Panel advances: LCDs, LEDs, components for harsh environments
By Control Engineering Staff
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Termex family of intrinsically safe text-graphic panels from Pepperl+Fuchs is intended to provide reliable operation in hazardous locations. |
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VarTech Systems' Model VT084PX flat panel display with a 12-V dc power source and optional 24-V dc and 90-264-V ac universal power supply is designed for extreme applications. |
Several HMI-related products making their way to market this month are designed for severe applications and environments. They include a family of intrinsically safe panels, a flat panel display for harsh applications, and a family of high-power LEDs.
Pepperl+Fuchs Termex family of intrinsically safe text and graphic panels are said to feature a monochrome LCD for flexible and cost-effective PLC and computer-based operation, along with monitoring of machines and processes located in hazardous areas. Panels are Atex-certified for Zone 1 hazardous area use; North American approvals are pending. The Termex family is intended for fixed or mobile use in oil and gas applications. Its Pro graphical interface software simplifies control, display, and visualization projects; C programming tools are optional. The panels support popular communication protocols, including Profibus-DP and Modbus. Traditional panel operation is possible with a connection to a host computer using an ASCII protocol; these machine level interfaces typically are connected to a PLC.
VT084PX model military grade 8.4-in. flat panel display from VarTech Systems Inc . is described as ultra rugged and engineered to withstand extremely harsh environments. Features include enhanced shock and vibration safeguards and electromagnetic environmental interference protection. Recommended applications include mounting in a vehicle exposed to rough terrain and severe ambient environments. Display has an 8.4-in. TFT active matrix screen with VGA (640 x 480 pixels) resolution. An XGA (800 x 600 pixels) option is available. Screen has a brightness level of 400 nits and includes an anti-reflective, protective faceplate. A 5- or 8-wire resistive touchscreen is also offered. LCD has a NEMA 4 cold rolled steel front bezel; a NEMA 4X stainless steel front bezel is optional.
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Family of high-power LEDs from Lumex includes three packages: LuxLEDs, SuperFlux LEDs, and AstraLEDs for use as LCD backlights, warning lights, and alarms, and in places where high light output with low power consumption is needed. |
Lumex is expanding its family of high-power LEDs, now available in three surface-mount packages and 34 variations. All provide high illumination levels with low power consumption. They are intended for use as LCD backlights, warning lights and alarms, animated signs, automotive applications, and wherever very high light output with low power consumption is needed. Products include the LuxLEDs package available in 14 versions with emitted colors of yellow, red, blue, green, and white. SuperFlux LEDs come in 10 versions in yellow, green, blue, white, and orange/red. AstraLEDs provide the highest intensities. The 1W high-power LEDs deliver a flux level to 30 lm with a power input of 350 mA. All use state-of-the-art chip technology.
For more details on these products, click on the company name to visit its Website.
—Control Engineering Daily News Desk
Compiled by Jeanine Katzel , senior editor
- Related News:
Touch Panel PCs with LED Technology for hazardous areas - 11.01.2011 09:31
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