The death of Peter Higgs, the physicist who theorised Higgs boson, has been announced.
RIP

Programming and maintaining with field controllers. - The BAScontrol and BASpi Open Control Series from Contemporary Controls, use BACnet/IP as an open communications protocol, Sedona function block programming, and the free BAScontrol Toolset for unrestricted use in program development and archiving.

Deep probing into machinery. - Sensor Technology has extended its new range of torque sensors with a model that has the sensing head and electronics in separate housings. This has two advantages: the sensing head can fit into very confined spaces, and the electronics can be located in a position where they are protected from physical damage, dust, dirt, moisture, electromagnetic forces, etc.

Master VAR Partner for the Food and Beverage. - Swan-Black, an operating affiliate of GS Systems, has been appointed as the first Seeq Master Industry VAR (MIV) partner, specializing in the Food and Beverage industry sectors. This new partnership designation is reserved for select partners that possess the highest level of Seeq maturity and commitment to customer success in a dedicated industry vertical. This advancement is a testament to the fruitful collaboration between Seeq and Swan-Black, acknowledging Swan-Black's unparalleled expertise in this field.

Ametek Surface Vision has appointed Jacqueline Peintinger as Product Marketing Manager.

Sensors for precision environmental monitoring. - The launch of its innovative EVA-2000 series, a new line of smart wireless sensors incorporating LoRaWAN technology has been announced by Advantech. This series marks a significant advancement in the field of industrial sensing applications, offering long-range data transmission combined with exceptional power efficiency. The EVA-2000 series, comprising of diverse sensor models from temperature and humidity to water leak detection, is designed for the demanding sectors of industrial automation, equipment monitoring, and environmental monitoring.

CiA (CAN in Automation) association have re-elected the Board of Directors (Top to Bottom)
• Magnus Hell from Infineon as Technical Director,
• Christian Schlegel from CHS Consulting as Business Director, and
• Holger Zeltwanger as Managing Director.

Tough Ethernet switches. - IT technicians are being helped by Moxa to build faster, more resilient networks in the harshest industrial environments with its ToughNet TN-5300A Series of unmanaged Ethernet switches. Designed to extend IoT connectivity into rolling stock, factory robotics, mining and marine applications, ToughNet TN-5300A switches are hardened to withstand exposure to dust, moisture and other damaging elements.

Industrial PCs with powerful performance and reliability. - Compact and fan-less industrial PCs have been announced by DFI. Their EC70A-ADP is designed with rich I/O and wide temperature support, enabling diverse deployment for AMRs and AGVs. EC700-ADN, equipped with the Hailo-8 module, offers advanced AI computing capabilities for industrial automation applications.

Simulating MIMO connections. - Anritsu Corporation has introduced a newly developed Butler Matrix 4x4 (0.6 GHz to 7.125 GHz) MA8114A to expand its Butler Matrix module lineup of simulating MIMO connections.

Is fibre right for your industrial network? - In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial IoT networks, understanding the intricacies of fibre optic cables is essential for IT technicians and plant management alike. Henry Martel, Field Application Engineer with Antaira Technologies, discusses fibre cable types and costs.

Miniature CO₂ sensor. - The STCC4 from Sensirion, enables mass-market CO₂ monitoring in a wide range of applications with unmatched form factor, cost efficiency and low current consumption. They have now launched the latest addition to their CO₂ sensor portfolio in the last quarter of 2024.

Johan Lundblad has been appointed as General Manager at Kollmorgen, Autonomous Mobile Solutions division.

Inline peak power sensor. - The launch of Anritsu's new inline power sensor MA24103A has been announced. This is designed to measure accurate Peak and True-RMS average power measurements from 25 MHz to 1 GHz and 2 mW to 150 W power range.

Artificial intelligence is in the air. - Gasmet recognises the importance of AI as one potential driver of development and growth in the gas analysis industry. AI can help the company to leverage the power of data, improve its employer brand, increase its operational efficiency and agility, and deliver better customer experience and satisfaction.

Process & Temperature meter. - The 330R2 1/8 DIN Process and Temperature Panel Meter from Moore Industries replaces their discontinued 330R Process Monitor. The 330R2’s universal input and dual process relays satisfy a wide variety of process and temperature applications. Thanks to the 300R2’s UV-resistant and sunlight-readable 4-digit display and an operating temperature range of -40 to 65°C, it is particularly well suited for harsh outdoor environments.

Compact solution for big challenges. - Space is a scarce commodity - especially in the world of electrical engineering, where every millimeter counts. Regardless of whether it is a portable optical device or a stationary installation. The trend towards ever smaller applications poses new challenges for users and manufacturers. To meet these requirements, ODU offers a suitable solution with the ODU MINI-SNAP® Super Shorty in the F series. This connector solves problems in places where there is no room for error, particularly thanks to the possibility of tailoring the cable assembly to the specific application.

Driving Sustainable Innovation in Northern Ireland's Industries. - Digital Catapult, Britain's authority on advanced digital technology, has launched a cutting-edge accelerator programme with Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to support the region's net zero ambition. The Tenfold NetZero Accelerator Programme will support three of Northern Ireland's leading agriculture and manufacturing businesses to develop proofs-of-concept that will drive adoption of sustainable innovation across the region, and solve complex industrial challenges.

Synchronized communication protocols. - Kollmorgen has announced the latest update to its AKD2G servo drive. With the introduction of these new features, Kollmorgen has broadened its offerings to additionally support PROFINET IRT and Ethernet/IP with CIP Sync alongside CANopen®*, EtherCAT®*, and FSoE time-synchronized communication protocols. Each protocol is rigorously tested with a variety of motion controllers and certified by industry standards organizations.

Long reach transmission. - Antaira Technologies has launched a turnkey solution kit that extends the reach of 10/100 Ethernet and 802.3at PoE over UTP copper cabling up to 800 meters for reliable point-to-point connectivity. Eliminating the need for a local power supply, Antaira LEP-401M-KIT LAN extenders are ideal for deploying remote PoE (15W) and PoE+ (30W) powered devices, such as IP surveillance cameras, access points, and VoIP phones, beyond the 100-meter distance limitations of Ethernet cabling

Hummingbird has appointed James Adams as Global Sales Manager.

Computer almost outside! - DFI has introduced its latest KS101-EHL industrial touchscreen PC designed for reliability and durability in semi-outdoor applications. Equipped with energy efficient Intel Atom® Processors, the Panel PC provides the high performance required by various industries such as automatic car wash machines, ticket machines, and parking payment machines. Combined with its rugged design and intuitive interface, the KS101-EHL ensures operational and energy efficiency.

Metal-free pumps. - Electrophoresis with agarose gel is an important method for analysis and quality control in the life sciences. The basis for precise results is the accurate filling of the agarose columns. This process works with metal-free pumps from HNP Mikrosysteme GmbH.

Flying probe test on screen! - The latest video showcasing the capabilities of the RAPID H4 Flex has been unveiled by Seica. This is a unique solution dedicated to test flex PCBs directly in the production Reel. The RAPID H4 Flex is the most versatile and high performance flying probe test system in the world for fixtureless test technology.

Consultation on the Draft Cyber Industrial Strategy. - The Mid-Term Review of the National Cyber Security Strategy 2019-2024 called for the development of a 'whole of Government' strategy for the development of the cyber industry in Ireland. Furthermore "delivering a significant initiative in Cyber Security Research" remained a key outstanding measure from that Review. Recognising this challenge and leveraging off national policies on research and industrial development, particularly Impact 2030 and the Enterprise White Paper, the realisation of a national cyber industrial strategy enables digital transformation.

2D vision with the generation of 3D depth. - The Topaz5D™, a full-HD CMOS image sensor designed to combine 2D vision with the generation of 3D depth maps has been announced by Teledyne e2v. A single Topaz5D sensor used in challenging lighting conditions delivers 3D object visualisation based on the contrast detected, ideal for various logistics applications, AR/VR headsets, access control devices, household vacuum robots, and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR).

Robotic automation into the building process. - ABB Robotics has announced it is collaborating with tech start-up AUAR, to advance the use of robotic micro-factories to build affordable, sustainable low energy timber homes.

Water quality monitoring blueprint. - A continuous water quality monitoring project has recently been completed on the River Kent near Kendal, in the England's Lake District. The monitoring was implemented for United Utilities (Water Company for North West England) by the environmental consultancy APEM, with Meteor Communications responsible for instrumentation installation and calibration, as well as real-time web-based data provision, event visualisation and reporting.

Reliable and accurate flammable gas detection. - The high-performance OLCT 100-XP-MS range of flammable gas detectors from Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection now incorporates cutting-edge MEMS (Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems) sensor technology. Delivering the market's most accurate readings for over 14 of the most common combustible gases and gas mixes — including hydrogen, methane, propane and butane — MEMS technology adds to the capabilities provided by conventional sensors. Users also enjoy notable advantages regarding 'poison' immunity and operating life, particularly in environments that sometimes prove challenging for catalytic sensors.

Discussing ultrasonic flowmeters. - March 20, 2024 Dr. Jesse Yoder, founder of Flow Research, speaks with Process Instrumentation chief editor Jesse Osborne about the interworking and best uses of ultrasonic flowmeters. (Video)

Energy meter. - TE Connectivity's DRS-100-3P 100A 3-phase energy meters with easy programming, DIN-rail mounting and user-friendly navigation is now available through TTi Europe. The units offer a wide range of energy measurements when importing and exporting energy from energy storage systems (ESS) to the three-phase network where billing is required.

Enabling system upgrades reusing existing cabinets, field wiring, termination units and cabling. - The ABB Ability™ Symphony^Ò Plus SDe Series is a portfolio of hardware products that help modernize existing process control system installations with minimal risk and disruption to plant operations. The new series enables plant operators in industries such as power, water, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals and pulp & paper to upgrade installed control systems to the latest technologies, driving efficiency and productivity improvements.

A new approach in industrial connectivity. - Delta has announced the launch of its DX-2400L9 Series Industrial 4G/WAN DIACloud Routers, poised to significantly impact industrial automation with unparalleled features designed to redefine remote control and monitoring. The new DX-2400L9 promises to emerge as a beacon of connectivity in the industrial automation sector.

Fibre optic testing. - The Tempo Fibre Inspection Probe (FIP) from Laser Components which is a fully automated inspection tool that provides fast and reliable analysis of fibre optic connectors and associated bulkheads.

Acoustic particle monitor. - The Rosemount™ SAM42 Acoustic Particle Monitor for measuring the amount of entrained sand in the output from oil and gas wells has been announced by Emerson. The monitor can detect extremely low concentrations of entrained sand in challenging conditions with a high level of measurement repeatability and sensitivity. Accurate real-time data helps minimize erosion risk, allowing producers to maximize throughput without compromising asset safety. An all-in-one design features onboard data processing, explosion-proof protection, and simple installation with no pipe penetration needed.

Industrial-grade computers provide scalability and cost savings. - Industrial automation continues to evolve, ushering in the necessity for more powerful yet cost-effective computers equipped with flexible interface options to accommodate control system expansion and scalability. Moxa meets those needs with its new BXP-C100 Series of box-type form factor computers.

Characterising gas detecting light source. - MicroPhotons was looking for a single instrument that could cover the entire MWIR spectrum. This could dramatically reduce test time and effort, avoiding the need to set up and calibrate more than one measurement instrument when testing equipment for the detection of gases with different absorption peaks. They chose the AQ6377 OSA from Yokogawa to meet its customer's needs. Across the 1.9 to 5.5 μm range, the AQ6377 is the only OSA capable of analyzing the entire wavelength spectrum.

Safety and automation systems for energy leader. - Origo Solutions has been awarded a new framework agreement by Equinor for the delivery of Safety and Automation Systems as well as related engineering and services. The multi-year agreement is effective from January 2024 and regulates deliveries of safety-critical solutions onshore and offshore, as well as deliveries of automation solutions with associated electrical and instrument scope.

Why end-users need Cyber-Informed Engineering for true Cyber Resilience. - The world of industry and critical infrastructure continues to struggle with allocating the right amount of resources to OT/ICS cybersecurity. In many cases, industrial cybersecurity is still seen as an add-on. (ARC Advisory)

Framework convention on AI. - The Framework convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law has been finalised by the Council of Europe Committee on Artificial Intelligence. The draft text will be referred to the Committee of Ministers for adoption and opened for signature at a later stage.

Laboratory automation in Indonesia. - Autoscribe Informatics is to highlight how to drive laboratory automation, management, and profitability in their technical presentation at Lab Indonesia, 24-26 April 2024 in Jakarta (RI). An essential learning tool for those driving laboratory digitization and efficiency Autoscribe will highlight how laboratories use the power of computers and laboratory software to drive automation and improve bottom-line profitability.

Historic rules to govern Artificial Intelligence. - The European Parliament has given final approval to wide-ranging EU rules to govern artificial intelligence, including powerful systems like OpenAI's ChatGPT. Senior European Union officials say the rules, first proposed in 2021, will protect citizens from the possible risks of a technology developing at breakneck speed, while also fostering innovation on the continent. (RTÉ)

Temperature measurement solutions in metal mining and processing. - AMETEK Land provides advanced solutions to meet the intricate demands of ore extraction applications. Precise furnace temperature measurements using instruments such as AMETEK Land's thermal imagers are essential to support safety, effective process efficiency and superior product quality in platinum and nickel ore extraction.

State-of-the-art temperature transmitter with drift detection. - The new model T38 digital temperature transmitter from WIKA enables extremely flexible and stable temperature measurement. The instrument offers a maximum of sensor connection combinations and a new type of drift detection. Head-mounted and rail-mounted versions are available in SIL and various Ex versions.

Global Warming (aka Climate Change) - towards Mitigation. - Automation veteran, David W Spitzer has been resistant to the evidence for human-caused global climate change. When he examined the evidence his findings were surprising to him. Instead of finding out that global warming (actually global climate change) was a hoax, he determined that global climate change, in the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was found to be the most pressing issue because it will adversely affect human health in approximately a century (not immediately). A century is a very short time on a planetary timescale. Mitigation to date has helped, but its effect has been similar to that of a small drop in a very large bucket.

Large-area touch screen display. - The Powertip 7" Bar-type touch display, which is keenly anticipated to meet the needs of many industrial and commercial applications has been announced by Inelco Hunter. Engineered to deliver clear content, the Powertip PH280142T001-ZBR TFT display features a high-resolution, large-area screen with a full viewing angle.

Weighing in EX areas. - The Midrics® 1 Ex weighing indicator from Minebea Intec, offers a new solution for viewing weighing results in hazardous (Ex) areas. Users benefit not only from the affordable price, but above all from the reliability and intuitive operation of the product.

Image sensors. - The Flash™ CMOS image sensor family from Teledyne e2v, has been expanded with the introduction of Flash 2K LSA, which has been specifically adapted for laser profiling applications requiring the use of a Large Scheimpflug Angle (LSA).

Ultra high definition display. - Review Display Systems (RDS) has announced the introduction of a new ultra high definition (UHD) 15.6-inch active-matrix OLED display. The CH156ZLXEWN-001 features 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) resolution, a 16:9 wide aspect ratio, and an impressive optical performance specification.

Managing digital transformation in the Age of AI, open architectures, and sustainability. - ARC's European Industry Forum is part of theirsuccessful series of worldwide conferences in Europe, America and Asia. The next European Forum will be held in Sitges (ES), Spain on May 6-8, 2024 and focus on "Managing Digital Transformation in the Age of AI, Open Architectures, and Sustainability". Participants are invited to attend exclusive presentations and workshops on strategies and case studies from the digital front lines.

Understanding the role of AI in generative engineering design. - The concept of design reuse has been a significant part of the design process for decades and became much more refined with the advent of computer aided design (CAD) tools and product data management (PDM) systems. (ARC Advisory)

Dr. Martin Merkel is the new Technical Manager at Can in Automation Association (CiA).

Isolators for GMP-compliant pharma manufacturing. - Franz Ziel, a leading provider of isolators for the pharmaceutical industry, has received the certification "PAS-X MSI Plug & Produce Ready" from Körber. Franz Ziel's isolators can now be seamlessly connected to PAS-X MES, Körber's Manufacturing Execution System (MES), in record time.

Flow for high-temperature, high-viscosity, or abrasive liquids. - The Rosemount™ 9195 Wedge Flow Meter, a fully integrated solution consisting of a wedge primary sensor element, supporting components, and a selectable Rosemount pressure transmitter have been released by Emerson. The new meter's unique flexible design is ideal for measuring process fluids with a wide range of demanding characteristics in various heavy industry applications, including metals and mining, oil and gas, renewable fuels, chemicals and petrochemicals, pulp and paper, and others.

The ABB Board of Directors has appointed Morten Wierod as Chief Executive Officer.

Continuous innovation recognised. - Delta has announced its third consecutive inclusion in the Top 100 Global Innovators™ by Clarivate as recognition for its significant contribution to innovation and its strong intellectual property portfolio. As of the end of 2023, Delta has obtained an accumulated total of 16,703 approved patents worldwide. In 2023 alone, 1,283 Delta's patents were approved across the world, representing nearly a 20% YoY increase, showcasing its steady growth in technology development.

Industrial Cybersecurity Event in London in June​. - The International Society of Automation (ISA) will host its second annual OT Cybersecurity Summit in London on June 18-19, 2024. This two-track, two-day event will be organized around two major topics: intelligence evolution and IoT cybersecurity, with additional panel discussions on standards and conformity assessment.

Solutions for plant emissions control and monitoring. - The SERVOTOUGH FluegasExact 2700 flue gas analyzer, from Servomex, monitors both oxygen and combustibles(COe) in flue gases. Oxygen is measured using zirconium oxide sensor technology. A thick film catalytic sensor optimized for carbon monoxide is used to detect parts per million (ppm) levels of combustibles and monitor COe breakthrough.

Cameras for low-light applications. - IDS is the first industrial camera manufacturer to offer the 2 MP sensor IMX662 in both colour and monochrome versions. The sensors belonging to Sony's Starvis 2 series are designed for maximum light sensitivity. They are now available either as compact uEye+ XCP models or as board-level versions in the uEye+ XLS series.

Testing resistance. - Two portable and lightweight (1.3 kg) Insulation Resistance Testers for fast, accurate and reliable testing up to 2500 V (DC) have been announced by Fluke.

DC/DC Converters. - The Mean Well DDRH series of DIN Rail mount DC/DC converters are now been stocked by TTI - Europe. The DDRH-15/30/45/60 (15W, 30W, 45W and 60W, respectively) units can accept voltages ranging from 150 to 1500Vdc, which can supply a stable working voltage, making them suitable for applications with diverse DC voltage conversion requirements. Target applications include solar and wind generation installations, energy storage systems (ESS), EV charging stations, and DC power distribution systems.

Putting the cap on correctly. - TorqSense transducers are playing a vital role in packing leading edge medical test kits at Axis-Shield in Dundee, which develops new diagnostic compounds that help with the early identification and management of critical illnesses.

Acoustic Imagers. - The expansion of FLIR's versatile Si-Series of acoustic imaging cameras with three models in the new Si2 family has been announced. This series is designed for detecting compressed air leaks, specialty gas leaks, mechanical faults, and partial discharges: the Si2-Pro, Si2-LD, and Si2-PD. The Si2-Series offers industrial-grade solutions for the detection of air and gas leaks as well as mechanical faults such as bearing issues, addressing the top inspection requirements for industries such as manufacturing, electrical, and utilities.

Modernising control systems & software. - Multinational chemical company LyondellBasell has selected Emerson to modernize control systems and software at its Wesseling complex in Germany. The implementation of advanced automation technology will help to enhance operation of an ethylene cracker and butadiene production plant. Emerson digital tools and project engineering services will help to ensure a smooth transition during the planned plant shutdown in 2024.

Robotics and AI. - Three drivers for robotics-driven AI solutions in 2024, have been identified by Marc Segura, President, ABB Robotics, in new segments not previously served by robotic automation.

A generative AI resource. - The Seeq AI Assistant is a generative AI resource (GenAI) provides real-time assistance to users across the enterprise, empowering them to accelerate mastery of the Seeq platform, build advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI skills and knowledge, and accelerate insights to improve decision making in pursuit of operational excellence and sustainability.

FeedThrough Connecters. - A CAT6 Insulation Displacement Connector (IDC) has been added to Cliff's very popular range of Feed Through connectors. The new connectors provide a panel mounted ethernet (RJ45) 8-way connector, commonly used in network applications, that users can hardwire internally using the IDC contacts at the rear. The IDC system is ideal for all on-site wiring in applications such as ethernet networks, audio and broadcast.

Fast-growing renewable energy industry factor for new enterprise. - From its new base in Copenhagen (DK), Westermo is to provide vital local support for companies in the key energy, rail, water and wastewater, and maritime sectors that are looking to implement robust and reliable industrial network solutions.

What should you look for in an Industrial Cybersecurity services provider? - The market for OT level cybersecurity services is growing rapidly. End users simply do not have the internal resources required to perform all the tasks necessary to develop and maintain an effective and resilient cybersecurity posture. (Larry O'Brien ARC Advisory)

Servomex has announced James Gravestock as its new President.

Demystifying EMC Seminar. - Now in its tenth year, the popular educational Demystifying EMC event hosted by Rohde & Schwarz will take place in-person in Britain on 21 March 2024. EMC experts from Rohde & Schwarz and partner companies, will present the latest industry insights, tips and trends, and offer the opportunity to interact and ask questions.

More than just a Clamp Meter. - FLIR Introduces CM276™ Professional Clamp Meter and Thermal Imaging Camera for Electrical System Test and Measurement. More Than Just a Clamp Meter, the New FLIR CM276 Features MSX® Dual Visible-Infrared Imaging, LED Worklight, and On-Board Storage for Better Situational Awareness and Data Management.

Warehousing automation Globally. - Bastian Solutions, a Toyota Advanced Logistics company, as the newest systems integration partner with Movu Robotics. Bastian thus can now offer customers the benefits of Movu's portfolio of flexible robotics technologies as part of its global automation solutions, including the North American market.

Managing energy in water and wastewater. - The ABB Ability™ Energy Management for Water and Wastewater – OPTIMAX® solution has been launched to the industry to identify unnecessary energy losses within plants. Through coordinated control and visibility of multiple assets, the digital optimization tool can help reduce both energy use and energy costs.