Sun Blade 1500 Workstation. This 64-bit workstation sports the same 1 GHZ UltraSPARC IIIi processor found in Sun's higher-end mission-critical servers. To keep costs down, engineers cut the number of components by integrating the memory controller and 1Mbyte L2 cache onto the CPU, and incorporated Double Data Rate (DDR) memory instead of SDRAM, and Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) drives. "There is some trade-off concerning cache size," says Sun Workstation Manager Brian Healy. But he adds by integrating the cache onto the die, engineers reduced memory latencies by up to four times, maintaining performance while reducing cost and complexity. In addition, this architecture has low power consumption—350W maximum vs. 670W for a Sun Blade 2000. (www.sun.com) Enter 582
DO IT YOURSELF
IBM ThinkCentre S50, M50, and A50p. Using a design for assembly and disassembly approach, IBM engineers developed an easy-access, tool-free chassis design for these products. That means users can easily remove the hard disk and memory for upgrading or servicing. Among design strategies: Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends, and user "touch points" are colored blue for easy identification. There's also a "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. (www.ibm.com) Enter 583
BIG HEART
Apple Power Mac® G5. This personal computer has a big heart—specifically, a 64-bit processor, which Apple claims is a first for a PC. It beat out Xeon and Pentium 4 processors in a SPEC CPU 2000 benchmark test. And, it will still run 32-bit applications. The guts also include dual 2.0 GHz PowerPC G5 processors, each with an independent 1 GHz front-side bus. The electronics can build up a lot of heat, so Apple designed a proprietary computer-controlled cooling system to get rid of it. The thermal management design includes four discrete thermal zones to compartmentalize primary heat-producing components. Fans run at low speeds to keep the machine quiet. (www.apple.com) Enter 584
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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