Digital user interfaces

November 2001 System Integration & Control Systems Design

Distramodal is offering its Model 350 digital indicator intended for use in general industrial weighing, system integration and process control. Available in a black powder-coated, die-cast zinc or brushed stainless steel case, the device features an LED/LCD display with a selectable full scale from 0 to 999 9990. It has a 20 bit A/D converter with a 60 Hz update rate.

Power requirements are 12 to 26 V a.c./12 to 36 V d.c. (zinc die cast enclosure) and 90 to 250 V a.c./12 to 36 V d.c for the stainless steel version. There is an LED enunciator for status indication, a learn mode, with selectable operation. A three-relay output module is available as an optional addition. For manual input, there is a five button membrane keypad.

Communications are provided via RS232, RS585 or 2 to 20 mA current loop. The output data string offers 11 selectable fixed-format transmissions, and one custom format, which is programmable via the RS232 port. Comms. protocol is selectable, and the data transfer rate is from 150 to 9600 bps.

Other options include an analog output module (0 to 10 V d.c. 0/4 to 20 mA). Optically coupled for electrical isolation, it mounts outside of the case. The unit may be set up for portable applications with battery power - this option would include the battery and charging circuit. The RS485 module offers isolated multi-drop with a maximum of 251 devices, and half or full duplex over distances of up to 1219 m, with a data transfer rate of up to 115 Kbps.

Distrimodal

(035) 797 5920

[email protected]

Further reading:

Seamless underground-to-surface truck automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Epiroc has extended its autonomous underground mine trucks to operate in surface environments, using 3D lidar for localisation, mapping and obstacle detection. A single Deep Automation system can now manage the full hauling cycle, from underground production areas to surface dumping locations.

Read more...

---

The Eplan Platform 2027 has arrived
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Eplan Platform 2027 is now live, bringing more than 500 enhancements across pre-planning, electrical engineering and control cabinet design, along with the new Eplan Copilot AI assistant and cloud-based, bidirectionally synchronised device management.

Read more...

---

Extending the life of a Milacron 500 through control system modernisation
Abacus Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
A complex control system modernisation has given a mechanically sound Milacron 500 injection moulding machine a new lease of life. By replacing obsolete SCADA and hydraulic motion control technology, the project improved reliability and maintainability while minimising downtime and avoiding the cost of a new machine.

Read more...

---

Grid connection design for solar IPP in De Aar
System Integration & Control Systems Design
   De Aar Grid Connection Design Grid Connection Design for De Aar Solar IPP    Project & Industry NewFields was engaged to provide the concept and detailed design for the grid connection of a solar Independent ...

Read more...

---

How certified industrial automation channels become co-creators in the AI era
Schneider Electric South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
As industrial automation becomes software-driven and AI-enabled, the role of channel partners is shifting from equipment supply to outcome-based consulting, software integration and lifecycle services that require continuous certification and capability development.

Read more...

---

Why integration defines the next competitive edge in pulp and paper
System Integration & Control Systems Design
ABB’s Arvin Ramjee argues that fragmented automation, assembled from different suppliers at different stages of a plant’s lifecycle has become one of the pulp and paper industry’s most overlooked commercial risks, and that true integration, rather than surface-level connectivity, is what delivers measurable business value.

Read more...

---

Integrated automation enhances water treatment at dairy facility
Process Dynamics System Integration & Control Systems Design
Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and reverse osmosis system at a major South African dairy processing facility, achieving a 50% reduction in the client’s water utility costs.

Read more...

---

Intelligent process control is reshaping cement production in Africa
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Advanced process control, predictive analytics and automation are helping African cement producers cut energy use and stabilise output as they contend with rising electricity costs and tighter margins.

Read more...

---

Schneider Electric’s Alliance Programme turns system integrators into trusted technology partners
Schneider Electric South Africa System Integration & Control Systems Design
: Schneider Electric’s Alliance Partner Programme is helping system integrators across Africa move beyond one-off projects and build the skills and service models needed to become long-term industrial technology partners.

Read more...

---

Process Dynamics – Integrated Automation for Dairy Water Treatment
Process Dynamics System Integration & Control Systems Design
   Project and industry Process Dynamics delivered the electrical, instrumentation, control and automation integration for an advanced water treatment and Reverse Osmosis (RO) system at one of South Africa’s ...

Read more...

---