Next-generation factory Ethernet devices, predicts this article, will have three-port embedded switches and connect in a redundant ring (daisy chain) network, instead of a central multiport switch that builds the network in a star topology. Semiconductor products already exist to make this possible.

Pressure or temperature transmitters linked by a digital fieldbus (either Profibus or Fieldbus Foundation) are greatly improved over previous analog models, but they still need to be calibrated. This new calibration technique, the first of its kind, generates a transmitter input and "reads" the fieldbus output.

Do you need to acquire data for design verification and simple automated tests in electronics, automotive, aerospace/defense, medical, communications, and computer industries? This software enables advanced data-logging tasks with decision-making and limit-checking, without programming. It uses action scripts to send SCPI commands to other instruments connected to the PC.

Asahi Breweries uses supervisory software on the enterprise side of its manufacturing operations, and reporting software hosted directly on production floor PLCs. This provides real time visibility into machine operations without manual SQL queries common to manufacturing execution systems (MES). Some call it the next level of factory automation. Is this a better idea?

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Increased programmability and integrated motor/drive systems are moving motion control into tasks which were previously the domain of less advanced control technologies. Product packaging and palletizing now incorporate versatile electronic systems with offerings designed to help both machine builders and customers, and with declining prices. This trend means one machine can now eliminate several individual hydraulic or pneumatic systems.

Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) is cheap, safe, and easy to install — even slightly damaged cable still works. It doesn't go as far as glass cables, but it's still immune to EMF and doesn't radiate any signals. Will the automation industry follow the trends in the automobile and avionics industries?

PC-based control of sensors, switches, automation, and security-control systems is possible with this USB-based and powered digital I/O module. The module's four 8-bit ports are programmable, and a 50-pin header allows for connections to solid-state-relay racks. Suited for test and measurement applications, its latch port design prevents accidental disconnection.

An easier interface to motion control systems is provided by this new camera, which has its own embedded industrial controller that processes images and can interface directly with motor encoders. This allows system designers to synchronize their inspection systems with linear or rotary drive systems.

New Device Aids Blind Students

Blind engineering students can better keep pace with college peers with a new "smart pen" featuring an embedded processor. While students listen to annotated audio, the device lets them feel notes written on sheets that raise up when stroked with the pen. Created by Livescribe, Inc., the invention is particularly useful in engineering classes that depend heavily on diagrams and charts, notes Vanderbilt Professor Andrew VanSchaack, the firm's senior science adviser.

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Factories: WLAN-Hostile?

Is the factory floor too hostile an environment for wireless LANs or other wireless communications? Where do you see the greatest benefits, and what environments are particularly challenging?