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Vol. 57, No. 7, July 2005

 

Bullet

 

Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESEARCH

 

Data Acquisition Systems for Quasi-Digital Temperature Sensors

Based on Universal Frequency-to-Digital Converter

 

The application specific paper describes a design approach for data acquisition systems for quasi-digital temperature sensors. It is based on the Universal Frequency-to-Digital Converter (UFDC-1) working well with any frequency output sensors. Such design approach lets significantly simplify the design process, reduce time-to-market and production price and produce data acquisition systems with high metrological performances. Practical examples of direct interfacing of quasi-digital temperature sensors to the UFDC-1 are given.

 

Click <here> to download the full-pages article.

 

Sergey Y. Yurish

 

 

Standard Drop-Test and The Different Response of Very Same Object

 

Based on different realities in the behavior of objects (or measuring transducers) under different conditions of loading (for example, if there is normal or external loading), extreme cases are examined, when the very same object reacts to loading as the object with distributive parameters. Examined solutions to problems are illustrated by numbers of examples. Why it is important to consider those questions and use answers correctly in practice is also shown.

 

Click <here> to download the full-pages article.

 

George Abramchuk and Kristina Abramchuk

 

 

PRODUCT NEWS

 

Miniature, Lightweight, Triaxial ICP® Accelerometer Family

 

Depew, NY -The Vibration Division of PCB Piezotronics, Inc., introduces a new family of 0.45 inch (11.4mm) cube shaped triaxial accelerometers that simultaneously measure vibration in three orthogonal directions. PCB Models 356A30, A31, A34, and A35, which cover a sensitivity range from 5 mV/g to 100 mV/g and corresponding measurement range of 1,000 g to 50 g peak, are all TEDS compatible. In addition, Models 356A30 and A31 use an 8-32, 4-pin mini, electrical connector, while the Models 356A34 and A35 use a traditional 1/4-28 4-pin connector with positive keyway, both of which achieve the convenience of a removable cable without risk of bent pins.

 

They are ideally suited to modal analysis of large rigid bodies, structural component testing, and general laboratory vibration work. This sensor family features built-in microelectronic signal conditioning circuitry which offers a low noise, low impedance output signal while permitting long distance signal transmission and simplicity of operation and is enclosed in a lightweight, hermetically sealed, titanium housing. The available TEDS (Transducer Electronic Data Sheet) option further simplifies set up of multiple sensor array testing. These durable designs are adhesive mounted, operate in -65 to +250 В°F temperatures, and survive accidental shock inputs to 5000 g.

 

   

Mark Amatuzzo,

PCB, Vibration Division

3425 Walden Avenue, Depew, NY 14043-2495

Tel: (888) 684-0013 ext. 2706 

Fax: (716) 685-3886

E-mail: mamatuzzo@pcb.com

Accelerometer 356A30

 

 

New Barometric Pressure Sensors for OEM Applications

 

Sensortechnics' new barometric pressure sensors BSDX-BARO offer OEM customers very cost-effective and precise air pressure measurement in the range of 800…1100 mbar absolute. Other measuring ranges are also available on customer request. BSDX-BARO pressure sensors are calibrated and temperature compensated from 0…85 °C and reach an overall accuracy of ±1 % FSS (including temperature effects). These devices feature an analogue 0.5…4.5 V output signal or, alternatively, a digital I2C-bus interface. The BSDX-BARO sensors incorporate the latest ASIC technologies to enable a high specification in small DIP-packages. Therefore they are especially suitable for space-saving PCB-mounting. Important features of the new BSDX-BARO sensors are:

  • Pressure range from 800…1100 mbar absolute (other ranges on request)

  • Temperature compensated from 0…85 °C

  • Overall accuracy of ±1 % FSS (including temperature effects)

  • Analogue 0.5…4.5 V output signal, optional digital I2C-bus interface

  • Miniature DIP package

Typical applications include barometer systems for weather stations and engine test cells, hydrology, laser interferometers as well as altimeter systems.

 

Sensortechnics GmbH

Boschstr 10, 82178 Puchheim, Germany

Andrea Gebhard

Tel: +49 (0)89 80083-48

E-mail: andrea.gebhard@sensortechnics.com

Pressure sensor BSDX-BARO

 

 

Fiber Optic Rotary Encoder

 

Micronor introduces MR312 and MR314 ZapFree(TM) Fiber Optic Rotary Encoders for Harsh and Hazardous Environments. The MR312, the world's first totally passive rotary encoder, just gained a higher resolution sibling. The new MR314 offers 1024ppr resolution and introduces a hollow shaft configuration for the first time in the ZapFREE(TM) encoder product line. Plus all the good fiber optic benefits of immunity to EMI, RFI, lightning, ground loops and intrinsically safe. Outdistances copper by allowing link lengths up to 1000 m. The MR310 Remote Encoder Interface (REI) Module provides an array of outputs and interfaces compatible with conventional PLCs and computer interface boards. It couldn't be simpler or more compatible to be used with your new or existing drive systems.

 

Dennis Horwitz,

Micronor Inc.3483 Old Conejo Rd, Suite 203

Newbury Park, CA 91320, USA

E-mail: dennis.horwitz@micronor.com

Fiber Optic Rotary Encoder

 

 

Pressure Sensor Built For Hazardous Areas Offers Zero and Span Adjustability

 

Landing, NJ, American Sensor Technologies, Inc. offers the AST4310 Pressure Sensor for measurement of gases and liquids in extremely harsh environments. This stainless steel, media isolated pressure sensor is approved to UL 1604 (CSA 213) Class 1 Div 2, Groups A, B, C, and D for use in hazardous locations. The AST4310 also holds a CE Approval of EN 61326. This high accuracy adjustable pressure sensor is suitable for applications in oil patch regions, refineries, water treatment plants, pulp and paper processing, natural gas compressors and pharmaceutical applications.

 

Manufactured with customer convenience in mind, the AST4310 Pressure Sensor offers trouble-free access to zero and span potentiometers for quick tweaking in the field. Zero and span adjustments can be made up to ± 5% for fine-tuning of the measurement loop, which is important for precise set up or maintenance calibration.

 

Karmjit S. Sidhu

American Sensor Technologies

Tel.: 973-398-9900

E-mail: kssidhu@astsensors.com

AST4310 Pressure Sensor

 

 

Rugged Low Profile Accelerometer

 

Depew, NY - The IMI Sensors Division of PCB Piezotronics, Inc. introduces Model 602D01 Accelerometer, low profile, 100 mV/g, side exit style with standard 2-pin military connector (as shown). The newly designed unit offers a smaller footprint and is compact to be installed in tight areas.

 

Features include hermetic sealing, frequency 30 to 48,000 cpm, stainless housing, 1/4-28 or M6 mounting thru bolt, temperature -65 to +250 °F, optional temperature output version available. The 602D01 withstands harsh industrial environments and is permanently mounted on gear, bearing, and motor housings. Integral Teflon or polyurethane cable options enable the sensor to withstand hot and corrosive conditions or withstand up to 750 psi underwater.

   Transparant

Tim Geiger,

IMI Sensors Division, PCB

3425 Walden Avenue,

Depew, NY 14043-2495,

Tel.:(800) 959-4464, fax: (716) 684-3823

E-mail: tgeiger@pcb.com

Accelerometer 602D01

 

 

Submersible Level Sensor with Extremely Rugged Stainless Steel Housing

 

Sensortechnics' new KTE6000CS series offers level measurement for ranges from 2.5 m water column (250 mbar) Full Scale. KTE6000CS hydrostatic pressure transmitters consist of highly accurate and long-term stable pressure sensor elements. The sensor is enclosed in a very rugged stainless steel housing with increased wall thickness to withstand even severe operating conditions. All KTE6000CS level probes are temperature compensated and supply a 4...20 mA output signal. A special cable with an integrated vent tube allows a true reference pressure to the sensor element, which eliminates errors due to barometric pressure changes. Custom specific calibrations, voltage outputs and different cable lengths are available on request.

 

Important features of the new KTE6000CS series are:

  • Level ranges from 0...2.5 m water column (0…250 mbar) Full Scale

  • Highly accurate and long term stable sensor element

  • Rugged stainless steel housing with increased wall thickness

  • Compensated for temperature and air pressure fluctuations

  • Custom versions available Because of its excellent media compatibility, the KTE6000CS series can be used for a wide range of applications within the level control industry.

Typical applications include water level measurement in rivers and wells, plus level measurement and control of liquid supplies.

 

Sensortechnics GmbH

Boschstr 10, 82178 Puchheim, Germany

Andrea Gebhard

Tel: +49 (0)89 80083-48

E-mail: andrea.gebhard@sensortechnics.com

Level sensor KTE6000CS

 

 

Colour Sensor ICs

 

MAZeT GmbH launches a new product line of colour sensor ICs. The second generation of JENCOLOUR® sensors provides characteristics that are fully compliant with the tri-stimulus value function under DIN 5033. Of excellent performance features, these True Colour sensors allow colour measurement to be performed with an accuracy that clearly exceeds that of the human eye.

 

Each colour sensor comes in an advanced LCC8 package and can easily be integrated in any leadless technology process. Micro-structured filter layers have been selected as interference filters. They feature high transmission in the band pass range, resistance to aging and stability against mechanical and thermal impacts, and are manufactured using higher soldering temperatures in a tightly monitored process so a variance in filter performance can be ruled out. The exhibition is going to see another highlight: A high-sensitivity optical fiber receiver product line is available for industrial applications in TO46 design style also in commercial lots. Receiver circuits of this type provide a sensitivity greater than -30 dBm with a transmission band width of 0 to 25 M Baud. They are designed for operation within four optical windows thus fitting any type of standard-available optical fiber cables (POF; HCS). Main applications include industrial field bus systems such as Interbus, Profibus, DeviceNet, etc.

 

Diane Weidemann, Marketing Services

MAZeT GmbH

Tel.: +49 3641 2809-39, fax: +49 3641 2809-12

E-mail: marketing@mazet.de

Colour Sensor ICs

 

 

Electronic Pressure Profiling Sensor System

 

East Hanover, NJ - July 12, 2005. Reinforcing the ability to fully customize their Tactilus® line of electronic pressure measurement systems, Sensor Products LLC has developed a unique sensor specifically for the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s highly publicized Smart Gun project. Utilizing a resistive architecture, this newly designed system is the front-runner among other candidate technologies such as magnetic rings, transponders, combination locks and fingerprint recognition devices.

 

With a velocity of up to 1,000 Hz, the embedded sensors in Tactilus® can generate pressure readings with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Its thin and highly flexible substrate material allows for easy conformability to curvaceous surfaces such as the grip of a handgun. These inherent traits make Tactilus® ideal for conforming around the handle of a firearm to provide the most thorough and accurate pressure readings possible. These robust sensors can last thousands of uses with consistent repeatability and are highly resistant to electromagnetic noise, temperature and humidity fluctuations.

 

The Tactilus® systems collect pressure data and send an analog signal back to an intermediary data “hub” where it is converted to a digital signal. This signal contains the collected data and is subsequently sent to an interface (software) designed for easy viewing and dynamic analysis. Tactilus®  Windows-based software provides 2-D and 3-D imaging, isobar and region-of-interest viewing, longitudinal and latitudinal analysis, graphical displays of data in bar charts, pressure vs. time, linescans and histograms, statistical analysis of average, minimum and maximum pressures, total force over any selected area and more. This data may also be exported to virtually any third party software.

 

Carlos Ruiz,

Product Manager,

Sensor Products LLC

Tel.:1.973.884.1755 x5001

E-mail: cruiz@sensorprod.com

Pressure sensor

 

 

Preamplifier with High-Pass Filter

 

Depew, NY - The Vibration Division of PCB Piezotronics, Inc. introduces a new model to its line of acoustic products. Model 426A10 is a 1/2" preamplifier that operates from ICP® sensor power. The distinguishing feature for this preamplifier is the built-in 20 Hz high pass filter. This filter can improve resolution by minimizing unwanted low frequency sounds that may saturate the analyzer. The operating temperature on this new unit has been enhanced to -40° C to +80° C. The 426A10 has low noise specifications and great phase characteristics. The 426A10 terminates in a BNC connector and uses standard coaxial cables.

 

This modern, prepolarized design allows for significant savings in power supplies and cabling, greater ease-of-use and operates from the same power required for ICP® accelerometers. This provides the advantage of using microphones with ICP® accelerometers in the same test, with the same signal conditioning equipment, and minimizes set-up time.

 

Mark Valentino,

Vibration Division, PCB

3425 Walden Avenue,

Depew, NY 14043-2495,

Tel.: (888) 684-0013 ext. 2437, fax: (716) 685-3886

E-mail: mvalentino@pcb.com

Preamplifier with High-Pass Filter 426A10

 

 

Ethernet I/O Modules Now Have the Ability to Speak Directly to Each Other

Without a PLC, PC or any Other Controller

 

Wixom, MI. Acromag has enhanced their BusWorks® 900EN Series Ethernet I/O Modules with a new capability allowing input modules to send measured signal data directly to output modules without a PLC, PC or other controller in between. This i2o™ (input-to-output) function is ideal for simple remote I/O applications where sensor signals at one location must be displayed, recorded or monitored across the plant or around the globe, but programming a controller is not desirable. Analog input modules measure current, voltage, or temperature signals at Point A and transmit the data to analog output modules that provide proportional 4-20mA or 0-10V DC output at Point B. Discrete input and output modules control local devices based on the level status of a remote device. Wiring costs are minimal because input and output modules can communicate between IP addresses across existing Ethernet network infrastructure, CAT5 cable, fiber optic lines, or via wireless radios. No software is required because the setup uses a standard Internet browser to configure an embedded web page.

 

Robert Greenfield,

Acromag, Incorporate,

Tel: 248-624-1541

Fax: 248-624-9234

E-mail: rgreenfield@acromag.com

Ethernet I/O Modules

 

 

BUSINESS NEWS

 

ENDEVCO will Enter Into Partnership with FGP Sensors and Instrumentation in Europe

 

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO – Endevco Corporation, announced that the company has partnered with Europe-based FGP Sensors & Instrumentation. FGP will now conduct all of Endevco’s calibration services, allowing for direct service.

 

“The collaborative efforts of Endevco and FGP mean we have raised the bar once again in setting the standard for providing better quality and service for our European clients,” stated Rob Meyer, President of Endevco. “This union lays the foundation for a solid relationship which will deliver superior results over the long run.”

 

“The new Endevco/FGP partnership will provide first class service to Endevco customers across Europe”, commented FGP President, Dr. Sean Gough. “FGP and Endevco are both specialist engineering companies, and customers will benefit from our strong understanding of each others technology.”

 

For almost 30 years, FGP Sensors has been a European Manufacturer of sensors and related instrumentation, specializing in the measurement of force, torque, pressure and acceleration. FGP Sensors designs, develops and manufactures sensors tailored to customer requirements. From miniature sensors as small as 3mm in diameter up to large industrial turn-key systems, FGP Sensors covers a full range of modern measurement requirements. FGP Sensors’ main facility is located in Les Clayes Sous Bois Cedex (78).

 

Sinan Kanatsiz,

Endevco

Tel.: 949.443.9300

E-mail: sinan@kanatsiz.com

 

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