Signal processors

TAD9803 CCD and video signal processor features an 18-MHz correlated double sampler (CDS); low-noise; programmable gain amplifier (PGA) with 0- to 30-dB gain range; black level-correction circuit; and a 10-bit, 18-MHz analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The processor operates from a 3V supply, consumes 180 mV, and is specified for an operating temperature range from -20 to 75C. A three-wire digital interface allows programming of the internal registers. On-board clamping circuitry, PGA, and voltage reference target the AD9803 for use in electronic camera circuits and video and still-camera applications.

Analog Devices Inc., Ray Stata Technology Center, 804 Woburn St., Wilmington, MA 01887; FAX (781) 937-1021.

Planetary gearheads

ServoFit precision planetary gearheads feature a noise-dampening gearcase design that keeps sound levels as low as 60 dB(A) at 3,000 rpm. Gearheads offer output torques from 442 to 9,735 inch-lb and are rated for input speeds of 4,000 rpm for continuous operation, and up to 6,000 rpm for cyclic-duty operation. Five stock case sizes are available with 12 exact ratios from 3:1 to 100:1. Applications include robotics, machine tool, medical equipment, semiconductor manufacturing, and aerospace equipment.

Stober Drives Inc., 1781 Downing Dr., Maysville, KY 41056; FAX (606) 759-5045.

Simulation software

PAM-CAST casting simulation software is integrated into the PAM-SYSTEM software family and uses Finite Volume Analysis technology to capture the physics of and simulate the entire casting process, from the filling to the solidification phase. PAM-CAST provides metal-front and temperature visualization throughout the filling phase. It also provides temperature evolution and phase changes during the solidification. The software also features an additional module that predicts defect locations and a thixocasting option.

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

Assembly equipment

Air finger Gripper Series of assembly line equipment come in opening and closing models and are for accurately picking-and-placing small parts in assembly line applications. A work stopper acts as a buffer to prevent damage due to bumping. Two gripper sizes are available and the series is constructed of stainless steel to accommodate different environment types. A shock absorber type is also available.

Pisco, 2228 Landmeier Rd., Elk Grove Village, IL 60007.

Oil system

Oil Security System for continual on-line monitoring of lubrica-tion quality on rotating equipment provides automatic viscosity and temperature measurement, and water contamination indication of lubricating oils. User input and LED indicators aid in maintenance. Company also provides lubricating equipment and tools, spray coolant systems, coolant and lubricants, and electrical accessories for industrial applications.

Trico Mfg. Corp., 1235 Hickory St., Pewaukee, WI 53072; FAX (414) 691-2576.

Wire/cable holders

Wire/cable holders come in twelve sizes that handle wire bundle diameters from 0.375 to 0.500 inch. Parts mount into 3/16-inch or 5-mm hole diameters in a variety of panel thicknesses and materials. Two different style-mounting clips are available.

Micro Plastics Inc., Customer Service Dept., Hwy. 178 N., Flippin, AR 72634; FAX (870) 453-8676.

Multi-axis controller

Axima 4000 Multi-axis Servo Controllers feature a complete Windows-based software package designed to assist with online debugging and diagnostics, help files, and setup and calibration procedures. Features include a 32-bit floating point DSP, single controller to drive cable connection, multi-tasking, electronic gearing and camming, and internal and external synchronization. Applications include automatic assembly, flying cut-off, pick-and-place, and line synchronization.

Emerson Motion Control, 1365 Park Rd, Chanhassen, MN 55317; FAX (612) 474-8711.

Hybrid stepping motors

New series of size-23-frame stepping motors have a holding torque ranging from 95 to 230 oz-inch (67 to 162 N-cm). Motors are available in three stack sizes, single- or double-shaft and with or without encoders. Eight leads per motor allow for a greater number of configurations. Low-inductance windings increase acceleration and speed. Target applications include microstepping and positioning and designs that require higher torque.

Intelligent Motion Systems, 370 N Main St, Marlborough, CT 06447; FAX (860) 295-6107.

Flexible cell

TWINFLEX two-station flexible manufacturing cell is for low- to medium-volume production of part families and mixed batches. The TWINFLEX provides the features of high-performance technology in a two-station flexible cell. Two independent CNC machining units work simultaneously. Both vertical and horizontal CNC units can machine at either station.

Turmatic Systems Inc., 11600 Adie Rd., St. Louis, MO 63043; FAX (314) 993-0676.

Cable tie mount

ABM112 adhesive-backed cable tie mount secures wire bundles and other light objects to smooth surfaces. The mount features a 1.12-21.12-inch footprint, and a 2-up configuration speeds adhesive liner removal. A four-way bridge eases cable tie insertion. Nylon construction provides an increased flammability rating. The option of either rubber- or acrylic-based tape lets users select the proper adhesive for their application.

Panduit Corp., 17301 Ridgeland Ave., Tinley Park, IL 60477; FAX (770) 781-9076.

Switch module

PowerMOD solid-state switch module is a compact, 9 kV unit that can be stacked up to 200 kV with a 1 to 100A current capability (opening and closing), dc to 400 kHz speed, and &50 ns switching. Featuring >99% switching efficiency or &20V per 9 kV module voltage drop, the module replaces vacuum tubes to eliminate arcing, emissions and outgasing, and cathode life limitations. PowerMOD operates at 9 kV input voltage and with &0.2% dissipation during each pulse. The module measures 72723 inches, and can be passively air cooled.

Diversified Technologies Inc., 35 Wiggins Ave., Bedford, MA 01730; FAX (781) 275-6081.

DeviceNet^TM

M- encoders Dynapar Model A25 and A58 absolute encoders feature a built-in DeviceNet^TM fieldbus interface that cuts installation time and troubleshooting, and provides encoder diagnostics. Cost and labor reductions allow consideration of absolute encoders instead of conventional incremental encoders. Minifast^(R) or manifold-style DeviceNet connectors eliminate manual wiring and trial-and-error troubleshooting. The encoders also eliminate third-party PLC cards, additional I/O and hard wiring to a PLC, plus PLC code development. Higher noise immunity, constant position signal, and automatic referencing of position upon startup or after power loss enhance data integrity and repeatability.

Danaher Controls, 1675 Delany Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031; FAX (847) 662-6633

Ultrasonic sensors

Microsonic SM100 Series ultrasonic through-beam sensors provide response times from 4- to 0.6-msec, performing object detection from transparent containers to holes as small as 13 mm or 1/2 inch at speeds of 2,000 units minute. Both cable and watertight connector-style models are available with a sensing range of 381 mm or 15 inches. The SM100 sensors are unaffected by splashing food, caustic cleaning solutions, high-pressure wash downs, humidity, dirt, and dust. Applications include detection of objects with round or irregular shapes and nonperpendicular profiles, container accumulation and backups, seams and splices, and holes in films and webs.

Hyde Park Electronics Inc., 1875 Founders Dr., Dayton, OH 45420; FAX (937) 258-5830.

Laurie Toupin on Computer Products

Pick of the issue

Axiomatic design software

Acclaro software enables companies to use axiomatic design more efficiently. Axiomatic design is a process for creating new designs and for diagnosing existing ones using four main concepts: domains, hierarchies, zigzagging, and design axioms. The software provides documentation and communication between members of the development team while facilitating the use of their current design tools. The software also diagnoses and offers recommendations, helping the engineers correct problems in existing designs. Acclaro allows for constraints such as critical performance specifications, interface, global object, project, and feature constraints. In addition, Acclaro links with other applications including CAD/CAE, simulators, analytical tools such as FEM, QFD, SPC, TRIZ, spreadsheets, and work processors.

Axiomatic Design Software Inc., 221 N. Beacon St., Boston, MA 02135; FAX (617) 746-9221.

CAM software

GibbsCAM '99 offers enhanced capabilities in six areas designed to make NC programming faster and easier for the CNC machine tool user. The milling enhancement integrates 2.5D material-only cutting into the module. Generation II Toolpath Engine generates a smoother, faster, and more efficient toolpath from a solid body with minimal vertical wall sensitivity. B-axis rotary positioning enables a user to program on either the A- or B-axis with 4-axis CNC machines. The improved user interface allows views to be switched without using the keyboard. A new solids import option allows users of GibbsCAM mill and lathe modules to read parasolid files and IGES solid model CAD files, and to visualize the part on-screen. And lastly, GibbsCAM '99 adds a new networking licensing option.

Gibbs and Assoc., 323 Science Dr., Moorpark, CA 93021; FAX (805) 523-0006.

Rapid silicon prototyping

Velocity RSP7+, a rapid silicon prototyping system, features reusable IP in addition to functionality that supports system, chip, and software development. The system targets users developing system-on-chip (SOC) designs, particularly ASICs for networking peripherals, virtual private networks, and systems requiring ARM-based control and wired connectivity. RSP7+ offers PCI and AMBA plug-in, FPGA prototyping, N-Trace embedded real-time trace, and numerous networking and connectivity interfaces. All Velocity IP is implemented in VLSI's HDLi (Hardware Descriptive Language Integrator) allowing for custom block configure, reusability, and push-button library migration from 0.35 to 0.20 micron process technology.

VLSI Technology Inc., 1109 McKay Dr., M/S 28, San Jose, CA 95131; FAX (408) 922-5245.

Data/storage system

ExtremeZ, an integrated storage area networking SAN solution, delivers accelerated access and sharing of large-size files for companies working in data-intensive fields. ExtremeZ SAN's fiber channel backbone delivers improved performance over traditional SCSI-based storage interfaces, while offering expanded cable length to ensure proximity to data, even when storage is physically located at great distances.

Intergraph Computer Systems, CR1105, Huntsville, AL 35894; FAX (205) 730-6445.

Memory expansion

Camingtonn announced memory for Silicon Graphic's recently released Visual Workstation 320 and Visual Workstation 540. The expansion will enhance the memory up to 1 GByte for the 320 and 2 GBytes for the 540.

Camingtonn Corp., 22 Morgan, Irvine, CA 92618; FAX (949) 830-4726.

Data acquisition software

LABTECH NOTEBOOK, NOTEBOOK-pro, and CONTROLpro data acquisition software are available for Windows NT and 2000. The multiprocessing feature allows multiple copies of NOTEBOOK and CONTROL to run on the same system. The priority-based scheduling capability, unavailable with packages based on DOS or Windows 95/98, provides users with a deterministic design that delivers predictable performance at the application and I/O level. Users have a universal, open standard that allows interoperability between the company's software and a large number of I/O devices. The object-oriented software environment requires no programming. LABTECH software includes real-time remote access to data via the world wide web.

Laboratory Technologies Corp., 2 Dundee Park, Suite. B09, Andover, MA 01810; FAX (978) 470-3338.

Interlinking PDMs

Product development management (PDM) software, WorkManager, is integrated with Parametric Technology Corp.'s Pro/-INTRALINK. As a result, WorkManager customers can initiate interactive sessions with Pro/INTRALINK, storing and downloading Pro/ENGINEER metadata, bills of material, and neutral files into the WorkManager shared vault. Pro/ENGINEER users can store short-term work-in-progress in their departmental Pro/INTRALINK CAD vault, transferring completed data and files into WorkManager for secure, global, enterprisewide access.

CoCreate, 3801 Automation Way, Suite. 110, Fort Collins, CO 80525; FAX (970) 206-8068.

Power optimization software

WattSmith is architectural-level power optimization software for power reduction in application-specific integrated circuits and standard parts (ASSPs) for system-on-chip design. The software replaces manual design currently required at the register transfer level (RTL) with specialized low-power expertise. WattSmith uses a modular, agent-based architecture to find power-reduction opportunities in large chips. A suite of WattBots, sub-programs designed to identify specific power-reduction opportunities, searches the RTL database. The software calculates available power savings and proposes a new design structure, while advising potential tradeoffs, such as area.

Sente Inc., 4655 Old Ironsides Dr., Suite 370, Santa Clara, CA 95954; FAX (408)654-5965.

Rick DeMeis on Test, Measurement & Control

Commentary: Lean on us

The editors here at Design News are an eclectic bunch-just go to our website, www.designnews.com, and find out for yourself. You'll see that many of us are engineers ourselves. So when we compile each issue's product section we apply our engineering judgment in deciding which of the latest industry offerings may be significant to helping you solve your design problems. And we try our best to share our knowledge and experiences with you.

This is no mean feat, since literally a dozen or so new products cross each of our desks every day. While we are not able to test these in a working environment, the develop-ments we followbased on reporting news and talking to vendors, their customers, and users like yougive us a heads-up in filtering this flow and determining what may be of value as you design products and systems. As part of this effort, we'll often visit leading manufacturers to not only see what new devices they are offering but to view their facilities and talk with design engineers to find out current trends. We find out information not only about their markets but in the way they design products, bring these products to market, and do business.

In fact, I'm writing this column after returning from all- day briefings and product demonstrations at electronic-component maker Omron in Schaumburg, IL. While several of their recent offerings will find their way into this column in the next few weeks, what was also noteworthy was the way in which they see markets changing for such products as switches and relays.

Product Specialist Steve Verrett notes that large OEM customers want to see the components they buy meet global standards and be supplied, and supported, worldwide. Product Manager Mike O'Brien adds an interesting corollary to the accepted trend of shrinking components: Design engineers not necessarily looking for components with smaller footprints. They are seeking greater performance and capabilities within sizes that they are used to working with, and at the same price. And some customers are almost virtual manufacturers who only design and sell their productsthey outsource production, as well as prototyping.

So suppliers, such as Omron, must be ready to satisfy technology not only the ultimate customer, but to supply, on a timely basis, an OEM's subcontractors. These business partners and facilities may be located anywhere around the world where production efficiencies may reside.

So for products or trends, lean on us to give you a first look at what's new, and where, in the global scheme of things. In the end, all this technology development is taking design engineering.

Comments on test, measurement & control? Rick can be reached at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

Active probes

Electronic real estate is getting tighter and tighter. Thus, the simple idea of easing access to circuits for test and measurement can have a big impact on design-testing time, productivity, and convenience. Tektronix' P6248 1.7-GHz active differential probe and P6249 4-GHz single-ended active probe both have a low-profile form factor that allows probing of circuits with pad spacing as small as 0.010 inchgiving circuit de-signers greater access for signal acquisition in increasingly tight-packed circuits. Both are aimed at signal acquisition in microprocessor systems and permit fast rise times to be measured and captured, as in gigabit Ethernet and IEEE 1394 Firewire. The P6248 can be used with developing technology like RAMBUS and has two attenuation settings: 1X providing 1.7 GHz and 10X providing 1.85 GHz. The P6249 has a dynamic range of 3.5V.

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

Data logger

The shirt-pocket-size Byte Bucket^TM data logger has a 48-MB flash-memory, for ease of transport and storage, and uses standard AA batteries or a 3V dc adapter. Battery operating time is 72 hours. The device can be used in stand-alone test applications using its analog channels. When connected to existing test equipment, it will provide data storage via its RS-232 ports, along with eight analog channels.

Analog & Digital Peripherals Inc., Box 499, Troy, OH 45373; FAX (937) 339-0070.

Digital thermometer

DS1775 digital thermometer and thermostat comes in a compact SOT-23 package and requires no external components. Temperature range is -55 to 125C with an accuracy of +/-2C throughout the 3 to 5V power range. Readouts are adjustable from 9 to 12 bits (0.5C to 0.0625C) of resolution. Thermostat settings are user definable and data is read from and written to using a two-wire serial interface.

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

PCI exerciser/analyzer

The E2928A 32-/64-bit exerciser and analyzer is compliant with the 66-MHz PCI specification. The device combines the capabilities of a 64-bit exerciser, timing analyzer, and protocol checker. The single-slot PCI card features complete PCI state analysis, real-time protocol checking, and provides a full range of bus performance statistics, and also contains graphical user interfaces that can be tailored to specific applications.

Hewlett-Packard, Test and Measurement Organization, 5301 Stevens Creek Blvd., MS 54LAK, Santa Clara, CA 95052; FAX (800) 800-5281.

Micrometer calibration

Depth Chek is designed to aid the setting and calibration of depth micrometers. The device is first-tier traceable to NIST and is compliant to ISO10012 and Guide 25 requirements.

Glastonbury Southern Gage, 184 Commerce St., Glastonbury, CT 06033; FAX (860) 633-0054.

Hybrid oscilloscope

DL-708 hybrid oscilloscope combines the functions of an oscillographic recorder and digital oscilloscope. The device eliminates redundant test equipment and has eight working channels routed through removable, isolated input modules. A 2.1-GB internal hard drive records waveforms, allowing data archiving or temporary storage for future analysis. Data can also be downloaded to external drives and PCs via SCSI and GPIB interfaces. A history memory feature permits storage of up to 1,000 waveform screens, which can be scrolled through for comparisons.

Yokogawa Corp. of America, 2 Dart Rd., Newman, GA 30265; FAX (770) 251-2088.

John Lewis on Motion Control

John LewisRegional Editor

For more information on motion control, John can be reached at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

Linear slides

Microslide crossed roller bearing linear slides provide low-friction motion, increased mechanical stiffness and long-bearing life with dynamic loads up to 980 kg. The linear slides are available in widths from 50- to 150-mm with travel spans up to 600 mm. Microslides are composed of aluminum for corrosion resistance or cast iron for low co-efficient of expansion. A side-lock option provides increased design flexibility. Dual-carriage slides are available. Applications for standard slides include laser cutting, test and inspection, optics, electronics assembly, and medical equipment.

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

Servo/stepper controllers

Euro 205 uses field programmable gate array technology for one to four axis servo/stepper motion control. This CE-compliant Eurocard controller measures 6.7 inches 3 5.1 inches 3 1 inch (170 3 29 3 25 mm) and allows any configuration of servo and stepper motor axes. Addition of an expansion connector allows fifth axis control. User programs, written in multi-tasking Basic, and applications can be developed using Windows-based Motion Perfect. Complex motion profiles are available and can be linked to a master encoder input for slaving, gearing, and cams. The unit has 24 opto-isolated digital I/Os (16 inputs/8 outputs) on board.

Trio Motion Technology, Unit 2, Empire Way, Gloucester GL2 5HY, United Kingdom; FAX +44 0 1452 311884.

Spur gearmotors

Customizable to meet application-specific torque, noise, output shaft, and cost requirements, spur gearheads can be combined with brush-commutated dc motors to deliver up to 500 oz-inches of torque at the output shaft. Gearheads range from 1.37 to 2 inches diameter and 0.97 inch to 1.528 inches in length with reduction ratios from 5.9 to 4732.5. Standard gears can be replaced with cut-steel or hybrid-cluster gears for high-torque applications. A special pinion gear is available for applications requiring quiet performance. Gearmotor output shafts can be customized with slot, groove, cross hole, swage, or pulley options.

Pittman, 343 Godshall Dr., Harleysville, PA 19438; FAX (215) 256-1338.

Steppers/drivers

PULSTAR-V motors and drivers use high-energy rare earth magnets to provide holding torque from 105.5 to 972.1 oz-inches (7.60 to 70 kg-cm), double the usable torque of typical NEMA 23, 24, and 42 stepping motors. Features of these low-inductance steppers include high accelera-tion and full- and half-step capability. A full step angle of 0.72 degrees (500 steps) and a half step 0.36 degrees step angle (1,000 steps per revolution) at 55 arc-min enables precise positioning without loss of torque. A UPS53 STAR driver and integral power supply is supplied with each stepper motor. Applications include robotics, pick-and-place, x-y stages, medical equipment and semiconductor manufacturing.

Nyden Corp., 2610-B N. First St., San Jose, CA 95134; FAX (408) 232-7700.

Linear actuators

FKR12 Series linear actuators integrate the linear motion guide with the driving ball screw to provide high rigidity and accuracy in a minimal space. The actuators accept NEMA 23 dimension motors/reducers without adapter flanges and allow NEMA 34 dimension motors/reducers to be mounted with additional adapter flanges. FKR12 actuators provide sensor rails for convenient EOT and HOME sensor mounting locations.

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

Linear guides

Redi-rail linear guides are composed of lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum rails with adjustable rolling element bearings. Sizes range from 30 to 65 mm with dynamic load capacities from 225 to 1,335 lb per slider. Wipers attached at each end of the slider keep contaminants clear of the shaft. Maximum speeds range from 980- to 1,575 ft/min. Rails are available in 19-ft lengths. Applications include packaging equipment, pick-n-place automation, guide doors for machine tools, and slides for access to electronic enclosures.

Pacific Bearing Co., 6402 Rockton Rd., Roscoe, IL 61073; FAX (815) 389-5790.

Karen Auguston Field on Power Transmission

Karen Auguston FieldExecutive Editor

Comments on power transmission? Karen can be reached at [email protected]

Brake

Brake for adverse applications features a dust-tight, waterproof housing with an extended durability paint to resist corrosion. Torque ratings range from 1.5 to 450 ft-lb. Options include a stainless-steel stationary disc, NEMA 4 housing, double-C face, and painting or plating of interior parts. Applications include winches, barges, deck and dock machinery, and communications satellites.

Dings Co., 4740 W. Electric Ave., Milwaukee WI 53219; FAX (414) 672-5354.

Pick of the issue

Lube-for-life ballscrew

A lot of power transmission technology has been around for, well, practically forever. But once in awhile something comes along that is truly revolutionary. That's the case with Thomson Industries' new self-lubricating ball screw, which the company claims is the first such product to include a feature of this type. The lubricating element, made from an oil-impregnated, anti-friction polymer, is affixed to both ends of the ball nut. When in use, a thin film of lubricant is continuously dispensed inside the ball nut, rolling elements, and raceway, essentially eliminating the need for maintenance, auto-lube systems, and the like. In extremely high-duty applications, the element can be easily serviced or replaced. After introducing the product at the National Design Show in Chicago in March, Thomson reports that interest from the engineering community has been "phenomenal.''

Thomson Industries, 2 Channel Dr, Port Washington, NY 11050; FAX (516) 883-9039.

Tin-can motor gearhead

Gearhead for the PF Series tin-can motor allows for increased torque while maintaining a small package size. Diameters range from 25 to 55 mm; a thin version measures 35 to 42 mm. Gear ratios from 6:25 to 1:300 are available. Common winding/gear ratios for the 25-mm-size motor are shipped from stock and the 42 and 55-mm versions are built in low quantities for quick-turnaround, says the manufacturer. Applications include chart recorders, medical devices, and laboratory instrumentation.

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

Positioning stages

Micro Plus positioning stages feature a compact design with a high-performance ball screw and linear bearing, allowing speeds up to 1.5 m/sec. Recirculating linear ball bearing features a ready-to-mount design for easy installation on servo or stepper motor and high load carrying capacity, says the manufacturer. Options include an integral motor design, linear or rotary encoders, fail-safe brake, end-of-travel and home limit switches, and multi-axis mounting. Applications include machines that require high speeds and long travel distances.

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

Torsionally stiff couplings

X Series couplings feature high torsional stiffness, low radial loads, one-piece integrity, and zero backlash, says the manufacturer. Also, the coupling has the ability to sustain substantial parallel misalignment, reducing the need for precision alignment during assembly operations. Designed to be a low-cost alternative to bellows-type couplings, typical applications include high-performance motion control systems involving servo technology.

Helical Products Co., 901 W. McCoy Lane, Santa Maria, CA 93456; FAX (805) 928-2369.

Gary Chamberlain on Plastics, Metals & Other Materials

Gary ChamberlainSenior Editor

Comments on plastics, contact Gary Chamberlain at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

Polyolefin-based foam

SenFlex^(R) polyolefin foam combines Dow Chemical's INDEX^(R) Interpolymers with a proprietary, patented metallocene foam technology to produce a thermoplastic polymer based on the copolymerization of ethylene and styrene. The materials have densities as low as 1-2 pcf (16-32 kg/m³). Available in bun form, continuous rolls, or planks, the materials are targeted for gaskets and seals, computer and electronics packaging, and automotive impact protection.

Sentinel Polyolefins LLC, 70 Airport Rd., Hyannis, MA 02601; FAX (508) 775-5220.

Utility stainless steel

Duracorr, an 11% chromium, dual-phase stainless steel can be produced to a 50-ksi minimum yield strength, making it easy to weld and form. The material comes in standard plate and sheet gauges from 0.157 inch to 3 inches and widths to 126 inches with hot-rolled or pickled finishes and mill, sheared, or plasma-arc cut edges. Applications include mining, transportation, agricultural, and wastewater-treatment markets.

Bethlehem Lukens Plate, ARC Building, 139 Modena Rd., Coatesville, PA 19320; FAX (610) 437-3707.

Medical-grade PEEK

Advanced biomaterial polyaryletherketone, PEEK-OPTIMA LT, meets medical product performance criteria for implants and other medical applications. The material's inherent lubricity helps prevent implants from cavitation on the bone. Polymer also can fill very thin walls in heart-valve components. In addition to biocompatibility, the material exhibits bone-like stiffness, fatigue resistance, and radiotranslucency, targeting it for use where titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chrome alloys can also be applied.

Victrex USA Inc., 601 Willowbrook Lane, West Chester, PA 19382; FAX (610) 696-5702.

Polycarbonate film

Makrofol^(R) DE VLG 7-1D polycarbonate film retains a first-surface, 4-unit gloss after forming and molding operations, eliminating the need to perform extra processing steps, such as applying first-surface texture coats, to control the appearance of the finished part. The film is available in 0.010, 0.015, and 0.020 inch thicknesses with a first-surface velvet texture and second-surface gloss texture, or in 24 3 48-inch sheets and 48-inch rolls. Targeted applications include: nameplates, appliance dials, electronics, or wherever a lowglass is desirable.

Bayer Corp. Plastics Div., 100 Bayer Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15205; FAX (412) 777-4889.

Volume-use elastomers

VersaSil³ high-consistency elastomers are for volume users who demand maximum flexibility. A three-part system permits adjusting the cure rate and table life to various fabricating requirements. Series produces tough, durable elastomers with nominal Shore A durometers of 30, 50, and 70. Base stocks may be blended to produce elastomers with intermediate durometers or other physical properties.

NuSil Technology, 1050 Cindy Lane, Carpinteria, CA 93013; FAX (805) 684-8780.

Chuck Murray on Fluid Power

Charles J. MurrayRegional Technical Editor

For comments on fluid power, contact Chuck at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

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.

Vane motors

The new 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 designed 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.

Inert valves

Inert valves control a wide range of industrial fluids, including corrosive or high purity liquids. Typical applications include various biotechnology and analytical and clinical instrumentation applications, medical equipment, sterilizers and reprocessors, bottle filling machinery, aerosol equipment, and more.

Valcor Engineering Corp., 2 Lawrence Rd., Springfield, NJ; FAX: (908) 753-5402.

Ball valves

Generation II ball valves offer an all-plastic design that features a lead-free connection. A true ball valve design improves sealing and enhances reliability. The design also provides bi-directional flow, allowing for full flow across the valve in either direction, thus eliminating pressure drops and restricted flow rates.

Parker Hannifin Parflex Div., FAX (330) 296-0675.

Mobile valves

Stackable SB 12 mobile valves (load sensing) are designed 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.

Air blower

Multiflow lightweight, quiet-running variable flow air blower is for vacuum and pressures to 160 IWG (8 IHG) and flow rates to 180 scfm. The air blower can be used in a wide range of markets including printing, packaging, plastics-film processing, fume venting, food and pharmaceutical processing, and as well as material handling.

Ametek Rotron Technical Motor Div., 75 North St., Saugerties, NY 12477; FAX (914) 246-3802.

Bus scanner

ScanUSB is an integrated, single-chip USB scanner solution, replacing several typical USB components, such as scanner and stepper controllers, ASIC, buffer memory, and most TTL logic. Thus, a typical scanner now requires only a stepper motor, A/D block, CCD/contact image sensor, and image-RAM components. The solution's feature set allows customization.

NetChip Technology, 335 Pioneer Way, Mountain View, CA 94041; FAX (650) 526-1494.

Rick DeMeis on Electrical/Electronic

Rick DeMeisSenior Editor

Comments on eletrical/electronics? Rick can be reached at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

A/D converter

THS1206 is a DSP-optimized A/D converter with on-chip, first-in/first-out (FIFO) memory, which increases its data transfer rate six times. Distributing the process interrupt latency over each sample in the FIFO allows for the improvement by bundling a large amount of data before interrupting for data transfer to the DSP. The device uses 16 words of on-chip memory to allow for more efficient data communication between the converter and a DSP. Applications include automotive anti-collision systems, wireless communications, motor control, and CCD-based digital imaging.

Texas Instruments Inc., Semiconductor Group, SC-99030, Box 172228, Denver, CO 80217.

Linear power supply

PSU 303 power supply features a positive and negative fixed rail, using linear regulator ICs with over-current and over-temperature protection. The PSU 303 uses an encapsulated transformer and screw terminal connections. With output voltages of +5V dc at 200 mA and -5V dc at 50 mA, the power supply operates at between 0 and 70C and is CE marked. The unit is 1.65 3 3.07 3 1.10 inches, targeting the power supply for use in compact applications.

Lascar Electronics Inc., Box 8204, Savannah, GA 31412; FAX (912) 234-2049.

Digital amplifier

Servostar 600, a digital amplifier for 400 and 480V 3-phase ac applications, has current ratings of 3, 6, and 10A with an integrated power supply. The amplifier does not require a transformer. Servostar 600 uses sinewave commutation techniques for speed control and high-speed operation. Multi-drop configurations allow a PC or PLC to communicate to the amplifiers through a single RS-232 connection to reduce system wiring and simplify connnectivity. Servostar 600's I/O is configurable. Installation and set-up are performed through a built-in parameter unit or the Motionlink graphical environment.

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

UML modeling tool

Real-time Modeler is a Unified Modeling Language (UML) package for up-front modeling of real-time systems and software. An entry level package, at $995 per single user license, the software allows engineers to get first-hand experience learning modeling and UML while providing a tool suite plus real-time extensions and automatic documentation generation in Word. Additional features include flexible multi-user architecture that stores models in a secure, scalable, and multi-user object repository which is open and accessible.

ARTiSAN Software, 820 Bay Ave., Suite 120, Capitola, CA 95010; FAX (831) 475-3195

Microcontroller architecture

PIC18CXXX 8-bit RISC microcontroller architecture allows reuse of software and hardware designs for embedded systems. The architecture offers up to 2 million bytes of program memory address space, 4 Kbytes of data memory, a C compiler development environment, and 10 MIPS performance at 40 MHz. While permitting migration of existing designs to embedded applications, users maintain their code and hardware investment via socket compatibility with existing printed circuit boards.

Microchip Technology Inc., 2355 West Chandler Blvd., Chandler, AZ 85224; FAX (602) 899-9210

Protocol stack

The iChip TCP/IP protocol stack is an Internet-ready IC that allows web browsing, e-mail, and networking to be added to devices. The device runs at 256 kHz and uses &3 mW power. CMOS-based, the iChip's stack functions as an accelerator between an Intel 80x or Motorola 68000 processor and the Internet or network that uses the TCP/IP protocol.

Seiko Instruments, 2990 W. Lomita Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505; FAX (909) 975-5699.

Resettable fuses

PolySwitch surface-mount polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) resettable fuses are 45% smaller with the same hold-current ratings as previously available models. The fuses also trip up to 50% faster (0.02 sec at 5A, typical) than comparable devices with similar performance. Six PPTCs in the series range from 0.05A at 30V to 1A at 6V within an industry-standard 1210 footprint (3.2 x 2.5 mm). The devices are wave-solderable. Applications include computers, industrial process control, and consumer electronics.

Raychem, Electronics OEM Components Div., 300 Constitution Dr., MS 110/2A, Menlo Park, CA 94025; FAX (800) 611-2323.

Personal workstation

VISUALIZE personal workstations are Windows NT^TM-based, featuring single or dual Intel Pentium^TM III and Xeon microprocessors and use the company's VISUALIZE fx graphics architecture. SDRAM memory ranges from 128 Mbytes to 2 Gbytes and mass storage can range from 6 to 36 Gbytes. The company says the workstations are up to twice as fast as comparable devices in applications geared to large models in complex workflow environments.

Hewlett-Packard, 3000 Hanover St., Palo Alto, CA 94304.

Transformers

Low Profile International (LPI) series transformer, rated at 9 VA, features pin-to-pin compatibility with the existing industry standard for low-profile transformers and meets VDE 0805. The device has 4,000V dielectric strength and uses a split-bobbin configuration to reduce electrostatic interference. Rigid pins allow easier board insertion, and the transformers are fully encapsulated for wave soldering.

Signal Transformer, Insilco Technologies Group, 500 Bayview Ave., Inwood, NY 11096; FAX (516) 239-7208.

Load cells

Model 3415 fatigue-rated load cells integrate into test machines using hydraulic actuators for cyclical load applications, such as vehicle dynamic simulation testing. Mounting threads attach directly to the actuator. The sensors deliver overall accuracy of 50.15%. Standard load capacities range from 5,000 to 20,000 lb. Nominal bridge resistance is 350m and cells can be powered by up to 20V dc. Nominal output sensitivity is 2 mV/V.

LeBow Products, 1728 Maplelawn Dr., Troy, MI 48084; FAX (248) 643-0259.

Jean Gonzalez on Sensors

Jean Young GonzalezWestern Editor

Comments on sensors, Jean can be reached at [email protected]

Pick of the Issue

Laser sensor

BOS-18M laser through-beam sensor can detect objects as small as 0.03 mm from 10 to 80 cm over a 50-mm range. The system consists of an emitter and receiver. A visible red laser light eliminates guessing beam location, and a large 10-mm diameter capture lens on the receiver enables mounting. The emitter beam can be focused and potentiometer sensitivity adjustment allows fine tuning. The sensor is powered by 10 to 30V dc and has a switching frequency of 6 kHz. The units can be used for dimension and feature checking, part positioning, and object and motion detection.

Balluff, 8125 Holton Dr., Florence, KY 41042; FAX (606) 727-4823.

Power supply

Intended for the K-BEAM accelerometer line requiring 9 to 18V dc excitation, the K-BEAM 5210 power supply is battery-powered and accepts an ac-dc power converter. A front panel offset adjustment allows trimming of the sensor bias level. The unit is sized under 4 3 6 3 1.3 inches, and the power supply's sensor connector is a 4-pin Microtech with a BNC-type output connector. Low battery condition is indicated by a red LED. Typical battery life from a 9V alkaline is 12 hours. A green LED indicates power converter operation. Standard gain is x1 with an accuracy of 0.5%. The unit accepts optional low pass filters and plastic enclosed.

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

Current-sensing relays

CR4395 Series current-sensing relays operate by routing the current-carrying wire through the opening extending from the top of the case. When the current reaches the level set by the trip-point adjustment, the electromechanical relay is energized. A precision voltage reference circuit ensures a repeatable trip-point. Features include an adjustable trip-point capable of monitoring different current levels, variable time delays, electronic isolation between circuits, and a calibrated dial option for viewing of the current trip-point. The series is available in ampere trip ranges from 0.010 to 100 ac A. Applications including electrical heater element monitoring, sensing motor over/under loads, detecting lamp burn-out, and indicating phase loss.

CR Magnetics Inc., 544 Axminister Dr., Fenton, MI 63026; FAX (314) 343-5119.