PLCs becoming PACs as MRC invents new TLA

Stealth Computer: www.stealthcomputer.com 

Fieldbus Controller Goes Ethernet
Enhancements to the PFC Ethernet TCP/IP Programmable Fieldbus Controller include increased data memory of 256KB, a multi-tasking operating system, the ability to make on-line programming changes, and a real-time clock for time stamping and scheduling applications. Programs are stored in flash memory for recovery from power failure, eliminating the need for periodic battery replacement.  It supports ModbusTCP and EtherNet/IP and interfaces to Microsoft .NET, UNIX, and LINUX-based systems.
Wago: 262/255.6333 ext. 135;  www.wago.com 

CE-based Control Panel
The CP3xxT-Studio-IB control panel combines the functions of a PLC and an operator panel. It runs under Windows CE, has 48MB of user program memory and a 10/100Base-T Ethernet port, is programmed with Entivity Studio flow-chart software and a common OPC tag database, and runs Iconics PanelWorX HMI software. The computer is available with 6, 10 and 12 in. TFT displays with touch screens.
Phoenix Contact: 800/586-5525; www.phoenixcon.com 

Brick-Style PLC Gets Off Its AS-I
Enhancements to the MicroSmart brick-style PLC series includes an AS-Interface master module and an 8 point 120 VAC input module. The AS-I allows the PLC to communicate with slave devices such as sensors, actuators, and remote I/Os, using signals transmitted over the AS-I network. The 120 VAC input module allows a user to apply 120 VAC directly into the PLC input card. This reduces the need for additional signal conditioning devices. Programming is via WindLDR version 4.5 software.
IDEC: www.idec.com 

Stainless Steel Computers
The 8901 and 8903 stainless steel PCs meet caustic washdown, NEMA 4X, and IP66 ratings. Each has a TFT display, shatterproof polycarbonate screens, IP67 compliant I/O connectors, an operating temperature range of 0-50 °C, a VESA 100mm mounting pattern, and an internal cooling system.  Options include shatter-resistant resistive touch screens, a NEMA 4X keyboard, Electro-Polish finish for clean room applications, and an extended temperature range  of -40 to 50 °C.
Comark: 800/280-8522, ext. 2; www.compark.com 

PC Meets DOD Specifications
The W130 notebook computer meets MIL-STD-461E standards for operating in environments with high electromagnetic emissions. It is dirt-proof, dust-proof, waterproof, and withstands three-ft drops. The system has an Intel Pentium processor, wireless network, cell phone access, LCD screen, 40 GB hard drive, up to 1 GB RAM, and is bundled with Windows 2000 or XP operating systems. Prices start at $3,000.
Getac: 949/699-2888; www.getac.com 

Temperature Acquisition Module 
Suitable for use with handheld computers, the OM-MT20 acquires temperature data. It has  manual and automatic data logging software that installs on a handheld computer, then transfers data to a PC in comma-separated value file format (.CSV), which will open in most common spreadsheet, word processing, charting, statistical or other analytical software programs. Price is $199.00.
Omega Engineering: 203/359-1660; www.omega.com 

Counters for PLCs
The H0-CTRIO High-Speed Counter I/O module for DL05 and DL06 micro PLCs accepts  high-speed pulse-type input signals for counting or timing applications, and provides high-speed pulse-type output signals for stepper/servo motor control. It has four DC inputs, two DC outputs, one quadrature encoder counter up to 100KHz, two single-channel counters up to 100KHz, and two high-speed discrete inputs for Reset, Inhibit, or Capture. Price: $189.
AutomationDirect: 678/455-1805; www.automationdirect.com