Electronic Products and Technology August 2011

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optoelectronics & displays

electronic products and technology - august 2011 electronic products and technology

AN ep&t product feature page 12

contract manufacturing & electronics assembly Page 6 techspray

power sources Page 14 absopulse

industrial automation Page 17 samtec

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00 Wireless Sensor System

Temperature, Humidity, Barometric Pressure

LAB 50

1

71.4

29.8

inHg

2

70

71.9

F

LAB 100 CLN RM1

3

232

71.9

F

47.7

%

CLN RM2

4

2

71.9

F

29.8

inHg

OVEN5

6

134

73.7

F

73.5

F

235

F

47.7

%

47.6

%

47.7

%

71.6

F

zED-TC-P

47.6 %

zCDR

Virtual Chart Recorder • Temp + Humidity • Web Server • Alarms by Email or Text Message • Records Years of Data on Popular SD Cards

™

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Chart Address http://192.168.1.200

Readings

Chart

Web Link

Setup

Recording: ON

High 150.0 / Low 78.0 Max. 130.1 / Min. 95.9

108.2 F

Temperature

50.8 %

High 78.0 / Low 25.0 Max. 69.9 / Min. 30.1

Humidity

200

100

20.0 C/Div

10.0 %/Div

0

Ne devenez pas un dinosaure. NEWPORT peut vous aidez à Concevoir le Futur.

The legendary NEWPORT INFINITY® set the world standard for accuracy, quality and performance.

La légendaire NEWPORT INFINITY ® établit le standard mondial pour la précision, la qualité et la performance.

Today, the NEWPORT INFINITY-B, MICRO-INFINITY® and temperature controllers, panel meters, and signal conditioners connect to an Ethernet network and can email or send text messages to your cell phone. You can monitor and control temperature or any process through a web browser over the Internet!

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0 1 Hour/Div

Thu Sep 16 08:00:00 PDT 2009 Data Source:

Live

X-axis:

Alarm Relay Set Points: Bold

Help[?]

Thu Sep 17 12:05:07 PDT 2009

1 Day

Save Chart

Y-axis (left): Temperature

Style: Bold

Y-axis (right): Humidity

Style: Bold

Print Chart

iTHX-SD

Virtual Chart Recorder • Monitor Temperature over the Internet • Record on SD Cards

iSD-TC Chart Address http://192.168.1.200

Readings High 70.0 / Low 39.0 Max. 65.1 / Min. 47.9

Temperature 1

Chart

Web Link

Setup

Recording: ON

54.2 F

50.8 F

High 78.0 / Low 25.0 Max. 69.9 / Min. 30.1

Temperature 2

100

100

10.0 C/Div

10.0 C/Div

0

0

Thu Sep 16 08:00:00 PDT 2009 Data Source:

Live

Alarm Relay Set Points: Bold

Help[?]

Thu Sep 17 12:05:07 PDT 2009

1 Hour/Div X-axis:

1 Day

Y-axis (left):

Temperature 1

Style: Bold

Y-axis (right): Temperature 2

Style: Bold

Save Chart Print Chart

newport.ca™

email: Info@newport.ca

976 Bergar •Laval (Quebec) H7L 5A1 • Canada (514) 335-3183

© COPYRIGHT 2011 NEWPORT ELECTRONICS, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Droits dʼauteurs 2011 NEWPORT Electronics, Inc. Tous droits réservés.

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Programmable Color Display

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The NEWPORT INFINITY-B and iSeries have totally programmable color displays. The display can be programmed to change color at any set point or alarm point.

• Universal Inputs • High Accuracy ±0.005% of rdg • Embedded Web Server (optional)

Connect Any Serial Device to an Ethernet LAN and the Internet • 3rd Generation iServer • Built-in Web Server • Alarms by Email

EIT-D

INF-B

EIT-W

e d i t o r i a l RIM’s fortunes integral to Canadian technology ’ecosystem

electronic products andtechnology technology electronic products and Volume 33 Number 5

August 2011

The importance that Research in Motion Ltd. plays within Canada’s high tech ecosystem can’t be overstated. Often referred to as the hub of Canada’s technology universe and the obvious centrepiece to Waterloo’s high-tech ecosystem, it is vitally important that RIM remain an innovation leader and not lose traction and become a legacy company.

When Canadian telecom champion Nortel Networks Corp. imploded two years ago, a common refrain in the country’s technology industry was - at least we’ve still got RIM. Inheriting the mantle of national tech champion from Nortel was almost a burden because it put the company under a microscope. RIM is a world brand, and a world company. With that comes a lot of expectations.

Public perception of RIM. is a bit shakier these days – mostly as a result of mainstream media exaggerating the recent downfall in share price. It would almost appear that the Canadian media have nothing else interesting to write about besides some mythical bandwagon fate of RIM? Underscoring the old Canadian axiom – “we eat our own”.

RIM’s product line isn’t stale, their latest Bold & Torch phones have rocked and satisfied every need of the business client. One of RIM’s biggest competitive advantages is that it’s already deeply entrenched in most major corporations in the western world. The global economic circumstance supports the notion that companies don’t pour tons of money into new, largely experimental systems while they are scaling back all other aspects of operations.

Stephen Law Editor 416.510.5208 slaw@ept.ca

David Boss, P.Eng. Contributing Editor

Sohail Kamal

West Coast Correspondent

Joanna Malivoire

Peter Loney

Account Manager Direct: 866.868.7089 jmalivoire@ept.ca

Publisher 416.510.5207 pdloney@ept.ca

Truth is, RIM is far from complacent, unlike Nortel in its freefall.

The firm remains a profitable company with a product line that is still revered around the world. Continued success is based on RIM’s future ability to spin out new generations of products the world wants. It should try to avoid me-too product development, such as its recent efforts in the rising tablet market.

If the RIM dream dies – or at least withers – it will be an earthquake for the little garage operations and small shops in the industrial parks around the fringes of Waterloo and throughout the technology zone of Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph.

Waterloo’s two universities would also suffer: Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier gain huge academic and recruiting benefits from the RIM factor.

Wilfrid Laurier, for example, is in the process of launching an executive master’s degree in technology management, taking the idea from a program it was already developing for rising RIM managers.

The BlackBerry-maker has been a consistent driver in creating jobs (17,500 employees), innovation and partnerships with wireless and software companies. For the sake of enjoying a healthy electronics industry in Canada, we should be rooting for the home side in this innovation game.

Stephen Law, Editor slaw@ept.ca Follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/EPTmagazine

M12x1 Field Attachable Connectors with connecting area from 0.25mm2 – up to 0.75mm2

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Sensor Actor Line

Art Director Group Administrator 416.510.5120 tlelyk@ept.ca

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Production Manager 416.510.6762 thanson@bizinfogroup.ca

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Executive Publisher

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US: $78 per year, International: $125 per year Editorial Purpose: Electronic Products & Technology provides timely, comprehensive coverage of the latest worldwide developments and trends in electronic products, equipment and systems, and interprets their significance to manufacturers and end-users in the Canadian marketplace.

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Quality oriented users in the Industrial Electronic, Automation and Communication Industry trust and value the quality products from CONEC.

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CONEC Corporation 125 Sun Pac Blvd. • Brampton Ontario • Canada L6S 5Z6 Tel. +1 905 790 2200 • Fax +1 905 790 2201 E-Mail info@conec.com

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6

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Contract Manufacturing & Electronics Assembly

Cleaning

non-hermetically sealed components

on assembled PWBs

By Mike Bixenman, D.B.A., chief technology officer of Kyzen Corp.

Component suppliers are continuously innovating advanced packaging with increased processing power. One of the design issues is the need to dissipate heat from the device during operation. To achieve this design metric, heat spreaders are used. One example is the use of a vented heat dissipating lid over the flip chip die on a flip chip/BGA package. The lid vent allows for expansion and contraction from temperature swings during device operation.

The problem is that the lid vent provides an entryway for cleaning fluids - both the cleaning agent and water - to become entrapped within the heat spreader body during the cleaning process (Figure 1). Liquid left under the lid may spread trace ions across discrete components under the lid, creating the potential for reliability concerns.

One potential solution to the problem is to post-bake circuit boards following the cleaning process and before final conformal coating. Numerous high-reli-

ability assemblers have found bake out processes to be an effective solution but still have doubts as to whether a source of contamination may be present that could cause a reliability issue. For products that must perform each and every time, a better solution to the bake out process is needed.

Customers who faced this issue contacted their cleaning agent supplier with recommendations about solving this process issue. A research project was initiated by the cleaning agent supplier.

The first area of focus was to identify sealants, tape, caps and lids that may be placed over the component during the wash process. Any of the proposed solutions were far from desirable since they added additional process steps to the process. Additionally, the vent was on the side of the flip chip/BGA package.

The cleaning agent supplier contacted companies who molded plastic caps (lids) that can be placed over components during the wash process. These caps (lids)

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FIG. 2: Straight and cone vents on top of component lid.

FIG. 1: The vent provides an opening for cleaning fluids to get trapped within the heat spreader.

worked well on through-hole capacitors and connectors but were less than ideal on surface mount components. In regards to the flip chip/BGA device, there was not sufficient depth for the lid to provide a tightly sealed fit that would not be removed during the cleaning process. This process solution failed.

A second approach was to investigate peelable spot masks. Water-soluble and clay-based spot masks are commonly used on through-hole and mixed-technology assemblies to mask areas where the assembler does not want solder to fill unpopulated through-holes when passing the circuit board over the solder wave.

There were numerous problems encountered with using solder mask to seal the side vent. The first issue is that many of the temporary solder masks are designed to dissolve in aqueous-based cleaning agents. For temporary masks that do not dissolve in water, the solvents in the cleaning agent tended to dissolve the spot mask.

A third issue was the inability of the spot mask to adhere to the side of a package without being dislodged during the cleaning process. Similar to the molded plastic cap alternative, this solution failed.

A third approach was to tape the side of the device with Kapton tape. Of the three stop-gap solutions, placing Kapton tape along the side of the component worked. Similar to the other approaches, on highly dense boards it was difficult for an operator to place tape around the periphery of the lid. With the depth from the side of the lid and substrate being less than 1.5µm, there was no guarantee that the operator could successfully seal the vent holes and prevent moisture entrapment during the cleaning process.

At this point, the cleaning agent supplier visited design engineers at one of the companies that manufacture the flip chip/BGA package in question. The goal was to seek out a collaborative effort between the component supplier, cleaning agent supplier, customer and reliability testing lab to design a solution to the problem. The effort hinged on the component supplier’s willingness to study the problem and investigate alternative designs. After presenting the basis of the problem to the component supplier, they agreed to collaborate, study and design alternative heat spreader lids for testing.

The component supplier designed two lid options with straight and cone shape vent holes in the top of the lid (Figure 2).

Placing the vent hole in the top of the lid allowed the component manufacturer to seal the whole perimeter of the lid to the substrate with adhesive. The sealed lid perimeter prevented cleaning fluids from permeating into the side of the

FIG. 3: Kapton tape used to seal vent hole during cleaning process.

package. By designing the vent hole on top of lid, the assembler could seal the vent hole with Kapton tape before the cleaning process (Figure 3). This option required operator intervention to seal the lid before cleaning but provided a means for preventing cleaning fluids from entering the lid cavity.

A designed experiment was initiated to test the level anions and cations left under the lid using the existing standard vented package (control), and the packages with the vent holes in the top of the lid. The data findings showed higher levels of anions and cations under the lid of the control (existing) package than the two lid designs with the holes in the top of the lid. For the cone and straight vent holes, there were less cleaning fluids adsorbed under the package lid whether taped or not taped.

The packages with tape vent holes resulted in very low levels of anions and cations. The new lid designs with vent holes in the top worked but the solution still required customer intervention to tape the top of the lid before cleaning.

In an effort to design a package that does not require user intervention to seal the vent hole, the component supplier designed a second set of lids with crimped and corner attached lids (Figures 4 & 5). The remaining portion of the lid has a sufficient gap that allows cleaning fluids to penetrate and be removed during the cleaning process.

A new designed experiment was used to test the effectiveness of the crimped and four corner lid designs. The level of anions and cations were significantly lower than the standard (control) vented lid design. The crimped and four corner lid designs provide ingress and egress of cleaning fluids during the cleaning process. These two designs overcome the entrapment of cleaning fluids under the lid when cleaning is required and do not continued on page 9

FIG. 4: Crimped lid design.

FIG. 5: Four corner lid design.

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8

contract manufacturing & electronics assembly

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Cost and impact of skills and knowledge base training

By Leo Lambert, VP technical director, EPTAC Corp.

The ability to manufacture electronic products requires certain skills and knowledge and typically this has been accomplished through on-the job experience. This methodology has been expensive and timely to meeting customer demands and being competitive in the market place. Industrial specifications have been developed and are now being used by the industry at large, including government contractors to design, fabricate and assemble electronic products. Additionally training programs have been developed to augment the skills and knowledge base of the individual operators, thereby increasing yields and reducing cost.

This paper discusses the need and cost associated with training, along with analysis of improvements gained by conducting the training programs. Compliance to these specifications requires companies to properly train or have their employees trained and certified so they meet and understand the demands of the customers, which is “they must be proficient in their job function”.

Introduction

The cancellation of military standards in 1995 was intended to eliminate the use of government documents within the military electronic manufacturing industry and to use industrial documents from organizations such as the IPC or use internally created documents. Although many of the military standards were

renamed from Standards or Specifications to PRF or performance specifications documents due to the lack of compatible industrial documents, training and certification to those documents was not allowed and supported by the authorizing agencies.

One of the critical issues which changed was the training functions associated with those particular documents. When the specifications were cancelled so were all the certifications assigned to each one. The industry specification development organization i.e., IPC, took the initiative and created many certification training programs to maintain a continuous documented process across the electronic industry. These documents related to many of the functions found within the electronic industry, such as printed wiring board design criteria to final inspection of the product prior to installation into its operational environment.

Today training is driven by a couple of major philosophies; one – Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are subcontracting the manufacturing of their electronic products to contract manufacturers (CM). One of the logistical items however is to verify the employees are in fact trained and capable of assembling their products to the specification requirements. Secondly, electronic contract manufacturers are also certifying their employees with the resolve to create an advantage over their competition, as to the skill levels of their employees.

The industry is continuously ques-

Is Your Cleaning Going Down The Wrong Path?

tioning the value of the training programs. Everyone wants to know what the return on investment is for the training being undertaken. The typical responses to this line of questioning addresses the reduction in defects; yield improvements and increased reliability as there is less rework conducted on the products.

Therefore the employees are trained and more knowledgeable regarding their jobs and hence are more motivated to do a good job. They understand the products they build may save someone’s life such as with medical products, provide transportation in the automotive or aircraft industry, or increase the use of telecommunications products to name a few.

All of this, although conceptually discussed through the concept of manufacturing, the main element is the satisfaction of the customer, for without the customer, companies would not exist.

What is Training?

Briefly: • Learning is the acquisition of new skills, Attitudes and Knowledge”, and • “Workforce Performance will determine which organizations prosper and survive in the marketplace of the foreseeable future”.

Types of Training And there are two types of training • Knowledge Base Training Program • Skill based Training Program Training has to answer the question: Can the individual use the new information in their work environment?

Why do we need it?

Training has to be customer focused, the manufacturer must do it right the first time What are the driving forces?

Technology changes, whether revolutionary or evolutionary and drives the need for new knowledge in assembly techniques and processes.

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Example • Smaller components may require different tooling and soldering irons • New solder alloys will require an understanding of the differences between the old and the new solder alloys regarding temperature, liquidus flow and solidification • New Board Laminate Materials, being used with newer materials, necessitates an understanding of board damage due to thermal excursions • New Fluxes required as a result of higher temperature solder alloy, to determine and define how they work, define whether or not they need to be clean and how and with what processes and tools.

We must be aware of the necessity to learn new technologies to manufacture new products with minimal rework or rejects and this is accomplished through training.

From a business perspective training: 4Creates a knowledgeable workforce 4 Making employees more employable in volatile markets • Improves product quality • Improves yields • Reduces scrap • Improves throughput • Improves morale & employee retention • Allow one to remain competitive and current • Take advantage of new technology • Increased flexibility with cross training • Compliance with contracts • Obtaining accreditation • Compliance with law (RoHS/WEEE/FDA)

The employees have: • To learn new subjects or new skills • To be reassured of their value to the company • Create understanding of what they are doing and why • An awareness of the cost and value of the product • Improved communications with design, manufacturing, quality and acquisition groups • An understand of the Accept/Reject Criteria and can apply those skills in their jobs.

These training elements will increase the morale of the employees and will provide them with the additional tools and information making them more efficient in the function of their jobs. This will make them feel more wanted and appreciated.

In this economic environment, turn over rate can be high and people and businesses changes. Companies should have an intrinsic value system, for employees are people and nothing is permanent, and therefore they should try to keep their employees employable. This also helps with cross training program so all employees can do many different jobs within the facility.

When talking about training and the need for training, we must ask: “What is the cost of quality?” As defined by A.V. Feigenbaum3, there are three segments to address for controlling the cost of quality, Failures, Appraisal Cost and Prevention Cost. As can be surmised, Failures are the results of defective products, Appraisal costs are the cost of inspection, audits, tests, and Prevention costs are the efforts to prevent the problems from occurring in the initial manufacturing process.

• Although there are more quality elements which can and should be discussed the length of this paper limits our total discussion on this topic, but I do want to highlight prevention cost as this cost is related to the investment in training.

By increasing the training programs the employees attend and the certifications they received will help to prevent the initial failures, reducing field failure and thereby reducing the cost of quality. The ability to find a defect during assembly vs. finding a defect in the field is a thousand to one.

• Find defect at: 4Assembly Factor = 1 4Inspection Factor = 10 4Test Factor = 100 4Field Service Factor = 1000 Assigning cost numbers to the improvement of yields provides the following scenario: •Given 495% yields implies 5% of units are defective 4If quantity of products is 5000 units, @ 95% yields = 250 bad units equates to 50,000ppm and if 50% are found in the field, this equates to 125 defects at $125,000, and if found at test, 125 defects at $12,500 for a total cost of $137,500.

The typical knowledge and skill base training programs cost less than $2500, including materials, which is an investment in the people and an investment in the company profits as previously mentioned with the improvements in quality and yields, reduction in inventory and increase turns in inventory.

This emphasizes the point of keeping defect and defective products from being shipped into the field to customer for “what would cost pennies to find and fix in

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contract manufacturing & electronics assembly

electronic products and technology • august 2011

house will cost thousands of dollars to fix in the field and this does not include customer perception which is a priceless item”.

Therefore having training programs for the operators creates an awareness of the value of the product they are working on, enhances communications within the company between the design engineering group, manufacturing, quality and purchasing organization and encourages the groups to work together. Creating a more knowledgeable workforce emphasizes the need of producing a quality product and it provides the customers with the information their products are being manufactured by people who are proficient in the jobs.

Conclusion

The value of training is based upon the old axiom, “You don’t get paid for what you know, you get paid for how you use what you know”

For more information on skills &knowledge base training from EPTAC Corp., go to http://ept.hotims.com/34484-49

Benchtop units tests wide voltage/current ranges of components

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Products are easy to machine with lap joint construction and protect against access of dust and splashing water.

Units improve EMI/RFI shielding.

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Arlink 8000 Modular Workstation System with conveyor solutions are modular and ergonomically designed to provide flexibility in accommodating changing or future needs. Suitable for assembly, inspection, testing, rework, packaging and material transfer, unit’s assemble and reconfigure quickly. Product is also available with a supplied conveyor system, or is easily integrated with an existing conveyor. This unit is fully adjustable and its ergonomic design features reduce strain, fatigue and workplace injuries, while providing a highly productive, working environment.

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Product excels at fast, simple currentversus-voltage (I-V curve) characterization of semiconductors, active/passive components and materials in research, development, manufacturing and education applications.

The intuitive user interface is presented on a 4.3-inch color LCD screen that supports graphical and numerical displays in single, dual, graph and roll views.

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Stencil AQ batch stencil cleaner is ecologically-friendly Eco-Stencil AQ batch stencil cleaner improves cleaning performance with much lower environmental impact for ultrasonic and spray-in-air systems. Product effectively removes all types of solder paste (e.g. water-based, RMA, no-clean, lead-free) and uncured adhesives from stencils and misprinted boards. When a water rinse is a part of the cleaning process, product provides an economical, yet powerful cleaning solution. This water-based cleaner uses the latest in environmentally friendly surfactants to break down pastes and adhesives.

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Fiber optic, connector cleaner removes particulates Cleanstixx Fibre Optic Splice with advanced tip design and Connector Cleaning fluid are made with a fibrous polymer tip, which spreads open when used and ensures all foreign particulates are removed from the end face.

With five colour-coded sizes to fit all configurations of fibre optic connector, users can pick and use the correct cleaner for a specific task, ensuring there is no time wasted and the cleaning is done efficiently.

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Infrared thermometer provides USB interface OS1327D infrared thermometer with USB interface is handheld and provides non-contact temperature measurement. The high-performance unit provides adjustable emissivity, laser sighting, backlit LCD, 12:1 field of view, max/min/avg/diff temperature monitoring, high/low audible alarms, temperature and storage data. Product comes with a free thermocouple, suitable for research, industrial applications, HVAC, repair or maintenance services.

OMEGA

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Cleaning

non-hermetically sealed components

continued from page 6

require user intervention to seal the vent hole with Kapton tape.

This case study illustrates the power of the collaborative process at work with different companies and knowledge experts working together to solve a customer problem initiated by a necessary process step. The problem had no bearing on the quality the package but the issue centered on cleaning fluids penetrating the non-hermitically vent hole in the package design. From the cleaning process perspective, a good cleaning process should wet and penetrate small gaps.

Credit the component manufacturer for its willingness to change the lid design.

The net result is a reliable design for high-reliability hardware that cannot fail during operation.

The companies that participated in this

study were Xilinx, Raytheon, Precision Analytical Laboratories and Kyzen. The research was published at the IPC/ SMTA Cleaning and Coating Conference in 2010. The research titled ‘Cleaning Fluid Entrapment under Vented Flip Chip Packages’ can be ordered from both the SMTA and IPC. Go to http://ept.hotims.com/34484-50 for more information on component cleaners from Kyzen Corp.

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9

10

products on review

electronic products and technology • august 2011

DAQ system delivers up to 128-channels of USB multifunction

Push-button option for concentric encoders

DAQ-PACK Series highly integrated multifunction data acquisition and control system provides solution for adding portable, easy-to-install high-speed analog and digital I/O capabilities to any PC or embedded system with a USB port. Product performs signal conditioning such as RC filtering, current inputs, RTD measurement, bridge completion, thermocouple break detection, voltage dividers, small signal inputs and sensor excitation voltage supply. Sustained sampling speeds up to 500kHz are available for 32, 64, 96, or 128 single-ended or differential analog inputs. Groups of eight channels at a time can be independently software configured to accept different input ranges.

ACCES I/O PRODUCTS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-51

Compact fan is thin, low noise 2200FTD S-Force compact fan is 27% thinner and provides low noise and 30% higher airflow. Product provides 65% higher cooling density and 20% greater efficiency to comparative 200mm fans. The dc fans include electronically commutated external rotor motor. Units provide electronic protection against reverse polarity.

EBMPAPST http://ept.hotims.com/34484-52

Schottky rectifier comes in DPAK package for solar apps

IEEE 1588 OCXO improves frequency stabilities, aging High stability SMD OH300 series of OCXOs provide capability to support IEEE 1588 system requirements. The SC crystal based design maximizes short term stability, frequency stability over temperature and extremely low aging rates.

Device can be configured to provide performance for short term stability to the level 5x10 -12, stability over temperature of 1x10-9 and daily aging rates of 5x1010. Package size is 22x25x12.7mm.

CONNOR-WINFIELD http://ept.hotims.com/34484-53

CSHD10-100C Schottky 10A, 100V rectifier in the DPAK package consists of two 5A Schottky rectifiers in a common cathode configuration. Device’s low forward voltage drop (0.8V), low reverse leakage (50µA) and thermal performance (-65C to 175C) suits high temperature applications such as by-pass diode functions for solar panel circuitry.

CENTRAL SEMICONDUCTOR http://ept.hotims.com/34484-54

High-frequency, sampling oscilloscope probe evaluates mounted devices J1512A Passive Probe for firm’s BERTWave MP2100A BERT and EYE/Pulse Scope solution simplifies monitoring and confirming the signal levels and waveforms of mounted electronic devices without on-board coaxial connectors, such as SMA connectors. Covering the dc to 7.5GHz frequency band, unit has low input capacitance of 0.5 pF (max.), so the probe supports monitoring of high-speed signal waveforms.

ANRITSU http://ept.hotims.com/34484-55

Push-button option is available on firm’s concentric encoders, which helps save the space of employing another switch. Button can be used for on/off, for a menu selector, or various other options. The life of the push-button is 200,000 actuations minimum and has an activation force of 6N (+/- 30%). Product provides a rotational life of up to 1,000,000 revolutions and an indexing feel with 0.5, 1.5, 2.0 or 2.5 Ncm switching torque that remains consistent over device’s life.

ELMA ELECTRONIC http://ept.hotims.com/34484-56

Reach of free boundary-scan tools extended JTAGLive Buzz-plus is an extension JTAGLive family of boundary-scan powered design and repair debug tools for pcbs.

Product extends the capability with ‘seek and discover’ mode; that effectively learns the network of nodes for a specified net connection. Product family capitalizes on the boundary-scan resources found on high-end circuit boards. There is no need for a netlist since the tool uses just BSDL models of the compliant parts to give the user access to all of the I/O pins for driving and sensing.

JTAG TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/34484-57

Ultra-secure panel-mount keylock switches boost reliability CKM Series of high security 16mm keylock switches for panel mount applications provides a five tumbler locking mechanism. Device’s high reliability is due to sliding, silver contacts and a vertically rotating self-cleaning switching mechanism. These features ensure long operating life, smooth operation and highly reliable circuit contact.

NKK http://ept.hotims.com/34484-58

EMC block filters line expands to meet more apps Standard EMC block filters line additions include a wide variety of sizes, shapes, mounting and connection options, as well as varying performance characteristics for meeting all types of application requirements.

Firm’s discrete line filters come with features including 1- and 2-Stages for Single and 3-Phase systems, along with a wide range of current ratings and operating voltages in both ac and dc. Terminal options include pcb, quick connect, bolt and nut, screw clamps or wires. Various mounting styles are also included.

SCHURTER http://ept.hotims.com/34484-59

Power Integrity software analyses high-speed pcbs CR-5000 Lightning Power Integrity Advance module enables printed circuit board designers to perform advanced power integrity analysis for ac and dc power distribution noise at any point during the physical design process. Design time is shortened by eliminating iterations and rework; for example, decoupling capacitor optimization effort can be reduced by up to 40%.

ZUKEN

An Eye for Innovation

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-60

Bringing Precision, Flexibility and Experience to Wire Processing

NEW PowerStrip 9550 n

Measures, cuts and strips up to 2/0 AWG and jacketed cables up to 0.630” in diameter

n

Servo driven transport units offer unparalleled speed and stripping power

n

Turret guide on left side rotates to accommodate a full range of wire sizes

n

Extensive libraries with predefined cable types and processes

n

Modular design allows future upgrades to base models

n

Complete range of options and accessories available for a customized system

www.schleuniger-na.com/cutstrip_ept (905) 827-1166

Rugged 2mm pitch discrete wire assembly S2SD/T2SD Series Tiger Eye 2mm pitch discrete wire cable assembly system provides firm’s Tiger Eye contacts for high reliability and high mating cycles. Device mates with firm’s S2M/T2M Series and is shrouded, polarized and keyed for rugged applications. Product has a metal retention latching system for higher withdrawal forces. Device’s socket assembly provides up to 2.6A per power contact and the terminal assembly is available with an optional transfer end.

SAMTEC http://ept.hotims.com/34484-61

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-8

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

00

Support Across The Board.

From Design to Delivery Now, you can have it all.™ Faster and easier than ever before. Our commitment to customer service is backed by an extensive product offering combined with our supply chain and design chain services – which can swiftly be tailored to meet your exact needs. We have dedicated employees who have the experience to provide the highest level of customer service with accuracy and efficiency. All of our technical experts are factory certified on the latest technologies, providing you the expertise to move projects forward with speed and confidence.

Avnet offers the best of both worlds: extensive product and supply chain knowledge, and specialized technical skill which translates into faster time to market – and the peace of mind that comes from working with the industry’s best. Avnet is ranked Best-In-Class* for well-informed sales reps and knowledgeable application engineers, design and engineering services, and our 24-hour design support – proof that we consistently deliver: > Industry recognized product expertise > Specialized technical skills Ready. Set. Go to Market.™ Visit the Avnet Design Resource Center™ at: www.em.avnet.com/drc

1 800 332 8638 www.avnetexpress.com *As rated by Hearst Electronics Group: The Engineer & Supplier Interface Study, 2009. ©Avnet, Inc. 2011. All rights reserved. AVNET is a registered trademark of Avnet, Inc.

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-9

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12

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Optoelectronics & Displays Intelligent power lighting devices are compact, lightweight µPD166011, µPD166013 and µPD166014 intelligent power devices (IPDs) integrate into a single package power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (power MOSFETs) as switching elements and control circuits for protection and self-diagnostic functions. For use in automotive lighting systems, the µPD166011 device provides a 12-pin power HSSOP package and two output channels with an on-state resistance of 25 mµ. The µPD166013 delivers a 12-pin power HSSOP package and two output channels with an on-state resistance of 60 mµ, and the µPD166014 with a 24-pin power HSSOP package and four output channels with an on-state resistance of 60 mµ.

RENESAS ELECTRONICS AMERICA

Character OLED displays replace either VFD or LCD 16 x 2 and 20 x 2 character low-power COG OLEDs serve as suitable replacements for both VFD as well as Monochrome LCD. Device’s character models boast a 10,000:1 contrast ratio and virtually no limitation on view angle. Products come with a pcb option similar to that of standard monochrome LCD if needed, and have embedded character fonts that support English, Japanese, as well as European and Russian characters. Available in 5 different colors, devices provide a wide operating temperature of -40C to 70C and storage temperature of -40 to 85C. OSD DISPLAYS

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-69

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-66

Ambient light, proximity detection sensors extend range

UV LEDs lengthen lifespan, lower energy consumption QuasarBrite UV family of LEDs includes three standard wavelengths and the availability of custom UV LED arrays. Devices provide up to 10 times longer lifespan, up to 70% energy consumption savings and boost light performance. The RoHs compliant products are available in standard 355nm, 365nm and 377nm wavelengths in a through-hole format.

Products provide a uniform beam pattern, plus a 80° viewing angle and operating temperature range from -40C to 100C. LUMEX http://ept.hotims.com/34484-67

TSL2x72 Series sensor family enhances mobile products by providing ALS and proximity detection operation in environments over 60,000 lux (sunlight). Device provides wide dynamic range of operation necessary for mobile products to adapt to all lighting conditions. Improved range is enabled by device’s programmable gain modes, including a reduced gain mode. Proximity detection enhancements consist of increased signal-tonoise performance and a programmable register which allows compensation for optical signal crosstalk. Power management is improved with an automatic power-down mode after interrupt, which provides a ‘run-once’ capability, and further reduces system power consumption.

TAOS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-70

TFT line adapts to multiple applications

LED backlight drives medium/large displays

7.0 inch WVGA (800 x 480) TFT display is available in three options for the industrial market each providing an extended temperature LCD module with LED backlight and 800 x 480 resolution. Additional custom options are available including optical bonding, specialized low reflection cover glass and touch screens. Devices fit multiple applications, enabling customers to upgrade a product from a low power display to one that can be used outdoors without having to change expensive bezels and enclosures.

AZ DISPLAYS

A8516 multi-output WLED/RGB driver is a versatile LED driver IC that reduces component count and overall system cost. Device integrates a boost controller to drive an external MOSFET and six internal current sink channels capable of up to 80mA each, and channels can be combined together to achieve even higher currents. The boost converter operates in constant frequency (programmable) current mode control. The LED sink current is set by an external R_ISET resistor and PWM dimming allows LED currents to be controlled.

ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-68

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-71

Cool white LEDs have color temperature of 5000-7000K VLPC0601A2 cool white LED modules assembled with 6 or 12 high-bright LEDs. provides 6 LEDs in a row on a 240 x 14mm printed circuit board, delivering 870lm. Model VLPC1201A2J provides 12 LEDs in a row on a 240 x 14mm pcb that provides 1740lm.

With a color temperature range of 5000 K to 7000 K, devices provide a shiny white surface and a metal-core, single-side pcb with a Cu thickness greater than 0.75µm. Devices have a maximum current of 700mA and viewing angle of ±80°. All are based on InGaN technology.

VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY http://ept.hotims.com/34484-72

CUSTOM MOUNTS, FILTERS, & COMPONENTS Standard Lens Mounts, Filters, Filter Rings, Step Rings, Adapters, Spacers, Special Metric Taps and Dies, and other Lens Mounting Accessories. Over 60 years of custom design and manufacturing experience.

1000s of Lens Sizes in Stock.

Most Lenses Ship Same Day. From PrototyPe to Production SI N C E 19 4 9

UKAoptics.com 516-624-2444 info@ukaoptics.com

© 2011 Universe Kogaku (America) Inc.

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-10

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-11

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

Easily Change From Character to Dot Matrix

Familiar footprints

International font tables

Display images and graphs

GU-7000 SERIAL INTERFACE DATA HOST BUSY GU-7000

Easy upgrade from character LCD to dot matrix Vacuum Fluorescent Display modules.

• Mechanically drop-in • No panel modification • Same parallel location VFD Module Features • Easy to read vibrant emmissive display.

• Available in character and dot matrix displays.

• Serial and parallel interface • Quick responsive displays.

• -40°C to +85°C operating temperature, no heater required.

• Wide viewing angle.

• Operating humidy of 20% to 80% RH (non-condensing).

• VFD modules are rugged with high tolerance to vibration and shock.

Requires four wires: data, busy, power, ground

Did you Know

Color filters can be applied to alter the emitted light.

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-12

Purchase dot matrix VFD modules @ http://v.vfd-itron.com/ESG Noritake Co., Inc. 2635 Clearbrook Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60005

(847) 439-9020

www.noritake-elec.com/

Follow us

@Noritake VFD

@noritakevfd

14

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Power Sources

Extending the operating temperature of dc-dc converter modules by understanding their components

As power density increases, the internal operating temperature of key dc-dc converter components potentially becomes a major barrier to extended temperature operation. At the same time, users are increasingly keen to dispense with cooling fans that require regular maintenance. Understanding the mechanisms behind component derating allows judicious selection that ensures reliable dc-dc converter operation in high ambient temperature environments, such as telecoms racks and server farms.

In recent years, with geometric growth in logic density, the general trend for integrated circuits has been towards ever-lower operating voltages that speed switching while limiting on-chip power dissipation to acceptable levels. While much peripheral logic operates at 3.3V — itself a step down from the traditional 5V level that many industrial users still prefer—many processor and FPGA cores operate at much lower levels, with 1.8V being common and lower levels becoming more usual. The combination of denser logic, faster switching speeds and lower operating voltages creates the need for dc-dc converters that handle increasing load current levels, in turn implying more heat generation from resistive and semiconductor volt-drops.

In distributed-power architectures, the converter must also accommodate increasingly large step-down ratios that can pose challenges to conversion efficiency.

In large systems, designers are adopting system-level modelling techniques to establish the optimal physical points for down-converting 24Vdc and 48Vdc distribution rails to the target load voltages and to help manage thermal loads. While variable-speed fans are an extremely efficient cooling tool, avoiding their use cuts noise and simplifies equipment maintenance schedules that range from cleaning filters to replacing units before the onset of bearing failure.

In many instances, specifying a dc-dc converter that can operate reliably and with a long useful life in elevated temperatures eases thermal management concerns and may dispense with the need for fans.

By Ann-Marie Bayliss, product marketing manager, Murata Power Solutions

Appreciate component derating characteristics The question then becomes, how can an equipment designer confidently specify a dc-dc converter for extended temperature operation, knowing that the underlying converter design issues have been addressed? Most engineers will know a rule-of-thumb that states that for each 10C decrease in operating temperature from a component’s maximum rating, there is an approximate halving of its failure rate during its useful life.

The origins of this guidance lie within the Arrhenius equation that classically quantifies chemical reaction times at varying temperatures. This model has been empirically shown to apply equally well to the diffusion and migration processes that apply to various classes of electronic components, providing a solid basis for predicting mean-time-to-failure due to temperature rises.

Many components require derating above about 75C, but the key to design success is to appreciate the mechanisms that affect different component classes and to specify parts according to the environmental stresses that they will endure. For instance—and possibly the best example for visualizing chemistry under electrical stress—the lifetime of electrolytic capacitors shows a clear correlation between operating temperature, electrical stress, and the rate of electrolyte diffusion that this generic lifetime prediction formula demonstrates: L = Lr × (Tmax –T)/5 × (Vmax/V)2.5 Here, L is the predicted lifetime in hours; Lr is the manufacturer’s rated endurance at maximum temperature Tmax, in hours; T is the operating temperature that we expect for the capacitor; Vmax is the capacitor’s rated maximum operating voltage; and V is the circuit’s operating voltage. If we assume that the designer operates a 25Vdc rated part at 70% of its maximum voltage rating, a normal commercial-grade component that is rated for 2000 hours at 85C might be expected to have a lifetime of around

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-13

Figure 1: The SimSurfing online simulation tool reveals the behaviour of ceramic capacitors and inductors under varying environmental conditions. Characteristics of a 22uF 25V capacitor are shown here.

50,000 hours at 50C; simply substituting a 105C rated part would extend this period to almost 80,000 hours.

This baseline model is far from perfect, but it serves to illustrate the influence that judicious component selection can have upon service lifetime. In practice and because wear out of aluminium electrolytics is a prime cause of premature power supply failure.

While the prime cause of ceramic capacitor failure is mishandling, it is again essential to understand the effects that temperature and voltage stress create over time. These effects depend upon the dielectric material and are far more pronounced as capacitance values approach the technology’s limits although the parts lose effective capacitance rather than fail. For instance, the X7R material that is often the dielectric of choice has a basic capacitance tolerance of ±15% from -55 to +125C while the Y5V dielectric can drop its capacitance by more than 80% at +85C. Also compounding this is the effect whereby a ceramic capacitor’s effective value will decrease significantly under dc bias due to a phenomenon called ‘polarisation reversal’, which is an intrinsic characteristic of the underlying BaTiO3 ceramic material.

Similar component-specific considerations apply to power inductors whereby basic performance depends upon the core material they embody, with different materials exhibiting varying degrees of losses at different temperatures depending on circuit conditions. Fortunately, power inductors rarely fail unless they are operated way out of their specification, such as a gross overload that should never occur given appropriate circuit design.

Engineers who wish to explore the effects of ac and dc bias levels, frequency, and temperature on a wide range of capacitors and inductors can take advantage of online simulation tools such as Murata’s

SimSurfing suite that runs in a browser.

The results may be surprising—for instance, the dc bias pane in figure 1 shows that a 22 uF/25 VDC X7R part has an effective capacitance of just 7.75 µF when subjected to 15Vdc bias. It is worth remembering that internal temperature rises occur in capacitors that handle ripple currents, as the Temp Rise pane in Figure 1 shows.

The temperature-dependent characteristics of semiconductors are familiar territory to engineers who routinely calculate junction temperatures using thermal-resistance models. Although most types of semiconductors can withstand a junction temperature of 150 thru 175C, a specific problem that arises in dc-dc converter design is the characteristic of Schottky diodes, whereby they become ever more ‘leaky’ as temperature rises.

This can produce high dissipation in the reversed biased state and lead to thermal run-away and component failure.

The opto-isolators that often appear in feedback circuits can exhibit issues with variations in current transfer ratio with time that continual exposure to high temperatures exacerbates, reducing useful system lifetime as the opto changes, potentially causing instability and premature converter failure.

Substituting MOSFETs for diodes in synchronous-rectifier configurations can help mitigate issues with Schottky rectifiers, as well as improving efficiency.

Nevertheless, there are circumstances where using a Schottky is difficult to avoid—such as the freewheeling diode across the synchronous switch of a buck converter. With Schottky diodes and optoisolators now available that withstand junction temperatures of 150C, careful component selection and design that avoids hot-spots again allows circuits to operate reliably at high temperatures. Yet key restrictions remain that limit hightemperature operation, such as UL listing

full online product listings at ept.hotims.com

power sources

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Modular power system adds battery test N6700 Modular Power System (MPS) family, has added application-specific N6783A-MFG mobile communications DC power module and the N6783A-BAT battery charge/ discharge module. N6783A-MFG module provides sourcing and measurement capabilities to meet the challenges of battery-powered (mobile) device manufacturing. N6783ABAT module provides basic two-quadrant operation for charging and discharging batteries as necessary for the design of a mobile device.

AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES http://ept.hotims.com/34484-73

Low voltage output dc-dc converter boosts efficiency GH Series of radiation hardened (RAD-Hard) 50W dc-dc converters maximize efficiency for onboard spacecraft applications requiring long mission life up to 15 years. Devices are suitable for designs using new digital signal processors and FPGA technologies that require a supply voltage as low as 1.0 V. Key features include 18 to 40V input range, total ionization dose (TID) of over 100krad (Si), single event effect (SEE) (Heavy Ions) with rated LET greater than 82 MeV.cm2/mg, internal EMI filter complying with most major satellite power buses, and a weight of less than 110 g.

INTERNATIONAL RECTIFIER http://ept.hotims.com/34484-74

250W High-density dc-dc converter withstands rugged environments BAP 190 Series rugged, industrial quality dc/dc converters deliver 250W continuous output power from a robust, conduction/convection-cooled package with a 132 x 64 x 300mm total footprint. Products use the field-proven topology of the BAP 180 family, but has a 50% higher power density. The design is optimized for quick adaptation for special customer requirements. The standard stock versions have two output terminals: a Redundant via a built-in redundancy diode, and a Direct, which bypasses the redundancy diode.

ABSOPULSE ELECTRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-77

Switching dc power supply covers up to 1080W G.W Instruments PSW-Series single output multi-range programmable switching dc power supply covers a power range up to 1080W. Six models are available with the combination of 30V and 80V rated voltages and 360W, 720W and 1080W maximum output powers. The multi-range feature allows the flexible and efficient configuration of voltage and current within the rated power range.

TRADEPORT ELECTRONICS GROUP http://ept.hotims.com/34484-78

Isolated dc-dc converter boosts reliability MG Series next-generation of dc-dc converters combines high reliability and long life, with an industry standard 1X1 or 1X2 form factor. The 15 and 30 Watt units provide high power density and efficiency of up to 92%. Backed by a 10-year warranty, products are 30 to 40% smaller than the last generation and provide 6-sided shielding. Devices have operating temperature of -40 to 85C and remote On/Off, with built-in fuse.

COSEL USA http://ept.hotims.com/34484-75

requirements dictating a maximum of 130C for typical circuit boards.

User selection criteria From the dc-dc converter designer’s viewpoint, understanding the characteristics of each component is essential for reliable long-term circuit operation—and especially when extended temperature operation is necessary. It is then critical to design for an efficiency ‘sweet spot’ within the temperature band that users wish to apply to the product.

As a result, dc-dc converter users wishing to specify modules for extended temperature operation must look beyond the banner electrical specifications that many manufacturers publish for 25C and the typically blanket statement regarding the part’s operating temperature range. To know the actual temperature stress on a converter, users must know where to measure the converter’s temperature, which is often stated at a reference point on the device’s surface.

Such measurements must be made within a representative operating environment—that is, with air temperature and flow that reflects the target application. When air flow and its temperature is not specified, only ‘operating temperature’, the user should ensure that they understand where that temperature is to be measured. It could be on the body of the converter, in the air local to the converter or even in an ideal, isolated ‘stirred air’ environment.

For more information on dc-dc converter modules from Murata Power Soultions, go to http://ept.hotims.com/34484-76

Scan Here

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-14

w w w. e p t . c a

15

16

products on review

electronic products and technology • august 2011

High-performance memory cards speed data transfer

Compact fan boosts power, reduces consumption

High-performance 32GB micro Secure Digital (microSD) cards with advanced data transfer speeds support the performance requirements on fourth generation (4G) smartphones. The 20-nanometerclass devices have a class 10 speed rating suitable for seamless data storage and transmission of full HD video. Devices can write at 12 megabytes per second (MB/s) and read at 24MB/s, providing users with more than double the maximum write speeds of a class 4 rated 32GB microSD card.

SAMSUNG ELECtRONICS

i-maxx ACi 4400 (119 x 119 x 38 mm) compact fan with GreenTech EC technology requires a power consumption of 4.4 W (65% efficiency of the drive motor) to generate a volume flow of 180 m³/h and a maximum pressure of 74.7 Pa with 42 dB(A) operating noise. Device is available off the shelf in various speed versions. The service life is more than 65,000 hours (at 40C).

EBM PAPST http://ept.hotims.com/34484-86

Illuminated pushbuttons mount with snap-in

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-79

Hall Effect sensors include input reference pin Premo DSR5 series of Hall Effect sensors for a single supply voltage of +5V provide a close loop technology component in a very small package for THT mounting. Primary winding is already integrated, permitting measurement of dc, ac and pulse currents on printed circuit boards. Device includes an external pin that allows access to the internal reference (2.5V). This pin can be used as an output or input signal to be used by microcontrollers providing better offset control at cero current.

DB LECTRO http://ept.hotims.com/34484-80

Connector products receive SAE AS9100 Rev C Certification Firm’s SAE AS9100 certified manufacturing facility in Ponce, Puerto Rico has achieved Rev C status under AS9100. These specifications require an organization’s quality management system to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide product that meets customer and applicable statutory regulatory requirements. Rev C of AS9100 includes a number of enhancements to the standard.

POSITRONIC

Itron Y Series CU20027-YX1A VFD module provides a bright and vibrant emissive display that is intended for applications where brightness was an issue.

Device is capable of increasing it’s brightness up to 400%.

Device is recommended to have minimum of 5:1 contrast ratio intended for use in high ambient conditions. The use of filter is recommended to increase the contrast ratio in such conditions.

NORITAKE

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-87

Low-loss flat coil inductors are surface-mount 3700, 3800 and 3900 series of surface mount flat coil inductors are aimed at high current applications and provide a wide range of inductance values from 0.15 to 10uH with dc current ratings up to 19.5A. The compact surface mount devices measure 14.5 x 11.5 x 5.8mm for the 37301C 0.3uH 19.5A part, are available with dc resistance values ranging from 0.9 to a maximum of 20.3mOhm ensuring that any voltage drop is kept to an absolute minimum.

MURATA POWER SOLUTIONS

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-88

Heavy-duty scope probe delivers snap-on ground lead

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-81

VFD module is bright and vibrant

FP01 Series contactless illuminated pushbutton switches use a diode photo interrupter rather than traditional contacts to ensure high reliability and a long life of 3-million mechanical operations minimum.

Devices present an attractive alternative for harsh environments.

Product’s rugged construction and smooth actuation allows repeated and rapid actuation force anywhere on the cap surface.

NKK SWITCHES

Industrial lean managed switches come in twisted pair versions FL SWITCH LM 4TX industrial switch is compact and available as dedicated twisted pair versions with five or eight ports and with one or two glass fiber interfaces in a multi-mode or single mode version. With single mode fibers, cable lengths of up to 36,000 m are possible.

Device supports manufacturer-independent redundant network structures using RSTP, as well as full network management using SNMP. PHOENIX CONTACT

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-82

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-83

3E digital voltage-regulators support 93 PMBus commands 12A BMR462, the 20A BMR463 and the 40A BMR464 second generation of voltage regulators support 93 PMBus commands, allowing designers to monitor and control energy distribution from system level to board level. Product’s PMBus digital interface enables the enduser to configure many aspects of device operation and to monitor input and output voltages, output current and device temperature. Devices can be used with any standard two-wire I2C or SMBus host device.

ERICSSON http://ept.hotims.com/34484-84

Termination of pcb strips are lever-operated 2706 Series pcb terminal strips bring lever-operated terminations to compact electrical applications.

Device’s clear, tool-free operation eliminates specialty tools and torque specs required by traditional screw terminations. A UL/CSA 30A/300V rating and accommodation of conductors AWG 24–10 make device suitable for inverters, power supplies and other field-wired applications. Ranging from 2–12 poles, product provides a lever for each pole.

WAGO

3900 Series heavy-duty oscilloscope probe provides a snap-on rotating ground lead and a heavy duty fixed tip. The switchable model allows for quick finger tip change between 1X, 10X and reference ground. Product’s body is made of high impact ABS. Soft molded strain reliefs at all stress points assure long cable life.

PROBE MASTER

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-89

Temperature stable measurement ICs enhance precision measurement Model TSC1021 single-chip high-side current-sense amplifier simplifies the design of accurate measurement circuitry in electronic control units. Device provides a common-mode operating range of 2.8V to 30V and can withstand an outstanding range of -32V to +60V on its input pins without damage, enabling the device to target a variety of applications at a far more competitive price for equipment such as automotive actuators and batterypowered products.

STMICROELECTRONICS

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-90

Four versions added to ergonomic hand-held enclosure range AA, the A and C sizes join 1553 family of soft-sided hand held enclosures; while all models provide an ergonomic curved shape that fits in hand. The AA measures 75 x 50 x 17mm, the A 100 x 61 x 17mm and C size, available with or without a battery compartment is 117 x 79 x 33mm. Available in RAL 7035 light grey or RAL 9011 black, both colors feature RAL 7012 grey over-molded soft side grips. Units are molded in general purpose ABS with the top cover recessed to allow a membrane keypad to be flush mounted and pcb standoffs are molded into the base.

HAMMOND MFG. http://ept.hotims.com/34484-91

Vibrant LED pilot lights extend lifespan RPLH Series Panel LED Pilot Lamps and Holders are 22mm and 30mm direct incandescent-replacements. Comprising an integrated modular system, the devices are complete assemblies that incorporate the lens, lamp and lamp holder. Products are suitable for applications where space is a concern and aesthetics a consideration.

LEDTRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-92

http://ept.hotims.com/34484-85

full online product listings at.ept.hotims.com

17

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Industrial Automation

Flexing cable for

wind power applications

By Dr. Lu Li, Dave Watson, Chet Socha, Kristen Berard of Alpha Wire Co.

Wind power = Flexibility + torsion There has been increasing interest in renewable energy due to conventional energy resources, such as oil, gas, and coal, being limited while demand still increases. Numerous types of renewable energy, such as hydropower, wind power, solar power, geothermal power, tidal and ocean wave power and biogas power, have been emerging for decades.

Although these renewable energies only cover a small portion of the entire energy demand, the promising future of these new energy sources is recognized globally.

Regarding the existing wind turbine maintenance and new wind farm construction, engineers and designers meet the inevitable situation of having to choose the correct cable for such applications. For example, inside the wind turbine nacelle, continuous flexing control and data cables should be used; torsional flexing cable should be used within the wind turbine tower.

In addition to the flexibility requirement, thermal resistance, abrasion resistance, and resistance to oil and other chemicals should also be considered. The complexity of cable selection could easily lead to a wrong decision and result in unnecessary downtime and costly maintenance.

This technical paper introduces the current status of cable applications for wind energy industry. The special requirements for wind power cables and their detailed construction and composition are summarized. A commonly recognized test method for cable torsional flexibility is also introduced.

protection may also be required.

Taking all this into account, cable used in a wind power application should generally meet the following criteria: (1) Conductor To maximize flexibility, it is recommended that design engineers specify

annealed soft copper conductors with high strand counts, with a short concentric-lay construction for bending flexing applications and a long concentric-lay construction for torsion flexing applications. For conductors larger than 6 mm2 (10 AWG), a rope-lay construction is required.

Cable requirements for wind power applications Generally, wind farms are located in harsh environments with extreme weather conditions, including wind, ultraviolet light and salt spray. Because of this, the performance of the cables used in wind power applications is arguably more critical. The moving parts of the wind turbine also adds to the already heightened level of importance of proper cable selection.

Premium-grade power cables, data and control cables and communication cables, need to be considered for existing wind farm maintenance and new, large-scale wind farm development to determine the interconnection quality for the power grid and communication system. The amount of cable needed for just one wind generator is not quite as minimal as one might imagine. For example, a 90m high 1.25MW wind power generator requires approximately 1km power cable. As such, 40km cable would be considered necessary for a wind farm with 50MW capacity.

Wind generators work in tough environments that typically provide a wide temperature range (around -40C to 50C) and extremely large amounts of exposure to UV radiation. Therefore, the specified cable needs to be able to withstand -40C and ultraviolet light for desired longevity. For the moving parts of the turbine, the cable should have good torsional and bending flexibility with a small bend radius.

The cable also needs to be resistant to fuel, coolant, oil, corrosive chemicals, and abrasion. Should the wind farm reside close to the ocean or off-shore, the cable must also be salt water resistant. In addition to the aforementioned requirements, flame retardancy is also required due to the safety considerations. In certain cases, extra features such as low smoke, zero halogen (LSZH) materials and EMI http://ept.hotims.com/34484-15

w w w. e p t . c a

(2) Insulation To increase flexibility in low temperatures, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), ethylene propylene rubber (EPR, a type of EPM or EPDM), or silicone rubber (SiR) are common choices for insulation material to resist ozone corrosion and aging due to heat. PVC/nylon insulation is also widely used due to its high dielectric strength.

(3) Jacket Cable jackets may be thermosetting compounds such as chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), polychloroprene (neoprene), chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSPE) continued on page 20

18

industrial automation

electronic products and technology • august 2011

Right-angle high-speed connector strips reduce real estate requirements

Sealed circular connectors boost performance in rugged applications

Q Rate QRM8-RA and QRF8-RA Series right-angle connector system for micro backplane applications provides high speed, slim body system and is equipped with an industry standard ground/ power plane and firm’s Edge Rate contacts. The ground/power plane of the devices allows the contacts to be placed closer together without degrading signal performance. Device’s contacts increase wear life and minimizes the effects of broadside coupling, which decreases crosstalk for superior signal integrity performance and impedance control SAMTEC

SAL Series connectors are available in a variety of overmolded sizes and styles, including M12, M8 and 7/8” to meet the high demand for performance in harsh environments. Devices are sealed to IP67 and IP69K requirements and can operate at extreme temperatures up to 125C. Product’s dimensions and construction complies with IEC 61076-2-101 standards. Model M12 is available in 4-12 positions; M8 comes in 3 and 4 positions and the 7/8” is offered in 3, 4 and 5 positions.

CONEC

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Mini connection systems aid space restricted applications WINSTA MINI and MIDI connection systems adds three product series, including the MINI 890 Series including 4- and 5-pole units for space-restricted applications.

Devices are rated up to 600V and 14A (16 AWG). Mid-range MIDI 770 Series now includes a 2-pole connector, rated up to 600V and 20A (12 AWG) and carry a UL Current Interruption Rating of 10A, 600V. MIDI accommodates conductors AWG 20–12 up to 20A; MINI accommodates AWG 22–16 up to 14A. Both feature 2- to 5-pole plug and socket modules for cordend or snap-in panel mounting.

WAGO http://ept.hotims.com/34484-94

PBA piezo switches withstand tough environments Normally open (NO) prolonged pulse PBA piezoelectric (piezo) switches require only two wires and can directly replace electromechanical switches, providing longer life in a sealed, washable, contemporary design. It is available in seven standard colors.

Firm’s PBA C function mimics the behavior of a standard switch, so the longer the actuator is pressed, the longer the output response – up to 20 seconds.

Device consumes no power, and uses no external power source, ground or power wires.

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Latching micro D connector delivers robust system Micro-D connector provides robust latching system that replaces the screws with finger release side latches.

The latching system comes in two options; first is to have the latching mechanism built directly into a metal housing that was designed specifically with the latching system in mind. The second way allows users to retrofit the latching mechanism into existing Micro-Ds. The retro fit kit utilizes the standard holes typically used to house the different styles of retention screws.

OMNETICS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-97

Spring finger connector enhances internal link for mobile devices Scalable spring finger connectors are available in heights from 1.8mm to 3.4mm and can be mounted onto one single footprint.

Device provides preload function that nearly doubles the working area of a common spring finger and increases contact force by 0.2 N. Product also has a dimple on the contact, enhancing reliability.

The backward-bended tip prevents the product from hooking by removing the sharp edge. Device has a pick-and-place area that supports customer auto assembly processes.

TE CONNECTIVITY http://ept.hotims.com/34484-98

400Vac ac-dc power supply delivers 3Kw PHI 3K Series modular, industrial grade ac/dc switching power supplies generate up to 3kW output power. Unit employs field proven design topology, which includes power factor corrected input, to convert a 400Vac input (340V to 480Vac operating range) to 200Vdc/15A or 400Vdc/7A continuous output, with fan cooling. A built-in redundancy diode separates the internal modules and allows for a number of units to be connected in parallel to achieve higher output power, N+1 redundancy or to create a 3-phase high power system.

ABSOPULSE ELECTRONICS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-99

Thermocouple probes include mounting threads M12 series thermocouple sensors include a variety of metric and NPT mounting thread options, as well as convenient M12 connectors, which include thermocouple compensated pins in Type J and Type K calibrations. Sensors are available with Type J, 316 stainless steel, or Type K, Inconel 600 sheaths, ungrounded junctions and a variety of metric and imperial diameters and lengths. Connectors have a temperature range of -50 to 90C, and are rated to IP67.

OMEGA

Spring clamp terminal block incorporates pluggable variety ASP063, ASP065 and ASP066 pluggable terminal blocks joins spring clamp family. Expanded to include versions in the popular 3.5mm, 5.0mm and 5.08mm centerlines, the low profile ASP06 series utilizes spring clamp technology, allowing for wire and push-button actuation in the same plane. There are also versions with finger-friendly push-buttons, eliminating the need for a screwdriver. Go completely tool-less, by upgrading from older screwtype designs, as all mate with industry standard headers.

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Solder cup spring pin header strips simplify mating process Single and double row solder cup spring pin header strips make convenient and reliable connections between wires and mating components such as PC boards, batteries or other cable assemblies.

Devices are suitable for wire termination in both test and field applications where stack up tolerances or blind-mating can be a challenge. Each device provides .6985mm of mid-stroke compression 1,397mm maximum compression and is rated for one million cycles.

MILL-MAX http://ept.hotims.com/34484-103

Connectors’ hexagonal locking ring nut ensure proper mating M12 Series 763 and 766 overmolded connectors now includes a knurled and hex threaded locking ring nut, allowing the connectors to be tightened with a torque wrench and ensure proper mating of the connecting system. The locking ring nut will gradually replace the old ring nut for the M12 A- and B-Coded cordsets. When properly mated the M12 overmolded connectors are sealed to an IP68 rating and the male and female cordsets are available in standard lengths of 2 and 5 meters.

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Rugged thermal imagers create sharp inspection images

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P3 Series thermal imagers includes the Ti32 and TiR32 models, plus the new Ti27 and Ti29 models for industrial, electrical, mechanical, and process applications. All models are specifically designed to work in even the harshest environments and provide superior image quality with one-handed, easy-to-use interfaces. Products provide a total pixel image count (76,800 pixels for the Ti32/TiR32 models) and superior spatial resolution that, combined with the 3.7-inch diagonal, full VGA-color LCD displays, provides sharp, clear images to make it easy to spot even the slightest temperature difference.

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20

products on review

electronic products and technology • august 2011

250W power supply combines 93% efficiency GWS250 series ac-dc ‘Green’ line of 250-watt power supplies comply with European ErP directive. Units combine high efficiency, high power density and low standby power consumption (<0.5W, no-load) with 5-year warranty.

Designed with a 4.1 x 7.8 inch footprint and less than 1U height (1.61”), product is a compact, convection-cooled power supply that fits into spaces previously requiring fan-cooled supplies.

TDK-LAMBDA AMERICAS http://ept.hotims.com/34484-40

1/2-wave dipole antenna delivers higher gain OC Series 1/2-wave dipole antenna delivers higher gain than a standard whip antenna, increasing the range and reliability of wireless links. Using loaded coil technology, unit minimizes the length that would typically be required to achieve omni-directional gain. Product’s articulating base tilts 90-degrees and rotates 360-degrees. Device’s internal counterpoise eliminates the need for an external ground plane and maximizes performance. Available in 916MHz and 2.4GHz, device attaches with a standard SMA or Part 15 compliant RP-SMA connector.

ANTENNA FACTOR

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Honeycomb heatsink optimizes ambiant air

X2 Class interference-suppressor capacitors simplify testing agency compliance

Honeycomb heat sink utilizes the science of real honey bees and directs heat towards the outside, while producing a steady flow of cool air on the inside. Product’s multi-holed design and increased surface area optimizes cross-ventilatation, while simultaneously cooling surrounding amibiant air. Product’s adhesive mounted version eliminates the need for mounting holes in printed circuit board.

JARO THERMAL

THB Series capacitors connect across the ac input of a line powered device and suppress radio frequency interference (RFI) in products that must operate out-of-doors or in other harsh environments. Devices meet a full complement of safety agency X2 Class approvals, including UL, CSA, VDE and many others. In the event of a failure, X2 Class devices do not present an electrical shock hazard to users of the equipment. Environmental performance is exceptional, with -40C to 110C with 85% RH standard.

ILLINOIS CAPACITOR

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Smaller package broadens usage opportunities Model TRIP-4558L siren alert produces a sweep siren output at 105dB and is available in an even smaller package than in any competitive counterpart. In an ABS plastic housing measuring 57 x 44 x 32mm, device produces an amazing sound output of 105dB @ 100cm with an attention-getting output of 1500 to 4000Hz within an operating voltage range of 5-15vdc at 200mA. Operating temperature range is - 20 to + 70C. Device is furnished in black and comes with an adjustable attached swivel bracket with pre-drilled mounting holes for flexibility in mounting options. Sealed red and black #24 AWG wire leads are standard.

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The 18th Annual

Electronics Industry

GOLF TOURNAMENT Thank you to all the participants & sponsors:

in support of

Mark next year’s date on your calendar ... June 14,

2012

• Active Tech / Arbell • Canadian Source • CST-Arwin • ebm-papst Canada • EGS Electrical Group • Electro Sonic • Electro Source • EP&T • EPTECH Shows • GMA • Hammond Manufacturing • JLT & Associates • NKK Switches • Panasonic Electric Works • Phoenix Contact • Tech-Trek • TTI • Utech Electronics

Wind power applications continued from page 17

synthetic rubber (SR), or thermoplastic compounds such as TPE, TPE-PVC alloys, and polyurethane (TPU). These materials are oil, fuel, solvent-resistant with superior flexibility under low temperatures.

Such properties make them ideal jacket materials for wind power cables.

It should be noted that cable structure is also a considerable determinant of the cable’s flexibility. Symmetric conductor design with a balanced structure will typically lead to a high degree of flexibility.

Even if a cable is built following these general guidelines, full testing is strongly recommended to simulate the ‘real world’ application.

Cable test method, procedure Depending on the direction of the wind, the wind turbine angle needs to be adjusted by the yaw drive. The power, control and communication cables will either bend along the horizontal axis or rotate along the vertical axis. Torsional flexing is more severe and requires greater attention. Although currently there is no such standard or regulation for torsional flexing, end users typically prefer that the cables are tested by some means before being put into practice.

The following is a common test method adopted by an end user in the cable industry.

(1) Torsion stress test of a single cable under low temperature (-40C): A 10m vertical suspended cable sample is fixed at top end; fasten the bottom end to a rotating mechanism. First, twist the cable clockwise four turns (+1440º) and then untwist counterclockwise four turns back to its original position. Next, twist the cable counterclockwise four turns (-1440º) and then untwist clockwise four turns back to its original position. Repeat the above procedure for 5000 complete cycles to simulate 20 years use. The cable shall pass the test if there is no breakdown under 2.5 U0 after 5 minutes and no cracks shown on jacket.

Note: U0 is 600, 1000, or 2000 V according to the cable’s voltage rating.

(2) Torsion stress test of a bundle of cables.

The test procedure is the same as (1), but for cable bundle.

60228 Class 5 or 6 (similar to DIN VDE 0295 Class 5 or 6, HD 383, GB/T 3956 Class 5 or 6) to use plain or metal-coated annealed stranded copper as the wind power cable conductor to achieve the needed flexibility. Interestingly, the IEC 60228 only specifies the nominal cross-sectional areas of the conductor and the number and size of wires in the conductor for electric power cables. This gives cable manufacturers a high degree of autonomy, often resulting in poor cable performance even though the cable meets the IEC 60228 Class 5 or 6 requirements.

Conversely, UL 62, which refers to several ASTM standards, specifies not only the size and number of strands of the conductor, but also the conductor constructions, such as concentric lay stranded, rope lay stranded, and bunch stranded conductor constructions which are all critical to the cable flexing characteristic.

For the insulation and jacket, many manufacturers follow DIN VDE 0207-20 and DIN VDE 0207-21. HD 22.1, HD 22.4, UL 44, and UL 62 are also used as general standards for cable production. Other standards, such as UL 758, UL 1581, UL 1277, UL 2277, IEC 60332, etc., are often used to support extra features like the Wind Turbine Tray Cable (WTTC) and flammability ratings.

As European countries began development of cables for the wind energy market before North American countries, many European standards are currently adopted by cable manufacturers. Nevertheless, UL standards, as a counterpart, show equivalent and, in some cases, tighter requirements pertaining to wind energy applications.

For more information on flexible cable solutions for wind power applications from Alpha Wire Co., go to http://ept.hotims.com/34484-45

Scan Here

Standards for wind power cable Currently, no dedicated standard exists for cables in wind power applications.

Many cable manufacturers follow IEC

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CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: Astronics AES Test Lab Builds Better Equipment With Less Work Dewey Colvin is an electrical engineer with over 20 years of experience in avionics. He runs the System Integration Lab at Astronics AES, a Redmond, Washington based subsidiary of Astronics Corporation. Astronics AES is a leader in custom rugged and reliable electrical power systems for commercial and military aircraft, as well as missiles.

Mr. Colvin’s lab provides an environment that simulates the conditions found on real aircraft, in order to check out and test the company’s products. As one might expect, rigorous testing is especially important for aircraft power systems, as electrical power is essential for keeping aircraft flying and keeping passengers and crew safe.

Like most testing laboratories, they heavily depend on custom built test equipment, and as a result, designing and building this gear (and the enclosures in which it is housed) forms an important part of their work. The devices they build are almost exclusively low-volume, and often unique one-offs. Before working with Protocase, Mr. Colvin and his staff relied on local sheet metal shops to build their custom enclosures. But these shops were usually less than enthusiastic about such small jobs, and had cumbersome coordination of drawings and information from his electronics-oriented staff. Their lead times varied dramatically, and they also lacked finishing touch capabilities, such as silkscreening and painting. As a result, Mr. Colvin’s staff found themselves doing more work to get less-than optimal results. For example, staff usually ended up doing things like hand-applying adhesive labels on front panels, giving results which, although functional, were somewhat home-made looking.

Recently, Mr. Colvin and his staff began to use Protocase Designer® 3D custom enclosure design software. This free CAD software allows users to quickly and easily design custom enclosures (including cutouts, fasteners, and silkscreens), get instant online price quotations, and then have their design manufactured in 2-3 days. According to Mr. Colvin, “Protocase Designer is a simple tool that is very easy to use. We have plenty of access to full-featured CAD software like Solidworks, but my staff is trained in electronics, and these fully featured mechanical design packages have steep learning curves. Protocase Designer is so easy to use that my staff can be up and designing electronics enclosures right away. Its speed of design, and online price quotations allow us to work through design iterations, and optimize for cost, in a way that we never could before.”

Mr. Colvin says that working with Protocase has had a positive impact on his lab. “We now have easy access to fully finished enclosures, with quality powdercoat and silkscreen, even at one-off quantities. As a result, our equipment racks look more professional. This has a positive impact during customer visits, both in the way customers view us, and in the confidence that they have in our capabilities. And the best part is, we spend fewer man-hours getting there.”

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00

expressmart / advertisers' index

express

electronic products and technology • august 2011

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Proof at 100%

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PCB Design Services

InfiniiVision X-Series Oscilloscopes In Stock. Immediate Delivery!

The InfiniiVision 3000 X-Series offers entry-level price points to fit your budget with superior performance and optional capabilities that are not available in any other oscilloscope in its class. Our break-through technology delivers more scope for the same budget.

New OLED DMM’s, and much more

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SMT SMT Industrial Industrial Supply Supply Inc. Inc. Specializing Specializing in in the the purchase purchase and and sales sales of of previously-owned previously-owned SMT SMT through-hole through-hole assembly assembly equipment. equipment.

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SMT SMT Industrial Industrial Supply Supply has has the the largest largest stock stock of of used used SMT SMT Process Process Equipment Equipment inin Canada!

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Alpha Wire Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . 18

AP Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

2011

Avnet EM(AZ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Boardtech Integration . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Circuit-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Conec Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Digi-Key Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 ELMA Electronic Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

GAP Wireless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Hammond Mfg. Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC Irwin Industrial Agencies Limited . . . . . 4 Kyzen Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Lista International Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Mouser Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Newport Electronics, Inc . . . . . . . . . . IFC Noren Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Noritake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 ODU USA Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Canada’s premier series of electronics trade shows are back for 2011...

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Quebec City/Ste. Foy September 20 • 10am - 4pm

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September 22 • 10am - 4pm

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L-com Inc., a global leader in the manufacture of wired and wireless connectivity products, has partnered with specialized global interconnect distributor Heilind Electronics, Wilmington MA. Heilind has 22 sales offices and five warehouses in North America.

“Heilind’s market presence and distribution network will provide our products to an expanding customer base,” says Earle Durham, chief revenue officer, L-Com Global Connectivity.

Electronic industry golf tournament delivers to charity More than 170 members of the electronics industry from the Greater Toronto Area participated in the 18th annual Electronic Industry Golf Tournament, raising money for The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.

Organized by EP&T and held at the Glen Eagle Golf Club in Bolton ON, the annual industry fundraiser generated a donation of $13,000 to Children’s Wish Foundation, up from $11,000 for the previous year.

“EP&T takes pride in organizing the Electronic Industry Golf Tournament on behalf of the electronics industry here in Canada,” says EP&T publisher Peter Loney. “It is a pleasure to organize an event that brings an industry together and importantly, at the same time, raises money for such a worthwhile cause. Thanks to all the participants, sponsors and organizers of the event” Don’t forget to mark next year’s date on your calendar - June 14, 2012.

Sales Scholarship Available

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Probe Master Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

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Agilent Technologies Canada Inc . . . OBC

Blockmaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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Enlarged for proofing purposes only

SMT SMT Industrial Industrial Supply Supply Inc. Inc.

Absopulse Electronics Limited . . . . . 14

ADVER TISERS’ INDEX

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CERA (Canadian Electronics Representatives Association) is making a scholarship available for an individual currently involved in the electronics industry to further their sales knowledge. The $1,000 grant is available for an individual to take either the Canadian Sales Professional offered by CPSA or the CPMR course offered at the University of Phoenix. Program details can be found at www.cpsa.com or www.cpmr.biz If you wish to submit your application for this yearly grant, please send a short letter and resume indicating why you would like to be considered.

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