Test software, smart meters, and CAD libraries

ODVA introduces test softwareThe Open DeviceNet Vendor Association (ODVA) recently introduced protocol conformance test software for EtherNet/IP products. The software allows developers to test devices against the EtherNet/IP specification to pinpoint conformance-related errors. The test helps users ensure that their industrial Ethernet selection is truly open and that multivendor hardwar...

By Jack Smith February 15, 2002

ODVA introduces test software

The Open DeviceNet Vendor Association (ODVA) recently introduced protocol conformance test software for EtherNet/IP products. The software allows developers to test devices against the EtherNet/IP specification to pinpoint conformance-related errors. The test helps users ensure that their industrial Ethernet selection is truly open and that multivendor hardware is compatible and interoperable.

Testing protects users. The likelihood of interoperation and interchangeability among tested devices is much greater than for untested devices.

EtherNet/IP is a companion network to DeviceNet. It extends commercial off-the-shelf Ethernet with the same open application-layer protocol as DeviceNet. The networks also share device profiles and an object library, which ensures plug-and-play interoperability among devices from multiple vendors. Combined, DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP are intended to promote transparency from sensors to the application software.

Looking for a maintenance consultant?

Reliabilityweb.com, along with the ProSavvy network, is offering a free web-based service designed to empower companies of all sizes to more efficiently and effectively select professional consulting companies for computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) implementation services as well as maintenance and reliability services. By combining internet-based tools that automate the selection process with capabilities profiles and uncensored quality data on consulting firms, this service drastically reduces the time, costs, and risks associated with obtaining CMMS consulting services.

The service is free to hiring companies. However it does require registration and a three-step e-procurement process. The process includes:

  • Identify — Specify your project needs and receive responses from qualified firms within 24 hr.

  • Select — Review detailed responses, evaluate performance data, and access standardized market materials.

  • Manage — Schedule interviews, manage proposals, competitively select, and hire the best firm for your needs.

    • To post your project, go to reliabilityweb.com/links/prosavvy.htm, then specify your project needs.

      Smart meters installed in plants

      Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is installing real-time electricity meters in more than 3400 Los Angeles-based businesses in a move that is expected to reduce as much as 240 MW of demand. The smart meters, made by Siemens, will be provided free to the companies. They will reduce demand by giving companies the ability to profile, manage, and forecast energy loads in real time, calculate bills in detail based on when power is used, and monitor usage using the internet.

      This no-cost solution gives plants the ability to conserve or shift energy use when power demand is high to low-peak, cost-effective consumption time frames.

      (Source: Manufacturing News, manufacturingnews.com)

      Internet-based EAM software released

      Indus International, Inc., has released InSite, a pure-internet software solution. It is a hosted, component-based software that was designed specifically to be administered via the internet.

      The software features real-time key performance indicators (KPIs); a business process engine, which allows users to define, maintain, and change key workflow components; support for PDAs, SmartPhones, and other wireless devices; content-based search engine; and customizable international linguistics capability.

      Engineers use CAD libraries

      The Thomas Register CAD Economic Impact Study is a two-phase study about the value to engineers of using CAD part libraries. The study revealed that:

    • A total of 10.1 million parts are inserted into designs from CAD part libraries and other sources each year.

    • When a part is inserted into a design, the probability that the design will be produced, and that the exact part will be purchased and used, is 76%.

      • Part drawings and technical product information inserted into drawings speed design times and lower costs.

        The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase consisted of five focus groups and individual interviews with engineers. The second phase consisted of a month-long internet diary study of 86 engineers’ CAD part library usage and a telephone survey of 250 engineers.

        New site targets HVAC maintenance

        Ondeo Nalco, Naperville, IL, recently launched a new web site designed exclusively for industrial facility maintenance professionals, as well as those in hospitality, commercial, and institutional areas. NDTfacilitycare.com allows users to design maintenance programs online and access numerous tools to increase HVAC operational efficiencies.

        The site features online products, programs, and services for an array of maintenance tasks, including hard surface cleaning, coil and drain maintenance, odor control, and skin care. Plant maintenance professionals can streamline purchasing by using the site for product procurement. Users can access product use instructions and training materials.

        In addition to procurement, the site hosts advisory tools used to identify the appropriate program to solve a maintenance task, benchmark facility care practices, and plan improvements. Plant engineers can also use this tool to design a comprehensive indoor air quality (IAQ) program.

        The maintenance centers on keeping plant HVAC systems maintained. When not properly maintained, microbial growth contaminates HVAC coils and at-tracts an accumulation of dust, soil, and debris, which cause poor indoor air quality and operational inefficiency. When this occurs, the HVAC system can spread foul odors — both those originating in the system from dirty coils and from odors generated inside the building.

        The proposed maintenance program involves cleaning the coils and HVAC equipment to remove sticky microbial contamination, dust, soil, and debris. Then periodic maintenance using a microbial inhibitor minimizes microbiological buildup on coils, fins, and drain pans, while reducing the amount of labor needed for regularly scheduled cleanings. The final element of the maintenance program involves odor neutralization. Various odors become part of the indoor environment, often causing a less than favorable atmosphere.

        Author Information
        Jack Smith, senior editor, 630-320-7147, jsmith@cahners.com


Author Bio: Content manager, CFE Media