Twenty-one this year
SA Instrumentation and Control has been around for 21 years, and there has been great excitement at Technews as we have been looking back to where we came from and where we are heading. I have been with Technews for around seven of those 21 years, and it has been a wonderful experience to work with such a dedicated group of professionals - and having the privilege of getting to see some fascinating developments.
Digital paper
I see that Siemens has also entered the realm of 'digital paper'. The first time I recall hearing about this technology, the excitement was all about something known as E-Ink. The concept is a display device that is as thin as paper, uses very little power and offers the same contrast advantages as printed paper - with the big plus of being able to be written to electronically. It is fascinating to hear how full-colour, hi-resolution live graphics could one day grace the newspapers and magazines. The technology has some way to go until we see any volumes of this magical paper. It would probably be a long time before it can compare with what can be done with the latest LCD techniques. No doubt we will be seeing some industrial applications for this technology too. Search the web for 'digital paper' and you will find more on this subject.
Pinto's new book
Jim Pinto, known for his commentary on industrial technology and technology trends, has recently produced another of his books. Some may recall the review included in a past issue of SA Instrumentation and Control. We shall be including a review of Jim's latest book 'Pinto's Points' in a future issue. If you do not already subscribe to Jim Pinto's regular eNews, I suggest you visit www.jimpinto.com. It is great stuff for those wanting to keep up to date with the latest happenings on the big names in the industry. At times somewhat irreverent, his commentary is as entertaining as it is informative.
This month's highlights
This month we continue with Maurice McDowell's article on the future of nuclear power ('Nuclear power is here to stay - Part 2'). Interesting to see that SA with its pebble bed research is a leader in advancing nuclear power technology to a state that is more modular, scaleable and safer than techniques used by most others. These developments are bound to offer opportunities for local I&C companies that are on the ball. For those audiophiles among us, Denver Technical Products is looking at building a limited run of vintage valve amplifiers. See 'Valve amp nostalgia'.
Enjoy!
John Gibbs - editor, john@technews.co.za
Online business directories:
Instrumentation & Control: www.ibg.co.za
Hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical drives, etc: www.mcbg.co.za
Electronic components: www.ebg.co.za
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