Another great evening was had by all those that attended Tuesday's SAIMC CT Branch meeting. We even had an attendee from Bredasdorp with us for the night. It was great to meet up with Danie from so far away after previous telephonic support from him earlier in the year - thanks Danie.
Clive Maasch and the somewhat silenced (bit of a throat problem) Allen Peterson from SSE Data Networks gave a presentation on telemetry systems. Clive talked to us about the various network types and protocols as well as new emerging standards. Clive explained the differences between radio trunking, more traditional radio network and cellphone networks. Clive also gave mention to cable type telemetry networks.
Clive talked about the various different types of remote terminal units (RTUs) available and why and how they have evolved over the years. Allen explained the difficulties and complexities involved in the communications protocols used in telemetry versus more typical industrial cable applications. Clive explained the typical applications and uses of the different types and where you would typically employ one network against another. An interesting point about the new technologies and communications being used is that none of them were around or available as little as 10 years ago!
SSE Data Networks talked about the use and implementation of scada and information systems combined with telemetry.
The evening was finished off with a great social get-together after the presentation and despite the inclement CT weather, all those that attended were, as usual, pleased they had made the effort.
A subject that is being predominantly addressed by SAIMC at council level is that of technician ability and education. The SAIMC provide these branch meetings as part of addressing this very obvious need throughout the country. By becoming a member, you help to keep this facility 'alive'. Why not take advantage immediately of the half price membership and help to keep this institute and its many benefits to you going. Please download the simple application form from the following URL, send off or mail back to me and be a contributing part of this institute and what it stands for: www.saimc.org.za/html/membership.html
There is a great deal of regularly updated information relating to the institute and the industry on the website and for those of you that have not taken a look, see if you can spot yourself at last years golf day here: www.saimc.org.za/html/cape_town.html#GolfPics
For those of you that were not there, have a good laugh at those that were (albeit windswept). This brings me to let you all know now to book your diary for 1 Dec, when our 2002 golf day will take place. Details will be forthcoming.
Speak to you all soon and hope to provide some exciting news following the upcoming SAIMC council meeting in Jhb next week.
Derwyn Oxley
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