Electricity + Control August 2015

CONTROL SYSTEMS + AUTOMATION

ROUND UP

Fast and accurate data transmission

Leuze electronic has developed a data transmission photoelectric sensor that has a high optical transmission of 100 Mbit/s. Available from sole Southern African dis- tributors Countapulse Controls , the device allows data transmission without cabling and without interference. Gerry Bryant, managing director of Countapulse Controls, says that the Leuze DDLS 500 optical data transceiver is able to instantaneously transmit all com- mon Ethernet protocols up to distances of 120 metres.These protocols include Profinet, EtherNet IP, EtherCat, Ethernet TCP/IP and Ethernet UDP. Constant monitoring and noti-

fication of the signal level on the easy to read LED display allows quick reaction to issues like soiling of the lens, ensuring simplified maintenance and diagnostics. The modular design of the Leuze DDLS 500 includes an integrated bubble level for accurate installa- tion.The patented single-hand adjustment of the instrument allows precise alignment of the data light beam. In addition, the device projects four laser spots on the floor along the intended light path, aiding in the easy alignment of the device at a distance. Enquiries:Gerry Bryant.Tel. 011 615 7556 or email bryant@countapulse.co.za New software for inventory visualisation Imagine communicating automatically with the supplier of your level and pressure instrumenta- tion via aWeb portal. Imagine a situation where the sensors you have installed on tanks or silos at your plant not only communicate with each other and your plant management system but also with your supplier. Vendor-managed inventory (VMEI) pro- grammes are not a new idea. Major companies across leading industries have adopted this business model as a way to optimise inventory management and supply chain efficiencies. The automated flow of information within a company or between partner companies cre- ates transparency early on for the supplier and security of supply for the purchaser. VEGA, one of the market leaders in the manu- facture and supply of pressure and level sen- sors, has made a strong link out of something that until now was a critical weakness in the supply chain.TheVEGA Inventory Systemallows sensors to communicate directly withVEGA fully automatically, and report the need for re-supply. With the help of the web-based software, VEGA assumes responsibility for the customer’s stocks and makes sure they are always sufficiently supplied.The customer no longer has to assess his needs accurately and thenmake sure replen- ishments are ordered on time. VEGA Inventory System takes over this function.To accomplish this task, the software provides automatic alerts to VEGA, which in turn allows VEGA greater flexibility in their own resource and logistics management. The programme also includes a series of well-designed analytical and planning tools that enables optimised demand, inventory and delivery planning. Enquiries: Chantal Groom.Tel. 011 795 3249 or email Chantal.groom@vega.com

Motion detectors provide automated light switching RET Automation Controls has introduced the WLS28-2MQ motion detector switch for automated lighting. Banner’s motion detector switches provide an efficient solution to automatically turn on or off the light in applications where a physical switch cannot be used or the placement of the switch is not useful. Banner’s motion detector switches are available in two options, an in-line module or built-in motion detector for the company’s industry-recognisedWLS28-2 LED Strip Light. The in-line module allows operators to place the motion detection switch away from the light, and can be used with any Banner dc voltage lights.TheWLS28-2 with built-in motion detector models provide easy and fast installation in one place. “The motion detection switch offers a simple, convenient lighting solution for applica- tions that don’t easily allowmanual on/off switching,” saidMatt Hahn, technical marketing engineer for lighting at Banner Engineering. “For example, if the motion detection switch is inside of an electrical enclosure, it will automatically turn the light on when the door is open and off when it is closed.” The motion detector switches feature M12 connectors and rugged metal housing for secure, durable performance. Detector switches are rated for 12 to 30 Vdc. Banner’s WLS28-2 LED Strip Light delivers a versatile lighting solution, featuring a space-saving, low-profile design and various lengths from 145 mm to 1 130 mm. Enquiries: RET Automation Controls. Email brandon.topham@retautomation.com or visit www.retautomation.com

Electricity+Control August ‘15

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