What’s New in Electronics April 2012

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April 2012

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on the cover 4 Remote asset control is changing our lives

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short circuits 18 Has lead-free made the industry any greener? 23 Light thrown on nanowire

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April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

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on the cover

LabVIEW reaches 25-year anniversary

NI LabVIEW is a development environment that provides engineers and scientists hardware integration and wide-ranging compatibility. With LabVIEW 2011 National Instruments marked the 25th-anniversary version of its system design software.

LabVIEW accelerates the productivity of engineers and scientists who develop and deploy test, measurement and control systems to solve some of the world’s greatest engineering challenges.

The package can increase development efficiency through new engineering-specific libraries and its ability to interact with almost any hardware device or deployment target, including the NI PXIe-5665, one of the highest performing RF vector signal analysers available.

It also supports assemblies built in the latest Microsoft .NET Framework and includes numerous features driven directly from user feedback.

With these and other advantages, this latest version helps engineers integrate individual system components into a single, reconfigurable platform so they can do their jobs faster, better and at a lower cost.

“Twenty-five years ago, we created LabVIEW to help engineers focus on innovation instead of wrestling with complicated programming and system integration issues, and today, it has become the ultimate system design software for measurement and control,” said Jeff Kodosky, NI business and technology fellow, cofounder and inventor of LabVIEW. “With each new version, whether by ensuring integration with the latest hardware, introducing new libraries and APIs or implementing engineer-requested features, our primary objective remains to increase productivity in any engineering situation.”

The package makes it possible for engineers to achieve productivity gains in a variety of tasks, including the following time-saving functions: • Quickly develop visually striking contemporary user interfaces with a new Silver palette of controls and indicators; • Re-use code with support for the latest .NET assemblies, .m structures and new Xilinx IP for the LabVIEW FPGA Module; • Achieve up to five times faster loading, wiring, editing and compiling of FPGA code; • Programmatically build and distribute executables to targets; •Spawn asynchronous threads to create multithreaded applications more quickly with a new communication API.

4 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

With its stability for applications, as well as its simplified integration with hardware from many industry leaders, the software gives test, measurement and control system designers the confidence to innovate efficiently within a proven support infrastructure.

“By using LabVIEW, we decreased our system development time by a third compared with the time we spent with traditional approaches,” said Glenn Larkin, engineer for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, home of fusion research and one of the world’s most powerful lasers.

“We plan to extend our use of LabVIEW and NI hardware in many facilities that support NIF so we can realise these same productivity gains in future projects.”

When combined with modular hardware, the package is the centerpiece of the NI approach to graphical system design, which provides a unified platform for designing, prototyping and deploying applications with maximum efficiency.

Engineers and scientists in virtually every industry are using graphical system design, from basic measurement applications to the most complex, advanced research projects.

With support for thousands of instruments and technologies such as multicore and fieldprogrammable gate arrays (FPGAs), the user can develop high-performance automated test systems. To learn more about how LabVIEW 2011 can accelerate productivity, readers can visit www.ni.com/labview.

National Instruments Australia

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M2M

Remote asset control is changing our lives Part 1 M2M communications is the networking of intelligent, communications-enabled remote assets. It allows key information to be exchanged automatically without human intervention and covers a broad range of technologies and applications which connect the physical world - whether machines or monitored physical conditions - to a back-end IT infrastructure.

These remote assets, which can be fixed or mobile, include cars and truck fleets, utility meters, copiers and printers, kiosks and wireless displays, ventilation and airconditioning sensors, home medical devices, fitness monitors and CCTV cameras.

The physical conditions they monitor can include temperature, location, consumption, heart rate, stress levels, light, movement, altitude and speed.

M2M communications can be used to gain immediate feedback on how a particular remote asset is being used, which features are most popular and what problems such as errors or breakdowns typically arise.

This information is useful for shortening the lead time to an improved or updated version, thereby providing a competitive edge.

M2M communications are made possible using intelligent sensors or microprocessors that are embedded in the remote asset.

These sensors include a SIM card - albeit slightly different to the one you have in your mobile device - that is able to receive and transmit data wirelessly to a central server where it can be analysed and acted on.

Wireless communications technologies used to enable this connectivity include GSM, GPRS, EDMA, 3G, LTE, or Wi-Fi and WiMAX. Some of these connections occur over a relatively short range, some over a distance of many kilometres.

The widespread availability and decreasing cost of wireless communications, economies of scale and improvements in bandwidth have redefined what’s now costeffective to connect.

As a result, multinational businesses can consider M2M not just for their most important production assets, but for almost every remote asset they own or service for customers. www.electronicsonline.net.au

When that networking is conducted globally, it can translate into improved efficiency and reduced operating and maintenance costs.

In addition to commercial pressures to differentiate, new stringent legislation is requiring companies in many sectors to be accountable for product tracking and management.

Over the next few years, M2M could be a key enabler in helping to restore confidence after the world economic crisis, providing the next leap forward in global productivity in much the same way as the mobile phone did in the latter part of the last century.

It’s hard to imagine a time when M2M wasn’t a vital part of the transport and logistics industry. At the end of 2009 there were more than 3.2 million passenger cars in Europe with an onboard telematics device.

M2M is now being used to add new in-car functionality such as ‘infotainment’ and navigation services and to enable the vehicle to selfdiagnose and warn the driver of potential difficulties before a journey is undertaken.

In the event of an accident, the vehicle’s M2M sys- “Individuals have tem can notify emergency services of its location and establish communications directly with the occupants. become more aware of Following a breakdown or accident, roadside as- their own responsibilities sistance can be informed immediately with details of towards security.” the problem and the vehicle’s precise location.

Other applications include: usage-based vehicle insurance (also known as pay-as-you-drive); vehicle tracking to aid the recovery of stolen vehicles and increase driver safety; measurement of driving behaviours including the G-forces resulting from hard breaking and fast starts and speeding; as well as value-added services such as car concierge and location positioning.

When used in conjunction with satellite-based GPS and location-based services, M2M can provide real-time information such as vehicle location, driver speeds, kilometres driven, fuel consumption and employee work time.

The technology is also being used to manage and dispatch fleets and resources and enable supply chain companies to deliver cost-efficient goods.

Delivery at the door can also be confirmed and paid for using M2M. As part of the efforts to build a sustainable energy system, the traditional mechanical utility meter can now be replaced by a smart meter that can improve efficiency and reliability in energy distribution and better optimisation allocating resources.

Energy regulations and smart-grid funding are likely to push the number of smart meters installed worldwide to more than 100 million during the next few years.

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

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M2M

Smart metering incorporates a wide range of applications in the fields of remote meter reading, user relationship management, demand management and value-added services such as home automation.

The deployment of automatic meter reading applications will help users gain better visibility over their energy usage and spending. Similar technology is needed to ensure the motor vehicle and transport markets do their part by moving smoothly from fossil fuels to hybrid and electric cars.

Smart grid technology enables utilities to connect wirelessly to their grid assets, such as circuit breakers, transformers and other substation equipment. This allows them to develop interactive utility networks that are more intelligent, resilient, reliable and self-balancing.

Recent health reports project the global telemedicine industry to be worth US$18 billion by 2015 boosted by new M2M functions in radiology, cardiology, dermatology, psychiatry, dentistry, paediatrics and pathology.

Currently, there are nearly a billion people around the world with at least one chronic disease and the number is rising. By 2020 diabetes is expected to double and deaths caused by heart disease and stroke will increase to more than 20 million a year.

M2M is becoming an integral part of patient care, helping to cut costs as well as save lives. Sensors in the bathroom, by the bed or near the door can collect information without compromising the individual’s privacy.

Remote monitoring devices can be used to allow physicians to remotely monitor information about patients with heart conditions and diabetes.

Patient sensors act as extra eyes and ears for doctors treating chronic illness such as cardiac disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

Continuous two-way data feeds over the M2M network provide detailed monitoring “The deployment of automatic information that allows doctors to spot meter reading applications will early warnings of medical deterioration help users gain better visibility and apply treatment earlier than physical diagnosis allows. over their energy usage.”

Patients can learn to monitor their own vital signs and better administer their own treatment regime, and elderly relatives can be monitored remotely by their families to make sure they are safe and healthy.

Healthcare providers can immediately see whether patients have complied with their physicians’ instructions and treatment regimes.

Statistically, about half all hospital beds are occupied by patients who have chronic illnesses that could equally well be monitored using M2M technologies if they were at home.

So, not only does telemedicine promise better quality patient treatment, it also reduces costs and refocuses resources on face-to-face treatment and allotting bed space to patients with life-threatening conditions or intensive treatment needs.

The industry sector has always needed to closely monitor and control plant and field equipment and processes to ensure production is maximised while all machinery operates within safety limits.

The introduction of remote monitoring and adjustment capabilities from M2M has seen companies increase their productivity and profitability while expanding their services into new areas.

It has empowered expansion and increases in efficiency and productivity by recognising performance issues just before or as they happen, thereby minimising downtime.

Remote machines and robots controlled by M2M can undertake routine repairs and maintenance, while emergency repair crews can arrive at a site fully briefed to resolve an issue quickly, with the right tools.

Over time, industrial business can learn more about the causes of equipment malfunction and downtime and build detailed performance analysis models from M2M data feeds.

Most importantly, M2M offers the industrial sector the opportunity to transform from a hardware-based business model to one that is more user-service orientated.

Retail was one of the first sectors to see significant breakthroughs for wireless M2M. Radio frequency identification tags have been used 6 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

for many years to provide retailers with real-time visibility into their inventory and allow individual items to be monitored and tracked to the doorstep of the final delivery.

In service-driven industries, M2M will make the difference in revenue generation by providing immediate information on the required items to be replaced. M2M goes beyond this, enabling new business models and market approaches such as pay-per-print.

With no fixed infrastructure required, wireless terminals are one of the fastest growing segments of the payment industry and are being used for applications including point-of-sale terminals.

Meanwhile, retail outlets are becoming savvier in their use of M2M to boost sales through up-to-the-minute in-store shopping discounts based on personalised consumer needs powered by M2M. M2M can be used to push news or eyecatching advertisements to remote kiosks, electronic display boards and mobile screens displaying information such as location, time of day and passing traffic.

As environmental considerations become more pressing, retailers are also looking to M2M to help them monitor how they consume the energy that powers their business.

The market for security products and services has grown rapidly recently, with the government leading strategic warfare overseas to limit potential terrorist impacts at home.

Individuals have become more aware of their own responsibilities towards security and have renewed efforts to stem a rise in vandalism, theft and violence.

The use of wireless communications to automate remote security solutions provides a more efficient and cost-effective means of monitoring intrusion of CCTV images, allowing remote surveillance and access to control systems, motion detectors, lighting and access points.

The control station can remotely authorise access to controlled areas with the ability to open and close locks, doors and gates via the wireless network. It can generate alerts for security breaches that trigger appropriate actions such as locking doors or calling for assistance.

Personal navigation devices, fitness monitors, e-readers, track-and-trace animal collars and networked digital photo frames are just some of the innovative consumer products and services that are changing people’s lifestyles.

M2M solutions provide quick and easy payment methods for couriers and remote tradespeople, while also providing costeffective, secure and easy-to-install payment solutions at trade shows, exhibitions and sporting events.

Supermarkets, service stations, convenience stores and retail outlets can also use www.electronicsonline.net.au

M2M

M2M to reduce ongoing running costs of electronic point-of-sale terminals due to the low-cost tariffs available.

M2M enables an asset, such as a lift or vending machine, to immediately advise its service centre if there is a fault. The service centre can then interrogate the product remotely to determine the fault and ensure that technicians are equipped with the correct parts before making a visit to the site.

The drivers for M2M will vary depending on the specific business and its needs, but generally include: • As digital cellular coverage has expanded, there has been a corresponding shift away from satellite connectivity towards terrestrial cellular connectivity.

• Cost saving remains one of the primary drivers for businesses to adopt M2M. The recovery of one misplaced diesel generator, for example, can cover the installation and running costs of a tracking deployment.

• While cost saving is still very important and valuable to businesses, this represents only one aspect of the potential of M2M. The most powerful driver for M2M is that it can enable new business models.

Increasingly, M2M solutions are being used to enhance business operations, improve functionality and environmental stewardship, and connect the business with its end users.

At this point M2M moves from simply being part of business processes to a key part of the overall business operation and user experience.

Take, for example, a manufacturer of commercial air-conditioning systems. It sells its products through distributors and building integrators, and may receive equipment fault information only second hand.

It would be unable to track usage and performance data, with no view of who is using its equipment or where it is installed.

By integrating an intelligent monitoring and control M2M system into its air-conditioning assets, the manufacturer gains direct ongoing access to field intelligence about its units.

If this solution were extended to provide a front end accessible to end users, such as a website, the manufacturer could then gain direct access to the user and have the opportunity to enhance its products.

Vodafone Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N256 To be continued…

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April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

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newproducts LED driver

Switching at a frequency of up to 1 MHz and ensuring closely controlled rise and fall times, the AL8807 buck LED driver from Diodes has been designed to reduce EMI issues in the lower cost MR16 LED lamp market.

To achieve required higher output power, the driver can operate at input voltages of 6-30 and provide up to eight series of connected LEDs with a constant 1 A. The driver’s current accuracy of ±5% means it will meet the requirements of most general low voltage lighting applications and lead to an improvement in inter-lamp luminance matching in 3 W LED lighting systems. The driver is up to 96% efficient and the output current is simple to set, using a single external resistor.

Dimming control is via the application of either a DC voltage or PWM signal on the driver’s control input, which also protects against any over-driving of the LED current. The driver’s 1000:1 PWM dimming ratio and DC dimming range is 16 - 100%.

EMC test simulator The EM Test UCS 500N7 includes circuits necessary to conduct fully compliant tests at levels that go beyond common test requirements.

The device offers EFT/ burst to IEC/EN 61000-4-4, surge to IEC/EN 61000-4-5, power fail and optionally ANSI/IEEE C62.41, telecom surge (IEC/EN 61000-4-5) and magnetic field.

Surge can be tested up to 7.0 kV either according to IEC 61000-4-5 or ANSI/IEEE C62.41. The UCS 500N7 offers an optional integrated ringwave module as per ANSI/IEEE C62.41 and IEC 61000-4-12 for ringwave tests on mains supply lines.

The simulator can be operated manually from the front panel or by remote using the EM TEST IEC control software supported

by Windows 2000, XP, Vista and 7.

Remote control is achieved either via USB or GPIB. IEC control supports a wide range of GPIB cards of National Instruments.

Fail inputs allow control of ongoing test sequences based on the status of the DUT. Monitoring outputs (BNC) are offered for signal measurement and verification. Safety features such as interlock and warning lamp control are available.

Consultant Technology Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N124

Vehicle monitoring The IEI TANK-700-QM67 rugged vehicle monitoring system is a fanless embedded system featuring 2nd generation Intel mobile Core i7/i5/i3 and Celeron processor.

Future Electronics Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M420

Power MOSFETs Vishay has expanded its Micro Foot TrenchFET Gen III power MOSFET family with two p-channel 30 V devices.

The Si8497DB is said to be the first 30 V chipscale MOSFET in the compact 1 x 1.5 mm size, making it the smallest available, while the Si8487DB is said to provide the lowest on-resistance available for a 30 V chipscale device in the 1.6 x 1.6 mm form factor.

The TrenchFET Gen III p-channel technology packs one billion transistor cells into each square inch of silicon.

This allows a superfine, submicron pitch process that cuts the best on-resistance for a p-channel MOSFET by up to half.

Micro Foot allows the use of a larger die for a given outline, which means a lower on-resistance for a given device area.

The devices will be used for load, battery and charger switching in handheld devices including smartphones, tablets, point-of-sale devices and mobile computing.

The devices are halogen free in accordance with the IEC 61249-2-21 definition and compliant to RoHS Directive 2002/95/EC. The Si8487DB is pin compatible with the company’s 30 V Si8409DB.

Features include: Intel HD graphics support for H.264/AVCMPEG2/VC1, DirectX 10.1 and OpenGL 3.0; built-in 2 GB DDR3 memory and one DDR3 SO-DIMM slot (max 4 GB); dual combo (10/100/1000 baseT(X) or 1000 baseSFP slot) gigabit LAN ports, supporting AMT 7.0; support for 8-channel video/audio capture and dual display by VGA/HDMI; support for two USB 3.0 ports, four USB 2.0 ports, one SATA 6 Gbps port, one CAN-Bus port and eight COM ports (four with isolation); dual-band 2.4/5 GHz 802.11a/b/g/n 3T3R MIMO Wi-Fi for high-speed wireless transmission; redundant dual DC power input (9 to 36 V); CANbus interface with isolation; extended temperature fanless design supports -20 to +70°C. The device focuses on the best components that generate less heat but maintain high system performance. With the fanless design, TANK-700 reduces the system failure caused by fans and extends the lifetime of the device.

Braemac Pty Ltd

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N117

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P301

8 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

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newproducts Railway connectors

Low power HCUs

Railway connectors from Belden’s Lumberg Automation range have been specially designed for use in trains.

They provide maximum security as they comply with all international railway standards and stringent fire protection requirements including Hazard Level 2.

Offering vibration-proof M12 connection technology, industry protection class IP67 and a wide temperature range of -40 to +90°C, they can withstand harsh environmental conditions.

The connectors are offered as moulded ProfiNet or field-attachable versions. Individual lengths of cable are optionally available for the field-attachable connectors. This choice of versions means they can be employed in a wide range of solutions.

Possible applications include the networking of control modules for doors and air conditioning in trains. The shielded railway connectors can also be used in combination with IP cameras or infotainment systems.

Complying with EN 50155, IEC 61373 and DIN CLC/TS 50467 railway standards, the M12 connectors have four poles in D coding. The field-attachable versions have threaded joints and spring-type terminals enabling simple assembly.

The moulded versions are available with single- or double-ended ProfiNet cordsets.

They feature Cat 5 and Cat 5e transmission characteristics in line with ISO IEC 11801 and TIA/EIA-568-B.2.

While the housings of the moulded connectors are made of PA plastic, those of the field-attachable versions consist of nickel-plated die-cast zinc. The optionally available individual lengths of cable consist of irradiated, halogen-free polymer (FRNC) with a cross-section diameter of 22 AWG. This also applies to the ProfiNet cable sets with moulded connectors, which are offered in lengths of 2, 5 or 10 m. Other cable lengths can be provided.

Microchip has expanded its eXtreme low power microcontrollers with the PIC24F ‘GA3’ family, featuring what it claims to be the lowest active current for 16-bit flash MCUs, as well as several flexible new low power sleep modes.

The devices feature 150 µA/MHz active current as well as six DMA channels, which allow a routine to be executed with less power consumption and increased throughput.

Belden Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M794

All-in-one panel PC The AFL-057A, a 5.7″ power over ethernet all-in-one panel PC integrates the ultralowpower Intel Atom Z510/Z530 processor (up to 1.6 GHz), an LCD touch panel and PoE function into a compact, fanless form factor.

The 5.7″ LCD panel is an LED backlit resistive touch screen that is four-wire resistive touch capable. The fanless device also features 1x compact flash slot, IP64 front panel protection from dust and spills, low power consumption and a wide operating temperature of -20 to 60°C. It eliminates the need for AC outlets. The IEEE 802.3af PoE standard ensures that 12.95 W of DC power is supplied to each connected device and PoE allows the system to safely transfer power and data to remote devices via the one cable (standard category 5e) within an ethernet network.

The high graphic performance of the Z510P/Z530P 1.6 GHz processor supports full hardware decoding for H.264, MPEG2, VC1 and WMV9. This eliminates the need for software decoding, therefore avoiding the risk of overloading the processor.

Multitasking is optimised with low CPU resource use and the Atom Z530P processor allows for smooth video playback.

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P197

10 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

The family adds a low-power sleep mode with RAM retention down to 330 nA. Additionally, these are said to be the first PIC MCUs with VBAT for battery backup of the on-chip, real-time clock calendar.

With these features, plus an integrated LCD driver and numerous other peripherals, the devices enable more efficient, less expensive designs.

The MCUs enable maximum battery life by reducing the overall power that the application consumes. To allow the application's real-time clock to continue running when primary power is removed, a VBAT pin can be used to supply backup power with 400 nA. Additionally, the transition from VDD to the VBAT supply pin occurs automatically as VDD is removed.

The integrated LCD display driver can drive up to 480 segments, with an eightcommon-drive capability, enabling more informative and flexible displays.

The MCUs also include a charge time measurement unit with a constant current source that can be used for mTouch capacitive sensing, ultrasonic flow measurement and many other sensors.

The on-chip, 12-bit ADC features threshold detection and works in conjunction with the CTMU to perform proximity sensing while in sleep, to further reduce power consumption.

The company has also announced the PIC24FJ128GA310 plug-in module for the Explorer 16 development board.

Microchip Technology Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M966

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newproducts Triple-output power

The U8030 series of DC power supplies is said to be the only triple-output supply with front-panel programming.

In benchtop or industrial settings, this allows the user to set and control key output parameters without extensive programming knowledge.

All three channels of the supply can be controlled individually or simultaneously with a press of a button (all on/off), delivering up to 375 W (total) to multiple devices or points.

To help users see the total power drawn by a device under test, the models include a screen that shows voltage and current readings simultaneously. The series also includes overvoltage and overcurrent protection.

Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M968

Gateway appliance

Emerson Network Power has introduced the Avocent Universal Management Gateway, claimed to be the first data centre appliance that enables true real-time integrated monitoring, access and control across IT and facilities systems in the data centre.

The appliance is an integral part of the Trellis platform and serves as the real-time data processing hardware link between management software and IT and facilities systems.

When combined with data centre infrastructure management software, this multifunctional device delivers real-time infrastructure management capabilities including, what is claimed to be, the first embedded service processor management across multiple heterogeneous server environments.

Avocent DSView 4 software, also introduced at the same time, is said to be the first data centre infrastructure management software to use the gateway appliance to deliver 24/7 centralised data centre management.

The hardware and software combination enables data centre administrators to remotely access, monitor and control target devices on multiple heterogeneous platforms across numerous locations. The software also offers new features including HyperV support, FIPS 140-2 support and the addition of an open architecture database to allow administrators to design custom reports and use third-party reporting systems.

Emerson Network Power Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M463

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April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

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newproducts Rugged embedded system

Scanning receiver

Avalue’s ERS-AT270-A2 rugged embedded system for intelligent transportation systems is now available.

The system is powered by an Intel Atom N270 processor with a 945GSE + ICH7-M chipset, which features low power consumption and is energy efficient. With the variety of I/O interfaces, the system comes with 1x VGA, 1x LVDS, 1x SATA, 12x COM, 4x USB, 1x LPT, 2x PS/2, 1x CF and external 16-bit GPIO. It is embedded with a scalable EPIC computer with six sets of COM ports by EPI-945GSE and six sets of COM ports by LPCModule, allowing users to connect different devices as required.

Using the industry-grade Phoenix Type DC power jack connectors, the stable +9 to +32 wide voltage input is supported. The anti-interference capability protects the computer from overload short circuits so the computer can be run safely over a long period. It’s suitable for use in intelligent transportation systems, such as a gateway control system.

The system features an easy-to-upgrade set of service windows on the bottom cover for maintenance purposes. Through this window users can change the hard drive and memory directly.

TechRentals has introduced the PCTel scanning receiver into its test and measurement rental fleet. The receiver performs high speed top N scrambling codes scanning as well as GSM colour code (BSIC) scanning. It can also perform layer 3 BCH/ BCCH decoding.

Other applications include: multiple concurrent measurements, spectrum analysis measurements, high accuracy C/I measurements and pilot measurements for wideband wireless protocols.

It has a built-in GPS receiver, EX scanner GSM 900/1800 WCDMA 2100/900 MHz, RSSI and immediate RSSI reporting.

TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P296

Phased array toolbox

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M970

DC power supplies

The water-cooled (or water-ethylene glycol) Sorensen SG series of programmable power supplies have output voltages of 40 and 60 DC and ratings of 5, 10 or 15 kW (max current of 375 A) outputs in a 3U chassis. Up to five chassis can be paralleled for a maximum power of 75 kW. The series is designed for fast transient response, low noise and high power density that is enabled by water cooling, allowing supplies to be stacked without any required clearance between units.

Two control versions are available: SGA with basic analog controls and SGI with intelligent control.

The SGI version combines onboard intelligent controls enabling sequencing, constant power mode and save/recall of instrument settings. Looping sequences makes the SGI suitable for repetitive testing. User-friendly features include a clear vacuum fluorescent graphical display in eight languages, context sensitive 'soft' keys, front panel keyboard simplified programming and RS-232 interface.

The SGA version uses 10-turn potentiometers for setting voltage and current and is suitable for applications requiring simple front panel analog controls or external control.

Values are displayed on 3½-digit LED readout.

Both SGA and SGI offer optional LXI Class C ethernet or IEEE-488.2 interface.

Westek Electronics Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M423

12 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

MathWorks has revealed expanded system design capabilities in MatLab with the launch of Phased Array System Toolbox.

Engineers can use MatLab with the toolbox to model, simulate and analyse phased array systems to gain confidence in their system designs across applications such as radar, acoustics and communications.

With capabilities provided as MatLab functions and MatLab system objects, the toolbox includes a large library of algorithms for waveform generation, beamforming, direction of arrival estimation, target detection and space-time adaptive processing.

The toolbox helps engineers model end-to-end phased array systems or use individual algorithms to process acquired data. It includes code examples and demos that provide a starting point for implementing user-defined phased array systems.

The toolbox lets radar and acoustics engineers build monostatic, bistatic and multistatic architectures for a variety of array geometrics, with the ability to model these architectures on stationary or moving platforms.

Array analysis and visualisation tools enable the evaluation of spatial, spectral and temporal performance.

MathWorks Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N112

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Stomp boxes The 1590BB die-cast aluminium enclosure for stomp box manufacturers is a rugged, easy-to-machine, diecast enclosure measuring 119 x 94 x 34 mm. It is finished in a smooth gloss polyester powder paint, which does not chip after machining and provides a good surface for labels and silk screening.

Colours available are cobalt blue, RAL 5013; green, RAL 6024; light grey, RAL 7035; orange, RAL 2009; and red, RAL 3011. Other colours are available.

A lap joint seals the units to IP54, protecting against dust and water, and the painted finish is only applied to the external surfaces, maintaining RFI integrity.

All units can be supplied factory modified with machining and silk screening to the user’s specification.

Hammond Electronics Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M898

Broadband analysers Aeroflex has released a family of three low-cost broadband signal analysers that locate, record and analyse complex communications signals for commercial, military and aerospace applications.

Based on the company's broadband signal analyser family, the Scout, Hunter and Explorer comprise the new range.

The family consists of: a portable analyser, the Scout CS1104; and two rack-mountable instruments, the Hunter CS1207 and the Explorer CS1247.

Scout's RF coverage extends from 20 MHz to 3 GHz with 40 MHz instant bandwidth, 8 GB signal capture RAM and a 1 TB removable data storage.

The Hunter and Explorer are rack-mountable analysers. Hunter is for users who wish to search for a specific signal of interest and hone in on a narrower frequency range around that signal and analyse it.

Its RF coverage extends from 10 MHz to 6 GHz with 70 MHz instant bandwidth, a 32 GB signal capture RAM and 8 TB of removable data storage.

It is designed for applications that need greater RF bandwidth than Scout and adequate memory for longer signal recordings.

The Explorer combines Hunter's existing narrowband capability with additional wideband capability. It is designed to explore, record and analyse across a wide frequency range. Its coverage extends from 10 MHz to 6 GHz with operator-selectable 70 MHz or 400 MHz instant bandwidths, a 32 GB signal capture RAM, and 8 TB of removable data storage. Like Hunter, Explorer can zero in on a narrow spectrum range to record and analyse a specific signal.

Software and hardware modules are: BSA Basic software module - includes spectrum, spectogram and time software displays; BSA Modulation Domain software module - calculates and displays AM, FM and PM waveforms and their statistics; BSA Scanning Spectrum Analyster software module - emulates a traditional spectrum analyser to view any range of spectrum instantly; GPS hardware module option - provides positioning and time stamp for the collected data. This option is standard on Scout and can be ordered as an option for Hunter and Explorer.

Aeroflex Asia Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M981

www.electronicsonline.net.au

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

13

NEW White Papers

now available online!

Virtualisation and cloud computing: optimised power, cooling and management maximises benefits IT virtualisation, the engine behind cloud computing, can have significant consequences on the data centre physical infrastructure (DCPI). This white paper discusses the effects and possible solutions for dealing with them.

Top 5 things you need in a virtualisation management solution For any size data centre, having a proper management solution is critical for ensuring an orderly and problem-free environment.

In this white paper we look at the top five areas you should look at when choosing a management solution for your virtual environment.

newproducts Vehicle tracking terminal The VTT-1000 vehicle tracking terminal for fleet management system applications has been released. It has been designed for rugged environments, features an operating temperature range of -20 to +70°C and has a drop survival of 1 m.

The device features a 3.5″ TFT LCD touch screen, is embedded with an ARM9 400 MHZ CPU and is ready with pre-installed Windows CE 6.0. The terminal features 128 MB DDRZ memory onboard and 256 MB of NAND Flash storage.

I/O interfaces include 1x Mini USB 1.1, 1x OBD-11, 1x RS232, 2x LAN ports and audio. In addition to Windows CE SDK, it contains APIs for application software development.

The device is equipped with a Cinterion MC55i wireless module and built-in antenna for machine-to-machine communication over GPRS. The module is awarded full type approval and certified by global carriers and operators.

The terminal is optimised with quad-band technology for worldwide roaming and it supports a diverse array of navigation software.

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P135

Five tips to reduce risk from modern web threats Modern web threats can infect your network, subvert systems into botnets or steal sensitive data. To meet these challenges to your security, you need to put in place user education and awareness, preventive measures and a modern web security solution. Read this guide for tips.

Oxygen measurement on air separation plants Industry consumes vast quantities of oxygen and nitrogen annually, all of which is obtained from the air around us. There are two main techniques used to separate these two primary gases from air. These processes are cryogenic separation and pressure swing adsorption (PSA).

For these and more White Paper downloads, visit www.electronicsonline.net.au/white_papers

Ethernet port adapter The connectBlue rugged Bluetooth ethernet port adapter RBE231 features Bluetooth 2.1+EDR and a communication range of up to 1000 m.

It is suitable for industrial installations, transport and data acquisition applications when there is a need to replace the ethernet cable with a Bluetooth connection.

The adapter replaces the RBEPA. The device offers greater throughput and longer range (1000 m).

Adaptive frequency hopping and the connectBlue low emission mode provides robust wireless co-existence, solving potential interference disturbances between Bluetooth and wireless LAN not handled by AFH. Furthermore, the RBE231 supports Bluetooth roaming and has an IP65 classed housing.

The SMART configuration mode and the availability of a web browser configuration tool makes configuration easy. The adapter is compatible throughout connectBlue product generations and technologies, providing a seamless upgrade possibility without the need for product redesign, upgrade investments or qualification approvals.

This compatibility strategy allows the device to be a possible Bluetooth alternative to the rugged wireless LAN ethernet port adapters RWE231 and RWE241. The RBE231 is radio type approved for FCC, IC and R&TTE, compliant with EMC, safety and medical standards, and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR qualified (3.0 prepared via firmware upgrade).

M2M Connectivity Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N081

14 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Embedded board

Microcontroller board

Avalue’s EBM-CDV, an embedded board based on the next-generation Atom processor N2800 and D2700 series and NM10 Express chipset, is based on Intel’s 32 nm process and features a two-chip platform, integrating the Northbridge chip with CPU, and has advanced the Southbridge chip to a higher class.

The 5.25″ embedded board supports onboard DDR3 system memory with up to 4 GB capacity in a 204-pin DDR3 SODIMM socket and supports dual-channel 18/24-bit (note: 24-bit is enabled on D2700 only) LVDS (with eDP) and multiple display configurations (CRT+LVDS, HDMI+LVDS or CRT+HDMI).

The I/O deployment includes a 1 x SATA, 6 x COM, 8 x USB 2.0 and 16-bit GPIOs, making various requirements of embedded applications possible.

One audio jack supports Realtek ALC892, 5.1-CH audio. Two 82574L gigabit LANs and one expansion slot of mini PCIe card (support mSATA) are also supported.

The series meets the embedded requests for low power consumption and provides users with a better choice for higher level graphics and system performance.

The Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller board, based on the ATmega2560, has 54 digital input/output pins (of which 14 can be used as PWM outputs), 16 analog inputs, four UARTS (hardware serial ports), a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header and a reset button.

It contains everything necessary to support the microcontroller; simply connect it to a computer with a USB cable or power it with an AC-to-DC adapter or battery to get started. The Mega is compatible with most shields designed for the Arduino Duemilanove or Diecimila.

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd

element14

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N125

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N246

Vibration monitoring Dytran Instruments has introduced model 3315A, a high frequency IEPE accelerometer designed for use in health and usage monitoring systems as well as active vibration control of commercial and military aircraft.

Offered with a 250 g range and 20 mV/g sensitivity, the instrument has an upper frequency response of 10,000 Hz. As an IEPE sensor, it features built-in electronics, eliminating the need for an external charge amplifier and converter.

Design features include low noise JFET electronics packaged in a compact, rugged, stainless steel housing with a radial 2-pin bayonet-style connector and 1/4-28 mounting stud.

It also features internal case ground isolation to avoid EMI/ground loop interference and hermetic sealing for operation in high-humidity and dirty environments. With its durability, compact size and mounting characteristics, it is suitable for high frequency aircraft/airframe vibration measurements, rotor track and balance and permanent or walkaround vibration monitoring of rotating machinery, including bearing noise measurements.

Overmould connectors

Metromatics Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M853

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P097

www.electronicsonline.net.au

Switchcraft has announced overmould options for its EN3 range of products.

The three options have a rugged construction, making the connectors suitable for harsh environments.

The quick disconnect quickly snaps into place again and again while providing a watertight seal. The options provide a slimmer option for protection from harsh environments.

Clarke & Severn Electronics

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

15

newproducts Vehicle data server IEI’s AVL-2000 Plus auto data server is an embedded system designed for in-vehicle use.

At the heart of the system is the Intel Atom processor, offering low power. The chipset is rounded off with the Intel US15WP. The system also offers HSUPA/GPRS/GSM connection, global position system and onboard diagnostic system technology.

Other peripherals include two USB ports, an RS-232/422/485 port, one Gbe port, video capture port and audio line-in and line-out jacks. The device supports 802.11b/g/n wireless networking.

This system features expanded connectivity with an SD card slot and VGA output port and NTSC/PAL video capture (120 FPSDI). Network connectivity is via HSDPA/ GPRS/GSM and Wi-Fi. Also featured is an RS232/422/485 serial port (RJ45 interface) and 10/100/1000 Mbps ethernet.

The system is fanless with a 1.1 GHz Atom Z510 CPU. Preinstalled with 1 GB 533 MHz DDR2 memory, it supports Windows XP and Windows 7.

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M280

Single board computer The AdvancedMC processor module AM4140 from Kontron is equipped with a Freescale QorIQ P4040/80 CPU. With up to eight cores at 1.5 GHz and high-speed fabrics at the heart, it is suitable for parallel, multithreaded applications on MicroTCA integrated platforms.

The module incorporates the Freescale QorIQ P4040/80 4/8-core processor with cores based on the e500 power architecture. With highspeed frame handlers and multiple high-speed connections like serial rapid IO, 10 GbE and PCI Express, it provides a fast dual-channel memory of up to 8 GB ECC-RAM. The module provides flexible configuration of high-speed fabrics. On AMC ports 4-7, 4x SERDES lines can be configured either as PCI Express (root complex or end point) or serial rapid IO ports (host or agent).

Serial rapid IO and PCI Express target applications require close programming to the chip without extensive overhead and with minimum latencies. AMC ports 8-11 may be configured either for serial rapid IO, PCI Express, 10 GbE or 4x GbE. In addition, it supports 3x GbE channels which can be configured to AMC port 0 plus 2x GbE at the front or 2x GbE on AMC ports 0,1 plus 1x GbE at the front.

It supports usage in systems with or without the MicroTCA carrier hub to reduce costs and speed up system development and supports different options of booting the OS, either from the Micro SDHC card, the NOR or the NAND flash (for rugged applications).

Kontron Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P061

16 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

Intelligent tracking

The Maestro MicroTracker (Rev 2) combines GSM/GPRS and GPS technologies in an industrial, compact grade design featuring embedded antennas and a single port connector in a small footprint.

It is easy to fit into places where space is limited in vehicles and provides key features for fleet management applications including reporting position, speed, mileage and ignition of the vehicle.

Empowered by the latest Maestro GPS SiRFstarIV A2100-A chipset, the device also provides intelligent device management features and functionality, such as firmware and software upgrades and vehicle diagnostics.

The MT-01 also features 2x digital and 1x analog inputs, suitable for elementary fleet management, fleet diagnostic and preventive maintenance.

The two open collector outputs can drive relays and allows the user to control the asset or tracked vehicle. Geotagging and geofencing capabilities are also addressed for asset recovery and roadside assistance service provider.

M2M Connectivity Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N085

Ethernet switches

The managed ethernet switches of the HARTING product family Ha-VIS mCon 7000 have additional functionalities (eg, filtering prioritisation and redundancy) to build up a convergent and managed network in harsh environments.

The switches allow the connection of up to 10 end-units, according to switch type, over IEC 802.3 twisted-pair cabling.

Soanar Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M876

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Microcontroller series

Disk-size SBC

Renesas has developed the V850E2/Fx4-L series of microcontrollers with 19 new 32-bits.

Designed for the motor vehicle comfort and body segment, the low-power MCUs offer scalability and compatibility combined with peripheral functions to provide solutions for applications such as roof or window lifters, door, seat and light modules, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and body control modules.

The series enables low current consumption in active mode of less than 0.35 mA at 1 MHz. The MCUs provide a power-saving feature called the sequencer that supports hardware monitoring of digital inputs in deep stop mode without using the CPU or memory.

When the SEQ detects activities at the digital inputs, the device switches from deep stop mode to run mode. A further feature is the LIN-master controller that supports the automatic LIN-frame detection without CPU interactivity.

The MCUs incorporate a maximum CPU clock from 48 up to 64 MHz with a performance of 1.81 Dhrystone MIPS (DMIPS)/MHz and provides flash memory ranges from 256 KB up to 1.5 MB equipped in packages with pin counts ranging from 64 to 176.

An enhanced peripheral set is implemented, including PWM generation, up to two CAN interfaces as well as eight direct memory access channels.

iBase's Intel IB905 3.5″ disk-size SBC with QM57 chipset for applications in automation, POS, test equipment and digital signage fields supports second-generation Core i7/i5/i3/Celeron QC/DC processors up to 2.6 GHz. The processor family integrates graphics and memory controllers and features better performance and energy efficiency.

Measuring 102 x 147 mm, the board has a SODIMM socket with a maximum module capacity of 4 GB 1067/1333 MHz. Graphics interfaces provided are for CRT, DVI and 24-bit, dual-channel LVDS displays.

Other connections and expansions include two gigabit LAN, 6x USB 2.0, 2x USB 3.0, 2x serial ports, 2x SATA III ports and a Mini PCI-E slot. A cable kit and heatsink are optional items.

Braemac Pty Ltd

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N111

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P136

RF cables, connectors and assemblies RG6 RG11 RG58 RG142 RG174 RG179 RG213 RG316 LMR series Leaky cables and more

U.FL SMA BNC TNC N Type F Type and more

Ampec Technologies Pty Ltd

Unit 1, 63-79 Parramatta Road, Silverwater, NSW 2128 Tel: +61 2 8741 5000 E: sales@ampec.com.au W: www.ampec.com.au

www.electronicsonline.net.au

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

17

Embedded group formed The Standardization Group for Embedded Technologies, SGET, has been established. Embedded computer manufacturers, such as Advantech, congatec, Data Modul, Kontron, MSC, SECO, and the publishers WEKA Fachmedien and Vogel Business Media are among the founding members.

The SGET organisation will develop and maintain worldwide valid embedded computing specifications to propel new embedded technology standardisation, meeting the demands of the markets.

With SGET, a globally operating, manufacturer-independent consortium has been created, which can react to the accelerated speed of technological progress and to changing market demands.

The founding members are confident that, worldwide, more than 100 ventures are going to join the group within a year. Other companies and institutions which work in the area of embedded computing are invited to join.

18 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

Solar panels for concrete facades

© iStockphoto.com/YUNUS ARAKON

More than 50% of respondents chose the iPad as the one electronic product they love and could not do without.

This was one of the findings in a poll conducted by element14 in which over 4500 responses were captured by Facebook, Twitter and Google fans.

Called the ‘We Love Innovation’ poll, it revealed the biggest technologies that have the potential to revolutionise electronics.

The iPad, although top of the list, was followed by the Amazon Kindle, the iPhone and the PlayStation. These were further complemented by sensing, which was voted the biggest technology with the potential to revolutionise electronics in the future. This was closely followed by LED lighting, robotics and medical electronics.

Sensing has increasingly become critical in terms of enhancing the ways in which humans interface with technology. Sensing technology facilitates intuitive human interactions with devices such as smartphones, and without it, we would be restricted to more mechanical methods of interface, which wouldn’t allow for things like miniaturisation, which is critical going forward.

The technology is also significant in terms of industrial applications, including areas like factory automation, the international space program and alternative energy, and will be one of the driving technologies in medicine as we move towards non-invasive diagnosis and treatment.

The 2012 Olympics also turned out to be an interesting theme where the majority of respondents chose embedded as the technology that will be a highlight this year, followed by sensing, green IT and mobile and wireless.

This was particularly interesting given the latest announcements around wireless spectrum demands during the games in London this year. Embedded technology in the games can be combined with sensing and used in various areas like monitoring athletic performance or prosthetics for paralympians. element14’s Google+ page continues to invite users to share their stories of innovation in the industry at: http://bit.ly/ wUh3EQ.

© iStockphoto.com/Howard Oates

iPad chosen as ‘love’ product

Heliatek, a maker of solar PV products, has signed a development agreement with Reckli, a manufacturer of elastic moulds for concrete building facades.

This will enable vertical concrete walls of buildings to become efficient solar energy harvesters by integrating organic solar panels directly onto concrete facade blocks.

This building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solution will combine energy harvesting to reduce a building’s carbon footprint with an aesthetically pleasing, visual appearance.

Heliatek’s technology is suitable for this application, because it is ultralight, ultrathin and ultrapowerful, as it harvests the sun’s energy at peak efficiency across a wide range of conditions for more time than traditional solar technologies.

One problem with conventional solar panels is that their efficiency drops off with every degree in temperature gained.

The organic modules remain constant up to 80°C and that is why the panels can be integrated onto the concrete without any need for ventilation.

In conventional panels, if the light intensity decreases, the efficiency decreases. The concrete insert panels are efficient from full sun to a tenth of full sun.

Heliatek estimates that the combination of these two factors will increase the specific annual harvesting yield of its panels by 10 to 20% compared with conventional solar panels.

www.electronicsonline.net.au

Filter appointment

Standards set for M2M

Westek Electronics has been appointed Australian and NZ distributor by the Reinhausen Group (Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH) for its AcF series of active filters that are suitable for threephase, three-wire and three-phase, four wire systems, available in both 415 and 690 V. Features include: 1900 W per 100 A module; unitised and modular construction; global and selective compensation of harmonics; response time of 1 ms; embedded webserver; flicker control to EN50160; and they can be configured in either open or closed loop.

ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute) has published the first release of its machine to machine (M2M) service standards, providing a standardised platform to manage the complexity of multiple M2M services and technologies.

M2M communication services are already showing strong revenue growth with the number steadily increasing but the technology landscape is fragmented, which discourages investment.

Companies participating in ETSI’s Technical Committee for Machine to Machine communications (TC M2M) have now developed a set of standards which provides a complete horizontal service layer for communications.

Release 1 standards enable integration of different M2M technology choices into one managed platform. It is built on proved and mature standards from ETSI and other bodies such as the IETF, 3GPP, the Open Mobile Alliance and the Broadband Forum.

The business benefits are clear: reduced complexity, reduced deployment time for new services and, ultimately, reduced CAPEX and OPEX. The standards specify architectural components including: devices, gateways with associated interfaces, applications and access technologies as well as the M2M Service Capabilities Layer.

They also offer security, traffic scheduling, device discovery and lifecycle management features.

The ETSI M2M Release 1 standards are published as a set of three specifications: • Requirements in ETSI TS 102 689 • Functional architecture in ETSI TS 102 690 • Interface descriptions in ETSI TS 102 921 The specifications are available for download from the ETSI website.

Appointed rep Scientific Devices is the new Australian representative for Pickering Interfaces, manufacturers of signal switching modules and instruments.

www.electronicsonline.net.au

Smart grid standard adopted Maxim’s adopted G3-PLC protocol has been approved by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) as a lowfrequency, OFDM-based narrowband powerline communications (NB-PLC) standard.

In partnership with Electricité Réseau Distribution France (ERDF) and Sagemcom, the company developed the G3-PLC specification to promote open endedness and interoperability among smart grid implementations.

Currently, the G3-PLC is the only NBPLC standard that supports the IPv6 internet protocol to allow new internet-based energy management systems. The specification also optimises bandwidth, corrects errors and provides a higher data rate that supports two-way communication for demand response and other smart grid applications.

Maxim and 11 other companies founded the G3-PLC Alliance last year to support the deployment of the G3-PLC protocol. Both the formation of the G3-PLC Alliance and the final NB-PLC standard approval from the ITU provide the standardisation and support that utilities need to begin deployments with the G3-PLC protocol.

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

19

newproducts Thermal imagers

30 GHz scope on way The i3, i5 and i7 thermal cameras are available in an allblack casing with the i5 and i7 models getting up-rated IR pixel resolution.

A 2 m drop (IP43) standard has been added.

For improved clarity, pixel power has been strengthened along with field of view - the i5 is now available with an IR resolution of 100 x 100 (10,000 pixels and 21º x 21º field of view) and the i7 at 140 x 140 (19,600 pixels and 29º x 29º field of view).

The pocket-sized (365 g) i3 produces instant, pointand-shoot JPEG infrared imagery that carries all required temperature data and can be stored internally or externally.

Designed to suit newcomers to thermography, it has a simple menu making it easy to share inspection results.

The thermal image is created from a minimum 60 x 60 IR resolution (equivalent to 3600 readouts from a traditional single-spot pyrometer) giving the user both an instant ‘hot spot’ reading and temperature, or heat distribution over the entire area.

FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N121

Inductive sensor A long-range inductive proximity sensor using FDA-rated materials for washdown applications is available in a topfacing and front-facing model.

The Q42 is an addition to the uprox+ family of factor one sensors that requires no correction factor to detect any metal type.

The device is designed to deliver optimal performance in applications that require frequent cleaning with chemicals found in food and beverage applications or where the sensor is exposed to wet environments, such as car

Tektronix has validated ASICs designed in IBM's 8HP silicon germanium (SiGe) BiCMOS specialty foundry technology and announced that they are exceeding target specifications for a planned new performance oscilloscope capable of greater than 30 GHz bandwidth across multiple channels while minimising noise.

The oscilloscope platform will meet designers' needs for more accurate characterisation of high-speed serial data beyond 10 Gbps and enhance optical modulation analysis of 100 GbE where complex signalling requires accurate bit capture.

IBM's technology is a 130 nm SiGe bipolar complementary metal oxide semiconductor (BiCMOS) process that is claimed to offer 2x performance over the previous generation. SiGe technology uses mature fabrication processes associated with the 50-year-old silicon industry but with performance levels comparable to that of exotic materials such as indium phosphide (InP) and gallium arsenide (GaAs).

Unlike those alternatives, SiGe BiCMOS provides access to high-speed bipolar transistors on the same die as standard CMOS, enabling a class of circuitry that marries extreme performance with largescale integration.

TekMark Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/K288

Directional couplers

washes or outdoor applications.

The sensor features an improved design with a durable stainless steel connector and PA12 thermoplastic housing that delivers resistance to chemicals and caustic cleaning agents, as well as shock from impact.

Additionally, the upgraded housing materials are food-safe and meet FDA regulation 21CFR 177, 1500(9) for the US and FDA/EGVO 1935/2004 for the EU. It features integrated predamping that gives the designer flexibility to partially recess the sensor into their design.

The existing uprox+ washdown family comprises 12, 18 and 30 mm diameter barrels with sensing ranges between 4 and 30 mm. The Q42 offers a sensing range of 50 mm to all types of metals.

Richardson RFPD has released, and offers full design support capabilities for, the Xinger-III range of components from Anaren.

These are 3 dB hybrid and directional couplers and the latest additions to the Xinger-brand of subminiature components for wireless infrastructure applications.

When compared with equivalently-sized parts from the previous generation, the couplers offer 52-66% lower insertion loss (down to 0.12 dB), five times the power handling, 25-28% higher isolation, 63-71% better amplitude balance and equal phase balance.

The couplers are a quarter the size of the Xinger-II range and offer 37-64% lower insertion loss (down to 0.05 dB), 50% higher power handling and equal directivity.

Their small footprint and robust powerhandling make them alternatives to ceramic equivalents.

Micromax Pty Ltd

Richardson RFPD

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N118

http://www.rell.com

20 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Label printer

The T200 thermal transfer label printer from TE Connectivity is suitable for low volumes of labels with simple text, graphics or bar codes.

Its compact size and low weight of 2.4 kg allows the portable device to be moved from workstation to workstation and makes the T208M printer obsolete.

Key features include: lightweight; small size; automatic calibration; simple ribbon and media loading procedure; and good print position accuracy.

A cutter option is also available.

Ethernet tester Available to rent, the Exfo FTB-860G NetBlazer 10G ethernet tester allows field technicians to perform RFC 2544 measurements and EtherSAM (ITU-T Y.156sam) for turnkey deployment, validation and troubleshooting of 10 Gbps access and metro ethernet services in any environment.

The instrument features a large TFT screen with simple configuration via hybrid touch screen/keypad navigation, as well as clear notifications for accurate interpretation of test results.

Features include: GUI navigation; dedicated quick-action buttons; BERT, RFC, traffic generation and through mode; IPv6 testing capabilities.

TechRentals Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M840

“Rigol offer Australia’s

Best Value DSOs”

Soanar Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L612

Battery charger detectors Maxim has announced the MAX14578E/MAX14578AE, claimed to be the smallest USB battery charger detectors that are compliant with the USB battery charging specification.

The devices detect USB standard downstream ports, USB charging downstream ports or dedicated charger ports, in addition to proprietary charger adapters from Apple and Sony.

When a charging port is detected, the detectors control an external lithium-ion (Li+) battery charger controller to optimise charge time and charging efficiency.

An on-chip LDO provides a 5.3 V output which can be used to power a USB transceiver. In addition, ESD protection on the USB data pins is extended up to ±15 kV (human body model) and ±8 kV IEC 61000-4-2 contact discharge.

Avnet Electronics Marketing Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N116

www.electronicsonline.net.au

RIGOL DS-1052E 50MHz

RIGOL DS-1102E 100MHz

50MHz Bandwidth, 2 Channels 1GS/s Real Time Sampling USB Device, USB Host & PictBridge

100MHz Bandwidth, 2 Channels 1GS/s Real Time Sampling USB Device, USB Host & PictBridge

RIGOL DS-4000 Series

RIGOL DS-6000 Series

100/200/350/ 500MHz, 2 & 4 Channels 4GS/s Real Time Sampling 140Mpts Memory Standard

600MHz & 1GHz, 2 & 4 Channels 5GS/s Real Time Sampling 140Mpts Memory Standard

ONLY $329 ex GST

FROM $1,999 ex GST

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Buy on-line at www.emona.com.au Sydney

Melbourne

Tel 03 9889 0427 Tel 02 9519 3933 Fax 03 9889 0715 Fax 02 9550 1378 email testinst@emona.com.au

Brisbane

Tel 07 3275 2183 Fax 07 3275 2196

Adelaide

Tel 08 8363 5733 Fax 08 8363 5799

Perth

Tel 08 9361 4200 Fax 08 9361 4300

web www.emona.com.au

EMONA April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

21

newproducts Digital PWM controllers The CHiL digital PWM controllers dramatically shrink footprint and improve efficiency in a variety of mid-range to high-end and extreme server, desktop and computing applications.

The six devices meet Intel VR12 and VR12.5 and AMD SVI1 and SVI2 specifications, and support multiphase designs from one to eight phases operating one to two loops.

These third-generation devices offer efficiency-shaping features such as phase shedding and variable gate drive with enhanced algorithms including PID scaling (when shedding phases) and phase current balancing to ensure maximum efficiency.

The solution architecture supports the high di/dt transients from high-end processors and, as a result of a new adaptive transient algorithm, the transients can be met with fewer phases and fewer capacitors to shrink system size.

The family offers flexible phase configurations that allow users to vary the number of phases on each voltage loop to optimise cost and efficiency for each load.

The controllers feature a 30% reduction in operating current to help meet higher efficiency goals during low-load operation. For protection of high-end circuits, the devices offer improved pulse-by-pulse current limit protection, controlled pulse width limiting and a new phase imbalance/phase missing fault feature.

They support phase doubling using the company’s IR3598 to drive two phases from each PWM output. The devices also sense 12, 5 and 3.3 V supplies without special sequencing and feature PMBUS telemetry.

Antenna combiner

Avnet Electronics Marketing

MiMOMax has released a range of compact wide-band, rugged, T-style ‘antenna combiners’.

The device enables compact high-gain antennas to be built without the use of expensive and bulky frequency selective phasing harnesses.

The combiners can be used with antennas from other manufacturers.

The initial combiner offering covers 390 to 500 MHz and combines two 50 Ω antenna feeds.

With a continuous power rating of 100 W (average) and a return loss of greater than 20 dB and forward loss of less than 0.1 dB, the combiner has a good impedance match over the whole band. The device has amplitude balance better than 0.1 dB and phase balance less than 3°.

It allows multiple antennas to work with medium diameter cables fitted with type N connectors.

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N120

MiMOMax Wireless Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M927

Development and demonstration kit element14’s Microchip PIC18f26 flow code development kit is designed to provide developers a hands-on approach to learn Flowcode 4 (graphical programming languages) more easily.

Hybrid managed switch

Texas Instruments has introduced an integrated circuit that simplifies the design and programming of spatially-enhanced audio systems for multi-speaker portable products, including laptops, tablets, sound bars and sound docking stations.

The National LM48901 quad Class D spatial array is believed to be the first in a family of audio ICs that employs distributed sound processing coupled with loudspeaker array to produce an immersive audio experience for space-constrained applications.

The IC integrates a spatial processing DSP, four class D amplifiers, 18-bit stereo analog-to-digital converter, phase-locked loop, and I2S and I2C interfaces.

Software speeds development by eliminating the need for algorithm tuning and inhouse DSP experts and an immersive audio effect enables differentiated products that defy physical system size to provide an expanded soundstage.

The IC enables multiple LM48901s to be daisy-chained to support up to 16 speaker channels and multiple subwoofer configurations, while integrated 2 W speaker drivers: four class D speaker drivers deliver 2 W per channel of continuous output power into a 4 Ω load with less than 1% total harmonic distortion.

Interface Masters Technologies has announced a 48-port hybrid 10GE SFP+ and 1G RJ45 managed switch series in a 1U form factor.

The system Niagara 2924-24TG is designed to integrate with data centre, blade servers, carrier ethernet and metro ethernet devices, HPC clusters, enterprise storage systems, IT security appliances and central office applications.

The system is built for optimal flexibility providing up to 24 of 10 gigabit SFP+ ports for multimode or singlemode fibre media configuration and 24 ports of one gigabit RJ45. The device possesses a full-featured software suite that can be managed remotely via the management or console port, enabling full control over line-rate switching, routing and filtering.

The series joins the 29xx family, which ensures that the optimal combination of port density, configuration and speed flexibility are offered for each unique application without compromising the premium functionality.

Texas Instruments Australia Ltd

Interface Masters Technologies

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P290

www.interfacemasters.com

element14 Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N248

Spatial array sound

22 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

soldering

Has lead-free made the industry any greener? © iStockphoto.com/Trout55

Mike Smyth

Despite the advent of RoHS in July 2006, electronics is essentially a ‘green’ industry. It provides more functions and services but uses less energy and fewer materials.

To illustrate this point, the author compares the motor industry with electronics. In 1947, a Holden car would travel about 160 km in about three hours and use about 11 litres of petrol. Today, a diesel Cruze can make the same trip on better roads in about two hours using less than five litres of fuel.

Compare this with electronics. In 1947, the Eniac computer had some 19,000 valves and perhaps a kilobit of memory and needed 200 kW - enough to supply hundreds of homes. Today, he says, a notebook computer contains some 2.5 billion transistors and 4 GB of memory making it 100,000 to a million times more powerful and at a power consumption of around one thousandth of that needed for the Eniac.

In terms of efficiency, the notebook produces about a billion times more calculations per watt.

Says Lasky: “In 65 years, the motor vehicle has delivered incrementally more functions per energy used while the computer and, by association, electronics, have delivered exponentially more functions per energy or materials used.”

For this reason, he claims that electronics is a very ‘green’ technology but it assumes that ‘green’ means electronics is delivering more and more functions while using less and less ‘stuff ’. This raises the question of what about the materials used in electronics and has RoHS made the industry ‘greener’? www.electronicsonline.net.au

When RoHS was brought in, it banned a variety of materials including mercury, hexavalent chromium, lead, cadmium and two flame-retardant chemicals: polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE). RoHS, in conjunction with the recycling directive WEEE, is designed to make the European Union a safer environment. However: “I know of no study or analysis that supports this RoHS hope. If enforced, WEEE does improve ‘greeness’ as about 85% of products must be recycled,” he says.

At the same time, electronics that aren’t recycled finish up as landfill, where they can “RoHS, in conjunction with the still pollute but the directive does make recy- recycling directive WEEE, is cling safer for recyclers. The green mantra of designed to make the European RoHS has the three pillars of recycle, reduce Union a safer environment.” and re-use.

“Many still argue that non-RoHS compliant products could and have been safely recycled with proper precautions so why put the electronics world through the pain of RoHS? I find this argument compelling.”

The answer to this question is to ask another question: does RoHS help anyone else? It is estimated that some 50 to 80% of waste electronics is sent to third-world countries where it is illegally recycled.

In some cases a man removing solder from circuit boards might later use the same container to cook his dinner.

Lasky says that in the Chinese city of Guiyu, individuals not only work with toxic materials but the whole town is contaminated. In the future, the use of RoHS-compliant products should make life safer for such people.

Its energy efficiency, increased functions and miniaturisation make electronics a green industry, yet it is claimed that because more tin and solder are used in lead-free solders, the environment is being made worse. The argument is that the increased demand for these metals generates mining pollution and has forced prices of them to new heights.

In addition, the higher melting temperatures needed for lead-free soldering demand more electricity.

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

23

© iStockphoto.com/Tatiana Popova

soldering

Here are a few facts about soldering. Some 90,000 tonnes of solder are used in electronics with about 80,000 tonnes absorbed by wave soldering and 10,000 tonnes taken up by SMT. However, electronics soldering is a subset of all soldering that includes alloys for brazing pipes and takes up some 190,000 tonnes of tin, and solder is the largest tin user as it is the base material for almost all solders.

Using tin/lead solder, about 57,000 tonnes of tin (90,000 x 63% tin) would be consumed an“Although more electricity is nually with lead-free solder about 88,000 tonnes (90,000 x 98% tin). Looked at quickly, this seems used, it is not significant when like an annual 30,000 MT of tin used. But leadmeasured against either the free solder is some 14% lighter without lead and value of electronics sold or the wave soldering uses nearly 90% of the solder used in electronics. Solder used here is measured by global use of electricity.” volume, not by weight.

However, it might be best to just look at tin use. The US Geological Survey reveals that about 300,000 tonnes of tin are consumed annually but it seems that the increase is more likely due to the economy rather than RoHS. As far as silver is concerned, there is little or none used in most solder alloys. Only about 3% of the 10,000 tonnes of SMT solder or 300 MT of solder are used in electronics or about 1.5% of the 22,000 MT produced annually.

“Electronics solder use since RoHS has not caused tin use to increase nor is it a significant factor in solder use,” says Lasky.

While the obvious disadvantage of needing higher temperatures in reflow ovens is a by-product of RoHS, is the increased electricity use significant? That answer is no.

The melting point of lead-free solder is 225°C and tin/lead is 183°C. Using US figures, the author estimates that a typical SMT oven uses $7000 worth of electricity a year at $0.072 kWh or about 100,000 kW. Based on an extrapolation of figures from an earlier study, Lasky estimates that there are some 50,000 SMT lines in the world using about 5 x 109 kWh (50,000 ovens x 100,000 kWh).

He goes on to explain that: “An oven processing tin/lead solder would run at 210°C versus a lead-free oven at 250°C. The added energy use would be about 22% more. If all the assembly lines in the world were SMT, the added energy use would be about 0.22 x 5 x 10 9 kWh = 1 x 109 kWh. The cost would be about $100 million at $0.10 a kWh to an industry that generates some $1.5 trillion in sales.

The added cost runs out at 0.0067% of sales and since world electrical use is around 150,000 x 109 kWh per year, the increase is some 1/150,000th of all electrical use or 0.00067%.

He sums this up by saying that although more electricity is used, it is not significant when measured against either the value of electronics sold or the global use of electricity.

Lasky comes to three conclusions: • Electronics is a ‘green’ industry because it uses fewer materials and less energy while providing more functions; • RoHS will have an “overwhelming positive effect” on the developing countries that are using unsafe recycling techniques; • There is little evidence to show that more tin, solder or electricity are being used as a result of lead-free soldering.

Indium Corp www.indium.com

newproducts Motherboard with four ports iBase's MB941 G41-based Micro ATX motherboard with four serial ports is equipped with an Intel graphics media accelerator X4500 (GMA X4500) that makes smooth high-definition video playback possible without the need for add-in video cards or decoders and allows it to deliver optimised 3D graphics performance.

The board supports the Core 2 Quad/Core2 Duo/Celeron processors with accelerated speeds of 800/1066/1333 MHz FSB. System memory includes 2x DDR3 DIMM, sockets and supports up to 4 GB. Expanded connectivity consists of dual PCI-E ports which includes 1x PCI-E(x16), 1x PCI-E(x1), 2x PCI slots and gigabit LAN also featuring a watchdog timer and digital I/O plus 8x USB 2.0 and 4x COM and 4x SATA II ports.

The device features a wide operating temperature of 0 to 60°C plus storage temperature of -20 to 80°C. Increased connectivity is available via LPT, COM, VGA and audio jacks 2x RJ45 and 4x USB ports.

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P222

24 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Magnetic switch sensors

Ethernet switch ORing’s RGPS-7084GP-P industrial 12-port rackmount gigabit PoE ethernet switch is a managed redundant ring with 8x 10/100/1000Base-T(X) PSE ports and 4x 1000Base-X SFP ports. It provides IP-based bandwidth management which can control each IP device’s maximum bandwidth.

The switch is user friendly and can provide IP cameras and NVRs with more bandwidth and limit other devices’ bandwidth. It also supports application-based QoS that can set the highest priority for data stream according to the TCP/UDP port number.

The device also provides DoS/DDoS auto prevention. If there is a surge in IP flow, the switch will lock the source IP address for a specified time to prevent the attack.

The RGPS-7084GP-P can also support PoE, a system to transmit electrical power up to 30 W, along with data, to remote devices over standard twisted-pair cable in an ethernet network.

All functions can be managed centrally or via the internet.

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M774

1 GHz oscilloscopes Four 1 GHz models have been added to the InfiniiVision 3000 X-series of oscilloscopes.

The 2000 and 3000 X-series with WaveGen integrate fixed-function and arbitrary waveform stimulus with oscilloscope response measurements.

In addition, both series have the option to add a three-digit voltmeter and five-digit counter that operate through the same probes as the oscilloscope channels.

These measurements are decoupled from the scope triggering system, allowing engineers to make DVM and triggered oscilloscope measurements with the same connection.

DVM results are presented with an always-on, seven-segment display.

Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N078

Cable assembly WL Gore has added a rugged 18 GHz cable assembly to its Phaseflex microwave/RF test assemblies range.

It is specifically engineered for high throughput production test applications in the wireless infrastructure market.

The connectors on these assemblies minimise failure by incorporating maximum strain relief at the point where the cable and connector meet. The assembly’s internally ruggedized construction is more durable, delivering crush resistance of 85 kg/cm.

Available in 1.0 and 1.5 m lengths, with both SMA and N-type male connectors, the assembly is easier for the operator to use because it is small and lightweight and can be connected and disconnected manually.

The assemblies withstand 100,000 flexures at a minimum bend radius of 2.4 cm.

Richardson RFPD http://www.rell.com

26 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

Mouser has released Murata’s AMR (anisotropic magneto resistance) magnetic switch sensors.

They are non-contact devices of high sensitivity for use in a relatively low magnetic field in either a vertical or horizontal direction. With no mechanical components, they are more reliable and robust than Hall effect ICs or reed switches and are suitable for open/close applications such as mobile phones and notebook PCs. A wide range of sensitivities is available.

Mouser Electronics Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M587

Range expanded element14 has introduced 14 new components into its product range.

They are the Atmel SAM9G45 board evaluation kit for evaluating chip performance and developing code; a Texas Instrument Stellaris DK-LM3S9D96 development kit for Firestorm-class microcontrollers; Kentec Electronic's EB-STM3210E LCD expansion board that features a built-in LED backlight driver circuit and 60 pin FPC connector; ST Microelectronics STM32F4DISCOVERY discovery board to help engineers discover the high-performance features of SMT32F4; Freescale Semiconductor's TWR-S08UNIV that provides a tower system-based development solution for pre-existing S08 and RS08 devices; Microchip's DM330015 motor control starter kit with mTouch sensing; Texas Instruments' 430BOOST-SENSE1 capacitive sense booster pack including the MSP430G2452 device which allows low-cost capacitive-sensing and approximation-sensing applications; Arduino's A000047 mega 2560 microcontroller board containing every feature needed to support microcontrollers by connecting it to a computer with a USB cable or power it with a AC-to-DC adapter or battery; Digilent's chipKIT Max32 development board using the PIC32MX795F512 microcontroller to provide engineers with high performance functionalities; element14's DM3730-EVK DM3730-EVK evaluation kit that accelerates development time for more portable applications, including navigation systems, measurement devices and portable communications; Honeywell's SMART position sensor; Agilent's U1230 handheld multimeter; Lecroy's Waveace 101 oscilloscope; and Circuitco's BeagleBoardxM development kit to improve laptop-like performance. element14 Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M613

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Tablet PCs

Industrial tablet PCs from Phoenix Contact have a 13.3″ touch screen. In the basic version, the devices can be integrated into an existing network via the standardised WLAN according to IEEE 802.11 a/b/g or via Bluetooth Class 1 and Class 2.

With an optional expansion, they can also connect to a UMTS network or receive GPRS signals. The tablet is equipped with a 1.6 GHz Z530 Intel Atom processor or, optionally, with a dual-core processor at 1.2 GHz for applications demanding high computing power. The rugged casing to IP65 allows the PC to be used both indoors and outdoors.

The device has watertight USB, audio, and RJ45 interfaces.

It can be retrofitted with a barcode scanner or RFID wireless identification system.

Two lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are fitted.

Satellite terminal

The Hughes 9502 Inmarsat BGAN M2M terminal is an all-IP BGAN satellite terminal with low power consumption, offering end-to-end IP data connectivity.

It is designed for remote M2M applications requiring bandwidth beyond existing satellite M2M capabilities.

Inmarsat BGAN M2M delivers a global, IP-based service for users requiring higher levels of data availability and performance in permanently unmanned environments. The system provides a fixed IP service with two-way throughput speeds above 100 Kbps.

The terminal provides reliable connectivity over the BGAN network for IP SCADA and machine-to-machine applications in industry sectors such as environmental, SmartGrid, pipelines, compressors, well site automation and out-of-band management to primary site communications.

Providing end-to-end IP connectivity to off-the-grid sites, the low power consumption, (<1 W idle), delivers IP connectivity to power-challenged locations that rely upon solar battery arrays involving sensitive power budgets.

The modem kit includes 10 m of RF cabling and an external antenna. Users can position the antenna away from the transceiver while securing the modem and SIM card inside a premise or enclosure.

M2M Connectivity Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N083

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M578

Processor module

Evatronix has a synthesisable USB high-speed hub that supports USB 3.0 specification and features power management by Link Power Management mode for all supported speed rates.

The latest generation of the USB high-speed hub offers single or multiple transaction translators and a configurable number of downstream ports (up to 15). For further customizing the hub, all its descriptors can be configured to the designer’s liking.

The hub is available in three versions: as a bare version with repeater-enhanced UTMI+ outputs, as a digital PHY-enabled IP with preconfigured upstream and downstream UTMI PHY digital logic or as a complete, standalone hub for particular technology with the company’s USBHS-PHY. The low power management feature secures the hub’s compatibility with the USB 3.0 specification and enables designers to include the hub in the USB 3.0 hub IP as a part responsible for high-, full- and low-speed transfers.

A proprietary board can be delivered with test chip PHYs. With its CPU-less architecture, the design is ready for verification and testing in a developer’s environment.

Avalue’s EQM-CDV Qseven Intel Cederview module is based on the next-generation Atom processor N2600/N2800 and NM10 Express chipset.

The processor series, formerly codenamed Cedar Trail, is based on Intel’s 32 nm process, and features a two-chip platform, integrating the Northbridge chip with CPU, and has advanced the Southbridge chip to a higher class.

This will provide system builders with support for slimmer housing designs and brings enhanced performance, energy efficiency, manageability, security functions and smoother visuals.

The module board supports onboard DDR3 system memory with up to 2 GB capacity and it supports single-channel 18-bit LVDS and HDMI+LVDS display configurations on the baseboard.

I/O includes 2x SATA ports to the baseboard, 8x USB 2.0 ports to the baseboard, one Intel 82574L gigabit LAN and three PCIex1.

Evatronix

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd

www.evatronix.com/ip

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M885

High-speed hub

28 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

PROCESS CONTROL | AUTOMATION | INSTRUMENTATION | SAFETY

Process Technology Regional Roadshow

2012 8

NOW IN ITS TH

YEAR

vend NEW or sess training ions

Queensland Coming soon ... to a city near you!

If you work in mining, minerals, metals processing, utilities, food and chemical manufacturing and processing then the Regional Roadshows are designed for you.

Don’t miss out ...

NEW TRAINING SESSIONS FOR 2012 • Tune a PID flow loop • Troubleshoot a simple TCP/IP industrial ethernet network using four simple utilities • Write, install and test a motor control PLC ladder logic program • Basics of Modbus data communications protocol installation and troubleshooting • Arc flash protection and protective safety equipment • Variable speed drives— testing and troubleshooting

Brisbane • May 14 Gladstone • May 15 Mackay • May 16 Townsville • May 17

Supported by:

Training by:

Exhibiting companies include:

Includes FREE: • Access to exhibition • Training sessions - NEW • Lunch and networking drinks • Product demonstrations • Prize draws

To register or for more info visit: www.regionalroadshows.com.au

newproducts Clock oscillator

Crystek Corporation has launched the CCHD-957, an ultra-low phase noise HCMOS clock oscillator with standby mode, featuring a low close-in phase noise of -100 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz offset and a typical noise floor of -170 dBc/Hz at 100 kHz offset.

This makes the device family suitable for applications such as DACs, ADCs, digital audio broadcasting and professional CD audio equipment.

The oscillator also features a standby function - when placed in disable mode, the internal oscillator is shut down and its output buffer is placed in tri-state. This family operates with a +3.3 V supply, consuming 15 mA. Stability is rated at 20-50 ppm (0 to 70°C) and ±25-50 ppm (-40 to 85°C).

The device generates frequencies between 10 and 50 MHz. Its output driver is capable of driving ±24mA, translating to a rise/ fall time of ~3 nsec max at 20%, to 80% Vcc with a 15 pF load.

Wireless Components

Waveform analyser A precision waveform analyser is a plug-in module and the latest addition to the 86100C/D DCA wide-bandwidth oscilloscope family.

Engineers testing IEEE 802.3ba (40Gb/100Gb ethernet), optical internetworking forum CEI 3.0, INCITS T-11 32G fibre channel and high-speed proprietary systems will benefit from the measurement performance.

The integrated precision timebase and clock recovery design has a typical residual jitter below 50 fs RMS. Continuous data-rate coverage from 50 Mbps to 32 Gbps, peaking control and adjustable loop bandwidths to 20 MHz also allow the clock recovery circuit to provide a golden PLL response for accurate and compliant device characterisation.

The integrated instrumentation-grade clock recovery circuit allows the module to trigger directly from single-ended or differential data signals and the module also integrates high-bandwidth pickoffs and phase-matched cables.

An auxiliary clock-recovery input circuit allows engineers to analyse extremely low-level signals, or signals that have been closed due to severe intersymbol interference, by triggering the scope using a separate synchronous data (or clock) signal connected to the device’s auxiliary CR input.

The 86108B has bandwidth options of 35 and 50 GHz and clock recovery data rate options of 16 Gbps and 32 Gbps.

Features include intrinsic jitter (<50 fs RMS typical); clock-recovery range (50 Mbps to 32 Gbps); high-bandwidth receivers (35 and 50 GHz options); integrated triggering architecture, allowing simple connection schemes, analysis of low-amplitude signals and the elimination of the clock-data delay; an internal phase detector that enables accurate measurements of PLL bandwidth, jitter transfer and jitter/phase noise spectrum.

Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M965

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M528

COM Express module

Variable gain amplifier

IEI has released the ICE-PVN4551/D5251 COM express Type 2 module with Atom N455/D525 processor support.

The module integrates the graphics, display and DDR3 memory controller with a processor specifically designed for easy-to-use computing.

This COM Express module integrates an expansive memory selection with 1x 204pin 800 MHz DDR3 SDRAM SO-DIMM supported (system maximum 4 GB for D525).

It has increased connectivity supporting 8x USB 2.0, 3x SATA 3 Gbps and 1x IDE. IEI one key recovery solution allows the user to create rapid OS backup and recovery. The device’s operating temperature ranges from -20 to 60°C with free air and -20 to 70°C with forced air for the D525 processor.

Also featured is a graphic core speed capability for 400 MHz for D525 and graphic core speed is 200 MHz for N455.

PMI PTB-40-0R1186R5-21-120VAC-1USFF is an integrated microwave assembly that provides high gain and operates from 100 MHz to 18.0 GHz. It features integrated digitally controlled attenuators with ranges up to 60 dB. The attenuation can be controlled via the external optical encoded knob or via RS232 and ethernet. The selected attenuation is displayed on the front panel LCD screen.

Standard features include: 2 m of power cord; on/off power switch with LED indicator; attenuation level displayed on the LCD; attenuation control via front panel optical encoded knob or via RS232 and ethernet; real-time attenuation control.

Options include: ultrafine 0.25 dB/step attenuation resolution; internal high-speed modulator; other gain levels from 0 to 80 dB; frequency ranges from 10 MHz to 40 GHz; higher output power levels up to +30 dBm; 220 VAC supplies.

ICP Electronics Australia Pty Ltd

Mostyn Enterprises (Technologies) Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N012

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N122

30 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

CeBIT set to draw the crowds

22-24 May 2012

Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour

Register at www.cebit.com.au

More than 600 exhibitors divided into 25 sections are expected to show their wares at CeBIT Australia 2012 when it opens its doors for three days from 22-24 May at Darling Harbour, Sydney.

Wireless networks, unified communications, geospatial plus research and development will all be features ranging from start-up companies to multinationals.

The number of exhibitors is expected to attract more than 30,000 professionals from Australia, Asia-Pacific and the rest of the world who will visit the stands and network among themselves. Special events will make networking easier when business leaders, strategic researchers, operational managers and ICT professionals meet to share ideas and get to know each other.

The concurrent conference will hear presentations from more than 100 global thought leaders and will allow governments, companies and individuals to hear and share the latest thinking. With more conference sessions and workshops this year, attendees will have an even greater opportunity to get up to date with leading-edge technology.

Produced in partnership with the CSIRO, NICTA and DSTO, AusInnovate connects research, industry and government communities to discuss what is needed to foster innovation and optimise productivity.

The eGovernment forum will look at the ways technology is changing how governments deliver services.

The health conference will bring together policy makers and end users to exchange information and examine case studies in the health sector.

The event will also feature conferences covering cloud computing, social media and online retailing and mobility.

CeBIT Australia www.cebit.com.au

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April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

31

newproducts Microcontrollers stack

Microchip has partnered with Kalki Communication Technologies (Kalkitech) to provide a device language message specification (DLMS) protocol stack that is optimised for 16-bit PIC microcontrollers.

The DLMS protocol has become the worldwide standard of choice among smart meter designers for interoperability among metering systems, including most energy types (electricity, gas, heat and water), multiple applications (residential, transmission and distribution) and numerous communication media (RS232, RS485, PSTN, GSM, GPRS, IPv4, PPP and PLC); as well as secure data access, via AES 128 encryption.

The software stack has been tested and verified by the DLMS User Association, and is customised to operate on all Microchip's 16-bit PIC microcontrollers and dsPIC digital signal controllers, making the certification process faster and easier.

Additionally, the stack has been developed to ensure seamless integration with Microchip's communication protocol stacks, including TCP/IP, ZigBee and PLC, covering a broad spectrum of smart energy applications.

The stack has been optimised to fit in a small memory footprint, enabling the use of the smallest MCU possible.

Microchip Technology Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L024

Train computer The Nexcom EN50155 fanless transport computer nROK 3000, is designed to provide the solid foundation for a wide range of rail control and monitoring systems on rolling stocks. nROK can be powered by different power inputs and maintain operation under severe weather conditions, shock and vibration.

The design incorporates I/O alignment, configuration options, swappable storage and IP65 protection that make system management simple. It is suitable for rapid transit systems, metropolitan rail, commuter rail, high speed rail and tram and heavy rail.

The transport computer can resist electrical transients and power interruption, withstand summer heat and winter freeze and support two input voltages of 24 or 110. It is designed to combat power anomalies, ambient challenges, shock and vibration and can ensure no damage or failure occurs during operations. nROK 3000 has been designed to make installation, maintenance and upgrade simple: I/O options are available on the front side; LAN and USB ports enable remote and local access; the removable SSD tray speeds replacement of the storage unit without requiring computer disassembly; and the IP65 chassis protects the ruggedised device.

Tekdis Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M788

Video over IP extender The ST-IPHDMI HDMI over IP extender from Network Technologies consists of a local unit that connects to an HDMI source and a remote unit that connects to an HDMI display.

In point-to-point configuration, one extender transmits digital video and audio signals to one receiver, up to 110 m away, using a single CAT6/7 cable.

Point-to-point connections also allow optional IR control of the video source from the remote display location. In a multi-cast configuration, one extender transmits HDMI signals to more than one receiver using VLAN isolation via a managed network switch. Standard LAN switches can only support one transmitter. To support multiple transmitters a managed network switch with VLAN/ IGMP support is required. The managed switch must support port-based IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, IGMP and permit duplicate IP addresses across the VLAN domains.

Each VLAN then acts as a separate HDMI over IP channel on the network. A PC can be used to access the built-in HTTP Interface of the managed network switch to control which signal is being watched at each location.

Interworld Electronics & Computer Industries Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/P071

Handheld instruments Five additions have been made to Agilentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s portfolio of handheld instruments. The U1273A digital multimeter brings the clarity of an OLED display to the rugged and ergonomic U1270 series. Four new U1190 series clamp meters provide lower-cost complements to the existing U1210 series.

The U1273A with its OLED screen has a 2000-to-1 contrast ratio that delivers indoor viewing through 160°. Water and dust resistant, the instrument enhances measurement results with functions such as Smart Ohm, which minimises readings from residual voltages induced by leakage currents.

The U1190 series of clamp meters enables safe measurements of electrical current in the 400 to 600 A range. The clamp assemblies include a wire separator and hook that technicians can use to select tangled cables under adverse conditions. A built-in flashlight mounted at the base of the clamp provides direct illumination in poorly lit conditions. The instrument has safety ratings of CAT III 600 V/CAT IV 300 V. Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M963

32 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

www.electronicsonline.net.au

newproducts Power quality analysers

The Phoenix Contact PSRESAM 4 safety relay can be used in any application and is available for various supply voltages.

In addition to the 24 V AC/DC model, there are now 48, 60, 110, and 230 V AC/DC units.

The relay, which has three safety switching paths and a signalling output, is used as a two-channel monitor for emergency stop control devices or safety door switches in machines and systems.

It meets safety requirements in accordance with the standards for functional safety up to PL e as per EN ISO 13849-1 and SIL 3 as per EN 62061 and IEC 61508.

The device can be configured for both automatic and manually monitored start.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M608

Sealed oscillator Crystek's CVCOT8BE-2400-2500 TO-8 VCO (voltage controlled oscillator) operates from 2400 to 2500 MHz and provides control in harsh, demanding environments.

The VCOs feature a typical phase noise of -101 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset and good linearity. Tuning sensitivity is rated at 55 MHz/V. Pulling and pushing are minimised to 11.0 MHz and 1.0 MHz/V. Second harmonic suppression is -15 dBc typical.

The CVCOT8BE range features a full-functioning VCO in a hermetically sealed TO-8 package. The metal can construction features gold plated pins with no internal wire bonds for enhanced signal integrity.

The range features a control voltage range of 0.5 to 4.5 V with an input voltage of 5.

Maximum current consumption is 25 mA and output power is +0 dBm. Wireless Components Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/L606

www.electronicsonline.net.au

The 430 series II three-phase power quality analysers are said to be the first tools to use a patented algorithm to measure energy waste and quantify its cost.

The series helps facilities reduce electrical power consumption and improve the performance and lifespan of electromechanical equipment by providing the return on investment justification to mitigate power quality distortion.

Previously, only experts could calculate how much energy was being wasted due to power quality issues. Utilities could calculate the cost but the required measurement process was beyond the reach of average electricians.

With the unified power function of the series, electricians, utility technicians, electrical engineers, field service technicians and energy consultants can automatically determine how much power is being wasted and calculate the extra consumption costs with a single handheld tool.

In particular, the instrument lets facilities assess the impact of new energy-efficient, electronically driven systems from lighting to motor controls to HVAC. Fluke Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M915

April 2012 - What's New in Electronics

33

Š iStockphoto.com/Elif Gunyeli

Safety relay

research

Light thrown on nanowire welding A new way to weld together meshes of tiny wires has been discovered by researchers at Stanford University. Their work could lead to electronics and solar applications. To succeed, they called upon plasmonics.

One area of intensive nanoscale research is the creation of electrically conductive meshes made of metal nanowires. Promising exceptional electrical throughput, low cost and easy processing, engineers foresee a day when such meshes are common in new generations of touchscreens, video displays, light-emitting diodes and thin-film solar cells.

Standing in the way, however, is a major engineering hurdle. In processing, these delicate meshes must be heated or pressed to unite the “This ability to heat with precision crisscross pattern of nanowires that form the mesh and are thereby damaged. greatly increases the control, In a paper just published, a team of engineers speed and energy efficiency of at Stanford has demonstrated a promising new nanoscale welding.” nanowire welding technique that harnesses plasmonics to fuse the wires with a simple blast of light.

At the heart of the technique is the physics of plasmonics, the interaction of light and metal in which the light flows across the surface of the metal in waves, like water on a beach.

“When two nanowires are criss-crossed, we know that light will generate plasmon waves at the place where the wires meet, creating a hot spot.

The beauty is that the hot spots exist only when the nanowires touch, not after they have fused. The welding stops itself. It's self-limiting,” explained Mark Brongersma, associate professor of materials science and engineering at Stanford and an expert in plasmonics.

“The rest of the wires and, just as importantly, the underlying material, are unaffected,” noted Michael McGehee, also an associate professor of materials science and engineering and a senior author of the paper.

“This ability to heat with precision greatly increases the control, speed and energy efficiency of nanoscale welding,” he said.

In before-and-after electron-microscope images, individual nanowires are visually distinct before illumination. They lie atop one another, like fallen trees in a forest. When illuminated, the top nanowire acts like an antenna of sorts, directing the plasmon waves of light into the bottom wire and creating heat that welds the wires together. Post-illumination images show X-like nanowires lying flat against the substrate with fused joints.

In addition to making it easier to produce stronger and better performing nanowire meshes, the researchers say that the new technique 34 What's New in Electronics - April 2012

could open the possibility of mesh electrodes bound to flexible or transparent plastics and polymers.

To demonstrate the possibilities, they applied their mesh on Saran wrap. They sprayed a solution containing silver nanowires in suspension on the plastic and dried it. After illumination, what was left was an ultrathin layer of welded nanowires.

“Then we balled it up like a piece of paper. When we unfurled the wrap, it maintained its electrical properties,” said co-author Yi Cui, associate professor of materials science and engineering.

“And when you hold it up, it's virtually transparent.”

This could lead to inexpensive window coatings that generate solar power while reducing glare for those inside, the researchers said.

“In previous welding techniques that used a hotplate, this would never have been possible,” said the paper's lead author, Erik C. Garnett, a postdoctoral scholar in materials science who works with Brongersma, McGehee and Cui. “The Saran wrap would have melted far sooner than the silver, destroying the device instantly.”

“There are many possible applications that would not even be possible in older annealing techniques,” said Brongersma.

“This opens some interesting, simple and large-area processing schemes for electronic devices - solar, LEDs and touchscreen displays, especially.”

Stanford University http://www.stanford.edu/

www.electronicsonline.net.au

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