In Brief

• Kent Modular Electronics has developed a device that converts a video signal of any resolution into a DVI-D format that can feed a TFT flatscreen display. KME`s Legacy Pixel Transformer is intended mainly for upgrading old, non-standard installations that use equipment developed before video standards were introduced..

• Rockwell Automation has extended its venerable PLC-5 family, introduced in 1985, by introducing an enhanced communications processor that supports 10/100Mbps Ethernet.

• Siemens has developed a protective device which provides protection against overloads, short-circuits, electrical fires, and residual currents. The 5SU1 RCBO switch has can protect each circuit separately against residual currents so that other circuits remain functional. The device is available for rated currents to 40A.

• The US firm PPT Vision claims to have developed the world`s highest-resolution intelligent machine vision camera. The Impact T27 camera, which has built-in image processing capabilities, has a resolution of 1,600 x 1,200 pixels and can detect defects accurately even at high production speeds.

• Agilent claims to have reduced the thickness of the world`s smallest high-speed absolute encoder by a further 5%, making it just 16mm thick. The AEAS-7500 is a development of a sensor launched last year. The 63,536-position encoder is aimed at applications such as servo motors, robotics and machine tools, and will operate at up to 12,000 rpm. It has just three components, compared to about 120 in traditional encoders.

• The Fieldbus Foundation, the Hart Communication Foundation, the OPC Foundation and Profibus Intenational have joined forces to further develop the EDDL (electronic device description language). EDDL, which is standardised in IEC 61804-2, provides a method for integrated field devices into automation systems. It currently describes 1,000 field device types from more than 100 manufacturers. The group will develop test specifications and procedures.

• A 20-member European consortium, including the UK polymer specialist Rapra Technology, has embarked on a four-year project to develop improved electrically conducting polymers. The partners and the EU will commit more than €9m to the PolyCond project..