Afamily of switched mode power supply units take up minimum panel space, feature low loss circuitry and provide a safe, low voltage power supply for machinery,process control and automation systems.

Rockwell Automation introduces the Allen-Bradley 1606 family of switched mode power supply units. Designed to take up minimum panel space and featuring low loss circuitry, they provide a safe, low voltage power supply for the control devices used in machinery, process control and automation systems. Featuring a devicenet supply module, the Allen-Bradley 1606 family further extends the already comprehensive range of panel components available from Rockwell Automation.

Fully compatible with the popular Allen-Bradley MCS (Modular Control System), they are widely available through a network of local distributors and have the benefit of international support via the global Rockwell Automation organisation.

The single phase range comprises Compact units up to 100W and 56V DC, and Standard up to 480W and 56V DC.

The three-phase range comprises Standard units from 120W to 960W at 24 to28V DC together with a range of Special modules.

These include a Brownout buffer module (to protect against temporary voltage reductions), DC/DC converter, modules electronically limited to 4A or 8A and units with built in redundancy.

Meeting the most stringent EMC requirements as outlined in EN61000-3-2, the 1606 family has international CE, UL and cUL approvals.

This makes them ideal for use by companies shipping throughout Europe and America.

The high efficiency design incorporates electrolytic capacitors and a low loss thermal circuit.

This gives outstanding service life and the smallest profile per watt to minimise panel space requirements.

Built in overload and open circuit protection protects against circuit faults.

Quick and easy to install, the spring action terminals require no tools and the units are simply clipped to standard DIN rail or can be panel mounted using the optional panel mounting brackets.

With control systems and communication networks being part of most machines and manufacturing processes, machinery builders and OEMs are using power supply units in increasing numbers.

The Allen-Bradley 1606 power supply provides a reliable, versatile and easy to install solution.

Pushbutton Switches for harsh environments are suited for applications that require an ergonomic interface in instrumentation and control equipment used in a variety of industries.

APEM Components, a leading manufacturer of high quality miniature and industrial switches, has expanded its line of popular IP Series Pushbutton Switches for harsh environments. The IP Series models are well suited for numerous applications that require an ergonomic interface in electrical/electronic, medical devices, and instrumentation and control equipment used in a variety of industries. In addition to a variety of momentary action units, new latching action OFF-ON models have been added.

These new models come equipped with a two position actuator for clear indication of switching position.

The actuator projects noticeably higher when the switch is in the OFF position, as opposed to when the switch is in the ON position.

The IP Series Pushbutton Switches are compact in size and mount in a 13.6mm hole, which projects less than 20mm behind the front panel.

Features include shock and vibration resistance, round and square panel bezels, and effective sealing and illumination options.

The black bezel frame, offered in seven actuator color choices, enhances the panel cosmetics and satisfies coding requirements.

APEM's IP Series Pushbutton Switches have maximum current/voltage ratings of 100mA at 24V DC with an expected life of 200,000 cycles, and 2A at 125V AC with an expected life of 10,000 cycles per UL 1054.

Manufactured with gold-plated silver contacts, these switches are available in solder lug, insulated wire lead terminals, straight PC or quick connect terminals.

Robustness meets IK06 specifications according to EN S0102 on non-illuminated models.

* About APEM - since 1952, APEM has been a leader in the manufacturing of high quality miniature and industrial switches.

Offering one of the broadest product lines on the market, APEM's switch line includes pushbuttons, rockers, slides, toggles, DIPs, rotaries, tacts, keylocks, pushwheels and snap-action switches.

APEM also provides a wide range of industrial controls, membrane switches, panels, and keypads.

An ultra-flexible stainless steel overbraided electrical conduit offers enhanced fire hazard protection and EMI screening characteristics.

KEBT SS ultra-flexible stainless steel overbraided electrical conduit is the latest addition to Kopex International's Screenforce conduit systems. It offers enhanced fire hazard protection and EMI screening characteristics so that it is ideal for installation in a variety of environments. These include the petrochemical, healthcare, food processing and many other demanding commercial or industrial applications.

KEBT SS is just part of the Kopex ultra-flexible conduit range and each product has a steel helix construction.

The KEBT range offers enhanced fire hazard protection and the specialist coating gives very low smoke, very low toxicity and high (40%) oxy-index.

EMC screening capability is rated at 65dB at 1MHz.

KEBT is also LUL class 1 compliant for fixed location and rolling stock.

It offers excellent flexibility with a low bend radius as well as high compression resistance characteristics.

The new KEBT SS stainless steel braided conduits are available in 25m coil lengths and conduit sizes from 10-50mm.

A range of connectors is available offering IP 54 protection, with fixed or swivel options in metric threads.

Screw to screwless terminal strips are designed to conveniently and quickly connect wiring in lighting fixtures and other electrical equipment.

Camden Electronics has launched a new range of screw to screwless terminal strips designed to conveniently and quickly connect wiring in lighting fixtures and other electrical equipment. The new CTS2P and CTS4P terminal strips provide a standard screw connection on one side with push-in fast connectors on the opposite side allowing two or four solid conductors to be connected to each terminal. CTS2P types accept up to two conductors on the screwless side and are available in 12 pole strips as well as in two, three and four-pole plus earth variations.

CTS4P types can accept up to four conductors on the screwless side and are available in 12 pole and 2-pole plus earth variants.

All earth terminals feature screw-to-screw connection and 12-pole types can be pre-cut to any specified number of poles to order.

Moulded from UL94-V2 self-extinguishing PA66, the new terminal strips offer a quick and convenient way to connect wiring in numerous applications and all types with earth connections feature terminals marked with symbols for live, neutral and earth.

The terminals strips are VDE approved, CE 72/73 and 93/68 and comply with EN60598 4.7 and 11.2.

Specifications include maximum voltage of 450V AC (400V AC for CTS4P series), 17.5A maximum current on twin conductor types, 24A on four conductor types, working temperature from -5 to +85 deg C, nickel-plated brass earth insert, steel push in terminal insert with stainless steel clamping spring and zinc-plated steel CQ-15 screws with metric thread.

Screw side terminals feature raised screws for easier insertion of conductors.

The new terminal strips are available in hole and snap-in mounting styles and earth types can be supplied with a strain relief clamp for securing external conductors in accordance with EN 60598.

Camden Electronics, based at St.

Albans, Hertfordshire, UK, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of PCB terminal blocks, fuses and fuseholders, sealed lead acid batteries, LEDs, miniature switches, interface modules, enclosures, IC and PLCC sockets and relay bases for the electronics, telecommunications, lighting, and electrical industries.

The company has ISO 9002 accreditation and exports a significant proportion of its production to Europe and the Far East.

With its latest range of instruments for electrical installation testing, a test equipment manufacturer says it is the first to supply such products as standard in robust moulded plastics cases.

With its latest range of instruments for electrical installation testing, Megger has become the first test equipment manufacturer to supply products, as standard, in robust moulded plastics cases instead of ordinary throw-away boxes. Designed to easily withstand the rigours of transport and on-site use, the new cases are clearly marked with the type of instrument they contain, making it easy for users to be sure that they have selected the right product from the shelf or from their vehicle. The cases are readily stackable for easy storage, and feature convenient integral carrying handles together with strong secure latches.

They accommodate the instruments without the need to unplug the test leads, which is big time saver for busy users.

The usefulness of the cases is further increased by the provision of space for additional test leads, probe tips, and small tools.

Instruments currently being supplied with the new cases include insulation testers, RCD testers and loop testers in Megger's latest 300 series.

Like the cases themselves, all of these instruments have been developed after extensive research into the requirements of test equipment users.

PowerSuite range of software for electrical testing applications has been expanded to include a PDA package for on-site completion of test certificates.

Megger's PowerSuite range of software for electrical testing applications has been expanded to include a new PDA package. This enables on-site completion of test certificates, such as under Building Regulations Part P compliance, without the need for a computer or downloading intruments. Electrical installation testing, portable appliance testing (PAT) and checking other non-electrical apparatus requires taking many measurements, documenting the results and, where applicable, issuing certificates.

PowerSuite PDA simplifies these time consuming tasks and offers an alternative to carrying downloading instruments on-site.

By installing the package on a Palm OS or Windows CE compatible PDA, test certificates can be partially completed in the office, then uploaded to the PDA, for completion on-site.

Alternatively, empty certificates can be completed on-site, on the PDA, and downloaded to a PC for printing and safe storage.

PowerSuite PDA is a flexible package that allows the operator to take note of the test results and visual inspection on a PDA.

This information can then be downloaded onto a PC for printing certificates and databasing using PowerSuite Professional at a later date.

PowerSuite PDA allows the user to choose their optimum platform as it supports both Palm OS and pocket PC file formats.

Other key features of the PowerSuite PDA include simple form filling, dropdown boxes for quick navigation and easy form synchronisation.

Solutia UK is saving GBP 1,200 a year on its energy bill with the help of ABB's Pay As You Save scheme.

Solutia UK is saving GBP 1,200 a year on its energy bill with the help of ABB's Pay As You Save scheme. The scheme allows the company to pay for its new ABB variable speed drive with the money from energy savings achieved by the drive. Solutia is a global company.

Its manufacturing site in Newport, South Wales makes a diverse range including water treatment chemicals and heat transfer fluids.

Keith Agnew, Energy Manager at Solutia, says: 'With the climate change levy in place, we needed to make savings on our energy bill.

ABB was chosen as it is a global company with quality products and a forward looking scheme to make carbon savings.' ABB conducted an energy audit of Solutia's plant and identified several processes that could benefit from an energy saving variable speed drive.

The first application to be fitted with a drive was the plant's effluent pump, which is now controlled by an ABB ACS401.

With a saving of GBP 1,200 a year, the Pay As You Save scheme, part of ABB's Six Step energy saving plan, gives Solutia a pay back time of a year.

'In situations where companies want to keep capital expenditure down, Pay As You Save offers a way to move the initial cost from capital expenditure to operational expenditure,' explains James Haigh, senior vice president, drive products, at ABB.

'Within a year, the energy savings will have paid for the drive and the company can start saving towards its own bottom line'.

Agnew says: 'The Pay As You Save scheme is ideal for us, as it means we pay only after the savings have been made.

This allows us to buy capital equipment without increasing our capital expenditure.

'As well as the energy savings the drive provides, it also gives us better control of the pH level, producing less waste in the process.' Solutia is planning to fit ABB drives to six other applications in its plant, all under the Pay As You Save scheme.

The utility software from CD Automation makes a new digital range of Solid State Relays and Thyristors the most flexible family of power controllers on the market.

The utility software from CD Automation makes the new digital range of Solid State Relays and Thyristors the most flexible family of power controllers on the market. The free windows based software is easy to use and allows the user to monitor, diagnose and configure single or multiple units without leaving the comfort of his PC. The user-friendly software takes only seconds to install and provides the means to monitor numerous process variables in real-time, configure inputs/outputs and all associated features, save common recipes and broadcast them to one or many pre-assigned unit addresses.

The benefits to the user are a significant reduction in the units set-up time, on-line real-time analysis of the process which enables the unit to be fine tuned for improved control, and diagnostic monitoring of variables such as internal power, current and voltage.

To reduce the need for stocking multiple products with different input types, firing modes, heater break and current limit settings, it is possible to standardise on a smaller number of units and configure them at the time of need.

From opening the box to a fully configured unit only takes a few seconds, saving valuable commissioning time.

Improved process control results in lower costs, either by reducing scrap or increasing product through put, being able to monitor the process on-line makes this possible.

Real-time process variables such as power, current and voltage are graphically displayed together with the ability to adjust the input power, firing rate, current limit and power scaling on-line.

A soft-scope within the configurator enables the user to graphically log two user-selectable process variables on a trace with sampling rates from 100mS to 10 seconds and allows the user to save the results for later analysis.

For example it is possible to review the current and ramp rate at start up to ensure the unit is providing the best performance for the given application.

To compliment the diagnostic LEDs on the front of the each unit, remote indication is also available from the utility software.

Depending on the product features selected, a warning is displayed when either a short circuit of the Thyristor, thermal cut-out, partial or total load failure has occurred.

The configuration utility software from CD Automation makes using power controllers as easy as 'click-and-go', and it's free!

Ampohm, which is part of the GSPK group of companies, has forged a new trading relationship with a significant automotive manufacturer located in the Shenzhen area of China.

Ampohm Wound Products has announced recent endeavours to assist automotive company in China have paid off. Based in Launceston, Cornwall, Ampohm, which is part of the GSPK group of companies, has forged a new trading relationship with a significant automotive manufacturer located in the Shenzhen area of China. Manufacturing and supplying volume orders of two bespoke parts, Ampohm have customised a 1uF capacitor and a specially coated inductor to meet the specific needs of the automotive manufacturer.

This particular customer is just the latest in a long line of major global manufacturers placing orders with Ampohm since the introduction of their new website.

Ampohm's success is thanks to their impeccable reputation within industry for service and quality, providing custom made and bespoke assemblies to meet varying requirements across a variety of industries.

Rob Johnston, Director of Ampohm Wound Products commented - 'We are all aware of the en-masse migration of manufacturing to low cost regions, and subsequently this is typically followed by the buyers.

We at Ampohm are extremely pleased to have been in a position to quote and win business from a significant Chinese customer.

The satisfaction is made greater when we know the factors that influenced the decision were quality and reliability.'

Simplifying component procurement allows OEMs and panel builders to make real economies and a cost-effective circuit breaker provides high quality, competitively priced CE-rated MCCBs.

Simplifying component procurement allows OEMs and panel builders to make real economies. The launch of a cost-effective new version of its popular 140U circuit breaker gives Rockwell Automation customers access to high quality, yet competitively priced CE-rated MCCBs. Flexible and versatile, the new 140UE is the ideal choice for switchgear applications; perfectly complementing the many other components available in the Allen-Bradley Modular Control System (MCS) Plus range.

The Bulletin 140UE is a comprehensive new product line from Rockwell Automation designed to provide OEMs and panel builders with a top quality MCCB solution in an equally wide range of applications.

Products are available in frame sizes H, J, L and N, with current ratings from 15A -160A, 70A-250A, 250A-630A and 600A-1600A respectively.

Despite their compact, space-saving design, Bulletin 140UE MCCBs offer a kA/mm_ interrupt rating up to 60% higher than comparable frame-sized products from other manufacturers.

Both thermal-magnetic and electronic trip types are available in both 3 and 4-pole versions.

All the devices in the Bulletin 140UE range meet IEC 60947-2, are CE Certified and are KEMA-KEUR third-party tested and certified.

MCCB performance can be further enhanced by adding of any of the comprehensive range of internal accessories also now available.

Accessories include trip alarms, auxiliary shields, undervoltage release and shunt trips.

All accessories are interchangeable between the different frame sizes, removing the need to hold multiple sizes in stock.

As well as being factory fitted, all internal accessories are easily field installable without compromising certification or approvals.

A full range of external accessories are also offered, such as padlock hasps, terminal covers and phase separators.

All Bulletin 140UE MCCBs feature a rotary operating mechanism which is fully IP66 rated and flexible cable operating mechanisms.

The Bulletin range is just the latest addition to the Allen-Bradley Modular Control System Plus; a vast range of high-quality components and products available from Rockwell Automation.

Whatever the requirement, there is an Allen-Bradley product that is perfect for the job.

Now, with the extension of the 140U range to include MCCBs designed specifically for the switchgear market, there has never been a better time to switch to Allen-Bradley.

Monitoring degradation of antioxidant in transformer insulating oil can extend the service life of the oil and slow down the transformer aging process.

Monitoring the degradation of the antioxidant in transformer insulating oil can result in substantial savings by extending the service life of the oil and by slowing down the transformer aging process. 2,6 ditertiary-bytyl paracresol (DBPC) and 2,6-di-tert-Butyl Phenol (DBP) are common inhibitors that prevent oxidation of the electrical insulating oil in transformers. Periodic testing is typically not done as often as it should because of the time and expense involved to transport samples to a laboratory.

The InfraCal Filtometer from Wilks Enterprise is an inexpensive, easy to use fixed filter infrared analyzer by non-technical personnel for these measurements.

It, not only encourages more frequent testing, but also allows tests to be made on-site with a substantial cost savings over laboratory analysis.

The InfraCal Filtometer is rugged, compact (6.5' x 6.5' x 5'), weighs less than 5 lb, and requires just 12V of DC power - making it ideal for use in the field for on-site measurements.

A smaller version of a range of remote controlled, load disconnecting relays provides both electronic relay and electronic over-current protection in a single unit.

New from Aerco is an extension of the popular range of remote controlled, load disconnecting relays from E-T-A that provides both electronic relay and electronic over-current protection in a single unit. The E-1048-8D is smaller than its predecessors in the E-T-A range of smart power protection relays and is designed for application where a status indicator is not required. Prior to the introduction of these relays it was necessary to install several discrete components in order to switch and protect loads remotely whereas now it is possible to achieve this while reducing component count, simplifying circuit design and lessening the likelihood of component failure.

The four-pin layout is designed for use with standard automotive relay sockets and is available with a choice of current ratings from 1 to 25A and with an operating voltage range from 9 to 35V allowing the connection of 12 and 24VDC loads.

It is possible to connect several units in parallel to switch or monitor loads in excess of 25A.

The integral power electronics of the E-1048-8D provides a wear-resistant switching function that is insensitive to shock and vibration and the extremely low induced current consumption, less than 1mA, is ideal for battery buffered applications.

This new smart relay will be ideal for magnetic valves, motors and lamp loads that have to be switched, protected or monitored and it will find applications in all types of road vehicles and in the rail and marine industries.