).

Fluidmesh Networks is the global leader in wireless sys-tems for security and mission-critical applications basedon mesh networking technology. The company is focusedon the development of superior quality wireless productsfor a wide array of video surveillance applications.

Founded by a team of researchers and engineers fromthe Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) inCambridge, MA and the Politecnico of Milan in Italy,Fluidmesh Networks serves its customers worldwidefrom its headquarters in Boston and its European officein Milan, Italy. For more information please vistwww.fluidmesh.com or call 866-58-1522.

Hear Fluidmesh Speak at the


Session Title:Wireless Mesh for Industrial andSecurity Applicationswww.RemoteExpo.com

Smart radio equipment can help users avoid interference in thierwireless mesh surveillance application.

Umberto Malesci


Market InformationINDUSTRY NEWS


Kyocera Wireless and M2MCommunications Collaborate onLoad Control System

Kyocera Wireless Corp. and M2M Communications

have announced the successful deployment of a sophisti-

cated direct load-control program custom engineered for

Rocky Mountain Power’s demand-side management

project. M2M Communications integrated a NetSwitch

load-control solution and the dual-mode Kyocera 200

module along with its custom-designed Web-to-wireless

control system to enable a versatile and secure method to

remotely monitor and control energy usage at irrigation

pump sites. Over the next 18 months, 4,000 of these cus-

tom-designed load control units will be installed in

southeast Idaho, allowing Rocky Mountain Power to

shift enough energy from irrigation pumps to power

approximately 8,000 homes during the summer months.

“There is a renewed global focus on energy conserva-

tion and the environment. Utility demand-side manage-

ment projects powered by wireless M2M technology

benefit not only the companies implementing the tech-

nology but the environment as well,” said Dean

Fledderjohn, general manager of M2M, Kyocera

Wireless Corp. “This collaborative, custom-built solution

leverages the dual-mode capability and power of the

Kyocera 200 module for a remote monitoring and energy

asset control system that makes the most of existing util-

ity power supplies without requiring additional energy

generation or pollution.”

During the summer months, as much as one-third of

the total power consumption in rural areas is devoted to

irrigation pumps and systems. Direct load control pro-

grams give utility companies the ability to reschedule the

power consumption for various types of equipment at par-

ticipating customer sites during times of peak energy

demand. With the custom-designed load control units in

place, utility companies can monitor power usage remote-

ly as it is being consumed and determine in real-time if

the available power supply is being optimized. If not, util-

ity technicians can use the system’s two-way Web-to-

wireless control system to shift power to other areas.

The system’s controls also provide automated, time-

scheduled monitoring and load management, which

results in decreased technician time spent on monitoring.

As a result of the program, farmers receive credits for

unused power while Rocky Mountain Power increases

workforce efficiency and reduces overall costs. In addi-

tion, the system eliminates the need to purchase expen-

sive peak-load power from other utility companies and

can even reduce the need to build additional expensive

power plants.

CDII Selects IntelliMAX for Real-Time Data Management inOffshore Systems

Control Dynamics International (CDI) and Sensys

have reached an agreement to embed the IntelliMAX

real-time data management platform in offshore industri-

al automation systems. The initial application of the

IntelliMAX product by CDI will be the control system

for a hydraulic work over unit being designed and built

by CDI for a major offshore production facility in the

Gulf of Mexico.

"We selected IntelliMAX by SENSYS because of its

advanced technology over other human-machine inter-

faces," said Van Wilson, president, CDI. "IntelliMAX

has clearly been designed for high performance and

integrity, something our oil and gas clients require.

IntelliMAX comes bundled with a complete set of OPC-

based interfaces, which can be readily used without addi-

tional development. The scalability of the product was

also a factor in our decision as our clients require systems

that can be easily expanded as needed over time."

"While IntelliMAX is already in use in both upstream

and downstream applications, the advanced, turn-key

solutions from CDI provide IntelliMAX with new market

opportunities," said Sohail Qadir, president, Sensys. "Our

partnership with CDI offers our customers an option to

obtain system integration and consulting services to

ensure the success of their projects. We are quite pleased

to have CDI as a value-added reseller of IntelliMAX."

IdaTech Signs Supply AgreementWith Ballard Power Systems, Inc.

IdaTech plc has signed a three-year supply agree-

ment with Ballard Power Systems, Inc. The agreement

with Ballard is for the supply of fuel cell stack modules

for incorporation into the next generation of IdaTech's

integrated sub-kilowatt fuel cell fuel system, the iGen.

The Ballard Mark1020ASC fuel cell product was

selected as it meets all of IdaTech's technical require-

ments and is the best fit in terms of price, overall per-

formance and reliability.

IdaTech's iGen products provide auxiliary and backup

power solutions based on fuel cell technology. These

deliver a number of significant advantages over conven-

tional batteries and diesel generators, including high reli-

ability over a wide range of operating conditions, low

maintenance costs, long operating life, reduced size,

weight, installation footprint and environmental impact.

This outsource agreement has the additional benefit of

allowing IdaTech to focus more closely on the reforming,

controls and integration requirements of the next genera-

tion IdaTech's products.

"The incorporation of the Ballard fuel cell stack into

iGen will allow IdaTech to improve its profit margin on

the next generation of these products, said Hal Koyama,

CEO, IdaTech. “IdaTech's internal stack research, devel-

opment and production capability has allowed us to

select the best solution for this product. The incorpora-

tion of the Ballard stack has the added benefit of enabling

the Company to focus on the whole product including its

proprietary fuel reforming and purification techniques."

Lake Country Power CompletesDeployment of AutomatedMetering Infrastructure

Lake Country Power of Grand Rapids, Minn., has suc-

cessfully deployed a full two-way automated metering

infrastructure (AMI) to its entire service territory cover-

ing more than 10,000 square miles in northern

Minnesota. The Cannon AMI system by Cooper Power

Systems gives Lake Country the ability to read meters on

demand, improve cash flow, reduce customer com-

plaints, decrease issue resolution time, verify outages and

restoration real time and monitor substation equipment.

"We wanted a system that could be installed in all 39

of our substations, with the capability to handle more

than 60,000 meter reads and remotely monitor our sub-

station equipment," said Rick Lemonds, general manag-

er, Lake Country Power. "Our AMI system has already

made positive service impacts, by providing the

right employees with the right information when

requested. This provides our members with data

to support answers to their questions."

Lake Country Power has noticed time savings

in solving customer issues through the ability to

profile energy use and remotely read meters from

the office. In the past they would send a techni-

cian on site to check on most high bill issues.

Now Lake County Power handles many of these

directly from the office, greatly reducing time and

expense to resolve customer inquiries.

The AMI system successfully integrates with

Lake Country Power's existing billing and outage

management software allowing for the automatic

generation of monthly billing statements and ver-

ification of outage events and restoration. Lake

Country Power anticipates significant savings

using the system to verify load management com-

mands sent to its load control receivers.

Hear Copper Power Systems Speak at the


Session Title:Applying an Isolation Device toYour Rotating Equipment

November 5-6, 2008 • Atlanta, Ga.

www.RemoteExpo.com



Axeda and Digi InternationalPartner for Wireless RemoteProduct Service

Axeda Corp. and Digi International have partnered to

provide an end-to-end solution for connecting and

remotely servicing intelligent devices where wireline

infrastructure is unavailable or cost prohibitive. With this

partnership, Axeda and Digi combine Digi Drop-in

Networking components with the Axeda remote service

platform to enable manufacturers and service providers

to reduce service costs by actively managing mobile and

isolated assets.

“There is a universe of devices that cannot be easily

connected for cost-effective remote service,” said Dale

Calder, president and CEO, Axeda. “With this

partnership, Axeda and Digi have radically sim-

plified the process of connecting mobile and

isolated assets to the enterprise, delivering

Axeda ServiceLink remote service capabilities

to these systems.”

Together, Axeda and Digi will expand the base

of customers that can now take advantage of the

inherent benefits of secure remote service bene-

fits that include increased revenue through prod-

uct differentiation and higher value service con-

tracts, all delivered at lower cost.

Digi Drop-in Networking solutions include

ZigBee/802.15.4 wireless mesh gateways,

adapters, modules, extenders, and environmental

sensors, as well as RF-based serial and Ethernet

cable replacement products. These products can

be used to connect or network-enable electronic

devices and sensors where no wired networking

infrastructure exists, where access to an existing

network is prohibited or when laying cable is

impractical or cost prohibitive.

Honeywell and the City ofHillsboro Power Water StorageFacility with Solar Panels

The city of Hillsboro, Ore. has awarded

Honeywell a solar project that is expected to cut

energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Under the agreement, Honeywell will install

ground-mounted solar panels next to the Hillsboro

Evergreen Reservoir water storage facility and

sell the electricity the panels produce to the city

for use at the reservoir. The panels are expected to

generate more than 104,000 kw-hours of electric-

ity annually, almost 20 percent of the power need-

ed for the 15 million-gallon Evergreen Reservoir.

Energy Trust of Oregon, a nonprofit organiza-

tion that promotes the use of efficient energy

technologies and renewable resources, will help

fund part of the project. Honeywell also will

work with Renewable NRG, an Energy Trust

Trade Ally based in Portland, Ore., to install the

solar panels. SolarWorld Group will supply the

solar modules and installation hardware.

The project will deliver environmental bene-

fits as well, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by

an estimated 3.6 million pounds over the 20-year

agreement. According to figures from the US

Environmental Protection Agency, this is equiva-

lent to removing more than 295 cars from the

road for a year.

“The Hillsboro solar project is a great exam-

ple of a forward-thinking municipality demon-

strating that renewable energy can positively

impact not only its budget, but also the commu-

nity’s environment,” said Kacia Brockman, solar

program manager for Energy Trust of Oregon.

“Renewable energy projects like the Hillsboro

installation help create environmental and financial value

within a community,” said Kent Anson, vice president of

Global Energy for Honeywell Building Solutions.

“Honeywell worked with the city to identify the renew-

able resource and contract structure that would provide

the greatest overall benefit. We look forward to providing

electricity to the city in the near future.”

Adaptive Instruments BecomesPart of SCADAgroup PTY

Adaptive Instruments has been acquired by

SCADAgroup PTY of Newcastle, New South Wales,

Australia. SCADAgroup is the largest privately held

SCADA products and services company in the world.

The acquisition catapults Adaptive Instruments and the

Accutech brand into new international markets and puts

the resources of SCADAgroup firmly behind Adaptive’s

aggressive growth plans. The range of Accutech tether-

free wireless instrumentation products developed by

Adaptive Instruments has secured an installed base in key

industries including oil and gas, pipelines, chemical,

water, pulp and paper, pharmaceutical, food and bever-

age, and energy utilities.

“Nothing is more exciting than the addition of a star

player to the team,” said Paul Chisholm, group managing

director, SCADAgroup. “Adaptive Instruments enters our

group with immediate synergies and a product line that

will continue our drive to become the world’s foremost

supplier of telemetry and process control technologies.”




City of Santa Ana SelectsenQuesta 3e

Harris Computer Systems (Harris), a subsidiary of

Constellation Software, Inc., has been selected by the city

of Santa, Ana, Calif. to implement its enQuesta 3e solu-

tion. Santa Ana, which serves 44,000 water and sewer cus-

tomer accounts, needed to consolidate its data through an

integrated application while using updated technology to

increase efficiencies. S&S partnered with Lawson

Software (Lawson) to provide the city with a best-of-breed

solution for software and implementation services for an

enterprise resource planning system (ERP).

“We are very excited that the City of Santa Ana has

selected enQuesta 3e to assist in providing an integrated

approach to managing and optimizing its customer serv-

ice operations,” said Dave Decker, executive VP, Systems

and Software. “We are certain that Systems and Software

and Lawson Software will exceed the City's expectations

in delivering a total solution and long-term partnership.”

Worldwide Study of Electric PowerSCADA and Energy ManagementSystems Now Underway

The Newton-Ev¬ans Research Company has formally

commenced its 10th study of global trends and plans for

electric power operational control systems, impacted

today by a barrage of new legislation, compliance require-

ments, smart grid developments and information security

concerns. The 2008 study will include findings from more

than 200 North American power utilities and 100-plus

international utilities from 50 or more countries.

This international study of mission critical, real-time

electric utility operational systems including energy

management, supervisory contro, and distribution net-

work management will result in the publication of four

volumes of research and planning information of impor-

tance to utilities, systems integrators and participants in

smart grid developments.

Highlights from preliminary findings and observa-

tions from Newton-Evans’ multi-month study of trans-

mission and distribution monitoring and control sys-

tems include close to a 20 percent increase in responses

(including six new countries) from the 2005 to 2007

study. Early highlights of the international 2008 study

of mission critical, real-time electric utility operational

systems including energy management, supervisory

control, and distribution network management include

outage management, power generation management,

linkages to external systems, external services required

and smart grid initiatives.

For outage management, about 40 percent of the inter-

national utilities surveyed so far this year have imple-

mented a separate outage management system (OMS).

This reflects an increase from 2005’s 30 percent of

responding utilities reporting having a separate OMS at

that time. Generation management systems (GMS) are

also experiencing an increased level of activity this year,

at least among the early international respondents. In the

2005 study, only a handful of participating international

utilities had reported use of, or plans for, a separate GMS.

The percentage this year has risen to 14 percent thus far

into the study.

Linkage to other utility enterprise systems continued

to be on the increase on a global scale despite cyber secu-

rity concerns. For many sites, the key to remaining

secure seems to be either: (a) the restricted provision of

non-real-time access via periodic downloads to author-

ized requestors or (b) indirect access to and from the con-

trol system via historian files.

The most frequently mentioned plans for additional

control system links this year from managers at interna-

tional control centers were reported as: Geographic

Information Systems (24 percent); enterprise application

integration (24 percent) and customer information sys-

tems (20 percent). The key linkages already in place

included historical record-keeping systems and files,

power plants, other utilities and an enterprise wide area

network. North American utilities were likely to be linked

up with these as well, but with a lower percentage of util-

ities involved than at their international counterparts.

By early 2008, about one-third of the international

respondents, and one half of the North American respon-

dents indicated a current need for one or more of the nine

listed “services” that could be available from external

service providers. More than one third of North

American respondents now require training services, fol-

lowed by “long-term maintenance agreements.” Among

international utility officials, commissioning and testing

of new systems was in demand. Installation support and

maintenance agreements followed. By 2010, utilities

around the world plan to bring in outside help to conduct

vulnerability assessments.

Just as there are important variances with regard to

communications protocols, control systems supplier

rankings, and new product development objectives

within the global electric power community, so too are

there differences in priorities for focusing on “smart

grid” initiatives. International utilities are placing more

emphasis at this time on automating the distribution

network and upgrading their control systems, while

North American utilities are more likely to emphasize

automated metering infrastructure as the priority task

for enabling the smart grid.

Hear Newton-Evans Research Company Speak at

the Remote 2008 Conference and Expo!

Session Title:Trends in Substation Automation,Control Center Operations and Field Automation for

the World’s Electric Utilitiesnswww.RemoteExpo.com

Kepware Provides Plant FloorCommunications for OracleManufacturing Applications

Kepware Technologies’ KEPServerEX Product will

provide manufacturing plant floor execution data to

Oracle’s manufacturing applications, which are part of

the Oracle E-Business Suite. The latest generation of

Kepware's OPC server technology, KEPServerEX,

was designed to allow users to quickly setup commu-

nications from equipment to control and business sys-

tems via a wide range of available plug-in device driv-

ers and components.

As part of this relationship, Kepware is enhancing its

KEPServerEX product to deliver several new features

including, OPC client functionality, a first level of data

analytics and complex data tags. The OPC client func-

tionality enables KEPServerEX to act as a gateway from

any OPC Server including third party device drivers as

well as higher level HMI/SCADA or Historian products.

While the data analytics generated derived infor-

mation from real-time plant floor data, and the

data tags aggregate information into concise time

or event relevant structures.

"Oracle continues to look for companies that

can support our overall manufacturing strategy.

We were impressed by what Kepware has to

offer and expect Kepware to help expand our

capabilities in the shop floor connectivity

space," said Jon Chorley, Oracle vice president

of SCM Product Strategy. "Kepware provides a

combination of benefits including a wide range

of protocols for device communications, product

capabilities to handle complex data and a vast

number of industry relationships that will bene-

fit our joint customers.”

“This relationship is enabling customers to

leverage the full benefits of OPC as an open

technology enabling connectivity within the

automation marketplace” stated Thomas Burke,

president of the OPC Foundation. “The com-

bined solution will offer connectivity to virtual-

ly any plant floor data through the use of

Kepware drivers, or their new OPC Client

implementation. Kepware’s additional support

to create complex data, as part of this effort, will

form the foundation for OPC-UA connectivity

in the near future.”

www.infowebcom.com



Connexus Energy SelectsArcadian Networks to BuildSecure, IP-Based Wireless Network

Arcadian Networks, Inc. has signed Connexus Energy,

Minnesota’s largest electric distribution cooperative, as a

new subscriber to the company’s secure, IP-based, wire-

less broadband network. Connexus Energy will now be

connected to Arcadian Networks’ 700 MHz licensed

broadband platform to manage and control mission-criti-

cal data and operations in real-time at three commercial,

industrial locations. Connexus Energy will use Arcadian

Networks’ platform to support activities, including cus-

tomer generation control, distribution automation, sub-

station automation and outage management.

“Connexus Energy approached Arcadian Networks

looking for a secure and reliable end-to-end solution for

managing mission-critical data at key commercial, indus-

trial and agricultural locations. Having a private,

licensed wireless broadband network allowed us to effi-

ciently and quickly meet their needs,” said Ed Solar,

president and chief executive officer, Arcadian

Networks. “Arcadian Networks’ rural, IP-based commu-

nications network offers more resilience, more security

and a greater capacity to monitor, report on and control

mission-critical infrastructures. Connexus’ decision to

utilize our 700-megahertz network leverages our ability

to develop secure wireless systems to cover widely dis-

persed assets.”

“Arcadian Networks’ IP-based broadband communi-

cation solution enabled us to quickly and cost-effectively

upgrade our communications infrastructure network to

accomplish next generation smart grid applications for

our customers,” said Ed Budde, systems engineer,

Connexus Energy. “Not only does this network provide

real-time management of dispersed operations, they pro-

vide the highest level of security for our customers. This

initial deployment promises to impact other aspects of

how we manage field information, facilitate remote site

security, perform automated substation/generator opera-

tions, and ultimately better serve our customers.”

Hear Arcadian Networks Speak at the


Session Title:Smart Wireless Communications forSCADA Operations

www.RemoteExpo.com

East Gippsland AdoptsMultiSmart

East Gippsland Water provides water and waste-

water services for the communities of East

Gippsland, Australia. This is a large area, 21,000

square kilometres in the far south east corner of

Victoria, from Bairnsdale to Dinner Plain in the

north and Mallacoota in the eastern tip of Victoria.

Around mid-2006 East Gippsland was looking for

equipment for flow monitoring and data logging to

assist with sewer modeling when the MultiSmart

pump station manager was demonstrated to them.

The MultiSmart did a lot more than these two func-

tions but was still cost-effective for the original

requirement so the authority purchased five units

and installed them over a period of a few months.

Frank McShane, the manager of operations, had

been using another pump controller, but after

reviewing the capabilities of MultiSmart found

that its capabilities were much more extensive.

Some areas which stood out were the phase to

phase voltage monitoring and datalogging, the

ease of use through the configuration menus and

the cellular data capability with DNP3. DNP3 is an

open protocol designed for remote telemetry, and

cellular data was a necessity because of the high cost of

building a radio network over such a large area.

MultiSmart also enabled East Gippsland to standard-

ize across all of their pump stations and eliminate the

need for PLC programming in pump stations. This pro-

vides an operational benefit and reduces costs. As a result

of the success of the initial installation, East Gippsland is

now converting another 20 stations over to MultiSmart,

and planning to convert all of the remaining wastewater

pump stations as fast as possible.

MsMUG Moves Working Group toThe Automation Federation

The Microsoft Manufacturing User Group (MsMUG),

formerly a part of OMAC, is moving to a working group

under the Automation Federation (a Remote 2008

Organization Sponsor) so that the group can better sup-

port the needs of the industry as a horizontal thread

across disciplines.

MsMUG was formed in 1999 to address issues that

arise when applying Microsoft technology in manufac-

turing. The mission of the group is to define and resolve

issues such as version management, system integration,

maintenance and supplier responsibility. MsMUG works

to develop a set of best practices that will aid in the use

of Microsoft operating systems in manufacturing envi-

ronment; provide input to Microsoft on the special needs

of this environment; encourage and influence software

suppliers to support these best practices; and provide

user input to the OPC Foundation on changes and

improvements to OPC.

"MsMUG creates an environment where end-users,

ISV's, integrators, and Microsoft can collaborate to share

information and solve problems," said Erik Goode,

MsMUG Chair with Cargill. "End-users and integrators

join to have an opportunity to be part of one manufacturing

voice. By moving the working group under the Automation

Federation, manufacturers in process, hybrid and discrete

manufacturing will all be part of that conversation."

There are three subgroups under MsMUG.

MUGSecure is focused on increasing Windows operat-

ing system reliability and security . MUGPatch concen-

trates on best practices for upgrade validation with OS

patches, and MUGOPC concentrates on the expanding

need to update user issues into OPC standards.

Hutton Communications OpensNew Facility

Hutton Communications, Inc. has opened a new logis-

tics center in North Brunswick, N.J. The new facility will

serve customers in the Northeastern part of the US and

will have the capability for customers to order products

and pick them up at this location. This will substantially

reduce transportation times of products for customers on

strict time schedules to get projects complete.

"We are excited about the opportunities in the

Northeast US," said Hutton Communications CEO

John Walker. "Our customers are looking for inventory

and logistics resources close to where they are con-

structing towers and now we can deliver the services

they need, locally."

www.lemosint.com

http://www.sitech-bitdriver.com

www.radi.com


New PublicationsLITERATURE


New Literature Showcases Products from GemsSensors and Controls

Gems Sensors & Controls has released a new 12-page product overview brochure

showcasing its family of level, flow and pressure sen-

sors, and valves and relay controls.

The brochure contains a quick overview of Gems

broad portfolio of products such as high performance

sputtered thin film and chemical vapor deposition

pressure transducers and transmitters, pressure

switches, solid-state electro-optic level switches, spe-

cialty side mount level switches, rugged ultrasonic

level sensors, continuous level transmitters, external

SureSite level indicators, non-intrusive ExOsense

level sensors, piston, paddle, shuttle and solid-state-

type flow switches.

For control functions, the brochure highlights the

broad variety of Gems miniature and subminiature

solenoid valves, including specialty cryogenic and iso-

lation types for high purity or aggressive fluids. Valves are followed up with the com-

pany's range of relays, controls, receivers and alarm/annunciator panels.

New Valveless Metering Pumps and Dispensers CatalogFluid Metering, Inc. has released their 2008 catalog covering precision dispensers

and metering pumps for laboratory, industrial, process and OEM applications. The new

IVSP Industrial Variable Speed Pump with controller consists of a rugged 1/4 HP 3

phase high torque motor well suited for viscous fluids. Included is space-saving DIN

mount controller which is designed for process control panels.

The catalog includes the VMP series of programmable variable displacement dis-

pensing and metering systems. Program and store up to 100 combinations of all

dispense control parameters including piston displacement, flow rate, rpm, for-

ward, reverse, quick-prime and suck back. The TSI Touch Screen Interface adds

intuitive programming of up to 16 pumps simultaneously.

FMI Pumps feature the patented CeramPump valveless piston design, having

only one moving part and a ceramic and fluorocarbon fluid path they are capable

of dispensing from 2 µl per dispense up to 4,600 ml/min continuous metering with

pressures up to 100 psig at an accuracy of 1 percent or better.

The catalog is also available for easy downloading on the Fluid Metering web site.

PCB Piezotronics Releases New Capabilities BrochurePCB Piezotronics (PCB) has released a four-

page, full-color capabilities brochure, entitled,

“Intrinsically Safe, Industrial Dynamic ICP

Pressure Sensors. The brochure highlights spe-

cific sensor and instrumentation available for

pressure monitoring, diagnostics, troubleshoot-

ing and control applications in hazardous fac-

tory environments, as well as oil, gas and

petrochemical, gas turbines, pumps and engine

and compressor monitoring applications.

PCB series 102A and 121A sensors offer

intrinsic safety certifications to CSA and

ATEX standards, permitting use on machinery

operating in hazardous environments.

Applications include monitoring dynamic pressure events such as surges, pulsa-

tions, spikes, leak detection, combustor instability and acoustics found in operation

of oil and gas well heads, pumps, gas compressors, pipe-lines, reciprocating

engines, and gas turbines.

Sensors may be used with ICP signal conditioning and permit use of a variety of

inexpensive two-wire cable systems. The low-impedance signal may be transmit-

ted over long cable distances, and sensors may be used in dirty environments with

no signal degradation. PCB can also assist with providing many other styles of

dynamic pressure sensors with hazardous area approvals.

ISA Releases Third Edition of Wireless Networks Resource

ISA has released the third edition of its popular book, Wireless Networks for

Industrial Automation by Dick Caro.

Available in digital format, this book includes the increasingly popular wireless

application Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) topic and also provides a clear,

unbiased view of the emerging wireless communications market. Caro's goal is to help

keep readers up-to-date with the wireless market so they can make better decisions on

the timing and strategy for implementing wireless networks for automation projects.

According to Caro, going wireless is more than just plugging in some wireless com-

ponents to replace the wires. Residential networks are easily justified using today's

inexpensive wireless components to avoid costly or unsightly wire installations.

Industrial use is not quite so clear due to privacy and security problems and the poten-

tial for signal loss in plant environments. Industrial use must have secure communica-

tions that never fails. However, the cost of industrial wiring is so high, that wireless can

usually be justified.

In this third edition, the author includes a general update of events that have occurred

since the previous edition. Of significance is an overview of new technology, such as

ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, and WiFi, including IEEE 802.11n.

Sign up for ISA’s Remote 2008 Pre-Conference Workshop: Practical

Applications of SCADA Systems Integration, Today!

Learn more at: www.RemoteExpo.com

Semaphore Releases T-BOX Lite SCADA System Literature

Semaphore has published a brochure describing its T-Box Lite SCADA system, a

compact product for remote monitoring and control applications. T-Box Lite and other

members of the T-Box product line are the first IP-based telemetry solutions that enable

the complete integration of SCADA, control and communications functionality in one

rugged package.

The T-Box Lite system is designed for small, decentralized applications where its push

and Web technologies enable high performance yet economical implementation and opera-

tion. T-Box products incorporate full Web server technology with SMS reporting and

remote control to give real-time access through a standard Web browser. Operators can

receive alarms and communicate with their sites remotely using a cell phone. Automatic

alarm escalation allows key maintenance personnel to receive any unacknowledged alarms.

WEB GUIDES

Data Comm for Business, Inc. (DCB) man-

ufactures and distributes a broad line of

data communications equipment including

DSU, Stat Mux, Statistical Multiplexer,

FRAD, Routers, Wireless, Remote Access,

RS-232, modems, FRADs, SCADA, and

remote interconnection equipment, The

DCB Website includes complete data sheets

for all DCB products, PDF versions of all

product manuals; and most importantly, in

the education section, hundreds of white

papers and tutorials covering communica-

tions technologies and methodologies.

www.dcbnet.com www.digi.com/rdm

Leveraging expertise in cellular, Wi-Fi,

ZigBee/802.15.4 and proprietary RF tech-

nologies, Digi offers reliable wireless

device connectivity solutions. From sim-

ple cable replacement, to sophisticated

end-to-end wireless device connectivity

and management with our unsurpassed

Drop-in Networking family of products,

Digi knows wireless.

www.lem.com

LEM is a market leader in providing innova-

tive and high quality solutions for measuring

electrical parameters. Its core products – cur-

rent and voltage transducers - are used in a

broad range of applications in industrial, trac-

tion, energy and automotive markets.


Introducing Satel North America, where

quality, selection and service is our guaran-

tee. Think quality, think service, think

wireless. Think Satel. 800.292.9778

www.dcbnet.com

www.digi.com

www.lem.com



Conferences/TrainingCALENDAR

June8-13, 51st annual POWID symposium, Scottsdale, Az. Contact www.isa.org/powersymp

8-12, AWWA Annual Conference, Atlanta, Ga. Contact www.awwa.org

9-11, Sensors Expo & Conference, Rosemont, Ill. Contactwww.sensorsexpo.com

16-19, NXTComm, Las Vegas, Nev. Contact - www.nxtcommshow.com

24-27, CableTec Expo, Philadelphia, PA. Contact www.scte.org

23-26, Remote Device Monitoring & Mgt Summit, Nashville, Tn. Contactwww.iqpc.com

August3-7, APCO, Kansas City, Mo. Contact www.apcointl.org

5-7, 3rd Annual Water and Wastewater and Automatic Controls Symposium,Orlando, Fla. Contact www.isa.org/wwac

21-24, SPE Annual Technical Conf. & Exhibition (ATCE), Denver, Co. Contact www.spe.org/atce/2008

September7-10, Autovation 2008, Atlanta, Ga. Contact www.amra-intl.org

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

CALENDAR

AvaLAN Wireless, Inc. 7www.avalanwireless.com

Campbell Scientific, Inc. 16www.campbell.com/m2m

Carlson Wireless Technologies 22www.carlsonwireless.com

Control Microsystems, Inc. 6www.controlmicrosystems.com

Data Comm for Business 12, 38www.dcbnet.com

Dielectric SPX 8www.arguson.com/remote1

Digi International, Inc. 5, 38www.digi.com

Eaton/Pulizzi Engineering Inc. 40www.powerware.com/ePDU

LEM 18, 38www.lem.com

Lemos International 37www.lemosint.com

Mobile Systems Integrators 19www.mobilesystemsintegrators.com

Moxa Technologies 11www.moxa.com

Phoenix Contact 9www.phoenixcon.com/wireless

Precision Quincy Corp. 23www.precisionquincy.com

Prosoft Technology 10www.prosoft-technology.com

Radicom 37www.radi.com

Rees Scientific Corp. 14www.reesscientific.com

Satel North America 18, 38www.satelnorthamerica.com

SEL Schweitzer Engineering 2www.selinc.com/remote6

Sensaphone 14www.sensaphone.com

SI Tech 37www.sitech-bitdriver.com

Tadiran Batteries 15www.tadiranbat.com

Tessco Technologies 13www.tessco.com


ADVERTISER INDEX

www.powerware.com/epdu

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