Product News 11721

Laurie Toupin on CAD/CAE software

By Laurie Toupin, Associate Editor

If looking to buy new CAD or CAE software, this is a great time of yearkind of like Christmas in July for engineers. Within a month, I've seen announcements for new releases of CAD packages such as CoCreate's Solid Designer 7.0, SolidWorks '99, SolidEdge Version 7, MICROCADAM's Helix99, and the Pro/ENGINEER 2000i Series. Unigraphics and Autodesk plan to make announcements concerning their 3D mechanical CAD releases within a couple of weeks. DesignSpace 5.0 from Ansys and PTC's Pro/MECHANICA just hit the streets as well.

As the migration from 2D to 3D seems imminent, software vendors strive to make the transition less painful through AutoCAD-like interfaces, built-in tutorials, and options that automatically change your 3D design into 2D layouts. Watch for increased interoperability between packages as each tries to outdo the others in terms of compatibility. SolidDesigner 7.0 for instance, can translate any CAD design into a native SolidDesigner file so it may be altered or used with an existing part.

Simulation options are on the rise in CAD packages, such as SolidWork's Dynamic Movement, which shows how a part will move without having to define angles. With the related Dynamic Interference Check feature, components will collide as they would in the real world if they interfere with each other. According to Joe Dunne of SolidWorks, this is the first CAD software in its price range to offer such capability. Pro/ENGINEER 2000i offers behavior modeling capability and associative properties between designs.

And CAE packages aren't just for finite element analysts anymore. They now optimize designs, offering recommendations and answering questions especially for those engineers who are not FEA experts.

If I wrote about all of these packages in the same issue, I would be hard pressed to choose a pick of the week. As it is, for this issue, here is my choice:

Pick of the issue

Pro/MECHANICA 2000i, the latest member of PTC's i-Series, allows users to evaluate and optimize the mechanical performance of designs in real-world situations, reducing the need for physical prototypes. The software sports a new Windows-based user interface and feature-based parametric modeling capability. Engineers can perform simulation early in the product development cycle as the software automatically builds a simulation that precisely models the design geometry, using adaption algorithms that don't require manual modifications or intervention. Designers can define simulation features such as loads, constraints, and structural connections directly within a single geometry model. Because these features are associative, engineers can repeatedly revise designs without analysis redefinition. The software also supports Internet accessibility

Parametric Technology Corp., 128 Technology Dr., Waltham, MA 02453; FAX (781) 398-5647.

Knowledge-capture database

Knowledge-based Process Modeler^TM (KPM) is a central nervous system of sorts able to comprehend, initiate, control, and monitor dynamic processes, such as a complex design or manufacturing project. KPM operates within the enterprise and the supply chain over the Internet. The software monitors and controls all sub-processes. KPM manages millions of knowledge-based decisions and transactions. The database is dynamic, and multi-dimensional in memory so it can operate at extremely high speed.

Knowledge Technologies International Inc., Lexington Corporate Center, 10 Maguire Rd., Suite 232, Lexington, MA 02421; FAX (781) 272-7700.

Solid modeling software

Hybrid solid modeling software, Helix99, hit the streets with its Hyper Modeling^TM and Intelligent Drafting^TM capabilities and quick start learning guides. The Helix Interactive Training System^TM (HITS) provides a multimedia tutorial for solid modeling design. Users can sign up for a free 45-day trial edition CD.

Microcadam Inc., 2255 North Ontario St., Suite 300, Burbank, CA 91504.

Signature capture pad

The ePad^TM, a pen input device that captures handwritten signatures for use in PC applications, can be used to authorize E-Commerce and online banking transaction, sign electronic documents and forms and access signature-based security systems. The device uses a pressure-sensitive input pad to record the line shape and stylus pressure needed to electronically bind and biometrically verify signatures. ePad features Interlink Electronics' proprietary VersaPad^(R) input pad.

Interlink Electronics Inc., 546 Flynn Rd. Camarillo, CA 93012; FAX (805) 484-8989.

USB mouse

Panel mount MOUSE-TRAK mouse is available in two button and buttonless physical configurations that support Universal Serial Bus interfaces. The MOUSE-TRAK family are ergonomically designed so the three middle fingers move the pointer while thumb and little finger click the buttons. To install the mouse, plug it into the computer port.

ITAC Systems Inc., 3113 Benton St., Garland, TX 75042; FAX (972) 494-4159.

Real-time collaboration

ConceptWorks, an add-on to 3D CAD solid modeler, SolidWorks, allows users from all over the world to view, edit, and comment on 3D models in real time via the Internet. Based on patented Streaming 3D technology, users can discuss their ideas over the phone, while the designer quickly makes the suggested changes. All participants will see these immediately after completion. Click on a single component, and the software will stream in the part separate from the whole assembly. Invited team members install the RealityWave Viewer from a designated network IP address.

RealityWave Inc., Cambridge, MA; FAX (617) 492-0900.

Tubing module

Solid Edge Version 7 adds XpresRoute, a new tubing design module where tubes can be modeled in the context of an assembly, and are fully associated to their connected parts. V7 also built-in improved application-specific features for complex plastics, and cast and sheet metal parts. Several other of the more than 250 enhancements include Feature Recognizer that will read a B-Rep solid to create features based on the topology and shape of the solid; Draft, to automate hole chart generation; Assembly with improved patterning, enhanced measure command, conical and tangential contact relationships; and improved translators.

Unigraphics Solutions Inc., 675 Discovery Dr., Suite 100, Huntsville, AL 35806; FAX (256) 705-2690.

Desktop organizer software

ScreenPro^TM, a software utility for 19- and 21-inch computer monitors, is a multi-tasking tool that allows users to organize and work on multiple applications on their Windows desktop without having to resize, minimize, and close windows. The software enables CAD/CAM, graphics, document imaging, and general business users of high resolution machines to easily and quickly arrange the applications' windows of their screen in different layouts. Up to five different windows can be organized on the screen at one time.

Cornerstone Peripherals Technology, 225 Hammond Ave., Fremont, CA 94539; FAX (510) 580-5321.

Network attached storage

PowerVault^TM storage products speed access to information on a computer network by enabling information from Microsoft Windows NT or UNIX files to be stored and accessed through a single, dedicated file server, called a storage appliance or filer. The network-attached storage products attach directly to a computer network to offload file access from general purpose computer servers, freeing those systems to handle just application data processing. The filers store, manage, and retrieve files.

Dell Computer Corp., 1 Dell Way, Round Rock, TX 78682; FAX (512) 728-4238.

Thin-client computing

The NCD ThinSTAR 300 product line, installed in steel or stainless-steel enclosures, are available for NEMA 12, NEMA 4X, and hazardous areas. These thin clients are aimed at industrial processing applications. Running on a 133 MHz Intel Pentium processor, the NCD ThinSTAR 300 comes with 16 MB of RAM, expandable to 64 Mbytes; 8 Mbytes of flash memory; a multimedia processor, two serial ports; one parallel port; two USB ports; 2 Mbytes of video RAM, 16-bit stereo sound in and out; and 10/100 Base-T autosensing Ethernet.

Daisy Data Inc., 2850 Lewisberry Rd., York Haven, PA 17370; FAX (717) 932-8000.

John Lewis on motion control

By John Lewis, Regional Editor

Two rail vs. screw rail

Lead screws have a reputation for bending when subjected to even mild loadsthe reason linear motion systems stipulate linear guides for support and guidance. However, Kerk's patented screw-rail design integrates a co-axial guide to cut costs, and save time and spaceas much as 80% of the space used by a two-rail system, according to Kerk Motion Products Application Engineer Dave Arguin. Moreover, he adds, a screw rail is generally less expensive than the equivalent components purchased separately. Another advantage is eliminating time-consuming alignment procedures of two rail systems. How many two-rail designs would improve with a screw rail?

Pick of the issue

The Screw Rail's coaxial design uses a precision-roll-ed led inside a concentric steel guide rail to provide a com- pact, easy-to-install alternative to dual-rail systems. The TFE-coated lead screw drives an integrated nut/bushing that is made from self-lubricating materials, to extend life and minimize maintenance. Available in 0.50-, 0.75-, and 1-inch outside diameters, with leads from 0.05- to 1.5-inch, Screw Rails come in lengths up to 10 ft and can support up to several hundred pounds. The rail is designed for medical, data storage, semiconductor, and other industrial applications.

Kerk Motion Products Inc., One Kerk Dr., Hollis, NH 03049; FAX (603) 465-3598.

Ethernet controller

The DMC-2100 stand-alone motion controller uses Ethernet to handle com-munications between hardware devices located on a local area network (LAN). Using a common browser on the Internet or company intranet, engineers can perform diagnostics on I/O modules, Human Machine Interface (HMI), PCs, PLCs, and vision systems. Ethernet, an open platform serial communication protocol, is commonly transmitted via a 10Base-T but is also available in the 10Base-F fiber-optic option for noisy, industrial applications.

Galil Motion Control Inc., 203 Ravendale Dr., Mountain View, CA 94043; FAX (650) 967-1751.

Soft-start controls

The compact SIRIUS 3R soft-start control helps conquer panel space restrictions and reduce installation time with high-density DIN-rail assembly and wiring techniques. Phase angle control combined with variable voltage levels applied at the motor terminals provide soft starts and stops to reduce electromechanical stress. During starts, motor terminal voltage is steadily increased from an initial voltage until it reaches the line voltage. The controls are available in four frame sizes that are all DIN rail-mountable.

Siemens Energy & Automation Inc., 1000 McKee St., Batavia, IL 60510.

U-shaped cover table

U-shaped cover and bellows protect the UCT table from splashing liquids. Supporting profile guideways, available in 15 and 25 mm sizes, carry high loads. Options include: various pitch and precision-class ball screws; inductive limit and reference switches; linear-measuring system; central lubrication for carriages, ballscrew, and nut; coupling housing and coupling for customer-specified motors,;and mounting holes in upper section. With travels up to 2,500 mm, it's designed for milling, drilling; and other machine-tool related applications, and comes in steel and aluminum versions.

Schneeberger Inc., 11 DeAngelo Dr., Bedford, MA 01730; FAX (781) 275-4749.

Planetary gearbox

The NEMA size 23 IP57B planetary gearbox offers ratios up to 10:1 in a single stage, and an average backlash of 20 arc-min per stage. Available in five stock ratios from 5 to 100:1, nine standard ratios from 4 to 500:1, and 34 optional ratios from 3 to 1000:1, the maximum static output is 620 lb-inches (70 Nm). Maximum input speed is 5,000 rpm. Typical life exceeds 5,000-hr operation, extendible to beyond 10,000 hr with a bearing upgrade.

API Motion Inc., 45 Hazelwood Dr., Amherst, NY 14228; FAX (716) 691-9181.

Karen Auguston Field looks at power transmission products

By Karen Auguston, FieldManaging Editor

Pick of the issue

The use of caged ball technology makes the FGL15 Series Linear Actuator stand out, primarily because it addresses a major goal in bearing design: improving product life expectancy. The SSR LM guide uses an elastomeric cage to separate and align the recirculating ball bearings for a smoother, more consistent gliding motion. By eliminating the heat associated with ball-to-ball friction, the guide increases speed and longevity. Grease pockets within the ball cages retain lubricant and reduce maintenance requirements. The FGL15 actuators accept NEMA 23 dimension motors and reducers without any adapter flanges.

THK America Inc., 200 E Commerce Dr, Schaumburg, IL 60173; FAX (847) 310-1182.

For more information on power transmission e-mail Karen at [email protected]

Charles Murray on Fluid Power

By Charles Murray , Regional Editor

Pick of the issue

Midi/Maxi Series smart pneumatic valve manifolds now offer additional plug-in modules that enable precision flow control and/or pressure regulation to individual valves on the manifold. They also offer CP adaptor modules that enable connection of up to four additional branches of valves and sensor I/O.

Festo Corp., 395 Moreland Rd., Hauppauge, NY 11788; FAX (516) 435-8026.

For more information on fluid power contact Chuck at [email protected]

Vane motors

The M5B vane motor is available in two versions. The M5B is a standard configuration with an SAE B mount and standard keyed and splined shafts. The other version, the M5BF, is targeted for use in fan-drive systems. Both versions are rated for pressures to 4,650 psi (320 bar) and have speed ranges of 100 to 6,000 rpm.

Denison Hydraulics, 14249 Industrial Pkwy., Marysville, OH 43040; FAX (937) 642-3738.

Air motors

LZB 34R stainless-steel air motors offer a clean design that keeps dust and dirt from collecting in corners and cavities. Double seals at the end of the shaft prevent water from entering the gears. The planetary gear is greased with food grade lubricant approved according to USDA-H1.

Atlas Copco Tools, 37735 Enterprise Ct., Suite 300, Farmington Hills, MI 48331.

Pneumatic diaphragm valve

The GF Diastar family of pneumatic diaphragm valves include 0.5- to 2-inch diameters in PVC, CPVC, polypropylene, and PVDF body materials with EPDM or PTFE diaphragms and actuators constructed of PP-GF (glass-filled polypropylene). The valve family offers regulation and control of neutral or aggressive media in chemical, wastewater, and water treatment applications.

Goerge Fischer Inc., 2882 Dow Ave., Tustin, CA 92780-7285; FAX (714) 731-4688.

Mobile valves

Stackable SB 12 mobile valves (load sensing) are targeted for a wide array of applications within the material handling and agricultural industries. The proportional valves offer flow ranges of 21 to 31.5 gpm and maximum pressure up to 3,625 psi. They are available in hydraulic manual, solenoid-operated, and electrohydraulic styles.

Bosch Automation Technology, 7505 Durand Ave., Racine, WI 53406; FAX (414) 554-7117.

Rick DeMeis on test, measurement & control

Pick of the issue

PHM-100 is a portable handheld indicator for strain gauge bridge-type transducers, including load cells and torque and pressure sensors. The device provides bridge excitation, balance and span adjustment, shunt calibration, decimal point selection, and digital display. A peak-hold function captures the highest static or dynamic signal at less than 1 msec and displays it until reset. A standard 9V battery provides 60-hour operation, with battery-low indication.

Transducer Techniques, 43178 Business Park Dr. B101, Temecula, CA 92590; FAX (909) 676-1200.

For more information on test,measurement & control contact Rick at [email protected]

Rick DeMeis on electronic products

By Rick DeMeis, Senior Editor

Pick of the issue

"Better, faster, cheaper" is a design mantra coined at NASA but echoed today throughout the design engineering world. Now, while light-emitting diodes (LEDs) provide better, precise frequency light at faster rise times than incandescent sources, they are usually by no means cheaper. However, astute engineers and their customers realize that cost not only includes price but overall lifetime operating expense. And this is where LEDs shine. Their greater energy efficiency means the cost per lumen can be substantially lower, saving energy and associated cost, plus their reliability means replacement of lighting elements is eliminated in many applications, lowering again overall cost of ownership.

White LEDs allow expansion of the devices from signage and indicator lights into general lighting. HP's first white LED lamps use InGaN chips coated with a YAG inorganic phosphor to provide white light with a color temperature of approximately 6,500K. Luminous intensities available are 2,000 mcd for lamps with a 15^o typical forward current of 20 mA. Color Rendering Index (CRI) is about 75 out of 100, for good judgment of color under artificial lighting. Applications include high-reliability lighting, incandescent lamp replacement, small area illumination, and indication.

HP Co., Components Response Center, 3175 Bowers Ave., M/S 88U, Santa Clara, CA 95054; FAX (408) 654-8575.

For more information on electric/electronic e-mail Rick at [email protected]

Positioning stages

Luge ultra Positioning Stages feature crossed roller bearing technology, providing high accuracy, low noise, and extremely low friction, says the manufacturer. Stage widths are available from 200 to 600 mm with travels up to 600 mm. Built-in linear encoder provides up to 0.1 micron accuracy and dependable feedback with a home and limit sensor. Optional open-frame construction allows designers to transmit light or position objects through the center of the stage.

Bayside Motion Group, 27 Seaview Blvd, Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 484-5496.

Digital servo/stepper controller

MAC 300 Digital servo/stepper stand-alone controllers handle one to four axes for point-to-point stepper or digital servo control. A complete 4-axis system costs less than $1,500. Housed and board-level units offer design flexibility. By adding motion cards, a basic one-axis controller system can be expanded to a full-featured 4-axis system with encoder feedback for each axis. Non-volatile on-board memory (32k) stores up to 64 user programs.

Nyden Corp., 2610-B N. First St., San Jose, CA 95134; FAX (408) 232-7701.

Non-lubricated herringbone gear

One-piece, Power-Core^TM herringbone gears use a cast-in metal core that transmits torque evenly into the gear body through the keyway. Gear tooth pattern, cut at opposing angles, equalizes forces generated during torque transmission to provide smooth, quiet, vibration-free contact that eliminates the need for axial bearings, even under high loads. Large sizes with up to a 6-inch OD steel pinion and a 22-inch OD composite gear have been constructed. The root stress and anticipated wear on gear flanks are calculated to withstand the load during non-lubricated operation.

Intech Corp., 250 Herbert Ave., Closter, NJ 07624; FAX (201) 767-8066.

Servo motors

The low inertia of Goldline B series servomotors provide high torque and acceleration in a compact package. IP65 rated, the series uses rare-earth permanent magnets to offer continuous stall torque from 0.62 to 110 lb-ft (0.84 to 149 Nm). Additional features include: speeds up to 7,500 rpm, rugged resolver feedback, built-in thermostat, and rear shaft extension. The series is also available in medium-inertia, explosion-proof versions. Applications include factory automation, machine tools, and packaging.

Kollmorgen, 201 Rock Rd., Radford, VA 24141; FAX (540) 731-0847.

Compact fittings

EO-2 Compact fittings are downsized for space-critical applications. The fittings are used in micro-hydraulics, central lubrication, process control, automation, and diagnostics applications. They are leak-free and do not require retightening. All connecting joints are hermetically sealed to match established standards, and all seals can be individually replaced without special tools.

Parker Hannifin, Tube Fittings Div.; FAX (614) 279-4508.

Pneumatic cylinders

Tom Thumb cylinders are now available with Rodlock^TM. The Rodlock feature locks the piston rod while in a stationary position. When pressure is removed from the port of the Rodlock, the mechanism grips the rod and prevents it from moving. As a result, the rod maintains its position and holds the load indefinitely when air pressure is lost or removed.

PHD Inc., Box 9070, Fort Wayne, IN 46899; FAX (219) 747-6754.

Hydraulic servovalves

R-DDV hydraulic servovalves employ a limited angle, rotary torque motor to drive a valve spool directly through an eccentric, that is built into the motor shaft. Rotary operation of the motor results in a linear spool motion which modulates the flow of fluid through the valve's control ports.

HR Textron, 25200 W. Rye Canyon Rd., Valencia, CA 91355; FAX (888) 253-5624.

For information, circle 573

Shock absorbers

New features have been added to the PRO/PM Series of shock absorbers. The features increase reliability and energy capacities, thus making the products easier to use in industrial applications. The new features include increased energy and shock force capacities that enable the shock absorbers to handle heavier loads, faster rates, and greater drive forces. Enhanced products include the PRO 25/PM 25, the PRO 50/PM 50, and the PRO 100/PM 100.

Enidine Inc., 7 Central Dr., Orchard Park, NY 14127; FAX (716) 662-1909.

Piston pumps

PVE inline piston pumps are variable displacement pumps for use in a wide variety of circuits with variable flow requirements. Displacement is varied by means of pressure and/or flow compensator controls. PVE Series pumps are available in three displacement sizes with an assortment of optional controls for maximum operating flexibility.

Vickers Inc., Box 302, Troy, MI 48007; FAX (248) 641-4232.

Micro air pump

Micro air pumps include the Mighty AA Series, A Series, improved B Series, Style C, Dual Head C, and Power Horse E. The Mighty AA offers free flow of 2.7l/min, maximum pressure of 9 psi, and maximum vacuum to 16 Hg. The Power Horse E offers free flow of 23 l/min, maximum pressure of 15 psi, and maximum vacuum of 26 Hg.

Sensidyne, OEM Div., 16333 Bay Vista Dr., Clearwater, FL 33760; FAX (813) 532-6930.

Sanitary pump

The Elima-Matic sanitary pump has been designed to the 3A Sanitary Standards for air or hydraulically driven diaphragm pumps. The pump is constructed of 316 stainless steel with a surface finish of 32 micro-inch or better. The sanitary pump features tri-clamp connections on both the inlet and discharge ports.

Versa-Matic Pump, 6017 Enterprise Dr., Export, PA 15632; FAX (724) 327-4300.

Vacuum windows

UHV windows permit the use of optical pyrometry, ellipsometry, light scattering, and reflectance-difference spectroscopy (RDS) to obtain data in real time during molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) operations. The products provide protection to UHV windows yet preserve optical access to MBE chambers.

Bomco Inc., 125 Gloucester Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930; FAX (978) 283-2882.

Pressure regulator

The SPR Pressure Reducing Regulator is for use with gases and liquids and is suitable for corrosive applications. It offers outlet pressures of 0-10 psig, 0-25 psig, 0-50 psig, 0-100 psig, 0-250 psig, 0-500 psig, and 0-750 psig. Flow coefficients include 0.02, 0.06 and 0.20.

Sensiflo, 575 W. Birch Ct., Ste E & F, Colton, CA 92324; FAX (909) 514-1041.

Vertical stand

Vertical stand improves the ball bar evaluation of coordinate measuring machines according to ANSI B89.4.1.1997. The stand does this by solving the deflection problems associated with the free-standing ball bar by providing an extremely rigid support for it. A heavy interference fit fixes the rigid 2-inch diameter, hard-surfaced vertical column into the massive 25-lb solid cast-iron base.

Micro Surface Engineering Inc., Bal-Tec Div., 1550 E. Slauson Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90011; fax (232) 582--0934.

Redundancy manager

RM-1 Redundancy Manager supervises the structure of Ethernet redundant ring systems using the company's rail hubs and switches. The device detects and bypasses network faults within 300 ms of occurrence. The RM-1 provides eight twisted-pair ports on 10BASE-T with shielded RJ45 connectors to connect operator stations, PLCs, I/O blocks, or other twisted-pair inputs, plus two free slots for 100 Mbit modules or fiber-optic links. The unit operates on 24V dc and is front accessible in a 19-inch chassis, suitable for control rooms or standard rack mounts.

Hirschmann, 30 Hook Mountain Rd., Pine Brook, NJ 07058; FAX (973) 830-1470.

Pressure transducer

Series 647 wet/wet differential pressure transducer has a compensated temperature range of 32 to 122F, with 51.0% FS accuracy for measurements down to 1-inch water. The device uses a piezoresistive sensor, and features adjustable zero and span (510%), and reverse polarity protection. Two-wire, 4-20A output signal can be interfaced with chart recorders, data loggers, and monitoring and control systems. Nine models cover ranges of 0-1 inch w.c. to 0-30 psid. Applications include flow monitoring, pneumatic systems, and process control.

Dwyer Instruments, Box 373, Michigan City, IN 46361; FAX (219) 872-9057.

Isolators

Barry-Bond shock and vibration isolators are for multi-directional vibration isolation, shock attenuation, and noise reduction due to structure-borne vibration in trucks, buses, off-road vehicles, construction equipment, and industrial machinery. Formulated with a durable natural rubber compound for flexible operation and long service life, the isolators are ozone resistant and can withstand operation temperatures from -40 to 180F.

Barry Controls, 30 Guest St., Brighton, MA02135; FAX (617) 782-8140.

PROFIBUS troubleshooter

BT 200 handheld diagnostic device pretests for faults in bus cables and interfaces to ensure integrity of network wiring in PROFIBUS distributed control systems. Tests include short circuits, reversed wires, open circuits, and network termination problems. Any faults are localized in a few seconds, easing system commissioning and maintenance. In interface testing, the BT 200 tests drivers, and line-termination, and RTS signal power supplies to verify the capability of the RS 485 interface of any PROFIBUS DP slave. The unit then tests the complete network, addressing individual slaves or automatically scanning all slaves.

Siemens Energy and Automation Information Services, 4900 Old Ironsides Dr., MS 1211, Santa Clara, CA 95052; (800) 964-4114.

Glass thermometers

Industrial glass thermometers are available in adjust angle, air duct, Navy/Marine, and economy versions, and feature molded Valox v-shaped cases and red reading mercury tubes with magnifying lenses. The air duct thermometer can rotate 360^o. The Navy/marine thermometer offers stems in 2 and 4 inches.

Dresser, Instrument Div., 250 E. Main St., Straford, CT 06614.

Logic analyzer

TLA 714 portable and TLA 720 benchtop logic analyzer mainframes are based on a Windows 98 platform. Six logic analyzer modules provide up to 16-Mbit (samples) memory and hardware-accelerated search and display features for speeding access to information. The modules can be configured as 34, 68, 102, or 136 channels at synchronous speeds of 100 or 200 MHz and depths of 64 and 256 k, and 1, 4, and 16 M. The TLA Series provides upwards of 680 total channels, 408 of which can be merged channels for working with future microprocessor or multibus applications. The analyzers also provide simultaneous 200-MHz state and 2-GS/s timing on the same probe.

Tektronix, Measurement Group, Box 3960, Portland, OR 97208; FAX (503) 222-1542.

Sensor interface system

OASIS 2000 (Optimal Architecture Sensor Interface System) is a modular, multi-channel measurement system front-end that can be customized to meet test requirements. Individual cards, which mount into the common 16-slot Model 4990, standard EIA 19-inch rack, make up the system. Features on the hot-swappable cards include: selectable front-end isolation, gain programming, detection of various sensor types, user-selectable Butterworth low-pass filters, and automatic logging. Applications include modal analysis of large structures, wind-tunnel experiments, weapons and shock testing, and vehicle crash tests.

Endevco Corp, 30700 Rancho Viejo Rd., San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675; FAX (949) 661-7231.

Temperature sensors

Temperature sensors are optimized with regard to the rate of reaction to measure the temperature effectively in the right postion besides cavity pressure. At the same time, the individual wires of a type "K" thermocouple are laid separately and welded to the sensor's front. This allows the thermocouple's mass to be minimized and its reaction rate optimized accordingly.

Kitler Instrument Corp., 75 John Glenn Dr., Amherst, NY 14228; FAX (716) 691-5226.

Power monitor chips

DS1814 and DS1819 chips monitor three conditions: power supply, software execution, and external override. A new design for the bandgap reference cuts power consumption by one-fourth. MicroMonitors are packaged in a space-saving SOT-23-5 and consume only 15 muA quiescent current.

Dallas Semiconductor, 4401 S. Beltwood Pkwy., Dallas, TX 75244; FAX (972) 371-3717.

Membrane touch switch

Endura-Switch membrane touch switch resists damage from pens, pencils, screwdrivers, and other sharp objects. The unit's front switch can be constructed from aluminum, stainless steel, or polycarbonate. Applications include appliances, industrial equipment, and petroleum pumps.

Monopanel Technologies Inc., 1535 South 101^st St., West Allis, WI 53214; FAX (414) 256-5252.

Performance-PC heat sinks

Heat sinks for high-end desktop PCs, workstations, and servers using the Intel Pentium^(R) III microprocessors feature cross-cut cooling fins for omnidirectional airflow and can be equipped with fans that exceed industry guidelines for performance, reliability, and noise. Many clip-on options for attachment are available, including plastic clips and interface material for desktop systems, and a phase-change interface for server systems. The heat sinks meets specifications for speeds up to 550 MHz.

Aavid Thermal Products, 143 North Main St., Suite 206, Concord, NH 03301; FAX (603) 224-9988

Mini photoelectric sensor

Compact VS1 Series convergent mode sensor features a built-in amplifier that can switch loads up to 50 mA. Chip-on-board technology allowed the sensor to be designed around its circuit board. Operating on 12-24V dc, the device uses a visible red sensing beam converged to form a spot at 10 mm or 20 mm. Infrared models are also available. Repeatability is 250 ms with output response time of 1 ms. Integral circuit protection guards output against false pulse on power-up, continuous overload, or short circuit, and protects the supply against reverse polarity and transient voltage. Applications include operating within machinery such as conveying and inspection equipment.

Banner Engineering Corp., Box 9414, Minneapolis, MN, 55441; FAX (612) 544-3213.

VoIP software

GAO VoIP 'C54x, a voice over IP software package for the TMS320C54x platform, can be used to add voice, real-time fax, and data-transmission to access products. Software modules include: speech compression, telephony, modem, and fax. Applications include calling or faxing over the Internet, intranets, etc.

GAO Research & Consulting Ltd., 305 Milner Ave., Suite 1003, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada M1B 3V4; FAX (416) 292-2364

Proximity/photoelectric sensors

Centsable proximity sensors include dc inductive sensors in diameters from 8 to 30 mm and ac sensors in 12- and 18-mm diameters. All dc sensors are available in fixed cable or quick disconnect cable styles, NPN or PNP models, and shielded or unshielded standard sensing ranges. The 12-, 18- and 30-mm dc sensors are also available in shielded or unshielded extended sensing ranges. Centsable photoelectric sensors include 18-mm sensors in diffused, polarized, retroreflective, and through-beam styles. Sensing distances range from 20 mm to 8m with selectable logic output.

Automationdirect.com, 3505 Hutchinson Rd., Cumming, GA 30040; FAX (770) 844-4212.

Safety relays

ES-TA-3D1 emergency stop monitoring safety module can monitor up to six normally closed emergency stop switch circuits for contact failure or wiring fault. Designed to increase the control reliability of multiple input E-stop circuits, the safety module uses redundant self-checking circuitry to monitor the condition of both contacts on every E-stop switch connected to the relay. A built-in DeviceNet fieldbus provides for non-safety system status and diagnostic monitoring from a central location. Auto and manual modes can be set by the user.

Banner Engineering Corp., Box 9414, Minneapolis, MN 55441; FAX (612) 554-3213.

Gram sensors

GS Series gram force sensors are available in ranges of 10, 25, 30, 50, 100, 150, 250 and 1,000 grams full scale. The sending end is a 6-32 tapped through hole, providing varied attachment possibilities for tension and/or compression. A bonded foil strain gauge full bridge provides a customer-specified output of 1 or 2 mV/V. Combined accuracy of non-linearity and hysteresis is 0.1% of full scale.

Transducer Techniques, Inc., 43178 Business Park Dr., Temecula, CA 92590; FAX (909) 676-1200.

IGBT

The IRG4PF50W WARP Speed^TM IGBT is rated at 900V and is targeted use in flyback and single-forward power supply topologies that operate at bus voltages to 400V. Applications include switch-mode power supplies, welders, uninterruptable power supply, and power factor correction in the 5-kW region.

International Rectifier, 233 Kansas St., El Segundo, CA 90245.

Terminal blocks

The 95, 96, and 97 Series Eurostyle^(R) pc-board terminal blocks are for ac drive applications from fractional to 40 hp motors up to 575V. The 95 and 96 Series products have 8-mm terminal spacing, and are field service-rated at 600V at 20 and 30A, respectively. The blocks' insulator has a 94 V-O high flammability rating.

Beau Interconnect, 4 Aviation Dr., Gilford, NH 03246; FAX (603) 524-1627.

Cordsets

Shielded 4- and 5-pin RKS eurofast(R) cordsets reduce electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference. The cordsets' aluminized polyester shield is terminated by a drain wire that connects to the cordset coupling nut. The shielding design prevents sensitive applications and components from false triggering.

TURCK Inc., 300 Campus Dr., Minneapolis, MN 55441.

Ball valve actuator

ABR-2.5 ball valve actuator features a rack-and-pinion, compact design. The corrosion-resistant actuator is available in two styles: a double-acting, air-to-open/air-to-close version; and a fail-safe air-to-open/spring-to-close version. The actuator measures more than 6 inches long and weighs 1.5 lb; the fail-safe version is slightly larger due to the built-in spring.

Plast-O-Matic Valves Inc., 1384 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove, NJ 07009; FAX (973) 256-4745.

Simulation software

SYSPLY simulation software package designs composite material products and optimizes composite material structures consisting of multiple plies of varying pattern, thickness, and orientation. The software allows users to view contour stress plots of the layup with ply drop-offs taken into account.

Engineered Systems International Corp., 570 Kirts Blvd., Suite 231, Troy, MI 48084; FAX (248) 362-2574.

PFA union

No-O-Ring Union high-purity PFA union does not require O-rings to seal. The union provides maintenance-free operation,which means no need to retighten after initial installation. The product can be used in high-purity and/or corrosive chemical environments.

Furon Co., 3340 E. LaPalma Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806.

Single-coil clutch/brake

CBS series clutch/brakes come in five models with diameters from 1.75 to 5.865 inches. Clutch torque ranges from 15 to 600 lb-inches, and brake torque is between 6 to 150 lb-inches. Using a single coil to accomplish both clutching and braking, improves reliability, and cycle rates, and reduces energy consumption.

Electroid Co., 45 Fadem Rd., Springfield, NJ 07081; FAX (973) 467-2606.