Hot Product of the Month
Monthly Discussion
Company of the Month
Technical Tip
ODM/OEM Product
ODM/OEM Purchases
Embedded Micros
Industrial Computers
Automation
Instrumentation
Comms
DAQ
Instruments
Imaging
USB Modular I/O
Software Development
Software Embedded
Gauges and more
Encoders
Signal Conditioners
Wireless
Solid State Relays
IP Power Control
UPSs
Inverters
Batteries
AC Power Converters
Power Specials
Medical
Medical Grade Power
Integration Projects
Products Discontinued
ROHS info
Sales Person Required
Contact Details
SWS For Sale

Hot Product of the Month

Alternative Power -- Pure Sinewave Inverter Charger

Soltec have announced a new type of UPS or Inverter Charger, called by them "A Home UPS". We announced this last month.

Looking more closely at this product this month, it turns out it is quite unique and very well suited to NZ.

It really is an Alternate Power System, with ability in so many areas.

TrippLite make similar Inverter Charger units called APS ( Automatic Power Switch) but their units are not pure sine wave like Soltec, limiting them to specific work.

Anyone away from the AC mains that needs PURE SINEWAVE AC needs one of these Soltec units, that means, houses off the grid, marine systems, motor homes, trucks, emergency power for lights, air conditioners, freezers, fridges, automatic doors, garage doors etc.

The prices are lower than any competing Inverter Charger, (even quasi sinewave units in many cases)

There are various models, with power ranges from 1.2KVA/.8KW to 6KVA/4.5KW

The Home UPS consists of the following pieces:-

• Pure Sinewave Inverter
• AC Transfer Switch
• Large 3 Stage Charger 40 Amps +
• Battery banks are external and can be 12, 24 and 48 VDC depending on the model.

There are no batteries in these units, as they are designed to have a large battery bank, MasTec can supply this also.

The Home UPS is able to operate with any kinds of heavy loads such as large computer systems, garage door openers, electric locks, air conditioner, water pumps, electric motors, power tools, lights, fans, ovens, washing machine, refrigerators and others.

They have large built-in charger (40 amps +) for handling the large battery bank up to 1000amphr. This is an energy pool of 48000 watthrs on the large units.

The inverters can operate for 24/7.

They use modern no transformer, switched mode, multi microprocessor controllers, IBGT switches and high frequency DC>DC converters for excellent performance and efficiency.

A True Home Power System

There is an optional Solar Charger that can be added to the system for autonomous home or commercial power.

The Home Power UPSs are available in rack mount or floor mount.

Read the spec sheets, they are impressive. Sheet 1 .. Sheet 2

We see the Home UPS being installed for IT Room Air Conditoner Backup, remote diesel and solar power systems, long term backup systems, 24/7 emergency power, door opens, lighting systems, pump backup and much more.

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

Hello to all our readers, now totalling about 16,000 in 28 countries.

2006 is passing very quickly, do you feel that time has speed up some?!.

Continuing the theme from the last two months, MasTec has fundamentally three sections to its operation.

OEM/ODM Supply --- Spot Buy Supply --- Integration and Programming Services

April discussed OEM/ODM, May discussed Spot Buying

MasTec's income is about 50% from OEM/ODM, about 30% from Spot Buying and Integration makes up the other 20% or so. This 20% is following the growth of the company and remaining the same % and increasing in dollar size each year.  This is why we now have 3.5 programmers on staff and several external contractors working

What is Integration and Programming Services

Integration = Bringing specification and design together in a hardware and a software solution. Sometimes a separate product, some time a sub product that clips into a product.

Programming Services = Using software tools to build a special/specific piece of software. This again can be a complete product or a sub product. Sometimes we are asked to take an old piece of software and rewrite it to make it better, expanded or just easier to look after. The software may run on a PC, or several PCs, or a server. The PCs may be desktop, laptop or wall mounted Panel PCs or embedded PCs for Kiosk work etc.

Some work is a simple embedded Micro system using a Rabbit Micro or Core module or even down as low as a baby PIC micro. We also do embedded systems using all sorts of Windows based SBC, from Lanner, Advantech, Protech and other suppliers.

Each month the MasTec receives many emails from people looking to MasTec to help build a new gadget or develop some special software for them.

Some things to be aware of when asking for Integration or Software Development

For the lowest cost solution, please come with a good idea of what you require. Bring specifications, drawings, flow charts, plans etc, otherwise it becomes a design and specification development project for MasTec which we can do of course and in about 70% of cases we do this work for the customer as they do not know what they really want or what can be achieved.  We charge for this service on a straight hourly rate.

Strict Policy

MasTec has a strict policy for Integration and Software Development. Adam Samir our Project Manager, has developed a comprehensive methodology and procedure system for doing projects with sign offs at milestones, invoicing and customer involvement all the way through Projects.

We do not do projects like we use to, where a customer asks for something simple and we say yes we can do this and design for them and build, only to find several iterations later they forgot and important function in the design. We now ask for a formal design cycle, with tight specifications, with sign off and money/invoices up front before starting any projects.

We have finally after many years of developing, moved into a professional systematic design and build methodology, thank you Adam. This also brings comfort to the clients as they can see a formal professional system at work, with them participating in the running of it.

Project Sizes

We are now focused on medium sized projects, with budgets greater than 20K and smaller than say about $250K.

We will do smaller projects where we can, slipping them in between the larger projects.  For small projects, please now expect a higher price than before, the reason for this change, is that after much analysis, we have found we have been under quoting and then undercharging for small projects and they have been unprofitable in general. The reason of course is that it takes almost as much work for a small project as a medium size one.

The Project cycle of Design, Purchase parts, Setup computer system, Configuration of I/O systems, Programming work, Test/Trialing code, Commissioning complete system can often have a very small programming part in the middle and the other parts of the cycle add up to quite a bit of time and effort, making the project more expensive than thought.

Capabilities

We have on staff, Adam as our Project Manager/ System Designer and Tajinder as our Programming Manger/Head Programmer, plus 2.5 more, full time programmers with ability in LabVIEW, C and other tools. We have a mechanical engineer for hardware design and build, doing custom machining and fabrication, also electrical and electronic cabling work.We also have a project engineer developing in PICs and low power portable systems.

Present Work Load

We are presently working on 12 major projects, including portable embedded instrumentation, Intranet Laboratory Test Cells with SQL DB and Crystal Reports, industrial certified test and measurement systems, road testing systems, a well inspection system, meat works automation systems, RF communication monitoring and control systems and many more coming on stream.

One area that needs addressing in NZ and Australia is old LabVIEW work that companies have. We find that often the original work was well designed but after several engineers have worked on the software, generational, the whole software becomes nasty and needs a redesign. There are many companies in a dangerous situation with software almost impossible to upgrade and manage. If you are an owner or manager of a company do an inspection of your software position. If you want a qualified assessment, we can do this for you.

We are right now, looking for more intensive longer project work and would love to hear from your company.

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

Company... This Month's Focus Company

MaxStream Radio Direct RF Modems and Zigbee

MasTec has been selling MaxStream for 3 years now, with great success.

If you need to pump RS-232 data, license free, from 0-40/50Kms, then this is the way. We stock these RF modems.

The OEM modules are a low cost way to get RF into your products.

Max Stream leads the growing wireless modem networking market by providing long range, low power consumption and advanced networking capabilities.

This unique combination of features makes their low cost wireless OEM modules and Stand-alone radio modems the smartest on the planet.

• Complete Product Range
• RF Modem Modules
• OEM RF Modules
• OEM Successes
• Accessories
• Downloads
• Knowledgebase
• Help on range and power selector
• Some applications
• Tech Tips
• Feature Articles
• XStream PDF
• Maxstream Advantage

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Batteries ... Making SLA Batteries last longer

Panasonic, Exide, CSB and GCB

First point about SLA= Sealed Lead Acid Batteries, they only have so many charge and discharge cycles built in.

The number of cycles is determined often by how deep the discharge is on each cycle.

So a simple rule is to put in bigger batteries than you require, so you can still get the energy you require during the dicharge but without a deep discharge cycle.

It is quite easy to work out battery capacity, battery volts * amphrs= watt hrs. You will not get all these watthrs out of a battery ever, the larger the discharge current the lower the capacity of the battery goes due to loss of energy due to internal resistance battery heat. The bigger the battery, usually the lower the internal resistance is, hence you win more capcity if you have larger batteries due to less heat dissipation on discharge.

Next key decider on battery life is the charging method and the end voltage set point. We hve found that SLAs will last almost twice as long if you charge them to 13.6 VDC rather than 13.8-14 VDC. So lower the charge stop set point, you do not loose a lot of capacity doing this.

The rule with SLAs on charging levels is to be gentle, charge to quickly you make the battery hot from both internal resistance heating and also chemical heating.

And this bring us to the last major decider on battery life, temperature. If you put a battery system on concrete floors and in a cool room you will probably double their lives over being inside a warm/hot UPS/Inverter/Instrument. We know that SLAs do not last as log in the Pacific Islands as in NZ due to temperature. If you can, have external batteries in a cool area on concrete, as long as if doesn't freeze. Also keeping the equipment in a cool room will make them last and perform better also.

Consult the battery manufacturers spcification sheets, you will be educated rapidly.

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

This may solve many problems for startup development groups or companies, that are not interested in designing their own embedded microprocessor systems.

If you are looking for fast time to market and a cost effective ODM/OEM solutions then RabbitFLEX may be the way forward.

It is a revolution.!?

RabbitFLEX is a new patent-pending manufacturing process that accelerates embedded development by giving you the power to seamlessly design, build, and integrate custom-configurable embedded controllers right into your embedded applications.

Until now, engineers have been forced to choose between off-the-shelf single board computers or custom-designed embedded hardware. Both choices result in high engineering costs and extended development times which can add to the design constraints. RabbitFLEX eliminates these problems by providing a rapid design and manufacturing platform with zero non-recurring engineering costs. You pay only for what you need, and receive the finished product in days instead of months.... more

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Our ODM/OEM Experience May Help You

First of all, we want to congratulate all those small, medium and large companies in NZ and beyond, that have gone through the process of dreaming, designing, prototyping, testing, market trials, documenting, going to production, marketing and finally selling in large qunatities their dream product or products. It is a huge undertaking and requires all sorts of skills, compromises, effort etc.

Well if you are in any of these stages, you may like to consider some tips from MasTec on OEM/ODM supply.

A little planning is required for the future success of your project.

It may seem an easy thing to do, to place and order 50 to 100 of a Micro or RF module etc, thinking these will be in stock in NZ or can at least be supplied off the shelf from the factory of the Asian, USA or Europe manufacturer.

However, most manufacturers operate with very strict product schedules and it is very wise to get to now the time cycles for these production runs and get your order into the production time line so your production runs are going to arrive smoothy for you.

Please talk to Loyal Noronha about this, he is our OEM Manager and knows the methods to make sure you get product on time. There is a continuous stream of emails in and out of MasTec making sure orders for our customers are on schedule. Saera Tui works closely with Loyal in this work.

If you have special requirments like ROHS or special versions of a product that will become an ODM, do give yourself at least 3-6 months to start discussing, communicating and defining exactly your requirements to Loyal.

Loyal needs time lines and quantities, forward purchase orders to make it all happen smoothly.

Don't get to frightened by this, numbers can be shifted on the time line, reduced or increased but you must be in the production queue.

Our advice is start talking early with us and get us hooked into your needs, as soon as you can.

Also start talking pricing and this will enable you to budget forward for the next 6 months or so.

Last point, if you are selling overseas, it is more than likely you will be selling with a USD price line. We can sell to you also in USD and save you a lot of exchange charges and also stabilise your pricing based on the USD currency.

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

Camera Interface Application Kit for remote monitoring, security, asset management, alarm systems, and more.

The Camera Interface Application Kit combines a VGA camera with a popular RabbitCore module that has removable memory to provide an event-capture application. An easy-to-use web interface allows you to control the camera movement using servo motors, and an infrared motion sensor is used to trigger an image capture under software control. A user-configured event notification system is activated, which includes an e-mail of the event with a photo link.... more

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Artila Electronics is an emerging force in the industrial computer field, focusing on ARM-core RISC CPU with embedded Linux solutions, matched with Artila's 10 plus years of experience in RS-232/422/485 serial communication and TCP/IP networking. These engineers really know their stuff. For single use, OEM or get an ODM design, Artila will solve many Linux based system needs.

Matrix-500

Linux-ready ARM9 Computer
with 1x LAN, 4x TTY, 2x USB ports
CPU: ATMEL AT91RM9200 (ARM9-core)
OS: Linux 2.6.x pre-built
Memory: 32MB SDRAM and 8MB Flash
(Flash can be upgrade to 64MB)
Storage: one SD memory card slot inside
USB 2.0 ports: two hosts, one client
Ethernet port: one, 10/100Mbps
TTY (serial) ports: four, 921.6Kbps baud
GNU C/C++ tool chain included
Power input: 9~48VDC, 300mA@12V

M-500 SOM

Linux-ready ARM9 Embedded SOM
Form factor: 40mm x 45mm, with two 100-pin
ETX board-to-board connectors
CPU: ATMEL AT91RM9200 (ARM9-core)
OS: Linux 2.6.x pre-built
Memory: 32MB SDRAM and 8MB Flash
(Flash can be upgrade to 64MB)
SD interface: one, support SD memory card
USB 2.0 interface: two hosts, one client
Ethernet interface: one, 10/100Mbps, auto-select
TTY (serial) interface: four-port asynchrnous UART, 921.6Kbps baud, hardware flow control for RS-485
GPIO: 100 pins, support interrupt
Local bus for function expansion
On-board real-time colock, with battery backup
Power requirement: 3.3VDC input, 250mA

M-500 Starter Kit

Evaluation Kit for M-500 Embedded SOM
One M-500 embedded module
One carrier board with
one RS-232/422/485 line driver, RJ45 connector
three RS-232 line drivers, RJ45 connector
one RJ45 connector for Ethernet
two USB host connectors
one USB client connector
one 20-pin header for 16x GPIOs
Status LEDs for Etherent port and serial port
power input circuitry (9~48VDC)
GNU C/C++ Tool Chain CD and documentation

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

Sealevel Systems SeaPACTM family of flat panel touchscreen computers designed to operate over a wide temperature range without fans or other moving parts. Available with bright, AMTFT LCDs ranging in size from 6.4” to 17”, SeaPAC systems are perfect for a variety of industrial control, machine interface, and point-of-sale applications where small size and extreme reliability are a must.

They are powered by a high-performance, low-power 1GHz Celeron M processor, SeaPACs and are equipped with robust standard I/O features including 10/100Base-T Ethernet, two serial ports, and three high-speed USB 2.0 ports. For flexible local and remote I/O expansion, SeaPACs expand using Sealevel’s SeaI/O data acquisition modules. Choose from Reed and Form C relays, optically isolated inputs, TTL, A/D, and D/A options. The SeaPAC’s processor subsystem communicates with SeaI/O devices using Modbus RTU allowing one or more SeaI/O modules to be physically attached to the SeaPAC or located remotely up to 4000 feet away. Both the processor and I/O modules can be easily removed from the display assembly, making field upgrades easy.

SeaPAC systems include a rugged panel-mount bezel that provides Nema 4/IP65 protection from sprayed liquids on the front surface. The optional resistive touchscreen allows intuitive operator interface and offers years of durable service. SeaPACs are powered by 12VDC, and power is provided to SeaI/O expansion modules using convenient pass-through connectors. The system is rated for 0-50°C operation, and a VESA mounting bracket is available for attaching the system to a mounting arm.

Windows® XP Embedded is a perfect operating system choice for SeaPAC systems. Sealevel offers application assistance for efficiently transferring customer applications to the XPe platform. For users that require disk storage, an optional high-temperature hard drive is available. SeaPAC systems are priced beginning at $1795, and product is available immediately from stock.

If you want us to contact you about these points click this link

NI ... Compact RIO

This really worth looking at -- it is a new concept using FPGA for standalone and real time -- Super stuff

NI CompactRIO Control and Acquisition System

• Small, rugged, industrial control and acquisition system
• Based on NI reconfigurable I/O (RIO) technology for ultra-high performance and customization
• Powered by NI LabVIEW graphical programming for rapid development
• Low cost architecture with open access to low-level hardware resources
• Features real-time processor and reconfigurable FPGA for reliable stand-alone embedded or distributed applications
• Includes hot-swappable industrial I/O modules with built-in signal conditioning for direct connection to sensors and
• actuators
• Design your own custom control or acquisition circuitry in silicon with 25 ns timing/triggering resolution
• Features NI CompactRIO Extreme industrial certifications and ratings
• -40 to 70 °C (-40 to 158 °F) operating temperature
• Up to 2,300 Vrms isolation (withstand)
• 50 g shock rating
• International safety, EMC, and environmental certifications
• Class I, Division 2 rating for hazardous locations
• Dual 11-30 VDC supply inputs, low power consumption (7-10 W typical)

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

The highly successful pocket-sized Elan USBscope50 is now even easier to use in multi-channel applications. Until now most users who need a multi-channel scope have usually needed to use separate USB ports on their PCs.

Now Elan offers a simple, flexible and low cost 2 or 4 port USB hub with flying leads allowing multiple USBscopes to be operated from a single USB port.

Elan 4 way hub to a single USB port with 4 stacked USBscope50s.USBscope50 is fully synchronized in multi-channel mode and also offers full galvanic isolation which protects both equipment and users from potential electrical shock or damage. The USBscope50 together with the USB hub means that all the features of a powerful oscilloscope come in a small and convenient form factor at a fraction of the price.

Because of the growing market worldwide for the Elan USBscope50 more and more users are benefiting from the unique combination of miniature size, professional grade specification and low cost offered by this product.

Other members of the USBscope family are USBwave12 waveform generator, USBpulse100 pulse generator and USBcount50 pulse counter. All these products share the same miniature package, are powered via USB and are fully isolated. The members of the USBscope family can all be used in conjunction with the USBscope50 to create a comprehensive suite of professional standard test gear

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

U9E Ethernet and USB DAQ Features

(Huge Performance) (Best Value Ethernet DAQ on the Market)

• 14 Analog Inputs (12-16 Bits Depending on Speed)
• ±5 or 0-5 Volt Maximum Analog Input Range Supports Software or Hardware Timed Acquisition
• Analog Input Streaming Up To 50 kHz
• 2 Analog Outputs (12-Bit)
• 23 Digital I/O
• Up to 2 Counters (32-Bits Each)
• Up to 6 Timers (Pulse Timing yes, PWM Output yes, Quadrature Input, yes)
• Built-In Screw Terminals for Some Signals
• USB 2.0/1.1 Full Speed Interface
• Ethernet 10Base-T Interface
• Dual-Processor Design with 168 MHz of Total Processing Power
• Electrical Isolation Possible with Ethernet Interface
• Wireless DAQ Possible with Ethernet Interface
• No Power Supply Needed for USB Operation
• Includes Licensed Copy of DAQFactory Express Software (Win2000/XP)
• Includes USB and Ethernet Cable, Power Supply, and Screwdriver
• Free Firmware Upgrades
• Money Back Guarantee
• Enclosure Size Approximately 3" x 7" x 1" (75mm x 185mm x 30mm)
• Rated for Industrial Temperature Range (-40 to +85 Degrees C)
  

Analog Inputs
The LabJack UE9 has 14 external analog inputs (AIN0-AIN13) and 2 internal analog inputs (AIN14-AIN15). AIN0-AIN3 are available on screw terminals and also on the DB37 connector. All 14 analog inputs are available on the DB37 connector.

Each analog input can be configured individually as unipolar (0-5 volts) or bipolar (±5 volts). An internal PGA provides gains of 1, 2, 4, or 8 (unipolar ranges only at this time). Analog input resolution is 12-bits at max speed (10 us conversion time), increasing up to 16-bits at slower speeds (10 ms conversion time).

Analog inputs can be continuously streamed at up to 50 ksamples/second. Command/response (software timed) functions typically take a few milliseconds to execute.

Analog Outputs
The LabJack UE9 has 2 analog outputs (DAC0 and DAC1) that are available both on screw terminals and the DB37 connector. Each analog output can be set to a voltage between 0 and about 4.8 volts with 12-bits of resolution.

Flexible Digital I/O Yes
The LabJack UE9 has 23 digital I/O channels which can be individually configured as input, output-high, or output-low. 8 of these lines are called flexible digital I/O (FIO) and can be software configured as up to 6 timers and 2 counters.

The first 4 FIO are available on screw terminals and the DB37 connector. All 8 FIO and 3 MIO are available on the DB37 connector, and 8 EIO and 3 CIO are available on the DB15 connector.

Timers
Up to 6 FIO can be configured as timers. The timers are very flexible, providing options such as PWM output, pulse timing, and quadrature input.

Counters
Up to 2 FIO can be configured as 32-bit counters.

Power Supply
Power can be provided by the USB cable or an external 5 volt supply (included). When only Ethernet is connected, and an isolated power supply is used (such as the included wall-wart), the entire UE9 is electrically isolated.

High Channel Count Applications
By using USB hubs or Ethernet switches, many LabJacks can be interfaced to a single PC, providing an inexpensive solution for low-speed high channel count applications.

Wireless Data Acquisition Yes
Combining the UE9 with a standard 802.11 wireless Ethernet bridge ($50-$200 from any computer retailer) provides inexpensive wireless data acquisition. Applications include high-speed continuous wireless data acquisition, long distance remote sensing and control, or PDA based data acquisition.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

The highly successful pocket-sized Elan USBscope50 is now even easier to use in multi-channel applications. Until now most users who need a multi-channel scope have usually needed to use separate USB ports on their PCs. Now Elan offers a simple, flexible and low cost 2 or 4 port USB hub with flying leads allowing multiple USBscopes to be operated from a single USB port.

Elan 4 way hub to a single USB port with 4 stacked USBscope50s.USBscope50 is fully synchronized in multi-channel mode and also offers full galvanic isolation which protects both equipment and users from potential electrical shock or damage. The USBscope50 together with the USB hub means that all the features of a powerful oscilloscope come in a small and convenient form factor at a fraction of the price.

Because of the growing market worldwide for the Elan USBscope50 more and more users are benefiting from the unique combination of miniature size, professional grade specification and low cost offered by this product.

Other members of the USBscope family are USBwave12 waveform generator, USBpulse100 pulse generator and USBcount50 pulse counter. All these products share the same miniature package, are powered via USB and are fully isolated. The members of the USBscope family can all be used in conjunction with the USBscope50 to create a comprehensive suite of professional standard test gear

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

• The AVT GUPPY F-033B (b/w) and AVT GUPPY F-033C (color) are ultra compact, space-saving IEEE 1394 VGA C-mount cameras, equipped with a highly-sensitive SONY 1/3" progressive CCD sensor.
• The Guppy F-033B/C cameras are designed with the OEM in mind. Their comprehensive and extensive software library support, board level camera options, small size and the possibility for customisation make the Guppy F-033B/C ideal for manufacturers of original equipment. AVT have designed the Guppy F-033B/C for reliability and feature a failure rate far below the industry standard making it a safe investment for volume OEM applications. Another attractive aspect of the Guppy and its manufacturer AVT is that AVT can promise very short and repeatable delivery times.
• The GUPPY F-033B/C has been designed with space saving in mind and is available in a tough industrial case. The GUPPY F-033B/C has been designed to ensure that transition to digital imaging is cost effective and provides far greater imaging benefits than possible when using analogue cameras.
• The camera offers an external asynchronous trigger shutter and operates in 8-bit mode. At full image resolution, the AVT GUPPY F-033B/C offers up to 60fps and is suited for use in industrial image processing and product automation. The extensive built-in image processing possibilities (image pre-processing) result in outstanding image quality, reduced retouching, less load on the system and higher performance overall.
• The integrated Smart Functions replace the functions that are usually handled by a frame-grabber, which speeds up performance and reduces total cost of ownership. The GUPPY can be easily integrated into existing applications thanks to a powerful and flexible API.
• Applications that the GUPPY F-033B/C is ideal for include computer imaging, image analysis and processing, machine vision, microscopy, automated inspection, robotics, video teleconferencing, mobile applications and many others.
  
  If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

NI... NI CompactDAQ

This is a new type of product!! It is worth looking at. Build DAQ suites outside the PC, use a Laptop etc etc etc

NI CompactDAQ hardware provides the plug-and-play simplicity of USB to sensor and electrical measurements on the benchtop, in the field, and on the production line. By combining the ease of use and low cost of a data logger with the performance and flexibility of modular instrumentation, NI CompactDAQ delivers fast and accurate measurements in a small, simple, and affordable system.

Now that is what NI says. ... watch the 3 min video

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

MCC -- Measurement Studio -- .NET Tools

MasTec is releasing a new powerful development tool called, Measurement Studio for MCC DAQ products -- PCI and USB.

We highly recommend Measurement Studio as a stable platform, having been around for many years with interfaces for NI products.

Now use it with all MCC PCI and USB DAQ products and benefit from MCC's life time warranty and lower cost DAQ solutions... more

Measurement Studio is the complete integrated measurement solution that includes tools created specifically for Visual Studio .NET, Visual C++ and Visual Basic 6.0 programmers.

It is designed for engineers and scientists building test, measurement, and control applications.

• Works with Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 and Visual Studio .NET 2003
• Integrated measurement tools for Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C#, and Visual C++
• Live data networking with DataSocket; Base analysis libraries
• Acquire data from GPIB, serial, Ethernet, and plug-in data acquisition devices
• Code-generating DAQ and Instrument I/O Assistants
• User interface controls including extensible graphs and switches
  
  Download Measurement Studio—MCC edition

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Rabbit -- Upgrades available

Rabbit have been busy updating their Embedded Software Libraries and Dynamic C Development Tools.

We are making sure that you have access to upgrade to the highest quality product software tools possible from Rabbit

The following are available for download:

• DC 9.40
• RabbitSys 1.02
• RabbitWeb 1.03
• SSL 1.04
• µCOS2 1.05
• RFU 1.03
  
  Download area
  

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

NEWS FOR CNC Rebuilders and Users!

1. Micronor Geared Feedback Transducers replace obsolete units by Thomson Micron, Eucron, Baumer, etc.

2. Micronor ESM6X-7X-8X Series Manual Pulse Generators replace Nemicon, Daido, etc.

3. Micronor ESH Series and MR175 Handheld Pendants for CNC replacements and upgrades or Teaching Pendants

NEWS FOR DISCRETE PROCESS CONTROL MAINTENANCE ENGINEERS!

4. How to refurbish existing Micronor Feedback Transducers, Motor Pots and Cam Switches

5. Automate manual/motorized potentiometers with MR265 4-20mA position feedback and/or MR267 4-20mA remote control options

Are you stuck for supply with these types of products, Micronor has said they will continue to supply as other companies drop away.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Encoders:-

MasTec sells hundreds of Micronor encoders each year. We stock quite arange of encoders also.

The range is huge both incremental and absolute encoders. The product book is several inches thick.

Resolutions from 50 pulses/rev up to many thousands.

Swiss made, perfection machining, reliable operation, very fail and the price is excellent.

Interfacing:-

If you want to bring encoders quadrature signals into your PC or controller and you do not have a Quadrature input, we can provide solutions:

PCI and ISA bus boards, Serial, Ethernet and USB connected Quadrature Encoder conditioners. Also standalone displays.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Signal Conditioning Modules (ADAM-3000 Series)
Advantech signal conditioning products for data acquisition systems provide sensor and signal-specific conditioning on a per-module basis for variant type of sensor or signal. Depending on your specific application needs, including acquisition speed, and sensor types.


ADAM-3011 The ADAM-3011 is field-configurable, isolation-base, thermocouple input signal conditioner. ADAM-3011 uses microprocessor-controlled high-resolution 16-bit dual-slope, integrating A/D converter to acquire thermocouple signal and cold junction compensation input.

ADAM-3013 ADAM-3013 is a DIN-rail mounted, RTD input signal conditioning module with 1000 VDC 3-way isolation between input, output and power. The switch configurable input and output offers flexible, wide ranging capability for Platinum and Nichel RTDs. The input of the ADAM-3013 RTD input can be configured for any one of up to fourteen defined temperature ranges and two OEM-defined ranges. The output is linearized to the RTD temperature input and can be set for either 0~5 V, 0~10 V or 0~20 mA.

ADAM-3014 The ADAM-3014 is one of the most cost-effective, field-configurable, isolation-based signal conditioners available for protecting processed signals from harm-ful effects of ground loop, motor noise, and other electrical interference. The ADAM-3014 features a new optical isolation technique to provide 1000 VDC isolation with low power consumption and extreme accuracy and stability within a wide range of operating environments.

ADAM-3016 ADAM-3016 is a DIN rail-mounted strain gauge input signal conditioning module with 1000 V DC 3-way isolation between input, output and power. The switch con-figurable input and output offers flexible, wide ranging capability for strain gauge. ADAM-3016 is equipped with a power LED to monitor the line power and a DC-to-DC converter status and 3 VR (ZERO, SPAN, EXCI) to calibrate input/output range and excitation voltage.

ADAM-3854 The ADAM-3854 features four industrial SPDT (Form C) electromechanical power relays and a DIN-rail mount. Each of the relays is controlled by a +24 VDC digital signal and is equipped with an adjacent LED to display its status. Each output is equipped with a varistor that shunts the surge voltage of an inductive load or electromagnetic brake to protect the relay contact points. All the relay outputs and relay controls are accessible through wiring terminals, allowing the ADAM-3854 to be easily connected to any item of equipment or device such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs).

ADAM-3864 The ADAM-3864 is a solid state digital I/O module carrier backplane that accommodates any combination of up to four high-performance, low-cost photocoupler-isolated solid state digital I/O modules. This backplane can accept either 24 VDC or 5 VDC I/O modules, depending on the type of power supply.


Plus a host of backplanes, wiring harnesses and SSR options

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Hantz make IP65, PCI, Serial, DIN Rail and USB Bluetooth Systems, Class 1 and 2

The BlueSerial adapters are perfect for industrial, medical or automotive applications within building controls, measurement devices, embedded systems, robotics a.s.o. The reliable and low power consuming wireless connection allows a RS-232 cable replacement with ranges up to 3.000 ft. and more depending of the Bluetooth radio Class (1 or 2) and the antennas used.

Because of the low radiation and highest security in data transfer, Bluetooth may be used in mediacl applications as well. The standard BlueSerial adapter comes in a matchbox sized plastic enclosure with a 9-Pin Sub-D RS-232 connector. The power could be supplied through Pin 9 from the connected device itself or using the power connector on the rear side together with a wall plug, a USB power adapter cable or a keyboard adapter cable. The power can be injected through a special RS-232 cable as well that offers a power connector for a wall plug supporting Pin 9 with the necessary power.

Another power option is using the BlueSerial adapters with integrated, rechargeable NiMH battery that lasts a working day without recharging. All our serial Bluetooth adapters and modules do not need any device driver software. After a one time setup procedure, the adapters are connecting to the paired devices immediate after power up.

Also buy a Bluetooth development kit

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Off the shelf supply for these items: (We stock these)

ISo you are monitoring 230VAC or 24 VDC with your PLC or PC and you want these AC and DC signals level shifted to CMOS/TTL levels or 24VDC but isolated.

OPTO 22 make a huge range of modules that can do the isolation to 4000VAC and level shift to 5, 15 or 24 VDC levels for direct input into measurement systems.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

IP Power 9258 - -- main features : Cost $225 USD

The IP 9258 can be controlled over TCP/IP network using generic Ethernet or Web browser without any software skill. Each independent outlet can be switched ON, OFF or Booted (OFF- delay-ON). IP9258 can supply maximum up to 7A/250VAC or 10A/120VAC Power. Uses internationally standard IEC 320 Inlet/Outlet connectors that make it easy to use anywhere in the world using locally available PC cables and adapters.

• Network Server reboot -- can remote control to reboot the power on for the PC or Server at remote site , no need send someone to get the job done at the scene -- save time and manpower.
  
• Network AC Power Control -- can control and operate the High Power switch on / off via Internet / Ethernet
  
• Timer Power Switch -- can pre-set the time schedule to turn power on / off thru Internet / Ethernet.
  
• Mobile Phone Control          -- can use cell phone to control
  
• Open Code Customization -- provided Source Code for user to modify to fit it's own system application
  
• SDK - provided
  
• Webpage ( http.) Command - allows end-user easily to modify into its own Webpage to command
  
• VB / VC -- Firmware always update and can be update in Internet.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

TrippLite have announced more models for their Watchdog Series.

MasTec now stocks the new 750 VA model.

Perfect for Kiosk and industrial unattended sites, these UPS will reboot if the system stops.

Available with DB9 RS-232 Serial or USB Comms systems.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Asian Electron is installed in thousands of sites in NZ.

MasTec has stock of inverters from 600 to 2500 watts, both Quasi and Sinewave

Also Battery Chargers

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

CGB... SLA Batteries 12 VDC 7 amphr -- UPS Grade

MasTec Sells CGB in NZ.

• Standard Battery size for Security or UPS systems
• Service in NZ now into third year with no cell failures
• Standard 1/4 inch terminals for UPSs.
• We would like to find sub distributors for this product
• We recommend these for Emergency lighting, Security adn UPS applications.
• Prices typically RRP <<$20
• Life typically 3-5 years.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

AC Power... Product of the Month

Soltec...AC Voltage and Frequency Converters

Soltec make a range of single phase and three phase Voltage and Frequency Converters.

These are useful devices if you want to run 60HZ AC devices in NZ or you are make 60HZ devices for export and you need to test them in NZ.

Power Ranges are from 1KVA all the way to 320KVA.

Simple installation and setup. These devices are actually built around their UPS sinewave inverter and charger technology. There are no batteries in these devices.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

• Excellent UPS
• Build Kiosk Hibernation Backup
• Large enough for a PC and Monitor
• Excellent software.
• One Year Warranty

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Medical... Product of the Month

ADAM...ADAM Health Information on CDs

Low cost CD reference material for education or home

A.D.A.M. Illustrated Medical Encyclopedia on CD-ROM (10th Edition)

A.D.A.M. The Complete Alternative Medicine Encyclopedia On CD-ROM

A.D.A.M. Illustrated Family Health Guide

Nine Month Miracle

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Design and Manufacture:-

Medical Grade & other UPS Uninterruptible Power Systems
78VA to 400KVA;

PowerVar's Medically-approved UPSs and Line Conditioners adn Transformer Isolation systems are approved medically world wide.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Developed over a period of 12 years.

Several system running in NZ, Australia and Malaysia.

Complete system can be supplied, either laptop or PC with USB DAQ interface box, high accuracy manometer, high spec temperature probe, high frequency pressure transducer, a matrix of linear gauges.

Measures to Telarc standards, accuracy to +/-.01 mm on linear, and +/-1 pascal on pressure.

Measures displacement, air leakage and does cyclic pressure tests also.

We can supply complete test booths also.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link

Critical End-Of-Life Announcement

Advantech -- Please be advised that due to the early EOL of VIA C3/Eden and AMD Geode components, Advantech will be revising a range of product models including selected Single Board Computers, PC/104, SOM, POS, Panel PC, Slot PC, TREK Vehicle PC and eHome Panel PCs

For a complete list of affected products, replacement models and expected release dates, please visit

Exacq -- Due to the unavailability of a lead-free version of a key part in the Exacq CM-Series and XM-Series Multifunction Boards, Exacq is announcing an official discontinuation to the entire CM-Series (PCI Bus) and XM-Series (PXI).

GW Instek -- Please open the pdf file with the announcements of Phase out Product List.

Quatech--- SSCFR-100 ending, customers are to move to the SSCF-100 card in place of the ruggedized unit

               --- GPSR-001B GPSR-001C GPSR-001U ending March 2006

Quatech ROHS page

Quatech How to Identify ROHS products

Rabbit ROHS Strategy

Please ask for each manufacturer.

MasTec has an opening for a junior to intermediate Sales Person

All staff at MasTec have diplomas or degrees in Engineering.

The job will be working in our internal sales team in our East Tamaki Office.

We require someone that first of all likes people and loves the buzz of selling.

If you want a job inside a dynamic small sales team of 5 people then contact via this link

Send a CV and also a short note, we will respond and arrange an appointment.

Ph 64 9 273 4200 or email

Industria global news about Automation, Process Control, Instrumentation, and Software for Australasia/Oceania Website Link

• MasTec Ltd.
• 1/7 Torrens Rd, East Tamaki
• Auckland 1701, New Zealand
• Tel : 64 9 273 4200
• Fax: 64 9 273 9500
• Mail : info@mastecnz.co.nz
• Web http://www.mastec.co.nz

MasTec Staff Contacts :-

Managing Director	rob.maskell@mastecnz.co.nz
OEM Manager	loyal.noronha@mastecnz.co.nz
Project and Product Manager	adam.samir@mastecnz.co.nz
Wireless Sales -- Sales Consultant	adam.samir@mastecnz.co.nz
Instrumentation -- Sales Consultant	loyal.noronha@mastecnz.co.nz
UPS & Power Sales -- Sales Consultant	dhara.pandya@mastecnz.co.nz
Integration Manager	tajinder.singh@mastecnz.co.nz
Applications Engineer	kokulan.balakrishnan@mastecnz.co.nz
Applications Engineer	daniel.wong@mastecnz.co.nz
Office and General Sales Manager	saera.tui@mastecnz.co.nz
Email Lists & DB Work	rob.maskell@mastecnz.co.nz

Welcome Daniel - our new programmer with a Biomedical Degree from Auckland University.

(Please send Rob Maskell any updates on company details, any new staff members etc)

SWS... For Sale

SWS = Smart Works Systems -- Small Product Development Company

This small company would suit an engineer or small company wanting to expand their product line.

What is For Sale:

All products, software and hardware designs.

There are two main products:-

1/ A PC Based Window, Door, Farcade and Wall Testing System

2/ A PC Based Roof Testing Systems

PC Based Window, Door, Farcade and Wall Testing System

SWS has been developing this system since it started 12 years ago.

Over these 12 years, SWS has developed many different levels of Window Testing Systems.

The Window Testers are Telarc approved and registered.

There are several Window Testing Systems that are running in NZ , Australia and Malayasia.

Over the 12 years, all these systems have been upgraded, expanded and adanced with technology and windows advancements on average each 2-3 years, so there have been many iterations of the same product.

The test software and the hardware has evolved considerably.

The current designs are based on USB DAQ, with quite a sophisicated Measurement suite that uses LabVIEW DAQ and Control software.

PC Based Roof Testing Systems

Recent develop work over the last year has been the new Roof Testing System.

You can read about these systems at this link

SWS builds the complete system, hardware and software and does the commissioning for SWS for MasTec.

If you want us to contact you about these products click this link