InSource Solutions Employee Spotlight!  Learn More About the People Dedicated to Serving You!

From ACP: Department Of Energy Finds Thin Client Computing Can Reduce End-User Energy Costs by up to 95 Percent

Ask the Infrastructure Specialists!  Lesia’s Q&A Corner

Wonderware Endorsed Partner Mtelligence Releases Newest Version of Condition Based Monitoring Solution

Advantech Announces EKI Industrial Ethernet Switches are now Class 1, Division 2 Certified

STRONGARM Introduces First Industrial-Strength Stainless Steel Mouse

InSource Solutions presents a Lunch and Learn Seminar Series

ACP ThinManager Roadshow 2009 Hits the Road

2009 WonderWorld Events are Evolving to Become OpsManage’09

Wonderware Tech Notes

InSource Solutions Upcoming Webinars

InSource Employee Spotlight!  Meet Brian Premock, Vertical Business Development

Meet the newest member of the InSource/Wonderware Southeast family, Brian Premock.  Brian joined InSource two months ago in Vertical Business Development.  He has a BS in Electrical Engineering from Penn State and his MBA in ecommerce/IT Management from North Carolina State University.  Brian enjoys the technology at InSource and says he has “been very impressed by all of the people he has had a chance to work with!”

Brian lives in North Carolina with his wife of 16 years, Becky, and their two beautiful daughters, Mallory (9) and Aubrey (6).  Brian grew up in Apalachin, NY, a small town of about 1000 in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.  His town was so small that its first stoplight wasn’t installed until 1989.

 Some interesting facts about Brian:

·          Becky, his wife, was his Senior Prom date

·          Brian and his family have two cats named Baby and Luna (a.k.a. Spoiled and Rotten, respectively)

·          Brian and his daughters have made some terrific memories being involved in the Y-Princess program

·          A self-avowed geek, Brian likes to stay up to speed on new websites and try out a lot of Web 2.0 services

·          Brian’s favorite meal is The Fresh Catch of the day, preferably by the ocean, with a cold beverage, good friend sand fun conversation.

 InSource is excited and proud to have Brian join the team!

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InSource Employee Spotlight!  Meet Brian Premock, Vertical Business Development

Meet the newest member of the InSource/Wonderware Southeast family, Brian Premock.  Brian joined InSource two months ago in Vertical Business Development.  He has a BS in Electrical Engineering from Penn State and his MBA in ecommerce/IT Management from North Carolina State University.  Brian enjoys the technology at InSource and says he has “been very impressed by all of the people he has had a chance to work with!”

Brian lives in North Carolina with his wife of 16 years, Becky, and their two beautiful daughters, Mallory (9) and Aubrey (6).  Brian grew up in Apalachin, NY, a small town of about 1000 in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.  His town was so small that its first stoplight wasn’t installed until 1989.

 Some interesting facts about Brian:

·          Becky, his wife, was his Senior Prom date

·          Brian and his family have two cats named Baby and Luna (a.k.a. Spoiled and Rotten, respectively)

·          Brian and his daughters have made some terrific memories being involved in the Y-Princess program

·          A self-avowed geek, Brian likes to stay up to speed on new websites and try out a lot of Web 2.0 services

·          Brian’s favorite meal is The Fresh Catch of the day, preferably by the ocean, with a cold beverage, good friend sand fun conversation.

 InSource is excited and proud to have Brian join the team!

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From ACP: Department Of Energy Finds Thin Client Computing Can Reduce End-User Energy Costs by up to 95 Percent

In June, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced plans to spend $256 million in Recovery Act funds to "support energy efficiency improvements in major industrial sectors." This spending could directly target many of our customers, who could realize significant energy savings by switching to Thin Client technology. The government is furiously looking for places to spend money, and if you have not moved to cut your energy consumption this may be the time to do so.

The DOE certainly recognizes the energy savings that can be realized by replacing power hungry PCs with Thin Clients.  Just before this announcement was made, an audit was conducted of computing resources' energy use at 7 sites run by the Department of Energy itself. The audit showed areas that needed improvement, and one of the major discoveries they made was that:

None of the sites reviewed had taken advantage of opportunities to reduce energy consumption, enhance cyber security, and reduce costs available through the use of techniques, such as "thin-client computing"

But the results of the audit, and their comments on the benefits of Thin Client technology, are especially remarkable. They recognized that "A thin-client device uses only a fraction of the energy consumed by a standard desktop, results in acquisition and disposal savings, and enhances cyber security." The report was very critical of the DOE for not making the switch to Thin Clients. In fact, they "... calculated that had the Department transitioned to this technology and replaced more than 10,300 desktops at the seven sites visited, energy savings of more than $195,000 annually could have been realized."

There is no question at the DOE that Thin Client technology is a major part of the answer to reduced energy use. The report goes on to say that "While there may be some incremental increased energy usage and infrastructure costs to support a thin-client infrastructure, a Headquarters official informed us that a recent Departmental study concluded that overall energy consumption could be reduced by more than 55 percent."

The largest cost savings comes in Support. The centralized computing model offered by switching to Thin Clients greatly simplifies all the work required babysitting normal PCs. All new software and updates are handled at a few servers rather than on hundreds of distributed PCs.

Costs and disposal were also considered. At the seven sites reviewed, they "... determined that the Department paid $1.2 million more than necessary in hardware acquisition costs in Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 by acquiring 2,063 desktops rather than thin-clients." When it came time to get rid of obsolete PC's, the report stated that "... because thin-client machines generally have a life-cycle that is twice as long as a desktop and weigh only about one-fourth the amount of a desktop, the sites reviewed may be able to avoid disposal of up to 77 tons of waste material annually."

As with most of our customers, security is a major consideration. This was also discussed in the report:

"In addition to energy and acquisition cost savings and reduced environmental impact, the use of thin-clients can significantly enhance the Department's ability to protect sensitive unclassified information by centralizing cyber security controls. Specifically, thin-clients would have permitted the Department to more effectively implement security vulnerability patches through consistent and timely patch management. In addition, user permissions, such as defining what types of devices (i.e., devices such as flash or portable hard drives) may be connected to the machine, could have been more easily controlled. Industry research has found that thin-client computing has many additional benefits, including more effective management of software licenses and increased reliability of hardware."

For ACP’s full article and a link to the full DOE study, click here.

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From ACP: Department Of Energy Finds Thin Client Computing Can Reduce End-User Energy Costs by up to 95 Percent

In June, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced plans to spend $256 million in Recovery Act funds to "support energy efficiency improvements in major industrial sectors." This spending could directly target many of our customers, who could realize significant energy savings by switching to Thin Client technology. The government is furiously looking for places to spend money, and if you have not moved to cut your energy consumption this may be the time to do so.

The DOE certainly recognizes the energy savings that can be realized by replacing power hungry PCs with Thin Clients.  Just before this announcement was made, an audit was conducted of computing resources' energy use at 7 sites run by the Department of Energy itself. The audit showed areas that needed improvement, and one of the major discoveries they made was that:

None of the sites reviewed had taken advantage of opportunities to reduce energy consumption, enhance cyber security, and reduce costs available through the use of techniques, such as "thin-client computing"

But the results of the audit, and their comments on the benefits of Thin Client technology, are especially remarkable. They recognized that "A thin-client device uses only a fraction of the energy consumed by a standard desktop, results in acquisition and disposal savings, and enhances cyber security." The report was very critical of the DOE for not making the switch to Thin Clients. In fact, they "... calculated that had the Department transitioned to this technology and replaced more than 10,300 desktops at the seven sites visited, energy savings of more than $195,000 annually could have been realized."

There is no question at the DOE that Thin Client technology is a major part of the answer to reduced energy use. The report goes on to say that "While there may be some incremental increased energy usage and infrastructure costs to support a thin-client infrastructure, a Headquarters official informed us that a recent Departmental study concluded that overall energy consumption could be reduced by more than 55 percent."

The largest cost savings comes in Support. The centralized computing model offered by switching to Thin Clients greatly simplifies all the work required babysitting normal PCs. All new software and updates are handled at a few servers rather than on hundreds of distributed PCs.

Costs and disposal were also considered. At the seven sites reviewed, they "... determined that the Department paid $1.2 million more than necessary in hardware acquisition costs in Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 by acquiring 2,063 desktops rather than thin-clients." When it came time to get rid of obsolete PC's, the report stated that "... because thin-client machines generally have a life-cycle that is twice as long as a desktop and weigh only about one-fourth the amount of a desktop, the sites reviewed may be able to avoid disposal of up to 77 tons of waste material annually."

As with most of our customers, security is a major consideration. This was also discussed in the report:

"In addition to energy and acquisition cost savings and reduced environmental impact, the use of thin-clients can significantly enhance the Department's ability to protect sensitive unclassified information by centralizing cyber security controls. Specifically, thin-clients would have permitted the Department to more effectively implement security vulnerability patches through consistent and timely patch management. In addition, user permissions, such as defining what types of devices (i.e., devices such as flash or portable hard drives) may be connected to the machine, could have been more easily controlled. Industry research has found that thin-client computing has many additional benefits, including more effective management of software licenses and increased reliability of hardware."

For ACP’s full article and a link to the full DOE study, click here.

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Ask the Infrastructure Specialists!  Lesia’s Q&A Corner

Saving Pennies by Choosing the Correct Computer, Knowing Your Environment

In today’s economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money, so comparing the price of an office grade computer to an industrial computer is becoming more popular as one of the ways to cut expenses.  The problem with this is in the long run you are not saving money, if anything you may be spending more money. 

The main factor that seems to be most overlooked when choosing the correct computer is the environment in which this computer will be operating in.  Office grade computers are designed for “office” environments which are generally clean areas that have controlled temperatures; therefore, there is very little to infringe on the performance of the computer.  An industrial computer is designed for a more hostile environment that would have uncontrolled temperatures and dusty areas.  By considering your environment you can fit the correct computer that will have the best performance the longest.  It is like hiking; you wear hiking boots or at least tennis shoes not high heels or flip flops.  So why would you choose an office grade computer for a rugged area; such as, the plant floor knowing downtime and failures are a critical expense to the company?

The most common failure in computers is caused by the failure of the cooling fans.  In a typical office computer, the power supply and processor are cooled by fans, either fan fails thermal catastrophe is not far behind.  The life of an electronic device is directly related to its operating temperature; therefore, these details are very important along with knowing your environment’s daily temperature.  Since majority of manufacturers environments are above normal operating temperatures on a daily basis most industrial computers have a fanless design with hardware that can withstand low and high temperatures.  An office grade computer’s standard operating temperature range is 41° to 95°F and an industrial computer’s standard operating temperature is -2° to 149°F.    For example, if the plant floor’s average ambient temperature is 85° to 95° and considering the fans cooling an office grade machine are also contributing heat to that area  it  is not going to live up to its expected life span due to elevated temperatures.  Even if the unit does not overheat it can still cause memory errors, hard disk read-write errors, faulty video, and other problems not commonly recognized as heat related issues.  Another key point that is good to remember is for each 18°F rise in temperature reduces component life by 50%.

Secondly, the components that make up an office grade computer and an industrial computer are very different.  Office grade computers have a flexible case, loose connection cables, fan(s), clip in devices (CPU, RAM, & Video), limited mounting and power options.  Industrial computers offer a steel chassis and no moving parts. The internals are completely sealed from dust and other irritants in the environment. Since industrial computers can have no moving parts they can withstand vibration better.  With a very volatile area that has a lot of vibration, you will want to choose a solid state drive for storage where in an office grade computer that is usually not an option or an expensive one.  Industrial computers also offer several different power and mounting options.

These simple variables can lead, if placed in the wrong environment to failure that can cause critical expenses due to downtime.  When considering a computer for your plant floor or control room you will want to consider where you are placing this system, because this key factor will also help save money.  After all, who wants to hike in high heels when you can hike in more appropriate shoes?  You would not want to break your ankle so why would you want to break the company’s bank?  Let’s face it, you get what you pay for so choose your computer wisely while saving some pennies.

For more information and details on office grade versus industrial grade computers, please contact Lesia Bell your I2 Inside Sales coordinator at 443.683.8031 or lbell@insourcess.com

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Ask the Infrastructure Specialists!  Lesia’s Q&A Corner

Saving Pennies by Choosing the Correct Computer, Knowing Your Environment

In today’s economy, everyone is looking for ways to save money, so comparing the price of an office grade computer to an industrial computer is becoming more popular as one of the ways to cut expenses.  The problem with this is in the long run you are not saving money, if anything you may be spending more money. 

The main factor that seems to be most overlooked when choosing the correct computer is the environment in which this computer will be operating in.  Office grade computers are designed for “office” environments which are generally clean areas that have controlled temperatures; therefore, there is very little to infringe on the performance of the computer.  An industrial computer is designed for a more hostile environment that would have uncontrolled temperatures and dusty areas.  By considering your environment you can fit the correct computer that will have the best performance the longest.  It is like hiking; you wear hiking boots or at least tennis shoes not high heels or flip flops.  So why would you choose an office grade computer for a rugged area; such as, the plant floor knowing downtime and failures are a critical expense to the company?

The most common failure in computers is caused by the failure of the cooling fans.  In a typical office computer, the power supply and processor are cooled by fans, either fan fails thermal catastrophe is not far behind.  The life of an electronic device is directly related to its operating temperature; therefore, these details are very important along with knowing your environment’s daily temperature.  Since majority of manufacturers environments are above normal operating temperatures on a daily basis most industrial computers have a fanless design with hardware that can withstand low and high temperatures.  An office grade computer’s standard operating temperature range is 41° to 95°F and an industrial computer’s standard operating temperature is -2° to 149°F.    For example, if the plant floor’s average ambient temperature is 85° to 95° and considering the fans cooling an office grade machine are also contributing heat to that area  it  is not going to live up to its expected life span due to elevated temperatures.  Even if the unit does not overheat it can still cause memory errors, hard disk read-write errors, faulty video, and other problems not commonly recognized as heat related issues.  Another key point that is good to remember is for each 18°F rise in temperature reduces component life by 50%.

Secondly, the components that make up an office grade computer and an industrial computer are very different.  Office grade computers have a flexible case, loose connection cables, fan(s), clip in devices (CPU, RAM, & Video), limited mounting and power options.  Industrial computers offer a steel chassis and no moving parts. The internals are completely sealed from dust and other irritants in the environment. Since industrial computers can have no moving parts they can withstand vibration better.  With a very volatile area that has a lot of vibration, you will want to choose a solid state drive for storage where in an office grade computer that is usually not an option or an expensive one.  Industrial computers also offer several different power and mounting options.

These simple variables can lead, if placed in the wrong environment to failure that can cause critical expenses due to downtime.  When considering a computer for your plant floor or control room you will want to consider where you are placing this system, because this key factor will also help save money.  After all, who wants to hike in high heels when you can hike in more appropriate shoes?  You would not want to break your ankle so why would you want to break the company’s bank?  Let’s face it, you get what you pay for so choose your computer wisely while saving some pennies.

For more information and details on office grade versus industrial grade computers, please contact Lesia Bell your I2 Inside Sales coordinator at 443.683.8031 or lbell@insourcess.com

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Wonderware Endorsed Partner Mtelligence Releases Newest Version of Condition Based Monitoring Solution

Powerful Asset Effectiveness Solution Helps Bridge Information Gap Between Operations and Maintenance

The Operations Management Division of Invensys announced the availability of the newest version of the Condition Based Monitoring Solution.  This powerful asset effectiveness software solution was developed in partnership between Wonderware and Mtelligence Corp., an endorsed Wonderware partner.

“Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 integrates Mtelligence’s powerful connectivity and asset health monitoring application with the Wonderware System Platform, InTouch HMI and Wonderware IntelaTrac mobile solution software to help further lower the cost and effort needed to build a fully integrated and scalable asset effectiveness solution,” said Jim Frider, Wonderware asset effectiveness product marketing manager. 

The Mtelligence Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 solution leverages powerful ArchestrA technology inside of the Wonderware System Platform to simplify and accelerate system configuration.  An enhanced “Operator Work Advisory” graphic template can be customized to provide operator-requested information on work order status and detailed work order information.  This template-based framework enables manufacturers to rapidly deploy integrated asset effectiveness solutions with significantly less engineering and more consistency.

The Mtelligence Condition Based Monitoring Solution now supports mobile field workers through integration with Wonderware Mobile Solutions.  Operators can now collect process data from non-instrumented plant equipment and upload this valuable data to the plant historian for reporting on plant operational efficiency.  The solution also is capable of sending process data to the plant’s work management systems and has the ability to provide views of existing work orders and create new work orders while mobile operators are walking the plant.  This capability helps increase operator productivity and the early detection of equipment health problems.

Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 uses the open-data connectivity MIMOSA standard, (Machinery Information Management Open Systems Alliance), to significantly lower the risk and cost of integrating operator information displays, such as plant HMI systems or mobile solutions, with the industry’s most popular EAM and CMMS systems including IBM Maximo, SAP Plant Maintenance, Ventyx Indus and Invensys Avantis.

This software solution also provides powerful tools, including a new Asset Health Analysis tool and an advanced rule engine for detecting and analyzing equipment health issues.  Using information from the Condition Based Monitoring Solution, a plant or manufacturing facility can move confidently from a reactive or time-based maintenance program to a more efficient predictive or condition-based maintenance approach, thereby helping reduce maintenance costs and effort.

Also, as plants age their mix of assets change.  The Condition Based Monitoring Solution 2.0 provides asset lifecycle management capabilities, so as assets are upgraded or even replaced the software can accommodate these changes and maintain the value of the solution.

Condition Based Monitoring Solution 2.0 also supports regulated industries such as pharmaceutical or food and beverage with a full range of transaction and configuration logging and auditing features.

To learn more about Mtelligence, click here.

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Wonderware Endorsed Partner Mtelligence Releases Newest Version of Condition Based Monitoring Solution

Powerful Asset Effectiveness Solution Helps Bridge Information Gap Between Operations and Maintenance

The Operations Management Division of Invensys announced the availability of the newest version of the Condition Based Monitoring Solution.  This powerful asset effectiveness software solution was developed in partnership between Wonderware and Mtelligence Corp., an endorsed Wonderware partner.

“Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 integrates Mtelligence’s powerful connectivity and asset health monitoring application with the Wonderware System Platform, InTouch HMI and Wonderware IntelaTrac mobile solution software to help further lower the cost and effort needed to build a fully integrated and scalable asset effectiveness solution,” said Jim Frider, Wonderware asset effectiveness product marketing manager. 

The Mtelligence Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 solution leverages powerful ArchestrA technology inside of the Wonderware System Platform to simplify and accelerate system configuration.  An enhanced “Operator Work Advisory” graphic template can be customized to provide operator-requested information on work order status and detailed work order information.  This template-based framework enables manufacturers to rapidly deploy integrated asset effectiveness solutions with significantly less engineering and more consistency.

The Mtelligence Condition Based Monitoring Solution now supports mobile field workers through integration with Wonderware Mobile Solutions.  Operators can now collect process data from non-instrumented plant equipment and upload this valuable data to the plant historian for reporting on plant operational efficiency.  The solution also is capable of sending process data to the plant’s work management systems and has the ability to provide views of existing work orders and create new work orders while mobile operators are walking the plant.  This capability helps increase operator productivity and the early detection of equipment health problems.

Condition Based Monitoring 2.0 uses the open-data connectivity MIMOSA standard, (Machinery Information Management Open Systems Alliance), to significantly lower the risk and cost of integrating operator information displays, such as plant HMI systems or mobile solutions, with the industry’s most popular EAM and CMMS systems including IBM Maximo, SAP Plant Maintenance, Ventyx Indus and Invensys Avantis.

This software solution also provides powerful tools, including a new Asset Health Analysis tool and an advanced rule engine for detecting and analyzing equipment health issues.  Using information from the Condition Based Monitoring Solution, a plant or manufacturing facility can move confidently from a reactive or time-based maintenance program to a more efficient predictive or condition-based maintenance approach, thereby helping reduce maintenance costs and effort.

Also, as plants age their mix of assets change.  The Condition Based Monitoring Solution 2.0 provides asset lifecycle management capabilities, so as assets are upgraded or even replaced the software can accommodate these changes and maintain the value of the solution.

Condition Based Monitoring Solution 2.0 also supports regulated industries such as pharmaceutical or food and beverage with a full range of transaction and configuration logging and auditing features.

To learn more about Mtelligence, click here.

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Advantech Announces EKI Industrial Ethernet Switches are now Class 1, Division 2 Certified

The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech announces that a wide range of their EKI family of Industrial Ethernet Switches and Media Converters have received Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Class 1, Division 2 (groups A, B, C, and D) certification for use in hazard locations.

Installation of electronic devices in environments where flammable liquids, gasses and vapors may be present is a real challenge.  It is critical to use the right equipment in these environments.  With UL Class I, Division 2 certification, the EKI-2000 and 7000 series of products are now approved for use in hazardous environments, which are common to oil & gas, mining, and chemical processing industries.

The EKI family of Industrial Ethernet Switches are available in 5-port to 18-port configurations, with both standard copper and fiber connections, 10/100Mbps and gigabit (1000Mbps) speeds, and in both unmanaged and managed models.  Managed models offer manual port settings, advanced network traffic control, an ultra-fast 10ms self-healing ring for high availability, and remote monitoring capabilities.  The EKI Media Converters allow connections to be extended over optical fiber cable up to nearly 70 miles (110km) and are available in both 100Mbps and gigabit (100Mbps) speeds, with various types of fiber connectors.

Packaged in a compact and thin DIN-rail mount metal chassis, the EKI family of Industrial Ethernet products is ideal where panel space is limited.  They are also ruggedized for demanding industrial applications, with redundant 12 to 48 VDC power inputs, 4,000 VDC Ethernet ESD protection, power line surge (EFT) protection of 3,000 VDC, and feature standard -10 to 60°C or extended -40 to 75°C operating temperature range to ensure system uptime.

Currently, the following models are Class 1, Division 2 certified—Unmanaged Ethernet Switches: EKI-2528, EKI-2528I, EKI-2525, EKI-2525I, EKI-2525M, EKI-2526M, EKI-2526S, EKI-2528, EKI-2528I, EKI-2728; Managed Ethernet Switches: EKI-7559MI, EKI-7559SI, EKI-7656C, EKI-7657C, EKI-7758F; Ethernet Media Converters: EKI-2541M, EKI-2541MI, EKI-2541S, EKI-2541SI, EKI-2741F, EKI-2741SX, EKI-2741LX.

Advantech continues to expand the capabilities and breadth of their line of industrial Ethernet products.  With these new certifications, the compact and rugged EKI-2000 and EKI-7000 series can now be used in a much broader range of applications, including use in hazardous locations.

For more information, or to purchase Advantech products, click here.

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Advantech Announces EKI Industrial Ethernet Switches are now Class 1, Division 2 Certified

The Industrial Automation Group of Advantech announces that a wide range of their EKI family of Industrial Ethernet Switches and Media Converters have received Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Class 1, Division 2 (groups A, B, C, and D) certification for use in hazard locations.

Installation of electronic devices in environments where flammable liquids, gasses and vapors may be present is a real challenge.  It is critical to use the right equipment in these environments.  With UL Class I, Division 2 certification, the EKI-2000 and 7000 series of products are now approved for use in hazardous environments, which are common to oil & gas, mining, and chemical processing industries.

The EKI family of Industrial Ethernet Switches are available in 5-port to 18-port configurations, with both standard copper and fiber connections, 10/100Mbps and gigabit (1000Mbps) speeds, and in both unmanaged and managed models.  Managed models offer manual port settings, advanced network traffic control, an ultra-fast 10ms self-healing ring for high availability, and remote monitoring capabilities.  The EKI Media Converters allow connections to be extended over optical fiber cable up to nearly 70 miles (110km) and are available in both 100Mbps and gigabit (100Mbps) speeds, with various types of fiber connectors.

Packaged in a compact and thin DIN-rail mount metal chassis, the EKI family of Industrial Ethernet products is ideal where panel space is limited.  They are also ruggedized for demanding industrial applications, with redundant 12 to 48 VDC power inputs, 4,000 VDC Ethernet ESD protection, power line surge (EFT) protection of 3,000 VDC, and feature standard -10 to 60°C or extended -40 to 75°C operating temperature range to ensure system uptime.

Currently, the following models are Class 1, Division 2 certified—Unmanaged Ethernet Switches: EKI-2528, EKI-2528I, EKI-2525, EKI-2525I, EKI-2525M, EKI-2526M, EKI-2526S, EKI-2528, EKI-2528I, EKI-2728; Managed Ethernet Switches: EKI-7559MI, EKI-7559SI, EKI-7656C, EKI-7657C, EKI-7758F; Ethernet Media Converters: EKI-2541M, EKI-2541MI, EKI-2541S, EKI-2541SI, EKI-2741F, EKI-2741SX, EKI-2741LX.

Advantech continues to expand the capabilities and breadth of their line of industrial Ethernet products.  With these new certifications, the compact and rugged EKI-2000 and EKI-7000 series can now be used in a much broader range of applications, including use in hazardous locations.

For more information, or to purchase Advantech products, click here.

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STRONGARM Introduces First Industrial-Strength Stainless Steel Mouse

STRONGARM Designs’ latest plant floor/process area innovation, the Stainless Steel Mouse, increases the accuracy and efficiency of operator industrial data input, reducing costly data entry errors.

“In the early days of plant floor computing, industrial pointing devices were sufficient to run the simple software applications of the time,” said Bill Fleming, STRONGARM’s National Sales Manager. “But as PCs have evolved and companies have come to rely on increasingly sophisticated software applications, the need for a more efficient, intuitive, and user-friendly interface has become much more important.” In a study conducted by the Department of Computer Science at York University in Toronto, the mouse was tested against a variety of other pointing devices under strict ISO 9241 standards. The results showed that mouse users are on average 91% more efficient in both speed and accuracy when compared to their effectiveness with other pointing devices.

With the introduction of the Stainless Steel Mouse, STRONGARM is able to bring this high level of speed and accuracy to the industrial plant floor environment. Its sleek, ergonomic design makes it a more user-friendly alternative to older industrial-style pointers, providing greater efficiency and increasing data entry accuracy.

The Stainless Steel Mouse is constructed out of 316 stainless steel and is NEMA 4X rated with a fully sealed, airtight design that enables it to be completely submerged in water for more rigorous wash-down applications. In addition, the unique design provides superior wipe-down cleanability for pharmaceutical environments.

“A mouse makes our operators as effective as they can be, however, it must withstand rigorous chemical cleanings and sterilizations in the production environment, and STRONGARM’s stainless steel mouse meets production needs and survives this harsh environment reliably,” said John Healy, a systems engineer at Merck & Co. “Over many years of service, I haven’t had any hardware failures with STRONGARM’s mouse.”

Features:
• Completely sealed, cleanable and submergible.
• Optical technology with LogiTech optical sensor.
• Operates at temperatures from -20C to 60C.
• Sealed mechanical keys with 0.4 mm key travel.
• Specially designed mouse pads are integrated directly into your STRONGARM system for optimal functionality.

The stainless steel mouse is another example of STRONGARM’s ability to draw from its large catalog of solutions to configure a system that’s tailored to customers’ specific interface needs. Other pointer options from STRONGARM include the DuraPoint, MicroModule, HulaPoint, trackball, and touchpad, as well as three different touch screen technologies. The Stainless Steel Mouse is available on all STRONGARM systems including the MiniStation, Suite-Station, Mini-Console, Wall Station, and Mobile Stations.

Back to top

STRONGARM Introduces First Industrial-Strength Stainless Steel Mouse

STRONGARM Designs’ latest plant floor/process area innovation, the Stainless Steel Mouse, increases the accuracy and efficiency of operator industrial data input, reducing costly data entry errors.

“In the early days of plant floor computing, industrial pointing devices were sufficient to run the simple software applications of the time,” said Bill Fleming, STRONGARM’s National Sales Manager. “But as PCs have evolved and companies have come to rely on increasingly sophisticated software applications, the need for a more efficient, intuitive, and user-friendly interface has become much more important.” In a study conducted by the Department of Computer Science at York University in Toronto, the mouse was tested against a variety of other pointing devices under strict ISO 9241 standards. The results showed that mouse users are on average 91% more efficient in both speed and accuracy when compared to their effectiveness with other pointing devices.

With the introduction of the Stainless Steel Mouse, STRONGARM is able to bring this high level of speed and accuracy to the industrial plant floor environment. Its sleek, ergonomic design makes it a more user-friendly alternative to older industrial-style pointers, providing greater efficiency and increasing data entry accuracy.

The Stainless Steel Mouse is constructed out of 316 stainless steel and is NEMA 4X rated with a fully sealed, airtight design that enables it to be completely submerged in water for more rigorous wash-down applications. In addition, the unique design provides superior wipe-down cleanability for pharmaceutical environments.

“A mouse makes our operators as effective as they can be, however, it must withstand rigorous chemical cleanings and sterilizations in the production environment, and STRONGARM’s stainless steel mouse meets production needs and survives this harsh environment reliably,” said John Healy, a systems engineer at Merck & Co. “Over many years of service, I haven’t had any hardware failures with STRONGARM’s mouse.”

Features:
• Completely sealed, cleanable and submergible.
• Optical technology with LogiTech optical sensor.
• Operates at temperatures from -20C to 60C.
• Sealed mechanical keys with 0.4 mm key travel.
• Specially designed mouse pads are integrated directly into your STRONGARM system for optimal functionality.

The stainless steel mouse is another example of STRONGARM’s ability to draw from its large catalog of solutions to configure a system that’s tailored to customers’ specific interface needs. Other pointer options from STRONGARM include the DuraPoint, MicroModule, HulaPoint, trackball, and touchpad, as well as three different touch screen technologies. The Stainless Steel Mouse is available on all STRONGARM systems including the MiniStation, Suite-Station, Mini-Console, Wall Station, and Mobile Stations.

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InSource Solutions presents a Lunch and Learn Seminar Series

InSource Solutions is excited to offer our newest Lunch and Learn Seminar Series.  We will be presenting information on a variety of topics over lunch.  Space is limited, but the possibilities are endless. 

Click here to learn more about upcoming Lunch and Learn Seminars.

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InSource Solutions presents a Lunch and Learn Seminar Series

InSource Solutions is excited to offer our newest Lunch and Learn Seminar Series.  We will be presenting information on a variety of topics over lunch.  Space is limited, but the possibilities are endless. 

Click here to learn more about upcoming Lunch and Learn Seminars.

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ACP ThinManager Roadshow 2009 Hits the Road

Take  the first step to a better understanding of how thin client technology can save time, energy and money by centralizing installation, configuration and maintenance of your entire computer network. Let the journey begin...

Roadshow Agenda 8:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. 

8:00 - 8:30 Breakfast

8:30 - 9:00 Introduction to the Company and Product

9:00 - 10:00 ThinManager Basics and Product deployment

10:00 - 10:15 Break

10:15 - 11:30 Come See What You Are Missing

11:30 - 11:50 Saving Energy with ThinManager

11:50 - 12:00 Licensing ThinManager

12:00 - 1:00 Lunch

Click here for more information or to register for a show

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ACP ThinManager Roadshow 2009 Hits the Road

Take  the first step to a better understanding of how thin client technology can save time, energy and money by centralizing installation, configuration and maintenance of your entire computer network. Let the journey begin...

Roadshow Agenda 8:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. 

8:00 - 8:30 Breakfast

8:30 - 9:00 Introduction to the Company and Product

9:00 - 10:00 ThinManager Basics and Product deployment

10:00 - 10:15 Break

10:15 - 11:30 Come See What You Are Missing

11:30 - 11:50 Saving Energy with ThinManager

11:50 - 12:00 Licensing ThinManager

12:00 - 1:00 Lunch

Click here for more information or to register for a show

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2009 WonderWorld Events are Evolving to Become OpsManage’09

The One Multi-Discipline Event Where You Can Learn How to Empower Your Sustainable Success

No one needs to tell you that today's economy has put unprecedented demands on companies, not to mention the individuals who make them run.  Learn how to be more sustainable in the use of natural and human resources, while building sustainable career and business success.

What YOU want to know is how to solve YOUR particular challenge.  There is one event, one opportunity, to explore the possibilities and find the answers.

Who should attend:

• Executive management
• Operations management
• Information technology professionals
• Engineering professionals
• Solution Providers

   

One of The Best Investments You'll Make This Year

You can be assured that you are investing your time and money wisely.  93% of previous WonderWorld attendees gave high ratings for the value and experience gained.  To add even more value this year we are delivering what you have come to expect at WonderWorld and expanding beyond with:

• More industries - expertise / coverage
• More solutions - expertise / coverage
• More partners to interact with
• More Invensys Operations Management understanding and interactions
• Free hands-on training 

   

OpsManage’09 – The Premier Industry Conference Series for Operations Management

At OpsManage’09, we bring together the world’s leading operations management software and solutions expertise with a single focus--deliver the tools and information that will make a difference in YOUR success.

Get your questions answered with unprecedented access to the Invensys Operations Management division / Wonderware and other leading industry experts , from executives to developers, to software partners, to systems integrators, to technical support specialists to trainers and consultants.  You will find them all at OpsManage’09.

Learn from your peers who represent leading companies from around the globe.  Discover which strategies are working for them.  They will share real-world solutions to real-time problems, including:

• Quality and Product Consistency
• Asset Effectiveness
• Mobile Solutions
• Energy and Facilities Management
• Operational Performance and Execution
• Regulatory Compliance
• and more...

   

Reach new levels of productivity with deep technical training sessions and valuable access to Invensys Operations Management division / Wonderware software experts before, during and after the conference.

Click here to find OpsManage'09 Global locations and for more details.

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2009 WonderWorld Events are Evolving to Become OpsManage’09

The One Multi-Discipline Event Where You Can Learn How to Empower Your Sustainable Success

No one needs to tell you that today's economy has put unprecedented demands on companies, not to mention the individuals who make them run.  Learn how to be more sustainable in the use of natural and human resources, while building sustainable career and business success.

What YOU want to know is how to solve YOUR particular challenge.  There is one event, one opportunity, to explore the possibilities and find the answers.

Who should attend:

• Executive management
• Operations management
• Information technology professionals
• Engineering professionals
• Solution Providers

   

One of The Best Investments You'll Make This Year

You can be assured that you are investing your time and money wisely.  93% of previous WonderWorld attendees gave high ratings for the value and experience gained.  To add even more value this year we are delivering what you have come to expect at WonderWorld and expanding beyond with:

• More industries - expertise / coverage
• More solutions - expertise / coverage
• More partners to interact with
• More Invensys Operations Management understanding and interactions
• Free hands-on training 

   

OpsManage’09 – The Premier Industry Conference Series for Operations Management

At OpsManage’09, we bring together the world’s leading operations management software and solutions expertise with a single focus--deliver the tools and information that will make a difference in YOUR success.

Get your questions answered with unprecedented access to the Invensys Operations Management division / Wonderware and other leading industry experts , from executives to developers, to software partners, to systems integrators, to technical support specialists to trainers and consultants.  You will find them all at OpsManage’09.

Learn from your peers who represent leading companies from around the globe.  Discover which strategies are working for them.  They will share real-world solutions to real-time problems, including:

• Quality and Product Consistency
• Asset Effectiveness
• Mobile Solutions
• Energy and Facilities Management
• Operational Performance and Execution
• Regulatory Compliance
• and more...

   

Reach new levels of productivity with deep technical training sessions and valuable access to Invensys Operations Management division / Wonderware software experts before, during and after the conference.

Click here to find OpsManage'09 Global locations and for more details.

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Tech Notes

637  Enabling CBM Solution 2.0 for Hierarchical EAM/CMMS System Browsing

636  Installing CBM Solution 2.0 on the Wonderware Information Server 3.x/SharePoint Node

635  Using Step Repeatability in Factelligence

634  Troubleshooting Tips for Correct Display of HMI Reports Help Files

632  Using HMI Reports' Dynamic Web Reports

631  Correcting a Write Access Error for the CBM Work Control

630  Updating Wonderware Compact Panel to InTouch Compact Edition 10.1

629  Configuring the DNC COM Ports Used by Device Manager and Configurator Nodes

628  Advanced Communication Management for Wonderware Application Server

627  Recovering/Installing the Compact Panel Computer License

For more alerts and notes visit the Wonderware website at http://www.wonderware.com/support/web/secure/selfsupport/estechalerts.asp

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Tech Notes

637  Enabling CBM Solution 2.0 for Hierarchical EAM/CMMS System Browsing

636  Installing CBM Solution 2.0 on the Wonderware Information Server 3.x/SharePoint Node

635  Using Step Repeatability in Factelligence

634  Troubleshooting Tips for Correct Display of HMI Reports Help Files

632  Using HMI Reports' Dynamic Web Reports

631  Correcting a Write Access Error for the CBM Work Control

630  Updating Wonderware Compact Panel to InTouch Compact Edition 10.1

629  Configuring the DNC COM Ports Used by Device Manager and Configurator Nodes

628  Advanced Communication Management for Wonderware Application Server

627  Recovering/Installing the Compact Panel Computer License

For more alerts and notes visit the Wonderware website at http://www.wonderware.com/support/web/secure/selfsupport/estechalerts.asp

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Upcoming InSource Solutions Webinars

Date                              Time                    Topic

September 4, 2009        9 AM                     System Platform Part 4 of 4: Web Information Services

September 4, 2009        11 AM                   Workforce Mobility: IntelaTrac Mobile Solutions

September 4, 2009        1 PM                      MES Solutions

September 4, 2009        3 PM                      Mtelligence

Click here to view the complete webinar schedule

Click here to register for a webinar

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Upcoming InSource Solutions Webinars

Date                              Time                    Topic

September 4, 2009        9 AM                     System Platform Part 4 of 4: Web Information Services

September 4, 2009        11 AM                   Workforce Mobility: IntelaTrac Mobile Solutions

September 4, 2009        1 PM                      MES Solutions

September 4, 2009        3 PM                      Mtelligence

Click here to view the complete webinar schedule

Click here to register for a webinar

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