Automation in the home

September 2004 System Integration & Control Systems Design Retail (Industry)

Advantech has produced hardware in answer to the booming 'eHome' market. The new EH-7105G residential terminal is designed to be an application ready platform that allows system integrators to easily link home automation, home security/surveillance, and e-community/commerce. Powered by a VIA C3 400 MHz CPU and 128 MB of SDRAM, the EH-7105G runs Windows CE .NET 4.2 from an embedded software kernel. The 264 mm TFT colour LCD monitor has a touchscreen, but there are also built-in hotkeys.

The device serves two of the major functions for the eHome lifestyle: one touch Internet and connecting home appliances. The I/O and expansion capabilities do however provide a platform for system integrators to create innovative solutions for many more functions. The internal CompactFlash disk provides up to 1 GB for storage, and audio functions are catered for with a built-in microphone and speaker, as well as an optional handset for intercom.

Multiple interfaces like Mini PCI, and wireless networking with IEEE 802.11b enables the EH-7105G to be easily connected to either a local LAN, the Internet or to home appliances. (RS232/485 and LON ports are commonly used in building automation systems.)

The unit has been designed without a fan, which means energy is saved, and no disturbing fan noise can be heard. There are four built-in function hot-keys: door open, intercom, message and emergency. These can be used by developers/constructors to diversify their smart home applications. They can also enable family users to operate linked home devices and get immediate help from a control centre. The EH-7105G also features four short-cut keys that can be customised to whatever the new eHome needs.

For more information contact Peet Smit, Centurion MicroElectronics, 012 666 9066, [email protected]

Further reading:

Turning system integrators into trusted technology partners
Schneider Electric South Africa IT in Manufacturing System Integration & Control Systems Design
Schneider Electric’s Alliance Partner Programme is repositioning system integrators from hardware suppliers into lifecycle-value partners. Oriel Soupen explains the competency framework, certification model and real-world results that are already helping African system integrators win higher-value, longer-term engagements.

Read more...

---

When digital twins move from concept to critical tool
IT in Manufacturing System Integration & Control Systems Design Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
Digital twins are moving out of the lab and onto the mine, the factory floor and the transport network where they predict failures before they happen. Amritesh Anand looks at where they earn their keep, the data and integration work behind them, and the security questions every organisation should ask before switching one on.

Read more...

---

Best practices for managing the MRO supply chain in Africa
RS South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
RS South Africa outlines how strong data governance and digital tools can turn maintenance, repair and operations procurement into a strategic advantage across Africa.

Read more...

---

Echoes of 2018? Follow-up on Woolworths explosions
Technews Publishing News & Events Security Services & Risk Management Retail (Industry) Facilities & Building Management
SMART Security Solutions follows up with Jimmy Roodt to find out more about an old connection to the Woolworths bombings from 2018. The investigation remains ongoing.

Read more...

---

Containerised Solar Solution Accelerates Delivery of Riverside 3 MW Power Plant
Proconics System Integration & Control Systems Design
Proconics was engaged by NewFields to deliver the electrical integration solution for the Riverside 3 MW Solar Power Plant in Zimbabwe. The project required a compact, modular approach that could simplify deployment, minimise site works, and support rapid commissioning in a remote location.

Read more...

---

Modern Energy Metering Solution Enhances Reliability and Reporting for Major Power Utility
SAM Systems Automation & Management System Integration & Control Systems Design
This project involved the implementation of a modern energy metering system for a major power utility operating within the industrial automation and energy management sector. The objective was to improve the reliability, accessibility, and accuracy of energy data while simplifying infrastructure and reducing system complexity.

Read more...

---

PCS Global
PCS Global System Integration & Control Systems Design
PCS Global led a digital infrastructure initiative in a southern African data centre setting, aiming to merge several essential operational systems into one cohesive platform. The objective was to break down silos, enable real-time decisions, and ensure seamless operation in a mission-critical environment.

Read more...

---

Seamless migration from ET 200M to ET 200SP HA for future-ready automation
Moore Process Controls System Integration & Control Systems Design
Moore Process Controls undertook a modernisation initiative spanning the mining, petrochemical, and oil & gas sectors. This project involved upgrading legacy Siemens ET200M I/O systems to the advanced ET200SP HA platform.

Read more...

---

Proconics Modernises Refinery Tank Automation with Compliance-Focused, Brownfield Upgrades
Proconics System Integration & Control Systems Design
Project & Industry Proconics was engaged to modernise automation and SCADA systems across a refinery tank farm. The project involved complex brownfield integration, aligning new automation with existing ...

Read more...

---

Project & Industry
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Project: Upgrading essential automation and SCADA systems at a coal mine.    Outcome: A modern, stable automation and SCADA environment with reduced technical debt and easier support, ready for expansion. ...

Read more...

---