In many factory-automation, process-control, and precision-instrument applications, designers must incorporate various forms of sensing devices into their machine-vision systems. These devices include photoelectric, capacitive, and inductive sensors, as well as special motion-displacement transducers. This month, we look at some sites that help you find the latest transducer information.
STANDARDS REQUIRED
ieee1451.nist.gov/
Since the transducer market is diverse, manufacturers are always seeking ways to build smart, low-cost transducers. On this site you'll discover information on the latest transducer interface standard—IEEE 1451, designed to make it easier for manufacturers to develop smart transducers and to interface them to networks, systems, and instruments by incorporating existing and emerging sensor and networking technologies.
NO SUBSCRIPTION NEEDED
www.sensorsmag.com/
Learn the latest developments in sensor technology, products, literature, and standards by clicking onto the Web site of Sensors magazine. As well as bringing you the latest issue on-line, this site features industry links, a useful on-line buyers guide, and a list of up-coming industry events.
FAST DATA SPECS
www.globalspec.com/
Using this database of technical products and services, designers and developers can search by technical specifications, gain side-by-side comparisons, and review standard data across suppliers. Product categories include sensors, transducers and detectors, electrical and electronic components, data acquisition and signal conditioning, and video and imaging equipment.
A HOT SITE
www.temperatures.com/
This site provides developers with basic data about temperature sensors and points to places on the Web where other related information is available. This includes pointers to catalogs, applications, and suppliers of sensors. Aimed at scientists, engineers, and technologists, the site features standards information, resources, and new products.
PICK A SENSOR
www.sensorland.com/
This UK-based site allows you to choose a sensor or system by entering the parameters that need to be measured. The site also includes lists of catalogs, magazines, applications, and technical tips to ensure that a sensor is being used to best advantage. In addition, an applications section shows how these devices are used in vehicle lift positioning, plant condition monitoring, and load-recognition applications.
SENSORS COUNCIL
www.ewh.ieee.org/tc/sensors/
On the Web site of the IEEE Sensors Council, you can obtain information about the IEEE Sensors Journal and keep updated on the latest sensors conferences and trade shows worldwide. IEEE members and publication subscribers can access material published in the journal on-line.
Other sensor websites of interest
www.microepsilon.com/me/htdocs/
publicweb/EN.htm
www.thermal.invensys.com
www.gentech-international.co.uk/
index.shtml
www.sensortechnics.com
www.bannerengineering.com
www.turck-globe.de/En
www.monitran.co.uk
www.citytech.com
www.hengstler.de/index_e.html
www.jumoprocesscontrol.com
www.beiduncan.com
www.endevco.com
www.memsic.com/memsic
www.figarosensor.com
www.assemtech.co.uk/index.cfm
www.silicondesigns.com
www.ifmelectronic.com/ifmint/web/home.htm
