Electronic Products and Technology May 2013 by Annex Business Media

electronic products and technology -

electronic products and technology

MAY 2013

TEST

TEST & MEASUREMENT

& MEASUREMENT

TEST & MEASUREMENT AN EP&T SPECIAL REPORT PAGE 8

ELECTRONIC ENCLOSURES & THERMAL MANAGEMENT Page 18 HAMMOND MANUFACTURING

NANOTECHNOLOGY Page 24 XEROX RESEARCH CENTRE OF CANADA

EMBEDDED SYSTEMS & ENGINEERING SOFTWARE Page 28

FREE

SHIPPING

POWER INTEGRATIONS

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240 Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Business Information Group, 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9 circulation@ept.ca

ON ORDERS OVER $200!

DIGIKEY.CA 020312_FRSH_EP&T_CA_Snipe.indd 1

2/3/12 1:51 PM

EPT_0313_Layout 1 1/30/13 9:16 AM Page 1

Motion Control in Manufacturing Contrôle de mouvement en fabrication

PLC + HMI with Data Logging API + IHM avec enregistrement des données • More Compact and Affordable than Separate PLC and Operator Interface • Best of Class Graphics Display for Better Process Visualization and Machine Indication • Plus compact et économique qu'un API et un interface opérateur séparés • Meilleur afficheur graphique de sa classe pour mieux visualiser les procédés et les indications des machines

OCS XL Series/Série Starts at À partir de $445

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/ocsxl_series

Temperature/Process Controller Panel Panneau de contrôle de température/procédé

Web-Enabled Operator Interface Interface opérateur optimisée Web G303 Series/Série Starts at À partir de $595

CNI-CB120SB Starts at À partir de $600

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/g3_hmi303

Intelligent Relays Relais intelligents

EZ Series/Série Starts at À partir de $143

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/ezser_intrelays

Visit/Visitez omega.ca/cni-cb120sb

MD ®

omega.ca ®

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-1

976 Bergar Laval, Québec Canada H7L 5A1

e d i t o r i a l electronic products andtechnology technology electronic products and Volume 35 Number 3

May 2013

Stephen Law Editor 416.510.5208 slaw@ept.ca

Sohail Kamal

West Coast Correspondent

Joanna Malivoire

Peter Loney

Account Manager Direct: 866.868.7089 jmalivoire@ept.ca

Publisher 416.510.5207 pdloney@ept.ca

Nano, printable components loom large in future electronics In the natural progression of electronic consumables, it seems obvious that the components inside our beloved gadgets are fast-tracking to unimaginable footprints within the electronic engineer’s schematic diagrams. Serving to quell some of the conjecture that Moore’s Law appears to be slowing down or stall forever, printable electronics (PE) is poised to become a significant driver in the next wave of nano electronics. Thin, light weight, flexible and low-cost, PE as an emerging field is great for Canada because it lies at the intersection of two well-established Canadian industries: ICT and printing. The technology enables lower cost manufacturing of electronic devices that will transform industries and markets. The technology enables lower cost manufacturing of electronic devices that will transform industries and markets, according to Sylvain Charbonneau at the National Research Council. The global PE market is valued at approximately $2-billion in 2010 and is forecast to grow to $55.1-billion by 2020 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 40%, according to IDTechEx. Charbonneau is contributing an in-depth look at the PE market and Canada’s role in developing niches with an article that will appear in the June/July edition of EP&T. In this current issue, EP&T has special coverage dedicated to Nanotechnology, including insights from Jordon Wosnick, a senior scientist with Xerox Research Centre of Canada. Wosnick says much of the changes have been fuelled by intense R&D in the electronics industry, resulting in the evolution of chip designs

with ever-increasing technical sophistication. As part of Xerox Canada’s R&D program in printable electronic materials, the firm focused on designing inks that enable rapid printing of electronic devices on a variety of substrates, ranging from glass to plastic or even paper, while avoiding these potential pitfalls. While not yet equal to the performance of traditionally fabricated devices, printable electronic materials show considerable promise. Enabling future generations to dream big in a nano-centric fashion BlackBerry founders Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin have partnered again in Waterloo ON to establish Quantum Valley Investments, a $100-million private fund that will provide financial and intellectual capital for the further development and commercialization of breakthroughs in quantum information science. Lazaridis described the quantum research capability as the “Bell Labs of the 21st Century.” Lazaridis and Fregin believe that their investments and commercialization efforts will lead to new industries, jobs and value creation that will help transform the Waterloo Region into Canada’s Quantum Valley. We certainly hope so… Stephen Law, Editor slaw@ept.ca Follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/EPTmagazine

TECHNOLOGY IN CONNECTORS DESIGNED TO PERFORM Tracy Lelyk

Art Director Group Administrator 416.510.5120 tlelyk@ept.ca

AUTOMATION ENGINEERING

Tracey Hanson

Production Manager 416.510.6762 thanson@bizinfogroup.ca

Bona Lao

Subscription Inquiries 416.442.5600 ext 3552 blao@bizinfogroup.ca

Phyllis Wright

Print Production Manager

Bruce Creighton President

Circular Connectors Field attachable

Alex Papanou Vice President

Tim Dimopoulos

Executive Publisher

EP&T (Electronic Products & Technology) is published nine times per year: Monthly in February, May, August, September, October, Bi-Monthly January/February, March/April, June/July, November/December by:

BIG Magazines LP, a div of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd. 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto ON M3B 2S9 info@ept.ca Website: www.ept.ca Tel: 416.442.5600 Fax: 416.510.5133 Sales: 416.510.5207 • Editorial 416.510.5208

ISSN 0708-4366 (Print) • ISSN 1923-3701 (Online) Subscription Rates: Canada: $53.95 per year, US: $79.95 per year, International: $129.95 per year, Single copy: $15 (Canada); $20 (all others)

Editorial Purpose: Electronic Products & Technology provides timely, comprehensive coverage of the latest worldwide developments and trends in electronic products, equipment and systems, and interprets their significance to manufacturers and end-users in the Canadian marketplace.

Field attachable connectors from CONEC give you the freedom and flexibility to react to the cabling situation on site. Practical, cost-effective and above all, flexible solutions for quick cabling termination are required for both small series and special purpose machines. This program includes connectors and adapters – naturally with anti-vibration locking – in straight or angled, as well as in shielded versions. You can choose a cable diameter of 4mm up to 12mm. CONEC also offers a complete product line of overmolded cable assemblies, for details and specifications please contact us at: info@conec.com

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40069240 Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: EP&T Circulation Dept., 80 Valleybrook Drive, Toronto, ON M3B 2S9, Subscription Inquiries: 416.442.5600 x3548 • circulation@ept.ca EP&T (Electronic Products & Technology) assumes no responsibility for the validity of claims in items reported. © 2013 This publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form whatsoever without the express written consent of the publisher. From time to time we make our subscription list available to companies and organizations whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you do not want your name to be made available, please contact EP&T with your subscription number.

M12

Screw Connection

7/8“

Round 24

M12

Printed in Canada

SCAN HERE

for EP&T’s Digital Edition M8

CONEC Cooperation 125 Sun Pac Blvd. Brampton Ontario • Canada L6S 5Z6 Tel.: +1 905 790 2200 • Fax: +1 905 790 2201 info@conec.com • www.conec.com

SAL_Fieldattachable_ _.indd 1

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-2

2/20/2013 10:54:50 AM

003

400

representatives and distributors

NEWSWATCH N E W S WATCH NEWSWATCH electronic products and technology • may 2013

Helukabel expands into Canada

Global EMC adds laser testing to stable of services

Cable and wire manufacturer Helukabel, Elgin IL, continues to expand its North American operations with the opening of its Canadian headquarters in Mississauga ON. The new facility, located at 3620B Laird Road, unit 4, houses the Canadian corporate, sales and warehousing/distribution operations. “Canada’s continued industrial and renewable energy expansion made adding a domestic distribution center a logical choice to further enhance our services to the market,” says Alex Kanouni, general manager of Helukabel Canada. “Being centrally-locating in the Greater Toronto Area allows us to reach the entire country within a few business days.” With sales operations in Canada since 2008, product used to be shipped from the firm’s US-based distribution center in Elgin IL. With the opening of the new warehouse, 600 line items, including such popular domestically and internationally approved products as the TrayControl 600, TrayControl 530, TopFlex 600 VFD, JZ-602, and JZ-603, will be available for immediate shipment. Customers will also have the added convenience of receiving quotes and purchasing product using the Canadian dollar based on meter length measurements.

With the most recent addition of testing services provided by Global EMC Inc., Gormley ON, the firm claims now to be the only lab in Canada to provide CBTL services for laser and LED clients. Global EMC can test and provide CB reports for IEC 60825-1, IEC 60825-2 and IEC 62471 standards. All testing is performed in house with state of the art equipment. Global EMC’s focus lies in testing for the telecom, medical, industrial, aerospace, military and related markets; delivering experience testing for products being released in North America, Europe and markets around the world. Global EMC’s laser specialist are Ashwani Malhotra, P. Eng. an accredited laser engineer serving the Canadian laser market and Tiki Wong a 30+ year veteran from the testing and certification provider CSA. Both are accredited to carry out testing to CB scheme and/or CE Mark specifications for the European market and to CDRH requirements for North America. Wong is also a member and auditor of the CB scheme and a contributing member to standards body.

Alten Group creates beachhead in Montreal-area

After 22-years in the electronics industry, Kevin Clare has launched Smart SMT, Newmarket ON, focused on equipment and process solutions for electronic assembly operations. Building on his extensive past experience in the field, Clare will continue to serve as a manufacturers’ representative on capital equipment, while also distributing KOKI solder products and providing technical support in Canada and the US northeast. “For many years I have enjoyed working in this industry with our customers and suppliers. The company’s name might be new, but most others things remain the same or improved,” Clare says. “Most importantly, I will try to keep the number of lines low to continue to support customers as I always have - 110% and beyond.” Smart SMT is also representing Toronto-based KJ Marketing Services, providers of laser cut stencils and laser micromachining.

The Alten Group, a European leader in technology consulting and engineering (TCE), has established its Canadian head office in Montréal. The firm is currently recognized as one of the best employers in France, and is planning to create 200 specialized jobs in the Greater Montréal region within the next three years. The new subsidiary is planning mainly to offer its services to companies in Québec, the rest of Canada and in North America that are active in the aerospace and information and communication technologies (ICT) sectors. “We find all the know-how of the Alten Group in Montréal. This city has a pool of talent for our industry with top-notch universities and engineering schools. This is key to developing and strengthening our Canadian presence,” says Maxime Leca, the director of Alten Canada. “In addition, the region excels in several cutting-edge technological fields and provides a very competitive business environment.”

Sealing Devices adds coverage in Ontario Sealing Devices Inc., Lancaster NY, authorized stocking distributor and fabricator of sealing products in North America, recently appointed Brian Hantzis to the position of technical sales territory manager in Ontario. Hantzis will leverage his 30-years of EMI shielding and thermal management expertise to provide product recommendations and design assistance to his customers.

Industry veteran launches production supply firm

Displaytech named authorized Microchip design partner DTech – Canada, a division of Displaytech Ltd., San Clemente CA, has been named as an authorized Microchip design partner and recognized for exceptional hardware and software engineering expertise. Focused on Microchip PIC24 and PIC32 microcontrollers, Displaytech provides services from simple technical support to complex product design for embedded devices that feature a Displaytech color TFT or embedded LCD modules. Microchip has also identified Displaytech as a ‘Specialist’, recognized as a graphics design expert for embedded TFT LCDs, a unique trait among LCD manufacturers.

Adetel Group joins with Varitron to create jobs In conjunction with the creation of an official Canadian footprint, Adetel Group, a French firm specializing in the design of onboard electronic equipment, has signed a strategic partnership with contract electronics manufacturer Varitron Technologies, Longueuil QC. As a resultof the deal, Adetel Canada, plans to create approximately 100 specialized jobs over the next three years. “This enables us to respond to ever-increasing demands from our clients, whose security requirements are continually growing,” says François Sébès, president & CEO Adetel. “Our partnership with Varitron provides us with powerful and effective test tools which we can offer to our clients in the rail and aeronautics sectors to ensure performance that is unequalled in terms of operational security.” The Varitron Group has invested $3-million to optimize production space and double the area of its head office.

a member of

EML to represent EIS Wire in Western Canada

Leister Blake to distribute New Design Technology

Calgary-based manufacturers’ representative EML has signed an agreement to represent EIS Wire & Cable, South Hadley MA, producers of custom cable and bulk wire products for various applications and industries. EIS is practicing lean manufacturing throughout the production processes and provide private labeling for various products. While the majority of EIS’ cables are 300V and 600V with a temperature range of -25C to +125C, the firm also provides flexibility with the conductor, insulation, shielding, and jacket materials.

New Design Technology (NDT) of Shenzhen, China, has appointed Leister Blake Enterprise Ltd., Port Coquitlam BC, as its exclusive distributor for Canada. NDT manufactures touch button products that can not only sense touch, but can also sense the proportional amount of force applied when touching a button. The touch buttons can be operated with fingers, gloves or any stylus and work very well even when the touch button surface or the fingers are wet.

Phoenix Contact ‘connects’ with UofT solar car With the intention of improving the robustness a project undertaken by some university students, Phoenix Contact Canada Inc., Milton ON, threw its hat in as a key sponsor of Blue Sky Racing’s electrical car system at the University of Toronto. Early last year, Phoenix Contact sponsored the team with connectors and headers for their initial electrical testing. More recently, Phoenix Contact agreed to expand its sponsorship to the entirety of the team’s telemetry connection needs, including cables and connectors for the CAN bus and peripheral connections. Once the student team had laid-out the wiring in the CAD model of the new car the Phoenix team integrated the electrical system after the aerobody was built.

Lytica appoints Tayles as VP sales and marketing

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-3

Ottawa-based Lytica Inc., developer of Freebenchmarking.com and other ‘knowledge power tools’ for supply management within the electronics component buying industry, recently appointed Mark Tayles to the position of vice-president sales and marketing. “Lytica has been successful in bringing its supply chain knowledge power tools to market. We are now rapidly expanding their use in new verticals and across a broader scope of a product’s life cycle,”says Lytica president Ken Bradley.

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-4

130329_SERV_EP&T_CA.indd 1

3/18/13 10:18 AM

products on review

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Wire stripping machine cuts automatically

Pluggable ground connector solves equalization

MegaStrip 9650 automatic cut and strip machine has a modular design and wide range of processing capabilities with fast feeding speeds and high stripping forces. The powerful, precise unit provides high productivity and performance, combined with ease-of-use utilizing extensive libraries of predefined cable types, processes and operations. SCHLEUNIGER

Han GND (Han-Ground) connector series is an interconnect solution for potential equalization, making it possible to create grounding systems with pluggable connections. Devices provide quick and error-free assembly and installation. Product’s singlepole, slim design includes a robust green and yellow plastic (polycarbonate) housing and module designed for fine stranded wires from 10 – 35mm² (6 AWG – 2 AWG). Device is IP 65 compliant and rated for ambient temperatures ranging from -40C to +125C. HARTING CANADA

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-40

1600W power supply delivers 92% efficiency with digital controls RFE1600 Series 1600W single-output ac-dc power supply in a low profile package (less than 1U high) for stand alone or distributed power architectures (DPA), has an output voltage that is user adjustable. Unit provides operating efficiencies of up to 92% minimizing wasted heat dissipation and system cooling issues. Product has a universal input of 85 to 265Vac with PFC. TDK-LAMBDA http://ept.hotims.com/45998-41

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-43

High density Combo D-SUB connectors meet IP67 grade D-SUB connector program includes high density layout types available in two variations, unsealed versions for indoor applications and in the solid body IP67 rated version well suited for outdoor harsh environment applications, IP67 in mated condition. Devices in the solid body configuration meet the IP67 protection grade. More stringent protection grade can be provided. A variety of mounting options are available, straight and right angle contact configurations. Devices come with UNC 4-40 threaded mounting holes and are supplied with stainless steel hex locking bolts for rear mounting. Products provide configurations that can be populated with power, coax, high voltage and signal contacts. The layout types are 15W4, 19W1 and 45W2. CONEC http://ept.hotims.com/45998-44

Bi-Lobe connectors built to standard Mil quality Bi-Lobe connectors are built to MIL-DTL-32139 design specifications, providing high reliability with Mil. Spec. performance using firm’s ‘Spring Pin’ and socket system at 25Mil pitch. A captive jackscrew system smoothly pulls the fully shrouded nickelplated connector shells together, assuring scoop-proof mate and de-mate alignment. Designs include, wire to wire cabling with up to 30 awg, teflon stranded wires for highly flexible, miniature interconnections that can carry up to 1 Amp of current. OMNETICS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-45

Versatile power entry comes with custom wires KFA power entry module with IEC C14 inlet, EMC filter, fuseholder and optional voltage selector, can now be supplied with custom wiring for optimized cost, integration, and speed of assembly. Product is available with standard or medical filters in rated currents of 1, 2, 4, 6 and 10A at 125/250 Vac with UL/CSA, ENEC and CCC approvals. The 2-pole fusedrawer is available with or without voltage selector for 5x20mm fuses. Device comes in two styles: fingergrip or extra safe. The extra safe version prohibits users from removing the fusedrawer, while the power cord is plugged into the equipment. SCHURTER http://ept.hotims.com/45998-42

Panel mount sounder certified to Zones 0, 1 and 2 E2S IS-pA1 panel mount sounder is certified for use in Zones 0, 1 and 2, suitable for use as fault indication or process alarm in control panels located in intrinsically safe environments. Device produces a 90dB(A) @ 1m continuous 2600Hz tone that can be pulsed externally to produce different signals. Intrinsically safe IS-pB1 panel lights have been added to product range, as the audible signal sometimes needs visual reinforcement. EML http://ept.hotims.com/45998-46

west tech report

MDA - Creators of the RADARSAT satellite program leads the way both on land and in space MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) Ltd., Richmond BC, is a Sohail Kamal Canadian technology success story that has grown exponentially since its West Coast inception 40 years ago, emerging to become a pre-eminent global comCorrespondent munications and information provider. Formed in 1969, and now with 11 offices and 4,500 employees worldwide, MDA has a long history of being a technology powerhouse, with diversified offerings ranging from space, medical and nuclear robotics and earth observation to environmental monitoring, radar and optical satellite imagery and more. I recently had the opportunity to speak to Wendy Keyzer, corporate communications manager, about MDA’s story. MDA is one of BC’s most successful technology companies. What helped MDA achieve this success and stay competitive for over 40 years? “The key to MDA’s growth has been first to set a target to get to $100-million, then to $1-billion, then to $2-billion, and now to $5-billion,” says Keyser. She then talked about what it took to achieve these targets: “To get the leadership team to believe that it is possible, and get behind it and work on strategy to achieve the targets” was one of MDA’s key successes. MDA had to keep the leadership team together for many years, work diligently to remain strategically focused, while retaining flexibility on how to get there. “All plans have issues and need constant course correction and, at times, abandonment for a different plan,” Keyzer explained. What is your niche – what size companies do you serve? “MDA is a global communications and information company that provides operational solutions to commercial and government organizations worldwide,” adds Keyzer. “We focus on two markets: communications and surveillance and intelligence customers with strong repeat business potential.” As recently as March 28th 2013, MDA announced that it had signed another contract with the Canadian Space Agency valued at $81-million. Is there any technology news that MDA wants to share with our readership? “MDA’s robotic systems have played a critical role in the construction, activities and maintenance of the International Space Station for over 30-years.” says Keyzer. This contract, along with the announcement in early January 2013 of a $706-million contract with the Canadian Space Agency, will see MDA build, launch and provide initial operations for the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (RCM). The RCM contract is expected to extend over a period of seven years and brings MDA’s current backlog to approximately $2.9-billion as of January 9th, 2013. Keyzer described a few future innovations that we might see from MDA: “We are applying our space and advanced robotic expertise into exciting new applications for the medical and nuclear markets.” Any words of advice for a budding tech entrepreneur? “Stay focused on the end goal, and don’t fall in love with a specific plan or technology,” Keyzer says. Great advice from an organization with such a diverse range of service offerings and clients, and is one reason that MDA has become a Western Canadian technology giant leading the way both on land and in space. Vancouver EPTECH A quick reminder - the Vancouver Eptech Show takes place on June 20th at the Red Robinson Show Theatre in Coquitlam, showcasing exhibitors from all over North America. Hope to see you all there!

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-5

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

www.mouser.com The Newest Products for Your Newest Designs速

ORE.

The widest selection of the newest products. Primary Logo

Authorized distributor of semiconductors and electronic components for design engineers.

Mouser and Mouser Electronics are registered trademarks of Mouser Electronics, Inc. Other products, logos, and company names mentioned herein, may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Mouser_MoreSelection_EP&T_May.indd 1

4/15/13 4:53 PM

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Test & Measurement Benchtop boundary scan analyzer delivers versatile electronic test

Broadband amplifier enables EMC testing in microwave range

Agilent x1149 boundary scan analyzer is a versatile yet easy to use board test tool designed to help users through board design and validation, and reusing the same x1149 test in manufacturing. Unit provides an intuitive interface, making all information easily available on the screen. Product handles cover-extend technology and silicon nails capability, while also covering STAPL player for CPLD/FPGA tests. Product provides Scan Path Linker to link multiple chains into a single chain. AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES CANADA

BBA150 amplifier can be used for EMC testing up to 3GHz in line with common standards. Unit can be used for EMS measurements in line with the basic EN 61000 4 3 standard and referencing product standards. Amplifiers suit non-EMC applications in component production and quality assurance. Product’s compact, modular design enables the flexible setup of complete systems. ROHDE & SCHWARZ

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-47

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-48

Thermal cameras simplify machine vision inspection A5 and A15 models join firm’s Ax5 series of GigEVision thermal cameras, lowering the cost of thermal machine vision applications. Suitable for machine vision, the small, lightweight, low power and low cost units perform inspections that are otherwise difficult or impossible with regular vision cameras. Products provide 60Hz, fully temperature linear output to any GigEVision/GenICAM compliant software, enabling integration. FLIR http://ept.hotims.com/45998-49

Ethernet decode software aids in debugging 100/10BASE-T Ethernet decode software option is compatible with its wide range of oscilloscopes featuring bandwidths from 200MHz to 65GHz. Product decodes 100BASE-T and 10BASE-T Ethernet signals to examine each frame within a given packet, assuring pre-compliance with IEEE standards. Software aids in debugging issues that are not easily solved with a protocol analyzer, such as interoperability issues, uncertain error causes, and physical-layer issues. TELEDYNE LECROY http://ept.hotims.com/45998-50

10-bit commercial DAC samples at 25GS/s

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-6

TDAC-25 DAC combines digital-to-analog sample rate performance of 25GS/s, resolution of 10-bits and > 80dBc dynamic range. Device enables an enhanced level of integration, lowering the cost, size and power requirements of next-gen systems. In RF-based applications, device supports direct-generation of wideband signals, reducing complexity through the elimination of DAC arrays and frequency conversion blocks. TEKTRONIX COMPONENT SOLUTIONS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-51

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Best practices for designing

flexible test stations

By Dominique Fréchette, vice-president of engineering and business solutions, Averna Technologies, Montreal, QC

Can we afford to invest in a test station that only tests one product?

This is the question on the minds of many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and other high-tech device-makers today. In the past, when most electronics products had small feature sets and long shelf lives, it made sense to have a dedicated test station when you were producing high volumes with few changes over your product’s lifespan. On the other side of the test spectrum, such as in the military/aerospace (Mil/Aero) industry, low-production volumes, combined with high instrument costs, meant that test engineers had to get creative with the architecture and components in their test stations to maximize their usage. With hundreds of mission-critical elements to test in every aircraft or complex vehicle/system, it is prohibitively expensive to deploy a dedicated test station for each one. Given current market realities for consumer electronics and other mid- to highvolume devices – where large feature sets and short shelf lives are becoming the norm – many OEMs have seen the benefits of deploying more flexible, multi-product test stations like those pioneered in the Mil/Aero industry. Such stations allow OEMs to cover a wider range of evolving products and to get the most use from expensive test instruments. This article shares some of our teststation design insights and best practices gleaned from working with hundreds of OEMs in multiple industries over almost 15 years.

1. Decide on basic architecture A good starting point for designing a highly modular and adaptable test station is to identify which components you want to be ‘generic’ (in the sense they could be used for multiple products) and those that are product-specific. Your ultimate goal is to design a station that can cover a wide range of your testing needs over the mid- to long term. For example, identify which hardware and software components you need for

all your testing – such as standard instruments, a rack, a PC, a test executive and flexible cabling – and which you need for your specific products – such as fixtures and test packages/test code – as shown in the illustration. When designing your test station, we also recommend that you allow 30-35% extra capacity because your product features and testing needs will definitely evolve. This extra-capacity guideline applies to rack space, modular-instrumentation chassis slots, communication ports, switching channels, etc.

2. Maximize instrument usage As mentioned, the Mil/Aero industry tries to get the most value out of each test instrument because instruments typically represent the greatest expenditure in any test station. Other industries can follow that example by carefully choosing instruments that will provide longterm value, such as open-architecture, modular PXI instruments. When selecting instruments, you need to ask important questions like, Will they provide us with significant value over time for testing multiple products? and Will they be easy to swap or upgrade? For example, if production for Product A only occurs several days a week or several months a year, ensure that when you select your instruments, they are flexible enough to be used to test Product B, C, etc., when Product A is not in production. To help with the decision-making, consider moving any intensive product-specific testing requirements into your fixtures or software test packages so that your instruments can address wider and longer-term needs.

3. Implement swappable fixtures Many benefits can be achieved through the use of easy-to-swap fixtures. Instead of connecting fixtures directly to your instruments – which is time-consuming

and prone to wear and tear – implement an interchangeable test adapter (ITA), such as those available from Virginia Panel, MAC Panel or others. While a good mass-interconnect ITA can be expensive, it will really pay off because it creates a rugged interface between your expensive instruments and your unit-under-test (UUT) specific fixtures, allowing you to quickly change testing from Product A to Product B, C, etc. In the fixtures themselves, integrate all those product-specific elements – such as USB-JTAG downloaders and drivers – that you will only need for one product or even one iteration of the product. As well, you will probably have to consider adding some UUT-specific switching in the fixtures to avoid having to over-specify switching subsystems in the station; also plan to have a good switch controller in the station with all control lines routed to the fixture. In effect, you will need to solve more of your product-specific test issues with your fixtures – which are considerably cheaper than instruments – to ensure your test station has the widest possible application.

4. Use a standard test executive In a multi-product test station you will need a flexible test executive – such as

National Instruments’ NI TestStand – for your software architecture. The test executive sequences your tests and handles all your inbound and outbound test data. Think of it as your high-value software interface to help organize and execute your testing and, importantly, to easily integrate test packages for new or updated products. A further benefit of a standard test executive is easy integration of an off-the-shelf test-data management product to consolidate your test results and make them available in standard reports. By standardizing on one test executive you will also ensure that each of your test stations can be used by the maximum number of personnel, facilitating administration and operation. The last thing you want is to have highly customized – even unique – software architecture on each test station, complicating updates and troubleshooting, and exposing you to undue risk should the station’s software architect leave the company.

5. Calculate your return on investment As part of a next-generation teststation design process, it is of course important to do a detailed cost-benefit continued on page 13

Your Trusted

Calibration Service Partner

T E M P E R AT U R E • H U M I D I T Y • P R E S S U R E • E L E C T R I C A L • PA R T I C L E S • G A S

How does an A2LA accreditation benefit you as the customer? • Minimizes risk • Technical competence of staff • Provides confidence in the measurement results • Traceability of measurements and calibrations to national standards

AC C R E D I T E D

• Quality assurance of calibration data

1-800-567-8686 | www.alphacontrols.com

Serving Canadian industry for over 30 years

If the Alpha Controls insert is missing from this issue, please go to: http://ept.hotims.com/45998-7

w w w. e p t . c a

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

newswatch

Agilent launches 3-year standard warranty coverage Agilent Technologies Inc., Santa Clara CA, has unveiled its ‘bumper-to-bumper’ three-year repair warranty on all new Agilent electronic test instruments sold. The increase from one year of coverage is the result of ongoing quality initiatives that, from 2002 to 2012, yielded unprecedented improvements in product reliability and earned top marks in an independent customer survey rating RF and microwave product quality. “Our customers have come to expect the highest quality from Agilent,” said Eric Taylor, Agilent vice president, Electronic Measurement Group. “The three-year standard warranty is yet another way we’re helping them achieve their business, project and production goals.” Depending on the industry and application, a typical Agilent instrument is in service for eight years and sometimes much longer. To help customers sustain ongoing confidence in instrument performance and measurement accuracy, Agilent offers Assurance Plans for repair and calibration services. When included with a new instrument, these plans are available at a lower cost than when purchased later. The Agilent Warranty Assurance Plan is the lowest-priced, most convenient way to minimize disruption of instrument availability for five years. Beyond the extended coverage, this enhanced plan offers additional benefits such as calibration after repair, priority service, six-

month warranty extension if a repair is needed, and electrostatic discharge (ESD) and electrical overload stress (EOS) coverage. The Agilent Calibration Assurance Plans offer OEM-quality calibrations at the lowest price and ensure that instruments will function at their original specifications, giving customers ongoing confidence in the accuracy of measurements.

Tektronix enters power analyzer market Tektronix Inc., Beaverton OR, worldwide provider of test, measurement and monitoring instrumentation, will enter the power analyzer instrument market and introduce a full new product line in the coming months. To facilitate this move, Tektronix has implemented a technology transfer agreement that includes power analyzer intellectual property, patents and product designs from its partner Voltech, which will exit the power analyzer segment of its business by September 30. “This is an aggressive move by Tektronix into a dynamic, growing market segment in test and measurement,” says Amir Aghdaei, president, Tektronix; Danaher Group Executive. “Voltech’s IP combined with Tektronix’ strengths in technology innovation and development will allow us to introduce new category leading power analyzer products in the near term. This is an efficient way for us to expand our portfolio of products and to meet customers’ need for end-to-end power test and measurement solutions.”

THE NEW HMO 3000 SERIES

Pressure transducer boosts accuracy, stability and overpressure protection Setra AccuSense Model ASM ultra high-performance pressure transducer provides enhanced accuracy, stability and overpressure protection within demanding test environments. Unit improves linearity and stability, with full-scale end point accuracy of ±0.05%, or ±0.1% of reading. Units are available in ranges from -14.7 PSI to 1000 PSI, with choices of gauge or absolute pressures and 0 to 5Vdc, 0 to 10 Vdc, or 4-20mA outputs, as well as various pressure and electrical connector types, to suit exact user requirements. Overpressure protection of up to 2X proof pressure is standard. ALPHA CONTROLS & INSTRUMENTATION http://ept.hotims.com/45998-52

Switching and PXI control card is customizable GX6196 a 6U PXI switch and control board provides 96, DPST 2A relays, 8 digital I/O lines, and a serial digital interface for creating custom relay configurations and control interfaces. All switching and control resources are available via (5) inter-board connectors which interface to the user defined daughter / mezzanine board. The mezzanine board provides all connections to the unit under test (UUT) via two 78 pin D-sub connectors. GEOTEST-MARVIN TEST SYSTEMS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-53

Software permits remote control of batteryoperated portable PIM test analyzer Windows-based remote control software is added to PIM Master MW82119A highpower, battery-operated, portable PIM test analyzer. Software permits field technicians on the ground can control an MW82119A configured on top of the tower, making it easier and more efficient to conduct highly accurate Passive Intermodulation (PIM) measurements, especially for difficult-toaccess sites, such as Remote Radio Head (RRH) installations. The free-of-charge software is compatible with any laptop or tablet operating with Windows XP SP2 through Windows 7 64 bit. Connection to the PIM Master MW82119A can be made over Ethernet or compact Wi-Fi travel router. ANRITSU http://ept.hotims.com/45998-54

www.hameg.com | Great Value in Test & Measurement

Infrared thermometer measures while circuits operates 61-685 Infrared (IR) Thermometer provides non-contact capture of the surface temperature of mechanical equipment, electrical breakers and building systems from a distance, allowing preventive diagnostics to be performed while machinery and circuits are in operation. Unit lets contractors measure live circuits or moving parts from a comfortable distance to create a safer work environment. With its one-handed operation, product is simple and accurate to use. Unit provides a 12:1 distance-tospot ratio, a wide temperature range of -60C to 500C and a builtin laser pointer to identify the center of the measurement area. IDEAL INDUSTRIES http://ept.hotims.com/45998-55

Multi-channel hipot tester provides 10/4 channels Introductory Offer until October 2013:

HO3508 Logic Probe included

4 GSa /s Real Time, Low Noise Flash A /D Converter 8 MPts, Memory

oom up to 200,000:1

MSO functionality included, HO3508 [HO3516] Logic Probe with 8 [16] Logic Channels required Serial Bus Trigger and Hardware accelerated Decode including List View. Options: I2C + SPI + UART/RS-232 (HOO10/HOO11), CAN + LIN (HOO12) Vertical Sensitivity 1 mV/div., Offset Control ±0.2…±20 V

up to 500 MHz Mixed Signal Oscilloscopes 300 MHz | 400 MHz | 500 MHz

Future-proof due to Bandwidth Upgrade Option

Rohde & Schwarz Canada Inc. 750 Palladium Drive, Suite 102 | Ottawa, ON Canada K2V 1C7 Tel.: 1-613-592-8000 3267 sales.rsc@rohde-schwarz.com · www.rohde-schwarz.ca

Navair Technologies Inc. | #7, 6375 Dixie Road L5T 2E7 Mississauga On | Canada Phone: +1 905-565-1583 | Fax: +1 905-565-8325 sales@navair.com | service@navair.com · www.navair.com

Guardian 19020 multi-channel hipot tester provides 10/4 channels in one design, while delivering 10 sets of sync output and measurement. Unit provides ac, dc and infrared 3 in 1 EST test, with Master/ Slave link of 10 units maximum. Unit measures the hipot leakage current of all channels at the same time and conduct tests on up to 100 DUTs simultaneously. Product enables users to save space on the production line since there is no need to purchase multiple Hipot testers. CHROMA SYSTEM SOLUTIONS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-56

Digital radio test set supports LTE-A Carrier aggregation 7100 Digital Radio Test set supports LTE-A Carrier aggregation, combining two carriers with 2x2 MIMO enables CAT 6 data rate of 300 Mbps. Carrier aggregation allows multiple carriers to be added together, allowing wider channel bandwidths and higher data rates to be achieved. Unit supports all of the carrier aggregation scenarios specified in 3GPP Release 10, and is also ready for all those currently proposed for Release 11, as well as any other combination of two non-contiguous bands. AEROFLEX http://ept.hotims.com/45998-57

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-8

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

A million and one uses for today’s

voltage detectors By Colin Plastow, industrial product manager, Fluke Electronics Canada

The first electrical tester had a simple solenoid that pulled an indicator attached to a spring across a special voltage scale. The higher the voltage applied to the solenoid, the further the indicator would be pulled against the spring. High accuracy is not a big concern when installing lighting, switches and other common electrical wiring and equipment. Often, you just need to differentiate common voltages from one another. However, the problem is that solenoid testers are no longer safe to use by some electrical measurement standards, and many companies are outright barring them from the field and floor.

Today’s electronic voltage testers are rugged and compact in design, relative to their old-technology counterparts. Thus, they are easier to carry around and less likely to break. But these advantages pale beside the significant safety advantages that come from the far higher input impedance. Some of these have an input impedance of one megohm—about 100 times that of the best solenoid-based testers. Even at the low end of 20kilohms, an electronic voltage tester is still twice as good as the best solenoid-based testers. Simply apply Ohm’s Law, and the advantages become clear. You’re going

to be dealing with far less input current. That means more safety. It also means less time—if any—waiting for the instrument to cool between readings. They work at lower voltages and typically carry an IEC Category rating. They allow you to troubleshoot a wider range of problems— safer and faster. Non-contact voltage detectors are a quick, inexpensive way to check for the presence of live voltage on ac circuits, switches and outlets before working on them. Also known as voltage wands, sticks, ‘power sniffers’ or pens, they clip into a shirt pocket and “chirp” or glow

Voltage detector safety

Five reasons to give up your old solenoid tester n 1. A useful solenoid tester can measure up to 600V or more. Having the ability to measure higher voltages limits the tool’s ability to detect voltages below 100V, due to the poor dynamic range of its magnetics. Try using one on 24V or 48V control circuits, and you may as well be using a stick of wood. n 2. Solenoid-based testers can appear on the circuit under test as a load and interfere with its operation. For example, the Fluke T+ and T+PRO testers have higher input impedance than traditional solenoid-type testers, but not so high that they have problems with ghost voltages. n 3. The relatively high current draw of solenoid based testers means significantly more heat—enough that the testers can quickly overheat and even become damaged if you measure voltage too long. If you use a solenoid-based tester, allow for half-minute cool-downs.

when they detect voltage on exposed conducting parts or through insulation. These types of voltage detectors are designed for non-contact, live-not live voltage detection on electrical circuits found in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Incidental contact with live electrical conductors is not an issue as long as the detector is rated appropriately for the voltage level and the electrical safety category in which it will be used. In addition, the user must exercise safe work practices and wear any appropriate PPE required.

n 4. Solenoid-based testers generally don’t comply with the CSA 61010 electrical safety standard due to excessive current draw, poor dielectric withstand performance and impulse destruction from transients. When they fail, it can be catastrophic. Without CSA 61010 compliance, these testers also miss compliance with CSA Z462 or NFPA 70E and other standards that require appropriate safety ratings for the working environment. n 5. Applying Ohm’s Law to the low-impedance solenoid-based tester shows that you can easily carry a lethal current through the tester. Wearing insulated gloves can reduce the shock hazard, but you’ll also be risking an arc hazard each time. Solidstate testers, on the other hand, provide additional protection against this type of occurrence.

By telling you if a circuit is live before you work on it, voltage detectors provide a critical safety function. However, a circuit that shows as unpowered must be checked using a conventional contact measurement tool before assuming it’s safe to work on. Getting safe, reliable readings requires purchasing the right kind of voltage detector for your work environment and then following these 3 guidelines. 1. Always verify that the voltage detector is working properly before you rely on it. Use the detector to test a known live circuit both before and after you test an unknown circuit, and make sure it gives you the proper response. continued on page 14

11:48 AM Why not try a different approach before you head to lunch?

1:03 PM Your second board is ready to test.

10:05 AM Your first board is ready to test.

3:14 PM

9:00 AM

After a few tweaks, you’re ready to make your finished board.

Your circuit design is done and you’re ready to make a prototype.

4:09 PM Your finished board is ready to go.

5:00 PM Nice work. You just shaved weeks off your development schedule.

ProtoMat® Benchtop PCB Prototyping Machine What would your day look like tomorrow if you could cut yourself free from the board house and produce true, industrial quality PCBs right at your desk? LPKF’s ProtoMat benchtop prototyping systems are helping thousands of engineers around the world take their development time from days and weeks to minutes and hours. In today’s race to market, it’s like having a time machine. www.lpkfusa.com/pcb 1-800-345-LPKF http://ept.hotims.com/45998-9

w w w. e p t . c a

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-10

“You can’t beat an LPKF system for prototyping. We do up to three iterations of a design within a day.” Leonard Weber Agilent

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Passive model added to broadband probe portfolio

MIPI RFFE protocol-decoding software supports scope measurements

RT ZZ80 broadband probe provides a bandwidth of 8GHz to analyze electronic circuits and passive broadband probes. Serving as a cost-efficient, rugged alternative to active, high bandwidth probes, devices are suitable for testing transmission lines with low impedance (20 Ohm to 100 Ohm). Device performs precision analyses on electronic circuits and excels wherever the timing of fast signals must be measured accurately. ROHDE & SCHWARZ http://ept.hotims.com/45998-58

Software for decoding MIPI Radio Frequency Front-End (RFFE) protocol packets on oscilloscopes provides design and validation engineers with a fast, easy way to validate and debug RFFE interfaces. RFFE is a specification that offers a common method for controlling RF frontend devices, namely power amplifiers, switches, power management modules, antenna tuners and sensors. RFFE provides point-to-multipoint connectivity for control of the RF front-end and is able to scale to dozens of slave devices, which are connected to a single master device. AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/45998-60

Second vector signal transceiver extends instrumentation platform NI PXIe-5645R vector signal transceiver is built on a software-designed architecture that can modify with LabVIEW to meet users specific needs. Device adds a high-performance, differential or single-ended I/Q interface to test both the RF and baseband signals of a device with a single instrument for faster test times using the latest PC and FPGA technologies. Product provides 65MHz to 6GHz frequency range, 80MHz instantaneous bandwidth and 24 channels of high-speed digital I/Q. NATIONAL INSTRUMENTS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-59

Signal Integrity Solutions

350W amplifier serves variety 10Hz - 1MHz applications Model 350AH1 solid state amplifier is portable, self-contained, 350 watt/10Hz - 1MHz unit provides power, durability and dependability along with the versatility for a wide range of applications, especially where instantaneous bandwidth, high gain and moderate power output are required. When configured for IEC 61000-4-16 testing, unit functions as the RF section of the test setup. Product has both over current and over-voltage protection to avoid damage. The RISC microprocessor controller board provides IEEE-488 (GPIB), USB, Ethernet and asynchronous full duplex RS-232 communication control of all amplifier functions. AR RF/MICROWAVE INSTRUMENTATION http://ept.hotims.com/45998-61

Precision current loop calibrator simplifies HART test

You Designed It Right.

709H Precision Current Loop Calibrator provides ease of use tool with a user-friendly interface and HART capabilities that reduces the time it takes to measure or source, voltage or current and power up a loop. Unit supports a select set of HART universal and common practice commands. In the communicator mode, technicians can read basic device information, perform diagnostic tests and trim the calibration on most HART-enabled transmitters. Models provide an intuitive interface with dedicated buttons, a Quick-Set rotary encoder knob, and simple two wire connection for quick, easy measurements. FLUKE CANADA

We Can Prove It.

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-62

Superchannels Require A Super BERT

MP1800A 32G Multi-Channel BERT Cloud computing and video streaming are driving increases in server and storage transmission speeds. The transmission capacity of core networks is increasing rapidly to support these demands. The MP1800A SQA is a modular BERT with built-in Pattern Pulse Generator (PPG), Error Detector (ED), and Jitter Modulation Source to support 32G multi-channel BERT test. Also, boost your BERT with Anritsu’s compact MP1825B 4Tap

MP1800A Signal Quality Analyzer

EA eDIPTFT57-A intelligent display provides a rich feature set for implementation of interactive control with high-contrast color screen measuring 5.7” in the diagonal. Product has LED background illumination and a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. Kit includes an evaluation/programmer board, EA eDIPTFT57-ATP color display, USB cable, touch panel, plug-top power supply (with international adapters) and a mini DVD containing software. ELECTRONIC ASSEMBLY

Emphasis handling bit rates up to 28.1Gbit/s.

Visit us at: www.goanritsu.com/EPTproveit to download our FREE White Paper Accurate BER Tests Start with Instrument Quality Waveforms http://ept.hotims.com/45998-11

USA/Canada 1-800-ANRITSU

Europe 44 1582-433433

Japan 81 (46) 296-1208

Evaluation kit charts path to display development

Asia-Pacific (852) 2301-4980

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-63

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Light measurement software can be accessed from multiple devices

Flexible test stations

Integral Light Measurement Software suite enhances the way light measurement data is collected, analyzed and accessed. Product provides flexibility and adaptability, as there is no need to install the software on computers or mobile devices. Product runs seamlessly on the supplied Labsphere Cube and can be accessed globally from multiple devices using any HTML5-enabled browser and any language. The Cube is a small form-factor PC that acts as a server. By loading Integral on the Labsphere Cube, there is no need for users to install software on their own laptops, eliminating any compatibility issues. LABSPHERE

analysis to understand the upfront capital expenditures (CAPEX) as well as the longer-term financial savings and business advantages. The adjacent table presents a simple scenario where an OEM currently uses four test stations part-time (two for Product A and two for Product B). Instead, they could implement just three stations with swappable fixtures, allowing each station to be used full time to test either product, thus better aligning CAPEX with market demand and the organization’s priorities. Since new technology and business pressures are forcing many OEMs to rethink the ‘one test station per product’ paradigm, it’s a good time to consider implementing a next-generation test station – one that can easily be used across several product lines and lifecycle stages. As well, the more standardized your base stations, the more likely that multiple units

continued from page 9

Stations

Fixtures

Floor Space

Current Approach

Next-Gen Approach

Benefits

4x $250K*

3 x $300K

• Saves $100K in CAPEX

• All stations in use all the time

4 x $15K 4 x $20K

• More testing flexibility/ automation

• Less wear and tear on test station

4 units

• Saves 25% of floor space

3 units

* Figures are for illustration purposes only. Actual test station and fixture costs can vary widely.

like R&D, engineering, manufacturing and repair centres will collaborate, sharing product and station intelligence to achieve common and complementary goals. Finally, by designing a test station with multipurpose components such as modular PXI-type instruments, racks, cabling and test-executive software – and product-specific components such

as swappable fixtures and test packages – you will derive the greatest value from your test equipment, ensuring that it covers rapidly evolving feature sets and multiple products in the short term and for the foreseeable future. For more information on designing flexible test stations from Averna Technologies, go to http://ept.hotims.com/45998-67

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-64

PC oscilloscopes measure via USB 3.0 interface PicoScope 3207A and PicoScope 3207B PC oscilloscopes provide a USB 3.0 interface. Model 3207A is a 2-channel USB oscilloscope with 250MHz bandwidth, 1 GS/s sampling rate, 256 Msample buffer memory and a builtin function generator, providing digital triggering for accurate, stable waveform display and equivalenttime sampling which boosts the effective sampling rate to 10GSa/s for repetitive signals. Model 3207B has 512 Msample buffer memory and an additional 32ksample arbitrary waveform generator with 100 MSa/s update rate. Both scopes obtain their power from the USB port, so there is no need for an external power adapter. SAELIG http://ept.hotims.com/45998-65

Automated characterization software suite adds wafer-level testing ACS V5.0 update to Automated Characterization Suite (ACS) software is optimized for automated wafer-level parameter test applications, including automated characterization, reliability analysis, and known good die testing. Product specifically leverages the high power capabilities of firm’s Model 2651A (high current) and Model 2657A (high voltage) System SourceMeter SMU instruments to enable automated wafer-level testing of high power semiconductor devices like power MOSFETs, IGBTs, BJTs and diodes. KEITHLEY INSTRUMENTS

2013

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-66

If the Rohde & Schwarz insert is missing from this issue, please go to: http://ept.hotims.com/45998-12

w w w. e p t . c a

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Boundary-scan toolset covers most applications

Data acquisition stations increase input signals

JTAGLive Studio package of boundary-scan tools enables users to develop complete test and programming applications including debugging, testing and in-system programming. Toolset is capable of handling complex boundary-scan designs, lowering the cost of entry for test and hardware engineers, while providing the many traditional benefits of JTAG/ boundary-scan alongside newer technologies like processor-controlled test. JTAG

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-68

Small soil moisture data logger is battery powered OM-CP-SMR101A series soil moisture data loggers are small and battery powered in a weatherproof enclosure with high accuracy sensor and fast response time. Device includes a 4Hz reading rate, a multiple start/stop function, ultra-high speed download capability, 1,000,000 reading storage capacity, optional memory wrap, battery life indicator, optional password protection, and more. OMEGA

GP series data acquisition stations incorporate firm’s SMARTDAC+ Smart User Interface, Smart Architecture and Smart Functionality design principles. Product users can measure more input signals, save data for longer time periods and access that data more readily via touch display screens and an all-new real-time web browser interface. Model GP20 has a 12.1” touchscreen and up to 100 input channel capacity, while model GP10 provides a 5.7” touchscreen and up to 30 input channel capacity. Both are portable bench-top units that share the same performance specifications and standard high capacity SD flash memory data storage. YOKOGAWA http://ept.hotims.com/45998-70

Optical modulation analyzers support superchannel format testing OM4000 optical modulation analyzer series provides automated test support for 400G multi-carrier coherent optical modulation. Software option reduces test times for researchers working on 400G and faster coherent optical systems while providing the flexibility to define carrier count, carrier spacing and modulation formats. Product provides compiled carrier measurement results and multi-carrier visualization for integrated analysis. TEKTRONIX

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-69

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-71

Voltage detectors continued from page 11

The same practice applies to multimeters. If there is any doubt in your mind about whether the circuit is truly live or dead, use an additional method to verify the test results. You only have to be right once to make it all worthwhile. Some voltage detectors, such as the updated Fluke 1AC II, have a self-test function built-in that will verify whether the detector is operational. 2. Ensure that the voltage detector you are using is appropriately rated for the measurement environment you’re working in and is within the voltage range you’re testing. Industrial environments are generally CAT III or CAT IV. Not all voltage detectors are safety rated, however, and they’re not equally sensitive. Some detectors will read small levels of voltage that others won’t detect at all. Don’t assume that the detector you’re using now will perform the same as others you’ve used in the past. 3. Capacitive voltage detectors have certain limitations. Correct operation depends upon the capacitance between the detector’s barrel and ground (normally through your hand and body). If this path is broken for any reason, the detector probably won’t work. For example, if you’re standing on a wooden ladder, the capacitance between your body and ground will be much less than if you were standing on a concrete floor. To help avoid incorrect detector readings, find an installation ground that you can touch when using the voltage detector. Remember, in a series circuit, the smaller the capacitance, the greater the voltage drop: there might be too much voltage drop from you to the floor and too little across the detector. The detectors will also have a certain minimum voltage to turn on. In our wooden ladder scenario, the detector might not turn on despite the circuit being hot. By similar reasoning, the detector cannot detect live conductors inside a grounded metal conduit. For best results always hold the detector by the body and remember to keep your fingers away from the tip of the detector.

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-13

For more information on voltage detection from Fluke Electronics Canada, go to http://ept.hotims.com/45998-72

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

You never thought power supplies could do all of this.

U8000 Series DC Power Supplies N6705B DC Power Analyzer

Fortunately, we did. Built to the latest standards and technologies, Agilent DC Power Supplies are designed with more than just power in mind. And with over 200 power supply choices, imagine what you could achieve by adding one to your bench. • Ensure DUT safety with built-in safety features • Increase throughput with the fastest processing time in the industry • Gain insights with advanced analytics and scope-like display (N6705B) Agilent and our Distributor Network Right Instrument. Right Expertise. Delivered Right Now.

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-14

800-433-5700 www.alliedelec.com/agilent

To build a more powerful bench, download our power supply catalog at www.alliedelec.com/lp/agilentpowersupplies/

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Mixed signal oscilloscope boosts performance

Micro Vickers hardness testers incorporate optical systems

HMO3000 Mixed Signal Oscilloscope Series with up to 500MHz bandwidth improves performance at an attractive price. The 6 new model variants are available in a bandwidth of 300MHz to 500MHz with 2 or 4 channels. The standard MSO functionality allows user to analyze the analog channels plus up to an additional 16 digital channels. Unit provides a memory depth of 8MB which offers twice the capacity, and is now adjustable both manually and automatically. HAMEG

HM-200 Series Micro Vickers Hardness Testers incorporate optical systems for measuring indentation dimensions with an electromagnetic test-force loading device. Model HM-200 is equipped with a touch panel controller and available CCD camera (System A) or with an included USB color megapixel vision system supported by AVPAK software for automatic indentation measurement (SystemB). Unit is equipped with an electromagnetic test force device simplifying the precise settings of desired force, between 0.403mN and 19610mN (HM-220). MITUTOYO CANADA

Device measures light intensity, color for LEDs

VNA master handheld vector network analyzers deliver 15GHz coverage

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-73

PSR-3500 spectroradiometer with DARWin SP Data Acquisition software measures light intensity and colorimetry of LEDs. Product is lightweight, field portable, compact, fast and easy to use, while covering the spectral range from 350-2500nm. Fast operation is enabled by autoshutter, autoexposure and auto-dark correction before each new scan, without requiring an optimization step. SPECTRAL EVOLUTION

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-75

MS2027C and MS2037C VNA Master handheld vector network analyzers bring the inherent advantages of VNA Master to 15GHz frequency applications. Providing best-in-class measurement speed and high accuracy in a compact design measuring as small as 8.3x12.4x3.1 (inches), units are suitable for demanding field use environments. Product provides frequency coverage from 5kHz – 15GHz, specifically addresses complex cable, waveguide and antenna field test needs with accurate, vector-corrected 2-port magnitude, phase, and Time or Distance Domain measurements. ANRITSU

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-74

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-76

Waveform generator powers high speed test applications

Let Intertek

clear a path

AWG70000 Series next generation of arbitrary waveform generators provides up to 50GS/s sample rate performance. Unit provides combination of high sample rate, long waveform memory and deep dynamic range, while supporting a wide range of demanding signal generation requirements in defense electronics, high-speed serial, optical networking and advanced research applications. Unit combines a 50 GS/s sample rate performance, 16 GS of waveform memory and 10 bit vertical resolution. TEKTRONIX http://ept.hotims.com/45998-77

™

for your next innovation

You have a choice... get to market with greater speed and simplicity.

Whether it’s your first entry in a new market or an extension to a successful line, every product launch is critical to your profitability. That’s why more and more companies throughout Canada are choosing to partner with Intertek for safety and performance testing and certification. With more than a century of local experience behind such trusted marks as Warnock Hersey and the ETL Listed Mark (the fastest-growing safety certification mark in North America), Intertek is ready to help your products succeed in more markets sooner. One name gets you the local support and service you need to compete here in Canada, in the United States, or across the globe — Intertek. Visit www.Intertek.com/ChoiceInCanada today and discover how we remove the barriers and get you to market faster.

Compact instrument configured in kit Model R1L-BR1 bond meter is a purpose built, rechargeable battery powered portable instrument for ground bond measurements. Unit comes with BCP-10 Kelvin Probes and KAK-1M Kelvin Alligator Klips, all housed within a ruggedized case for protection during transport. Product has five ranges with full-scale values ranging from 2 milliohms to 20 ohms. Resolution on the lowest range is 1 microohm and accuracy is 0.25% of reading ± 1 count. Operating temperature range is 0C to 50C. Product can be used in a wide variety of applications outside the capabilities of other bond meters. TEGAM http://ept.hotims.com/45998-78

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-15

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

test & measurement

electronic products and technology • may 2013

WLAN one-box test solution increases throughput

Software delivers single-box RF test capability for LTE advanced carrier aggregation

E6630A wireless connectivity test set and multiport adapter helps wireless device manufacturers quickly and accurately test 802.11a/b/g/n/ac WLAN, Bluetooth 1.0 to 4.0, and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) technologies. Product supports multiple wireless connectivity formats: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac WLAN, Bluetooth 1.0 to 4.0, and GNSS (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, etc.) Product delivers fast and accurate measurements with the latest PXI hardware architecture, featuring up to two sets of source and analyzer pairs. AGILENT TECHNOLGIES

LTE Advanced Carrier Aggregation (CA) Measurement Software for firm’s MT8820C RF Tester enables analysis of leading-edge mobile devices. The option leverages the ParallelPhone Mode (PPM) dual-RF capability of the MT8820C to simulate inter-band and intra-band downlink Frequency Domain Duplex (FDD) CA with call processing. With the software installed, the single-box tester is capable to conduct three critical CA receiver measurements. ANRITSU

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-79

Precision multi-phase power analyzer boosts measurement accuracy on real-world signals PA4000 precision multi-phase power analyzer provides Spiral Shunt design (patent application submitted), delivering stable, precise current measurements even on highly distorted power waveforms common in many applications. Product rounds out the firm’s portfolio of oscilloscope-based power test offerings enabling an end-to-end solution that provides the performance to measure for conformance to regulatory standards. Unit combines ease-of-use, application-specific test modes and a full set of standard that includes communication interfaces and PC-based software. TEKTRONIX http://ept.hotims.com/45998-80

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-83

Auriga appoints Gap Wireless as reseller Leading provider of balanced RF and microwave solutions, Auriga Microwave, Chelmsford MA, has appointed Gap Wireless, Mississauga ON, as a reseller in Canada. “This is a great addition to our strong, international sales channel,” says Bruce Cohen, president and CEO of Auriga. “I have already had the privilege to engage in sales opportunities with Gap Wireless, as they have been incredibly professional and customer-centric—exactly the kind of sales organization I want representing Auriga.” “The Gap Wireless team is excited to be offering the Auriga product line, as their pulsed IV, component test system and line of high-power bias tees will be very valuable to our customer base,” says Marc Bouvrette, president of Gap Wireless. “We’re very proud of the product offerings we have, and we’ve gone to great lengths to make sure our suppliers can meet the demands of our customers, pre- and post-sale.”

Your question: Can the ¸RTO also perform logic analysis?

Trade In Program available until June 2013: Save up to 40 % on a new scope now! www.scope-of-the-art.com/ad/trade-in

Our answer: Yes! Test embedded designs quickly and accurately with the MSO option. A new hardware option turns the ¸RTO into an MSO. It provides 16 additional digital channels with an input frequency of up to 400 MHz. The advantages at a glance:

Portable data acquisition system measures remotely TraNET PPC data acquisition system provides highly accurate transient recorder technology in a portable, ruggedized system for in-the-field measurements. Available with up to 24 channels and sample rates up to 240MS/s, device enables precise data acquisition from multiple points simultaneously. System combines firm’s high-speed, LANcontrolled instruments with a robust industrial PC for flexible data acquisition in a number of harsh and mission critical environments. ELSYS

❙ 5 Gsample/s sampling rate for detailed signal analysis across the entire 200 Msample memory depth ❙ Extremely high acquisition rate of 200 000 waveforms/second for accelerated debugging ❙ Hardware-implemented trigger and numerous trigger types for pinpointing faults ❙ The ease of use you have come to rely on See for yourself www.scope-of-the-art.com/ad/faq-mso

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-81

Test, quality management software enhances user experience Version 6.2 Proligent Test and Quality Management software provides a personalized environment that incorporates new and improved reports, a landing page for quick user help, customizable dashboards for user-based report summaries and powerful report-sharing tools. Product provides the ability to quickly and easily mine manufacturing data, uncovering opportunities to accelerate time-to-quality, streamline supply-chain activities and reduce costs. Product includes easy-tomanage dashboards and provides users with multiple report summaries on a single page, including a relative-date-selection tool to ensure dashboard reports are always up to date. AVERNA

Rohde & Schwarz Canada Inc. Toll free: 1-877-438-2880 Email: sales.rsc@rohde-schwarz.com www.rohde-schwarz.ca

Oscilloscopes • Power Sensors • Multimeters • Frequency Counters • Network Analyzers • Power Meters

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-82

Spectrum Analyzers • EMC Precompliance • LCR Bridges & Meters • Power Supplies • ARB Generators http://ept.hotims.com/45998-16

w w w. e p t . c a

Call 1-877-438-2880 for your Value Instruments Catalog!

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Electronic Enclosures & Thermal Management

Increasing the

lifespan and reliability of components

By Steve Coulton, business development manager, Kooltronic Inc.

Heat is both a by-product and one of the greatest enemies of electrical and electronic components. If not dissipated, this heat has the potential to cause early failures and malfunctions. Components commonly packaged in electrical enclosures, computer server racks and other product compartments are the vital controls for drives and displays used in many industries. The primary purpose of these electrical enclosures is to provide protection and safety for the components they house. If an enclosure is properly cooled, the components within can have a long and useful life. Without proper cooling, however, the components in these enclosures can be subject to damaging heat, shortening

their longevity and reliability. Although individual manufacturer’s specifications vary, the majority of electrical distribution and control equipment is designed to operate properly and achieve normal life expectancy under ambient air conditions ranging from 40°-50°C [104°-122°F]. The table below indicates the maximum operating temperatures for specific devices. (It is generally accepted that operating temperatures above this range reduce life expectancy: Every 10 degree rise in temperature shortens the average reliability of electrical/electronic components by 50%.) Below are examples of components typically found in electrical enclosures.

Based on the information provided in Table 1, it is clear that thermal management is advantageous. Reducing the operating temperatures within electrical enclosures is an effective way to increase life expectancy and system reliability. If an enclosure is properly cooled, the cost associated with that cooling can be recovered over the life of the equipment. The benefits of increased longevity when a drive enclosure is cooled properly is based on typical drives having a 40°C [104°F] maximum recommended environmental temperature. The primary source of heat production in an electrical enclosure is from the working components. Devices that

transmit motive power have voltage drop or efficiency losses that are converted into heat.

The sources of heat In the case of electronics or microprocessors, nearly all of their power is converted into heat. The means for calculating and estimating this heat generation are available from enclosure cooling manufacturers in the form of spreadsheets or calculators. This internal heat load is one source that will cause the internal enclosure temperature to rise to unacceptable levels if it is not removed. Ambient air

TABLE 1

Device

Maximum Recommended Air Temperatures for Operation

Cautionary Notes

Variable Frequency Drives. . . . 40°C [104°F] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Operation above this temperature typically requires de-rating a larger drive or risking premature failure. Variable Frequency Drives . . . 50°C [122°F] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Operating above this temperature typically requires with External Heat Sinks de-rating a larger drive or risking premature failure. Human Machine Interface. . . . 50°-60°C [122°-140°F] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Manufacturers of HMI specify a maximum operating (HMI), Touch Screens temperature for their products. A few smaller devices are & Flat Screen Displays available that operate as high as 70°C (158°F). HD Televisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 40°-50°C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32°C (90°F) is recommended for normal life expectancy. [104°-122°F] Programmable Logic . . . . . . . . 50°-80°C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Most devices are not certified to function properly beyond Controls (PLC) [122°-176°F] their maximum operating temperatures. Computers & server racks. . . . Internal air temperature 40°C [104°F] . . . . In a loaded PC with standard cooling, operating temperatures With cooling fans 55°C [130°F] can easily exceed the limits. The result can be memory errors, hard disk read-write errors, faulty video, and other problems not typically recognized as heat related. Nearly all server racks require cooling.

TA35

switching and overload protection in one compact housing

Ambient air, which is the air outside the enclosure, can also be a potential source of heat gain. The ambient air may be cool enough to allow the enclosure to dissipate heat, however, in many cases ambient air may be so hot that it adds to the heat load. Solar load When enclosures located outdoors are exposed to the sun, heat will be transferred to the inside of the enclosure. This is known as solar load or solar gain. (The effects of solar load can be significant; an automobile parked outdoors on a sunny day is a prime example.) Thermal insulation, white reflective paint finishes and a roof or sunshield will often help to offset solar load. Some enclosures are double walled for this purpose; however, this tends to be a very costly process. Humidity and air infiltration Outside air entering an electrical enclosure carries both heat and humidity. High relative humidity in the air potentially increases the heat content; in most cases it is best to seal the enclosure to limit this effect. Condensing water vapor or the formation of dew from high humidity, particularly in outdoor enclosures will damage the electrical and electronic contents of an enclosure. It is best to seal up enclosures and feeding conduits completely to avoid this type of heat gain and effects of humidity.

Removing the heat

NEMA 4X IP 67 RoHS Compliant

Thermal circuit breaker for equipment in 1-, 2- or 3-pole -

1- and 2-Pole 0.05A - 20A @240 VAC/32-60 VDC 3-Pole 12A @ 415 VAC various rocker switch colors snap-in mounting (1-4 mm panel) 6.3 x 0.8 mm quick connect terminals optional accessories including IP 65 covers conforms to IEC UL and CSA standards

schurter.com/cbe_news

Heat transfer by natural convection is the simplest and most common method of cooling electronics. Relying entirely on hot air rising, however, is generally not sufficient to safely cool sensitive electronics and electrical power transmitting components. Often natural convection is used in conjunction with a heat sink to keep electronics cool. An electronic component mounted on a heat sink helps cool the electronics by dissipating heat into the air. Such passive thermal management solutions are found in consumer electronics, appliances and systems where enclosures or compartments are not subject to sufficient heat gain to cause a significant heat build-up. Environmental testing is performed for agency listed products and mass produced products to be sure passive heat dissipation will be effective. continued on page 20

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-17

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-18 FX14EPT1106OL.indd 1

9/29/06 1:21:25 PM

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Custom Electronic P R O TO C A S E

Custom Electronic Enclosures For Engineers & Designers

Enclosures & Sheet Metal Parts

Built in 2-3 days! No minimum orders

Lessons from a High School Robotics Team In the last issue of EPT, we introduced the First Robotics Team from All Saints High School in Kanata, Ontario. These students and their mentors were about to accept a challenge to build a robot and then take it into competition. Protocase saw an opportunity to provide this team with rapid-manufactured precision sheet metal. This would allow us to watch how they adopted the technology, and see the impact it had on the way they worked, as well as the results they achieved. This year's competition revolved around a game called 'Ultimate Ascent'. Robot 'alliances', or teams, competed against each other, attempting to shoot frisbees into a target opening, and then climb a pyramid. According to mentor Paul McDonough, in previous years the team expended a lot of time and creative energy hand-fabricating sheet metal parts, and tweaking to make things fit. This year, the students adopted 3-D design and had the parts precision-fabricated by Protocase. The students adapted easily to the new technique, and as a result, they were able to spend more time designing and testing, and less time on 'arts and crafts' (ie. drilling and filing). This also enabled them to build two identical units, which, under the rules of the competition, allowed them to practice with one, while the other was shipped to the competition. Then it was off to the competition, to take on 30-40 other teams, in front of more than 2000 people. Previously, the team's highest score was 18th place. We're pleased to announce that this year, they made it to the semi finals (which gave them a ranking between 3rd and 6th place). They were also 1 of only 3 robots to climb all the way to the 3rd tier of the pyramid! So congratulations to everyone on the All Saints High School First Robotics Team - you did a great job at adopting a new approach to construction, and bringing yourselves to a whole new level. And we've had a great time working with you and learning from you!

CHECK OUT OUR FREE DOWNLOADABLE 3D ENCLOSURE DESIGN SOFTWARE The fastest and easiest way to design, price and build custom electronics enclosures.

Fast and Easy Design Instant Price Quotes Buy Your Custom Enclosure Online With 2 - 3 Day Turnaround

www.protocasedesigner.com Protocase allows you to buy custom electronics enclosures with a whole new level of speed and convenience. Our friendly and knowledgeable sales representatives will be happy to assist you in placing your order.

www.protocase.com info@protocase.com 1.866.849.3911 http://ept.hotims.com/45998-19

electronic enclosures & thermal management

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Lifespan and reliability

Plastic enclosure protects board, eases access during prototyping FBB-3665 enclosure is friendly to a prototyping environment while providing protection and functionality. The development board slips into place, secured in the enclosure by a snug fit rather than by potentially damaging hardware. Product has an easily removable top so the board can be extracted without disassembling cables. Cutouts in product’s front panel allow for easy connection to the board’s two USB ports and provide access to the reset button. The rear panel has round knock-out plugs that can accommodate firm’s optional NG9511 miniature cable gland or be used for ventilation. BUD INDUSTRIES http://ept.hotims.com/45998-85

Enclosures meet hygiene requirements for all sectors IP69K hygienic design range of enclosures meets the demands of protection categories: IP66, IP69K along with NEMA types 12, 13 & 4X with the addition of NEMA 3R for their range of HD-KL Terminal boxes. Products provide improved housing solutions to meet the exacting requirements of a wide range of industries. With the extended protection categories the range of products can be cleaned faster and easier than ever before reducing the down time for scheduled maintenance and increasing the end users productivity, efficiencies and profitability. RITTAL

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-86

Tablet format enclosure for portable controllers and instruments 1599 Tablet enclosure is designed for portable applications where touchscreens and electro-mechanical controllers such as joysticks and rollerballs are used. Product’s low profile rounded ergonomic design fits comfortably into the hand to prevent operator fatigue during extended periods of use. Available as standard in RAL9011 black and RAL 7035 grey, unit is moulded in UL94V-0 flame retardant ABS. Product is sealed to IP54 protecting against the ingress of dust or water and it has an easily machined removable panel for connectors, external power leads and switches and is available with or without a battery compartment. HAMMOND MANUFACTURING

of components

Blowers, fans, impellers Blowers, fans, motorized impellers and fan trays are open loop cooling systems that can be used when the surrounding air can be passed over the heat producing components and exhausted from the enclosure. Fans usually have some type of air filtration; even applications in the cleanest environments should have minimal protection from drawing airborne particulate into the enclosure. Packaged blowers can be used in enclosures to cool in high static pressure conditions, and motorized impellers as well as fan trays can be used to cool hotspots either alone or in conjunction with other cooling systems. There are two airflow options when open loop cooling is used on an enclosure: one is to pressurize the enclosure, and the other is to vacuumize. Of the two options, pressurizing is preferred because it will utilize all louvers, cracks and openings as part of the exhaust flow, rather than pulling air and possibly dirt in through them. Open loop systems are limited in that they can only cool to a certain point above the ambient temperature. In applications where the ambient temperature is too high, or the airflow necessary to provide the required amount of cooling becomes too high, an air conditioner, water to air heat exchanger or air to air heat exchanger is necessary.

Heat exchangers

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-87

Panelboards simplify safe installation SynergEX panelboard provides efficient protection in varied environmental conditions, including temperature extremes and hazardous gases. Product provides reliable performance and safety from installation to maintenance, offering the same NEC and CEC certifications as cast aluminum enclosures. Products are individually encapsulated without any bolts or screws, allowing for reduced installation, maintenance, and labor costs. All configurations include safety features like a finger-safe design to prevent contact with live parts while also allowing users to reset breakers without a hot permit. COOPER CROUSE-HINDS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-88

Air to air heat exchangers utilize closed loop cooling. A closed loop system will cool an enclosure without introducing outside air, which may be too hot or dirty. Heat exchangers are a good choice when it is necessary to remove heat from an enclosure while keeping ambient air out. Air to air heat exchangers operate by means of two separate airflows which pass through a convoluted metal foil element. Enclosure heat is transferred from one side to the other through the element and exhausted to the outside. Heat exchangers have a lower initial cost and are generally less expensive to maintain than air conditioners. However, heat exchangers share the same limitations as open loop cooling systems. Water to air heat exchangers provide cooling in a closed loop system where a reliable source of clean, cool or chilled water is available. Models are available

We’ll make YOU a fan.

Smart Fans That Put You in Control Lowest Cost Short Fan Tray Slides into any standard 19” rack

3-Position AC Tray Series #: OA300ST Size: 432x203x44.5mm Air Flow: 310 CFM

Replace your existing fans with smart AC or DC fans and fan trays from Orion. Temperature control fans reduce energy costs by cooling only when you need to. • Reduce energy costs by 30% • Reduce noise • Extend fan life • Simple to install with no additional connections • Available from stock at Orion Fans

Shortest lead time Great prices

orionfans.com KE890 - Orion Fans Ad Film.indd 1

More control • Lower energy consumption • Longer fan life Start saving money with smart fans and trays from Orion Fans.

AC Fans • DC Fans • Fan Trays • Accessories http://ept.hotims.com/45998-20

800.323.2439 • 214.340.0265 4/15/13 2:31 PM

continued from page 18

that are designed primarily for use in harsh environments and feature cooling capacities in excess of air to air heat exchangers. They are particularly useful in highly contaminated environments that would require frequent cleaning or changing of ambient air filters or frequent cleaning of the heat exchanger core. Water to air heat exchangers provide greater heat transfer performance than air to air heat exchangers, in a compact package.

Air conditioners Special purpose air conditioners are recommended where high heat transfer and closed loop cooling are required. Unlike their comfort cooling counterparts, special purpose air conditioners are closed loop systems designed for use in higher ambient conditions. Typical air conditioners have refrigerant charged compressors that are controlled by a thermostat to limit electrical enclosure temperatures while saving energy between cycles. Initial investment and operating costs are higher than those of the cooling systems mentioned above. Air conditioners should be sized for a maximum allowable temperature from which the BTU/H is determined. The maximum enclosure air temperature should be limited to the lowest maximum operating temperature for each specific device.

System design Avoiding condensation In order to avoid a build-up of condensation, internal heaters are an important accessory to consider when designing a cooling system for an application. In outdoor applications, during the night or off peak hours, the internal enclosure temperature may drop below the dew point. This causes condensation to accumulate on sensitive electronics and electrical contact surfaces, leading to corrosion and ultimate failure. To prevent this problem, an internal heater should be used to maintain the temperature of the enclosure. NEMA enclosure ratings NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) enclosure ratings are placed on enclosure cooling units and electrical enclosures to designate the environmental hazard from which the contents are being protected. NEMA defines the standards for different levels of protection of electronics enclosures. Typical examples of NEMA ratings include: NEMA 12 for indoor use, protection from dust and dripping liquids; NEMA 3R for outdoor use and rain-proof applications; and NEMA 4X for indoor/ outdoor use to provide protection from wash-down and corrosive environments. Investment in Enclosure Cooling The installation costs of an enclosure housing a variable frequency drive and associated controls, together with the cooling system designed to cool the application can range from under $50,000 to over $100,000. This application could be part of a manufacturing process or service generating considerable revenues. The cost of installing an enclosure cooling system designed for a specific application is very low when compared to the cost of the overall system, ranging from 2%-4% of the entire equipment cost. The economic and safety related consequences of improper heat dissipation for systems used in critical infrastructure as well as other possible service interruptions should be considered at the design stage. Lost revenue due to heat related failures can quickly justify the expense for enclosure cooling. It is important to think about cooling in the early stages of the design process, whether designing a new system or retrofitting an existing system. For more information on thermal management issues from Kooltronic Inc., go to http://ept.hotims.com/45998-89

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Top GunS. Ip&E SoLuTIonS FRoM AVnET Your top flight semiconductor cannot work alone. You need world-class interconnect, passive and electromechanical components to support your design. Avnet’s legacy in the IP&E business dates back to 1921 and is stronger than ever today. As a worldwide distributor of IP&E products, we source from the leading global manufacturers – and you can count on us to provide top quality components to meet your needs. We are ready to help your products take flight. What can we do for you? www.avnetexpress.com http://ept.hotims.com/45998-21

Accelerating Your Success!™ 1 800 332 8638 | www.avnetexpress.com |

@avnetdesignwire

electronic enclosures & thermal management

electronic products and technology • may 2013

CBS shields for mission critical environments are customizable

IP55-rated ac fans suit rugged environments IP55-rated versions of firm’s OA Series ac fans are suitable for rugged, harsh environment applications. Products provide diecast aluminum frames and a dual ball bearing system to deliver reliable and quiet cooling solution. Models OA109, OA172SAP, OA172SAPL, OA180, OA225 and OA280 are available in voltage ranges of 115Vac and 230Vac and power ratings from 8W to 158W, with airflows of 110CFM to 1,130CFM. ORION FANS

CBS shields provide two-piece shield construction including a solderable fence and removable cover, allowing for easy installation, rework and repair. Firm’s proprietary in-house design and manufacturing processes provide ability to create a highly customized, yet extremely affordable board level shield that delivers a shielding effectiveness up to 60dB. By using a large assortment of ‘off-theshelf’ fence styles, orders can be delivered in shortened lead times. LEADER TECH

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-93

Thermal switch is rated for 100,000 cycles

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-90

2511F002 Airstream mount thermal switch is rated for more than 100,000 cycles. UL/CSA approved device provides 3/4” bimetal thermodisc, 1” body, with up to 25 Amps at 250Vac. Product’s is close on rise and comes with 1/4” spade terminal at a 90° bend and withstands temperatures from -18C-176C. X TRONICS

60mm busbar system saves space in power distribution Hoffman Wöhner 60mm Busbar System provides a direct mounting solution for reliable, safe power distribution. Components are mounted onto prewired adapters that snap onto sliding DIN rails, reducing raceway and bending radius space to enable close proximity placement with fewer wiring errors, less assembly labor and more connection flexibility. Product can distribute three-phase power over 1,600 amps at 690 volts, along with supplying single phase or dc power. PENTAIR

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-94

newswatch

Analog Devices, Bourns complete evaluation board Provides certified RS-485 electro-magnetic protection

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-91

Analog Devices Inc., Norwood MA, global provider of high-performance signal processing technology, and Bourns Inc., Riverside CA, manufacturer of electronic components, have combined their efforts to introduce the industry’s first certified RS-485 evaluation board for protecting against EMC (electro-magnetic compatibility) events in industrial and instrumentation equipment. Available through both companies, the EVAL-CN0313-SDPZ board incorporates ADI’s ADM3485E, 3.3-V RS-485 transceiver and various circuit protection devices from Bourns and meets IEC61000-4-2/4/5 ESD (electro-static discharge), EFT (electronically-fast transients), and power-surge specifications. The board is offered as part of ADI’s Circuits from the Lab reference circuits library and includes circuit notes, test data and results to help engineers reduce design risk in applications such as motor controls, grid tied inverters, and esonic-Pentair-EPTMay2013.pdf 1 3/26/2013 2:28:45 PM programmable-logic controllers.

Metallic blue ABS plastic enclosure houses Raspberry Pi Pi Series ABS plastic cases for the Raspberry Pi microcomputer comes molded in metallic blue flame-retardant ABS plastic and measures 3.0 x 4.0 x 1.4 inches. Unit holds printed circuit board captive with access and labeling for each individual component of the board. Unit comes with five flush mounted light pipes that project light from the board’s LEDs out of the end panel on the case. The textured finish on the cases is resistant to fingerprints and scratching. POLYCASE http://ept.hotims.com/45998-92

1.800.56.SONIC | www.e-sonic.com Enclosures &

Equipment

Cabinets

Racks

Workstations

Select The Best Choice For Your Application C

www.califialighting.com

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

CMY

Coastline Linear Series

The thin fixture design of the C5000 and C5400 is ideal for use when space is limited. Featuring CREE® high power LEDs, instant on, and builtin controls, the attractive styling makes this Series popular for industrial and commercial applications.

Califia Lighting, a Bivar Company, serves the growing base of customers transitioning to energy-efficient LED lighting technology in the Industrial and Commercial markets. Califia products feature a range of UL Rated linear lights that improve productivity and safety while reducing annual energy maintenance costs. 11 Orchard, Suite 111

Lake Forest, CA 92630 USA

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-22

T: 949.900.3170 http://ept.hotims.com/45998-23

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Well-connected.

Newark element14 makes it easy to ďŹ nd all your electronics products and solutions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fast. newark.ca

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-24

Newark_Well-connected_EPT Canada.indd 1

2/25/13 12:44 PM

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology for printed electronics By Jordan Wosnick, Ph.D., senior scientist, Xerox Research Centre of Canada

Printable electronic materials show considerable promise

Rapid progress in microelectronics has led to exponential increases in computational power over the last 40 years, accompanied by comparable decreases in both the size and cost of electronic devices. This has enabled the spread of electronics and computer technology – once the sole domain of scientists, engineers, and dedicated hobbyists – into every corner of our lives. Much of this change has been fuelled by intense R&D in the electronics industry, resulting in the evolution of chip designs with ever-increasing technical sophistication. However, despite these advances, the basic process used in chip manufacture remains the same: deposition of materials onto rigid, highly pure substrates, followed by masking and etching steps, with the whole cycle repeated as needed. Although highly effective for the production of sophisticated electronic architectures, this process has a very high capital requirement and its batch-based workflow limits the amount of customization that can be introduced at the fabrication level. Progress in electronics has also played a large role in driving changes in the way documents are printed. The same revolution in office and home printing that turned inkjet and laser printers into common household items has taken root in the world of commercial printing, where the plate-based lithographic printing processes first developed centuries ago are increasingly being replaced by digital technologies that deposit ink on paper (or other substrates) without a plate, under the control of systems that ensure consistently high resolution and colour accuracy.

tion of functional device arrays of reasonable density (such as organic thin-film transistors). The height of the printed material on the substrate must be sufficient for conductivity, but not too thick for multilayer device printing. Finally, printed features must be stable and robust, whether printed directly on the substrate itself or on top of pre-deposited materials.

Designing inks that enable rapid printing of electronic devices As part of our R&D program in printable electronic materials, we focused on designing inks that enable rapid printing of electronic devices on a variety of substrates, ranging from glass to plastic or even paper, while avoiding these potential pitfalls. Key to this has been the development of a silver nanoparticle ink consisting of stabilized silver particles (5-10 nm in diameter) dispersed in a hydrocarbon vehicle. Xerox nanosilver ink, which is now routinely produced in 40-litre batches, can be printed in narrow lines on both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates. Viscosity and metal loading are optimized to provide maximum resolution and eliminate the formation of satellite drops and broken or uneven lines, and the extremely small size of the silver nanoparticles allows the metal to be sintered at temperatures far below the melting point of bulk silver. This provides smooth, conductive silver lines and films at plasticscompatible temperatures (120ºC).

Printing know-how turned toward electronics industry The marking materials used in these printers are themselves the products of many years of materials chemistry R&D, which has led to inks and toners with highly controlled particle sizes, shapes and surface features. This know-how is now being turned back toward the electronics industry, providing opportunities for electronics fabrication that circumvent some of the limitations of current techniques. Relative to the traditional process, printing electronics provides a manufacturing method with lower capital costs, fewer steps and the ability to work under ambient conditions. Conductive and semi-conductive materials can be formulated into inks, which are then printed via inkjet directly onto substrates (which need not be rigid) without masking or etching. While best suited for low-end, disposable electronic devices, printing electronics enables a degree of flexibility and customization not yet available in traditional fabrication.

The Nano 360 series utilizes Omnetics’ rugged and reliable Flex-Pin system. Spaced on 25 mil (.64mm) centerlines and a 9.0 mm mated length, these connectors are some of the smallest circulars available today. Extremely small outer diameter range from 3.1 mm to 5.5 mm and the ability to withstand high shock and vibration while maintaining their electrical integrity make these connectors ideal for the most demanding applications. The Nano 360 family is available with the following options:

Any printable electronic material must meet certain criteria to be useful in fabricating electronic devices To be useful in fabricating electronic devices, any printable electronic material must meet certain criteria. Printed lines must be narrow, smooth, and (for conductors) conductive enough to enable the prepara-

Proper ink formulation can enable beneficial printing properties. For example, silver nanoparticle inks containing surface-modifying agents give rise to selfcorrecting behaviour – as the ink drop recedes during drying, the underlying surface becomes resistant to further deposition of silver nanoparticle ink, ensuring even spacing between adjacent features. In addition, carefully choosing the solvent vehicle for the ink enables printing of conductive features on top of existing, solvent-sensitive layers. These techniques have been used to print a silver-based source-drain array with 400µm pixel size on top of a layer of organic semiconductor which itself remains undisturbed during the printing process. In this example, the self-correcting effect provides an organic thin-film transistor array with even channel widths. While not yet equal to the performance of traditionally fabricated devices, printable electronic materials show considerable promise. As this field matures, the prospect of simple printing of electronic devices – on the bench-top or in a printing facility, using commercially available printers, inks, and flexible substrates – will enable even more life-changing applications. For more information about nanosilver ink from Xerox Research Centre of Canada, go to http://ept.hotims.com/45998-95

Metal shells, Overmolding, Threaded, RoHs, Twist Lock, Break Away and shielding.

Indium creates nanotechnology team Indium Corp., Clinton NY, has created a nanotechnology team to support its continued expansion into novel nanotechnology materials and markets. Led by Andy Mackie, PhD, MSc, senior product manager for Semiconductor Materials, the team includes: Dr. Ning-Cheng Lee, VP of Technology; Jim Slattery, VP of metals and compounds Technical Service Group; Carol Gowans, incubator market manager; and Jim Hisert, applications engineer for ThinFilm and Solar Assembly Materials. Nanotechnology is a term that describes materials that are less than 100 nanometers (0.1microns) in

one or more dimensions. It also encompasses products that are made using nanotechnology, as well as products that are used in nanotechnology-based processes and materials manufacturing. One of Indium’s key nanotechnology materials is its patented NanoFoil that is comprised of nanoscale layers of aluminum and nickel, which can be instantaneously activated to produce intense, highly localized heat for a variety of applications and industries, such as semiconductor sputtering materials, semiconductor assembly, aerospace, automotive and electronics.

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-25

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

MAY13-Panasonic(EP&T)_EP&T 4/17/13 1:56 PM Page 1

Say Hello To Your New Panasonic Distributor More than 65,000 Panasonic products available – from Allied Electronics

Components P itches • Relays, Sensors, Sw s, Connectors er od c n E s, er et om ti en • Pot odules M F R s es el ir W s, ol tr on C on ti • Automa

• assive

WIN!

Solve our weekly crossword puzzle, and you could win a 42" HDTV. Play today at alliedelec.com/panasonic*

*Promotion ends May 31, 2013

1.800.433.5700 http://ept.hotims.com/45998-26

An Electrocomponents Company.

nanotechnology

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Lazaridis and Fregin unveil $100M Quantum Valley fund Focuses on commercializing quantum technology breakthroughs BlackBerry founders Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin have partnered again in Waterloo ON to establish Quantum Valley Investments, a $100-million private fund that will provide financial and intellectual capital for the further development and commercialization of breakthroughs in quantum information science. At the launch of the Quantum-Nano Centre in 2012, Lazaridis described the quantum research capability that has been developed in Waterloo as the “Bell Labs of the Twenty First Century.” He and Fregin believe that in the same way discoveries at Bell Labs led to commercialization opportunities that created Silicon Valley, so will the breakthroughs that occur at the Institute for Quantum Computing, the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, and the Waterloo Institute for Nano Technology lead to transformative commercialization opporEPT 7x10live tunities 41513_Layout 4/15/13 4:33 PM Page 1 in the1Region.

Lazaridis and Fregin believe that their investments and commercialization efforts will lead to new industries, jobs and value creation that will help transform the Waterloo Region into Canada’s Quantum Valley. A few research labs around the world have begun a race in pursuit of transformative breakthroughs in quantum information science. Because of the research capability that has been developed here in the last 12 years, the Waterloo Region has a unique opportunity to play a leading role in this global race. Lazaridis and Fregin believe that the Quantum Valley Investment Fund will help ensure success in this endeavor. When asked why they decided to lead this initiative, Lazaridis responded, “Nothing you see in the classical technology world can prepare you for what you will see in the quantum technology revolution. Doug and I have nearly 30

“Nothing you see in the classical technology world can prepare you for what you will see in the quantum technology revolution” years’ experience as inventors of the BlackBerry, creators of the smart phone industry and builders of Canada’s largest global tech business. We also have significant resources from our success in that business. Our belief in the power of quantum physics to transform society inspired us to develop a strategy some 12 years ago that led to the world-class quantum research capability that exists in Waterloo today. This combination of technology and business experience has given us a unique understanding and deep commitment that we believe will be

responsiveness reliability control ownership endurance

listening

instrumental to the success of both this Fund and the ‘Quantum Valley’.” “Quantum Physics will not only allow us to continue the development of existing ideas, but may also lead to ones which we may not have dreamed of yet,” Fregin added. “It gives me much satisfaction not only to participate in this endeavour with Mike, but also to help build on the groundwork that we have helped lay in Quantum Physics and Nanotechnology in this region, bringing commercialization one step closer to realization for the benefit of all people.” Speaking about the potential impact of the new fund on jobs and the economy, Gord Nixon, president and chief executive officer of Royal Bank of Canada and Chair of the Ontario Jobs and Prosperity Council said, “At a time, when international competition faced by Canadian companies has increased dramatically and the need for innovation in this country is key, this initiative is both welcome and timely. Building on their support and commitment for quantum physics in the Waterloo Region over many years, these nation builders have once again put their money where their mouth is to help keep Canadian breakthroughs in Canada. These transformational initiatives are critical to our future competitiveness.” “Executing on a well thought out strategy that started 12 years ago, Mike and Doug have developed a model for innovation that is compelling” adds Kevin Lynch, vice-chair of BMO Financial Group, Chair of the Board of Governors of the University of Waterloo and Vice Chair of the Ontario Jobs and Prosperity Council. “These visionaries have not only created a platform that will help with value creation in Canada, but in doing so have created the foundation for a quantum commercialization infrastructure in the Waterloo Region that will help to promote breakthroughs, industries and jobs in this Region for years to come. It is great for Waterloo, for Ontario and for Canada.”

access innovation speed trust initiative Sager Electrical Supply, Congress St., Boston, MA.

performance

We’ve been distributing confidence the same way since 1887. One customer at a time.

respect discipline competition value depth clout

Te c h nology c h a nge s . T h e ab i li t y to adapt, cost-effec tively and confidently doesn’t. Our products have kept pace with the times. Our service has also

agility

evolved... tried, tested, and improved time and time again. We have built a reputation for

execution

providing solutions, not just fulfilling orders. Field sales representatives and application engineers who listen and know your business can help grow your business. We deliver

service

expert, pro-active advice, and support your time-to-market issues with a quick, wellqualified response. Competence creates confidence. Sager continues to give your company that one timeless competitive edge. Contact your local service center or Sager sales representative at 1.800.SAGER.800 or visit us at www.sager.com.

Sager. Distributing Confidence.®

Water tight nanoconnectors pass shock, vibration and immersion testing SureCon 360 connectors are available in 6, 11 or 16 positions, with an IP67 rating and 3 different cables options including Military (UL94 V-O material), Medical (ISO10993 biocompatible) and standard grade. The waterproof plastic device is polarized and ergonomically designed to engage and hold firmly yet disengage under a specific load to prevent damage to the equipment. Product comes with a .025” pitch, weighs as little as 3.2 grams, can carry 1 ampere per contact and is sealed to the IP67 rating for water and dust ingress. OMNETICS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-96

Rugged SMT WiFi module supports client and access-point modes Nano WiReach MAXSMT module supports b/g/n WiFi over an industrial temperature range of -30C to +85C. Device provides 3G routing, WiFi client and access-point capabilities and measures 2.0 x 3.7cm, allowing for a quick and simple upgrade from WiFi b/g to b/g/n without hardware or software changes. Product provides multiple hardware interfaces, extensive firmware, and a full suite of secure Internet protocols for up to eight WiFi users in router or accesspoint modes. CONNECT ONE http://ept.hotims.com/45998-97

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-27

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-28

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Embedded Systems & Engineering Software PCI-104 serial communication boards offer multiple ports

Team design capability extended for OrCAD users

104I-COM-8SM Series of PCI-104 serial communication boards provides a selection of 8, 4, or 2-ports of field selectable RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 asynchronous serial protocols on a port by port basis. Ports are accessed via two 40-pin IDC type right angle header connectors. Units are feature-rich and allow for the connection of multiple serial devices. Each RS-232 port is capable of supporting data communication rates up to 921.6 kbps and implement full modem control signals to ensure compatibility with a broad variety of serial devices. RS-422 and RS-485 modes support data communication speeds up to 1.8432 Mbps. Based on the XR17D158, the boards have eight enhanced 16550 compatible UARTS and include 64-byte transmit/receive FIFO buffers to decrease CPU loading and protect against lost data in multi-tasking systems while maintaining 100% compatibility with all operating system COM port software. ACCES I/O PRODUCTS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-98

Team Design for OrCAD facilitates schematic design in a team environment and is integrated directly inside the OrCAD Capture interface and allows engineers to easily view a full history of all current and previous projects. Project leads can define users and their roles, controlling design responsibilities as well as access rights to specific pages and functional blocks. Once added to a project, design team members are able to view project status, add new pages, download existing page(s) for editing, and upload any changes back into the system. Software provides automated page locking upon download, preventing edit collisions, while keeping other project members informed of the page’s status, including who is currently editing it. Once the user uploads the pages back into Team Design for OrCAD, the lock is removed and those pages are again open for editing by authorized users. EMA DESIGN AUTOMATION http://ept.hotims.com/45998-103

Fanless box computer powered by the 3rd gen Intel processor

Quick create platform deploys context-aware mobile computing Flybits LITE innovative Platform as a Service (PaaS) enables quick creation and deployment of context-aware mobile computing applications for enterprises without the dependency of dedicated infrastructure. Employing a suite of patent-protected context-aware technologies, the Flybits platform and applications deliver relevant, timely and location-based information to targeted mobile users in real-time. Product is an instance of the Enterprise Framework that empowers consumers to create and consume information in new ways with social and local functionality. Mobile users can create zones instantaneously in order to provision mobile applications and services using an intuitive and visual web-based interface. FLYBITS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-99

EPS-QM77E small footprint box computer is fanless and ruggedized, while powered by the 3rd generation Intel Core i5/i7 processors. Unit supports up to 8GB of DDR3 memory, dual display with DVI-I and HDMI, 5.1-CH audio and dual Intel Gigabit EthernetPorts. Product provides 1x mSATA, 2x SATA, 4x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, and 2x COM. Withstanding industrial operation environments for temperatures between -10°C and 60°C, unit supports a +9 and 19V wide voltage input, with anti-interference capability and protects computer from overload short circuits that allows the computer to run safely even in harsh conditions. Product reliability and stability are certified by industrial product quality tests, including anti-vibration continuous vibrations of up to 5Grms, and anti-shock of up to 50Grms tests. AVALUE TECHNOLOGY http://ept.hotims.com/45998-104

Avionics module saves space, weight, power RAR15-XMC multi-protocol embeddable avionics module saves valuable space, weight and power, while boosting reliability in avionics labs, simulators and embedded applications. Product provides both MIL-STD-1553 and ARINC 429 protocols on a single XMC form factor board and features advanced API (Application Programming Interface) software for Windows 7, Vista, XP (32- and 64-bit), Linux, INTEGRITY, and VxWorks that reduces application development time. Product includes 8 Mbytes of RAM and 64-bit message time tagging. GE http://ept.hotims.com/45998-100

Certification, recognition program open to EDA experts Expert EDA software certification for electronic automation designers is eligible to individuals demonstrating a high level of expertise—both theoretical and practical—in applying Agilent EEsof EDA tools for product design and modeling. Certification process provides public recognition of technical expertise in the industry and also the right to use the official certification logo in forums and on resumes. Certification permits ability to be part of firm’s network for potential consulting opportunities. It also allows access to personal EEsof EDA software loans during periods of career transition. AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/45998-105

Power supply design software supports LED lighting PI Expert Suite 9.0 power supply design software includes support for firm’s LinkSwitchPL and LinkSwitch-PH LED-driver ICs and its recently introduced TinySwitch-4 off-line switcher IC family. Version 9.0 includes an enhanced schematics-manipulation tool and enables designers to upload the resulting BOM from the auto-generated schematic layout to selected, leading design-fulfillment distributors. Product improves productivity of design teams by reducing the time to first prototype and by slashing the number of prototype iterations required to reach a finished product. Software includes support for solid-state-lighting products, enabling LED designs to be optimized for CC, dimming and harmonic emissions. POWER INTEGRATIONS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-101

Small form factor PC incorporates a full featured Mini PC Model LPC-480 powerful small form factor PC incorporates a full featured Mini PC with Intel Core™ i7 mobile processors, including i7 Mobile and Intel B840 CPU options with improved power to run demanding applications and in less space. Unit includes a concealed front slot loading optical drive, USB, RS232, GB LAN ports, 2.5” mobile hard drive with up to 1TB of capacity or SSD options, 3D video graphics, audio in/out and much more. Product operates from an external 12Vdc power adapter (included) or can be connected to an external dc source making it suitable for mobile and remote applications. STEALTH http://ept.hotims.com/45998-106

Embedded ARM-based SBC equipped with 12 onboard serial ports

Software simplifies manual testing, saves time QA Wizard Defect Scribe tool helps quality assurance and software development teams improve manual testing efficiency and create better bug reports. Product allows software testers to focus more on testing an application or web site, and less on documenting every step they take during the testing process. The subscription-based service is installed on the user’s desktop and records every user action and application screen to improve test session efficiency and create better bug reports. Available for web, Windows, or Java applications, software records activity during manual and exploratory testing. SEAPINE SOFTWARE

MIT-5500 mini-ITX small form factor board is designed around the power efficient Freescale i.MX53 ARM Cortex A8 core processor. Operating systems like Android or Linux can boot natively out of the onboard 4GB iNAND flash. Product includes 12 onboard serial ports, dual Ethernet ports, 40-bit digital GPIO, dual CAN, and a 4 wire touch interface. Product is suitable for applications ranging from advanced human to machine interfaces, data acquisition, point of sale, vehicle telematics, digital signage, industrial automation, building controls and connected appliances. CADIA NETWORKS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-107

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-102

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

newswatch

electronic products and technology • may 2013

Delayed How imminent changes in SR&ED tax credits reaction: are going to change your business By David R Hearn, managing director, Scitax Advisory Partners LP

Both the 2012 and 2013 federal budgets contained changes to Canada’s Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit program. By far the most significant of these were a series of cuts announced in the 2012 budget, the first of which took effect on January 1, 2013. A series of progressively more severe cuts will roll out over the next two years. For any corporation that has tax pay at year end (and for Canadian Controlled Private Corporations who get a cash refund even if there is no tax is payable) these cuts will go straight to the bottom line. Ottawa’s decision on this comes at a time when many other countries and an increasing number of U.S. states are expanding their R&D tax credits programs. Since decoding the full impact of these changes can be a real challenge even for accountants, let’s start with a few ‘big picture’ snap shots before we delve into the details: • Industry Association CME estimates that the SR&ED changes introduced in budget 2012 will deprive Canadian industry of almost $750-million per year. • Prices of measuring instruments and other equipment used in R&D will effectively increase by as much as 40%. • The cost of purchasing research services will increase by up to 30% At first glance it might seem that the cuts apply primarily to large corporations that are foreign- or public-owned. However, the majority of the changes are cuts in expenditure eligibility that apply to anyone making a SR&ED claim. Also, certain sectors of industry will feel the cuts more severely than others: Electronics and biotech companies will be particularly hard hit because their R&D work requires test and measurement equip-

ment — the cost of which will no longer qualify to attract SR&ED after January 1, 2014. This applies whether the equipment is either purchased or leased. Long term laboratory equipment leases undertaken based on assumed annual recovery from SR&ED may need to be re-negotiated or terminated altogether. Companies that manufacture or distribute R&D instruments and equipment will see downward pressure on margins as customers seek price concessions to make up the difference. Furthermore, in two years when the temporary extension to the accelerated capital cost allowance for machinery and equipment that was announced in the 2013 budget wears off, the cost of R&D equipment will have to be written of over time instead of being entirely deductible in the current year through SR&ED expenditure pool. Software development companies which are typically labour and payroll intensive will suffer in two ways. One: because a significant portion of their workforce are contractors and after Jan. 1, 2013 only 80% of the amount paid contractors qualifies to attract SR&ED. Two: because by Jan 2014 the ‘proxy overhead’ allowance – until now calculated as 65% of T4 wages – will be reduced down 55%. It has been well-communicated that foreign- and publicly-owned corporations will suffer a 5% reduction (i.e. 20% to 15%) in their SR&ED benefit rate and there is no change in the 35% benefit rate available to Canadian Controlled Private Corporations (CCPCs). What’s been less well communicated is that CCPC’s will suffer that same 5% cut on amounts in excess of the expenditure limit. Nominally the expenditure limit is $3M, however this $3M figure can be substantially reduced if either taxable income or taxable capital exceed certain limits. For example, a CCPC with prior year taxable income of $800K

would see its expenditure limit ground down to $0 and get a benefit rate of 15% instead of 35% and only 40% of that 15% would be as a cash refund. Another surprise is that the federal level cuts implemented by Ottawa end up altering R&D tax credits at the provincial level as well. For example, Ontario offers the OITC which provides a 10 per cent cash refund to all corporations and the ORDTC, that provides a 4.5 per cent nonrefundable ITC. Other provinces offer similar and in some cases much greater benefits than above. Both of these credits are calculated on whatever expenditures Ottawa allows at the federal level. Therefore any reduction in SR&ED-eligible expenditures implemented by Ottawa triggers a proportionate reduction in the amount R&D tax credit benefit from the province. So far, only one province has moved to rebalance and address this.In November 2012 Québec introduced a boosted tax credit aimed specifically at the bio-pharma sector. Cuts made to the SR&ED credit tax program through Budget 2012 could be further amplified by a whole series of new policy documents released by CRA in December 2012. While these documents don’t have the force of law, they paint an accurate picture of how CRA will assess the claim you file and what their auditors expect to see in terms of compliance record keeping. Many industry observers have pointed out that some of the positions set out in these new policy documents are markedly more restrictive in terms of the types of R&D work that qualify to attract SR&ED as compared to previous versions. Dr. Russ Roberts

of the Canadian Advanced Technology Association recently wrote on that organization’s website that: “The result of the new, consolidated policies when used in audits has been supported for a much narrower scope of SR&ED, both in terms of what are SR&ED projects and what work can be associated with them.” Looking ahead from 2013, the value of SR&ED tax credits to Canadian companies will be shaped by a synergy of three factors: First, a reduction in eligible expenditures. Second, a lower benefit rate on those expenditures. Third, less of the human activity that industry considers to be R&D will be accepted as SR&ED by CRA auditors. Given the complexity in the nature and timing of these changes budgets , any company that relies on SR&ED for the success of its R&D efforts should consider expert advice on the following planning points: • Accelerate future capital equipment expenditures before Dec 2013. Pay heed to Available for Use rules. • Buy-out capital equipment leases before Dec 2013 • Consider use of traditional overhead method to offset reduction of proxy allowance from 65% to 55%. • Convert contract staff to employees. • Safeguard CCPC status. • Non-CCPC should consider converting to a CCPC. • Preserve the expenditure limit: Analyze bonus down tipping point vis-à-vis declining corporate tax rates. For more information on changes in SR&ED tax credits from Scitax Advisory Partners, go to http://ept.hotims.com/45998-108

TCXO lowers phase noise in support of

IQXT-60 series Temperature Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) improves phase noise performance in a miniature low height package. The versatile high performance device provides typical phase noise figures of -63dBc/Hz at 10Hz and -161dBc/Hz at 100kHz coupled with a low current consumption of around 5.0mA. Housed in a miniature 3.2 x 2.5mm ceramic package measuring 1.0mm high, device is available at any frequency from 4.0MHz to 54.0MHz. Product’s frequency stability of ±2.5ppm over the operating temperature range of –30 to +75C and frequency tolerance of ±0.5ppm matches existing industry standards. IQD FREQUENCY PRODUCTS http://ept.hotims.com/45998-109

Sealing station reduces noise, energy consumption SealLoad 3100 sealing station, for use on firm’s CrimpCenter models and most other cut, strip, terminate machines, provides faster, stressless seal insertion, reduces noise and energy consumption, extends seal size range, as well as advanced quality monitoring capabilities with SealCam. Unit’s monitoring system ensures correct seal positioning, examines the quality of the seal, as well as the wire and monitors the functioning of the machine jaws, notifying the operator when lubricating is needed. SCHLEUNIGER

The 20th Annual

Electronics Industry

GOLF TOURNAMENT

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-110

400W Quarter brick converters deliver 95% efficiency in standard DOSA footprint

June 13, 2013

iQG Series of DC-DC converters come in a 0.52inch low profile package and provide a regulated 12Vdc output with a high-isolation of 1500Vdc, input to output. Units operate with a wide input range from 36V to 75Vdc. Users can select from models rated at 300W or 400W, depending upon their needs. Product’s efficiencies of up to 95%, minimize wasted heat and system cooling issues. Units have an 230W per cubic inch power density and deliver up to 33A of useable output current. TDK-LAMBDA

Glen Eagle Golf Club

http://ept.hotims.com/45998-111

w w w. e p t . c a

Hwy 50, Bolton, Ontario