Sale for initial 2 mln euros
* To be left with just contract manufacturing business
* To rename itself Connect Group
(Adds details from company statement)
BRUSSELS, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Belgium electronics firm IPTE (IPTE.BR) will sell its loss-making automation division for an initial 2 million euros to two key shareholders in a total transformation of the company, which will be renamed Connect Group.
The sale, subject to shareholder approval in the first quarter of 2010, will be for an initial 2 million euros and further payments dependant on performance until December 2012, the company said in a statement issued on Monday.
IPTE said it would sell the business, which sets up and tests systems for printed circuit boards, to company founder Huub Baren, which currently holds 30.23 percent of IPTE, according to the company's website, and Vladimir Dobosch, which holds 3.71 percent.
The transfer will lead to a one-off loss in the fourth quarter of this year of between 17 million and 18 million euros, IPTE said.
IPTE said last month it was looking at measures to improve its automation division, which had been thrown off course in its expansion plans by the global economic downturn.
IPTE as a whole made a net loss of 6.6 million euros ($9.5 million) in the first nine months of 2009.
The remainder of the company, which is in contract manufacturing, with such customers as Philips Electronics (PHG.AS) and Alstom (ALSO.PA), had 2008 turnover of 166 million euros and, apart from 2001, has been constantly profitable.
IPTE said it planned to change its name to Connect Group, which will remain listed on Euronext.
IPTE said banks had agreed to continue their support after the automation sale. The company plans to reinforce its balance sheet in early 2010 by issuing a subordinated convertible debenture of between 2 million and 5 million euros.
IPTE said it would have the right to share a capital gain if the automation division were sold to a third party within the next two years.
As a guarantee of payments, the acquirers had granted IPTE a call option on their shareholdings at 2.86 euros if the shares were trading at that level or above, or at the highest bid price for the share if the shares were trading below 2.86 euros.
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSLDE5BK0EQ20091221
Friday, December 25, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
CPMC and China high precision IPOs raise a combined USD 267 million
It is reported that CPMC encounters high levels of demand as two smaller cap companies succeed in raising capital.
Two Chinese small cap companies priced their Hong Kong initial public offerings raising a combined HKD 2.07 billion. Metal packaging company CPMC Holdings raised HKD 1.07 billion and China High Precision Automation Group tapped the market for HKD 1 billion.
CPMC sold 200 million primary shares at HKD 5.39 apiece the top of an indicative range that started at HKD 3.85. Retail investors flocked to the deal with the Hong Kong public offer approximately 200 times covered. This triggered the largest possible clawback and left 50% of the total offering in the hands of individual investors, up from the initial 10%. There were also three cornerstone investors who together took 16.5% of the deal. They were China Resources Company, CCB International Asset Management and JDB, which is also the company main customer.
So there wasn't much left for institutions the remaining 33.5% of the deal, approximately USD 46 million worth of shares, was split between 130 accounts. The institutional tranche was 60 times covered leading to a situation where a number of investors had their orders scaled back. All geographical regions were well represented.
One source said the company was popular for a couple of reasons.
1. Investors saw its key product metal containers as a proxy for Chinese consumption; if people buy more packaged products, CPMC will need to produce more containers.
2. International investors were comfortable with the company main shareholder, Cofco Group one of China largest food businesses which has a reputation for strong corporate governance.
The final price values the company at 18.6 times 2010 projected earnings. There are no direct comparables listed in Hong Kong, although some research reports compared CPMC to Hong Kong listed Chinese companies in the food and beverage sector, such as Tingyi Holdings and Want Want China which are trading at price-to-earnings multiples of around 15 times and 18 times respectively. There is also a US company in the same industry, Ball Corporation, which trades at around 12 times 2010 projected earnings.
The other company to price CHP raised HKD 1 billion. It is in the business of producing high precision industrial automation instruments, with a focus on the middle and high end of the market. Its main products are detectors, indicators and controllers. It also has a horological division, making the parts used in quartz watches.
CHP sold 250 million shares at HKD 4 each, in the bottom half of its indicative range of HKD 3.50 to HKD 4.80 a share. The final price left the book multiply times covered with an international investor base consisting mostly of long-only funds.
One of CHP main selling points was that it is not particularly exposed to one particular sector it sells instruments used in optics, healthcare, vehicles, industrial automation and electronics. And if, as some analysts believe, China manufacturing sector is becoming more sophisticated, CHP should perform well, because it will supply manufacturers in need of precision parts.
Both of these IPOs are relatively small companies in niche industries that are taking advantage of the rebounding markets to raise capital. And when it comes to aftermarket performance, such companies have performed somewhat better than their larger competitors.
http://steelguru.com/news/index/2009/11/14/MTIwMzE3/CPMC_and_China_high_precision_IPOs_raise_a_combined_USD_267_million.html
Two Chinese small cap companies priced their Hong Kong initial public offerings raising a combined HKD 2.07 billion. Metal packaging company CPMC Holdings raised HKD 1.07 billion and China High Precision Automation Group tapped the market for HKD 1 billion.
CPMC sold 200 million primary shares at HKD 5.39 apiece the top of an indicative range that started at HKD 3.85. Retail investors flocked to the deal with the Hong Kong public offer approximately 200 times covered. This triggered the largest possible clawback and left 50% of the total offering in the hands of individual investors, up from the initial 10%. There were also three cornerstone investors who together took 16.5% of the deal. They were China Resources Company, CCB International Asset Management and JDB, which is also the company main customer.
So there wasn't much left for institutions the remaining 33.5% of the deal, approximately USD 46 million worth of shares, was split between 130 accounts. The institutional tranche was 60 times covered leading to a situation where a number of investors had their orders scaled back. All geographical regions were well represented.
One source said the company was popular for a couple of reasons.
1. Investors saw its key product metal containers as a proxy for Chinese consumption; if people buy more packaged products, CPMC will need to produce more containers.
2. International investors were comfortable with the company main shareholder, Cofco Group one of China largest food businesses which has a reputation for strong corporate governance.
The final price values the company at 18.6 times 2010 projected earnings. There are no direct comparables listed in Hong Kong, although some research reports compared CPMC to Hong Kong listed Chinese companies in the food and beverage sector, such as Tingyi Holdings and Want Want China which are trading at price-to-earnings multiples of around 15 times and 18 times respectively. There is also a US company in the same industry, Ball Corporation, which trades at around 12 times 2010 projected earnings.
The other company to price CHP raised HKD 1 billion. It is in the business of producing high precision industrial automation instruments, with a focus on the middle and high end of the market. Its main products are detectors, indicators and controllers. It also has a horological division, making the parts used in quartz watches.
CHP sold 250 million shares at HKD 4 each, in the bottom half of its indicative range of HKD 3.50 to HKD 4.80 a share. The final price left the book multiply times covered with an international investor base consisting mostly of long-only funds.
One of CHP main selling points was that it is not particularly exposed to one particular sector it sells instruments used in optics, healthcare, vehicles, industrial automation and electronics. And if, as some analysts believe, China manufacturing sector is becoming more sophisticated, CHP should perform well, because it will supply manufacturers in need of precision parts.
Both of these IPOs are relatively small companies in niche industries that are taking advantage of the rebounding markets to raise capital. And when it comes to aftermarket performance, such companies have performed somewhat better than their larger competitors.
http://steelguru.com/news/index/2009/11/14/MTIwMzE3/CPMC_and_China_high_precision_IPOs_raise_a_combined_USD_267_million.html
Friday, November 6, 2009
Intelligent Living Appointed Distributor of Home Automation Inc. Energy Conservation and Automation Products in Turkey
Intelligent Living Corp. ("ILVC"), (OTCBB: ILVC), a leading automation and technology solutions provider, utilizing green building practices, announced today that Home Automation Inc. (HAI) has appointed ILVC as their distributor for the Turkish market.
ILVC, through their Turkish partners, Kilia Teknoloji (www.akilliyasam.biz) is now distributing HAI products and providing technology know-how for energy conservation and automation projects in Turkey, including custom designed user interfaces.
"HAI's leading technology plus our capability to provide customized Turkish language display capability definitely give us a market leading solution," noted Murat Erbatur, P.Eng. COO of Intelligent Living. "HAI's Automation Studio software combined with the customizable user interface capability of their new 5.7 and 10 inch touchscreens, enables us to offer user interfaces in the Turkish and middle eastern languages. These features make us unique and greatly improve the appeal of our all-in-one automation control and entertainment systems in this very active market."
ILVC is also working with Smart Home Technologies Ltd. located in Israel which is developing Universal Power Buss light switches under license from PCS that are compatible with HAI controllers for use in 240v markets.
About ILVC (www.intelligent-living.us): Intelligent Living Corp, utilizing green building practices, specializes in designing, supplying, installing, upgrading and servicing home and commercial automation systems including: energy use monitoring and control, security, occupancy monitoring and access control, lighting and HVAC control, and distributed audio/video systems. The Company utilizes wire and wireless technology, and offers traditional component and Windows Media PC based architecture. ILVC, a member of the Canadian Green Building Council, has supplied custom IT solutions since 1994 and automation solutions since 2003. The Company has offices and demonstration suites in Phoenix and Vancouver.
About HAI (www.homeauto.com): HAI (Home Automation, Inc.) is a privately held manufacturer of integrated automation and security products for residential and commercial use based in New Orleans, LA. Incorporated in 1985, HAI has developed a full line of award-winning automation products, including home control systems, programmable communicating thermostats, smart light switches, Whole Home Audio systems, video surveillance equipment, touchscreen interfaces, and software that allow access and control of an automation system over the Internet. All products are sold through HAI's worldwide network of Distribution Partners and installed by trained dealers in over 80 countries.
About Kilia (www.kiliateknoloji.com.tr): Founded in 1988, Kilia Teknoloji is a leading supplier of state-of-the-art integrated security management systems, access control system and engineered EMI/EMC filter systems for secured telemetry to both Governments and industry. Kilia was responsible for the design, installation and commissioning of a high security remote monitoring and telemetry system at four of Turkey's international port facilities and recently completed installing access monitoring and home automation utilizing Moeller's Xcomfort system at the Gokturk Palm multi-unit residence development in Istanbul. Kilia is a member of ASIA International (www.asisonline.org) and is the exclusive agent for LCR Electronics in Turkey.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains statements, which may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Intelligent Living, Inc., and members of their management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include fluctuation of operating results, the ability to compete successfully and the ability to complete before-mentioned transactions. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0556008.htm
ILVC, through their Turkish partners, Kilia Teknoloji (www.akilliyasam.biz) is now distributing HAI products and providing technology know-how for energy conservation and automation projects in Turkey, including custom designed user interfaces.
"HAI's leading technology plus our capability to provide customized Turkish language display capability definitely give us a market leading solution," noted Murat Erbatur, P.Eng. COO of Intelligent Living. "HAI's Automation Studio software combined with the customizable user interface capability of their new 5.7 and 10 inch touchscreens, enables us to offer user interfaces in the Turkish and middle eastern languages. These features make us unique and greatly improve the appeal of our all-in-one automation control and entertainment systems in this very active market."
ILVC is also working with Smart Home Technologies Ltd. located in Israel which is developing Universal Power Buss light switches under license from PCS that are compatible with HAI controllers for use in 240v markets.
About ILVC (www.intelligent-living.us): Intelligent Living Corp, utilizing green building practices, specializes in designing, supplying, installing, upgrading and servicing home and commercial automation systems including: energy use monitoring and control, security, occupancy monitoring and access control, lighting and HVAC control, and distributed audio/video systems. The Company utilizes wire and wireless technology, and offers traditional component and Windows Media PC based architecture. ILVC, a member of the Canadian Green Building Council, has supplied custom IT solutions since 1994 and automation solutions since 2003. The Company has offices and demonstration suites in Phoenix and Vancouver.
About HAI (www.homeauto.com): HAI (Home Automation, Inc.) is a privately held manufacturer of integrated automation and security products for residential and commercial use based in New Orleans, LA. Incorporated in 1985, HAI has developed a full line of award-winning automation products, including home control systems, programmable communicating thermostats, smart light switches, Whole Home Audio systems, video surveillance equipment, touchscreen interfaces, and software that allow access and control of an automation system over the Internet. All products are sold through HAI's worldwide network of Distribution Partners and installed by trained dealers in over 80 countries.
About Kilia (www.kiliateknoloji.com.tr): Founded in 1988, Kilia Teknoloji is a leading supplier of state-of-the-art integrated security management systems, access control system and engineered EMI/EMC filter systems for secured telemetry to both Governments and industry. Kilia was responsible for the design, installation and commissioning of a high security remote monitoring and telemetry system at four of Turkey's international port facilities and recently completed installing access monitoring and home automation utilizing Moeller's Xcomfort system at the Gokturk Palm multi-unit residence development in Istanbul. Kilia is a member of ASIA International (www.asisonline.org) and is the exclusive agent for LCR Electronics in Turkey.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains statements, which may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Intelligent Living, Inc., and members of their management as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include fluctuation of operating results, the ability to compete successfully and the ability to complete before-mentioned transactions. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results.
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0556008.htm
Friday, October 23, 2009
47th Design Automation Conference Announces Calls for Submissions to Technical Program
Deadlines Begin on October 26, 2009 LOUISVILLE, Colo.--(Business Wire)-- The 47th Design Automation Conference (DAC), the premier conference devoted to electronic design and design automation (EDA), has opened the first Call for Contributions to the technical program. The 47th DAC will be held at the Anaheim Convention Center, in Anaheim, California from June 13-18, 2010. IC designers, application engineers, design flow developers, vendor-customer teams and students are invited to submit proposals for eight different areas of the technical program enumerated below. DAC is also accepting proposals for workshops and co-located events. Special Session Suggestions: DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, October 26, 2009 DAC invites suggestions for special sessions, which consist of technical contributions devoted to a topic of strong contemporary or future interest. The topic of a special session must represent an emerging area that does not yet receive sufficient focus from research papers. Suggestions must include descriptions of the proposed papers and speakers as well as the importance of the special session to the DAC audience. See Special Session submission guidelines at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47th_DAC_SpecialSession_Guidelines.pdf Panel and Tutorial Suggestions: DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, October 26, 2009 Suggestions for panels and tutorials should not exceed two pages, should describe the topic and intended audience, and should include a list of suggested participants. Tutorial suggestions must include a bulleted outline of covered topics. See the Full-day Tutorial Submission guidelines at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47th_DAC_FullDay_Tutorial_Submission_Guidelines.pdf User Track Presentations: Extended Abstracts DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, January 18, 2010 User Track Presentations address the real-life issues facing IC designers, application engineers, and design flow developers, providing valuable insights and experiences with in-house or commercial EDA tool flows. Presentations may describe the application of EDA tools to the design of a novel electronic system or the integration of EDA tools within a design flow or methodology to produce such systems. Initial submissions are in the form of a two-page extended abstract. Final submissions will be in the form of a PowerPoint presentation and an optional paper. User Track authors will not be required to sign a copyright release form. See details and submission categories at http://www.dac.com/47th/UTinfo.html Research Papers: DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, November 19, 2009 Original research papers are solicited from industry and the research/academic community. While submissions in all areas of design automation are welcome, DAC specifically solicits research papers in the areas of multicore/many core architectures, system prototyping technology and embedded software design and debug. Submissions must not identify the author(s) by their name(s) or affiliation(s) anywhere on the manuscript or abstract, with all references to the author(s)`s own previous work or affiliations in the bibliographic citations being in the third person. All research papers will be reviewed as finished papers. Authors of accepted papers must sign a copyright release form for their paper. See submission topic categories at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47DAC_CFP.pdf See format and submission guidelines at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47th_DAC_Research_Paper_Guidelines.pdf Wild and Crazy Ideas (WACI) Papers DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, November 19, 2009 WACI Papers cover interesting activities on a wide variety of topics that do not fit in the conventional mold. The WACI track features novel (and even preliminary or unproven) technical ideas. The aim of WACI is to promote revolutionary and "way-out" ideas that inspire discussion among conference attendees, create a buzz, and get people talking. Submissions should not exceed two pages, but must otherwise follow the rules and deadlines for the research papers. Unlike a DAC research paper that explores a specific technology problem and proposes a complete solution to it, with extensive experimental results, a WACI paper could present less developed but highly innovative ideas related to areas relevant to DAC. All WACI accepted papers will be required to post a two-minute video describing the work as part of the acceptance process. See submission details at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47th_DAC_WACI_Submission_Guidelines.pdf Student Design Contest Submissions: DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, November 25, 2009 Jointly sponsored by ISSCC and DAC, the contest promotes excellence in the design of electronic systems within an academic environment and provides a forum in which undergraduate/graduate students` ingenuity can be shared with an audience of academic/industrial technical experts. The winners will present their designs through posters at ISSCC 2010 and DAC 2010. Designs may be targeted towards analog, digital, MEMS, optics, biological, or programmable circuits and embedded systems/platforms in any of the three categories: operational, system level, or conceptual. See submission details at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47th_SDC_Submission_Guidelines.pdf Workshops: DUE BEFORE 5:00pm MT, January 29, 2010 Workshops focus on topics related to design, design methodologies, and design automation. See submission topic categories at http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47DAC_CFP.pdf For additional information on all submissions, please see http://www.dac.com/47th/PDFs/47DAC_CFP.pdf About DAC The Design Automation Conference (DAC) is recognized as the premier event for the design of electronic circuits and systems, and for Electronic Design Automation (EDA) and silicon solutions. A diverse worldwide community representing more than 1,000 organizations attends each year, represented by system designers and architects, logic and circuit designers, validation engineers, CAD managers, senior managers and executives to researchers and academicians from leading universities. Close to 60 technical sessions selected by a committee of electronic design experts offer information on recent developments and trends, management practices and new products, methodologies and technologies. A highlight of DAC is its Exhibition and Suite area with approximately 200 of the leading and emerging EDA, silicon, IP and design services providers. The conference is sponsored by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Electronic Design Automation Consortium (EDA Consortium), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and is supported by ACM's Special Interest Group on Design Automation (SIGDA) and IEEE's Council on Electronic Design Automation (CEDA). More details are available at: www.dac.com. Design Automation Conference acknowledges trademarks or registered trademarks of
other organizations for their respective products and services.
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS183725+21-Oct-2009+BW20091021
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Start-Up Electronics Marketplace Aims to Thwart Counterfeits
An online marketplace for high-tech electronics will launch tomorrow with a strategy to filter out counterfeit parts and offer anonymous, secure transactions to buyers and sellers in the secondary market.
Verical, a start-up backed by venture capital firmValhalla , qualifies the sellers in its network and audits the inventory in its Web-based catalog, assigning a rating to each part based on its chain of custody , or pedigree. This enables sellers to turn their excess inventories into cash, and buyers to know just what they’re getting, co-founder John Brown, vice president of marketing & strategy, told Managing Automation in a recent interview.
The online marketplace can help manufacturers deal with ever-changing forecasts and resulting parts shortages, Chris Cookson, vice president of supply chain and operations at the company, told MA in an interview. The primary supplier channel may not be able to react quickly enough, especially as the market starts to recover from the downturn. Generally, “about 40% of purchasing’s time is spent scouring 1% of parts,” he said. “We provide a safe source of parts, available on demand, and we execute transactions quickly through our automated system.”
The catalog is built on a so-called rich Internet application, Brown said. A buyer can find out “in a few seconds” what parts are available, along with date codes, lot codes, prices, and features. Verical can automatically upload data from Excel spreadsheets to the online catalog, company executives said.
Brown and co-founder Josef Ruef, CEO, came up with the idea for Verical in response to the threat to the supply chain by counterfeit parts that, more and more, were passing visual inspections and even initial testing.
“The secondary market is being exploited by fraudsters and profiteers,” Ruef said in a statement.
The founders reasoned that using chain of custody information and “allowing only first owners to sell would block out an entry point for counterfeiters and would give buyers confidence,” Brown said. “This is an extension of the primary market.”
Of the $600 billion annual market forelectronic components , the time-critical segment is roughly $22 billion, of which about $12 billion is serviced by unauthorized distributors and 13% of which is counterfeit, according to Verical’s statement, citing figures from electronics industry trade association IPC.
Under Verical’s rating system, a product with four stars comes directly from or is traceable to the component manufacturer. A three-star rating indicates that a component comes directly from or is traceable to an authorized distributor. Two stars mean that the seller is a member of the Verical community and has a purchase order listing an authorized distributor or the original manufacturer. A product with one star comes from an OEM or electronics manufacturing service (EMS) member of the community.
Verical takes a commission on all sales. The company processes orders and passes them through to the sellers. Components are delivered by Verical’s third-party logistics partners to preserve both buyers’ and sellers’ anonymity.
For sellers, Cookson said in a statement, “writing off excess inventory equals lost revenue. Typically, sellers of excess inventory get 4% to 8% return. Today, in the Verical Marketplace, they’re getting eight to 10 times that, with the average seller recovering 60% of the historical cost.”
Before co-founding Verical, Brown worked at theCorporate Executive Board presenting management best practices to senior executive teams of Global 2000 companies. He also worked at the Department of Homeland Security on a data-sharing platform. Ruef was a member of the start-up executive team at Velocity Electronics, where he oversaw brand development, sales, and quality control. He also served as a consultant to Trading Hubs (later known as eHitex), the electronics industry’s first-generation HP-led B2B marketplace.
http://www.managingautomation.com/maonline/news/read/StartUp_Electronics_Marketplace_Aims_to_Thwart_Counterfeits_33087
Verical, a start-up backed by venture capital firm
The online marketplace can help manufacturers deal with ever-changing forecasts and resulting parts shortages, Chris Cookson, vice president of supply chain and operations at the company, told MA in an interview. The primary supplier channel may not be able to react quickly enough, especially as the market starts to recover from the downturn. Generally, “about 40% of purchasing’s time is spent scouring 1% of parts,” he said. “We provide a safe source of parts, available on demand, and we execute transactions quickly through our automated system.”
The catalog is built on a so-called rich Internet application, Brown said. A buyer can find out “in a few seconds” what parts are available, along with date codes, lot codes, prices, and features. Verical can automatically upload data from Excel spreadsheets to the online catalog, company executives said.
Brown and co-founder Josef Ruef, CEO, came up with the idea for Verical in response to the threat to the supply chain by counterfeit parts that, more and more, were passing visual inspections and even initial testing.
“The secondary market is being exploited by fraudsters and profiteers,” Ruef said in a statement.
The founders reasoned that using chain of custody information and “allowing only first owners to sell would block out an entry point for counterfeiters and would give buyers confidence,” Brown said. “This is an extension of the primary market.”
Of the $600 billion annual market for
Under Verical’s rating system, a product with four stars comes directly from or is traceable to the component manufacturer. A three-star rating indicates that a component comes directly from or is traceable to an authorized distributor. Two stars mean that the seller is a member of the Verical community and has a purchase order listing an authorized distributor or the original manufacturer. A product with one star comes from an OEM or electronics manufacturing service (EMS) member of the community.
Verical takes a commission on all sales. The company processes orders and passes them through to the sellers. Components are delivered by Verical’s third-party logistics partners to preserve both buyers’ and sellers’ anonymity.
For sellers, Cookson said in a statement, “writing off excess inventory equals lost revenue. Typically, sellers of excess inventory get 4% to 8% return. Today, in the Verical Marketplace, they’re getting eight to 10 times that, with the average seller recovering 60% of the historical cost.”
Before co-founding Verical, Brown worked at the
http://www.managingautomation.com/maonline/news/read/StartUp_Electronics_Marketplace_Aims_to_Thwart_Counterfeits_33087
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Rockleigh electronics firm tapped to create high-end mobile office
Customized Mercedes-Benz van equipped with office technology.
Creston Electronics, in Rockleigh, said Tuesday it partnered with Becker Automotive Design, in Oxnard, Calif., to develop a high-end mobile office for luxury transport vehicles. Creston is a maker of control and automation systems, including computer and Internet protocol systems. Becker customizes chauffeur-driven luxury vehicles.The companies are upgrading Cadillac Escalade ESV sport utility vehicles and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans with high-speed wireless communications, satellite television reception, flat-panel screens, and other audio and video amenities.
When equipped, the vehicles offer mobile Web browsing, video conferencing and other options for business connectivity.
Other creature comforts include Blu-ray video players, iPods and a home theater style audio-video system.
http://www.njbiz.com/article.asp?aID=79076
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Global site unites industrial automation
Industrial automation web portal is designed to ensure that customers receive consistent information wherever their operations are based.
Omron has set up a new global portal website for its industrial automation business which has been designed to ensure that its customers receive consistent information wherever their operations are based, and to further enhance Omron's visibility on the Internet.
The portal reflects the global nature of Omron's industrial automation business, which has sales and service bases in locations throughout the world, with roughly half of its sales generated outside of its home base in Japan.
This global growth has been supported by highly localised service delivery, in which Omron's country-specific, local-language websites have played a crucial role.
As Omron supports some of the world's largest manufacturers, the company is committed to provide a standardised and uniform service to its global customers.
Designed as a "one-stop-shop" for the latest information in English, the portal provides details on Omron's full range of industrial automation products and services, and also their stock availability around the world.
A key feature of the portal is an intuitive search system designed to help customers easily navigate around the wealth of information available.
The site also connects potential and existing customers to Omron's regional websites via an easy-to-navigate map on its top page.
All UK enquiries received through the portal site will be immediately redirected to Omron Electronics in the UK and answered by UK staff.
To ensure the portal is useful and relevant to users, Omron's Industrial Automation Global Service Centre based in Japan will analyse local enquiries for valuable customer insights that can be reflected in future product design and customer.http://www.engineeringtalk.com/news/omr/omr228.html
Friday, July 31, 2009
Automation controller
The iPAC-5010 is powered by Artila's M-501 SoM, which is equipped with an Atmel AT91RM9200, 180MHz ARM9 RISC SoC, onboard 64Mbyte SDRAM, 16Mbyte Flash memory, and Linux 2.6 OS pre-installed.
Artila Electronics has released the iPAC-5010 ARM9-based, Linux-ready, programmable automation controller.
The iPAC-5010, featuring both a reliable ARM9 SoC and Linux operating system, is suitable for facility management, remote device monitoring, building automation, and machine control.
The iPAC-5010 is powered by Artila's M-501 SoM (System on Module) which is equipped with an Atmel AT91RM9200, 180MHz ARM9 RISC SoC, onboard 64Mbyte SDRAM, 16Mbyte Flash memory, and Linux 2.6 OS pre-installed.
Moreover, the iPAC-5010 provides 16 channels of isolated digital input to monitor the on/off status of external sensors and devices, eight channels of Darlington pair transistors to switch on/off external relays, one RS-485 to access industrial serial devices, an RS-232 for dial-up connection via a GSM/GPRS modem, two USB ports for Flash memory disks, both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, plus USB camera expansions and an SD socket are also available for mass storage expansion.
The dual 10/100Mbit/s Ethernet ports are ready for the user to implement flexible network functions such as redundant Ethernet, industrial protocols conversion, an internet gateway, and firewall/VPN.
In addition to its open Linux operating system, the iPAC-5010 also boasts a boa web server, busybox utility, and the Gnu C/C++ GLIBC tool chain.
Its DIN-RAIL mount design, wide range of 9 to 40V DC power input capability, and low power RISC SoC make the iPAC-5010 suitable for numerous industrial applications.
http://www.engineeringtalk.com/news/arz/arz103.html
Friday, July 10, 2009
German electronics automation builder revived
ACI-ecotec of St Georgen, Germany, producer of automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry, is enjoying new investment.
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
Sunday, June 7, 2009
German electronics automation builder revived
ACI-ecotec of St Georgen, Germany, producer of automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry, is enjoying new investment.
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
Saturday, May 23, 2009
NEC Electronics, Gigle Semiconductor, Intellon and SPiDCOM Joins HomePlug Powerline Alliance Board
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/2342137/-- The HomePlug Powerline Alliance, a trade association for powerline communications and promoter of global unification for powerline technologies, announced the addition of Gigle Semiconductor, Intellon, NEC Electronics and SPiDCOM Technologies to the organization's Board of Directors.
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Additionally, all four companies have signed on as Sponsor Members to the Alliance, the highest level of membership available. The group has more than 70 member companies, an installed base with over 27 million units shipped, and a certification program.
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"Gigle, Intellon, SPiDCOM and NEC truly understand the importance of HomePlug's standards-based approach to unifying the powerline communication industry," said Rob Ranck, president of the HomePlug Powerline Alliance. "Having these companies on our Board strengthens our drive to take the industry to the next level of adoption and broad consumer acceptance."
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"Powerline technology is essential to the successful rollout of HD IPTV solutions to our customers," said Fabrice Amand, livebox inlife marketing manager for France Telecom-Orange, a member and contributor to the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, ITU G.hn and IEEE P1901. "We welcome the new Board members and the recent announcements of multiple silicon sources for HomePlug, a key element for operators."
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"Reliable communication technologies are key for designers looking to develop smart-energy products, and standardization will be key to achieving mainstream adoption," said Kazu Yamada, VP, custom SOC solutions strategic business unit, NEC Electronics America. "By joining the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, NEC Electronics reaffirms its commitment to provide standardized connectivity solutions for applications in energy management such as smart metering, home area networks and building automation."
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"Gigle wholly supports the global adoption of standards and the work the HomePlug Powerline Alliance has put forth to unify the industry to create market growth and provide benefits to consumers," said Mike Wilson, VP of corporate business development for Gigle Semiconductor. "As a member of HomePlug's Board of Directors, we are looking forward to taking on an expanded role within the Alliance and participating in the creation of HomePlug's next generation 1Gbps powerline standard."
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"Intellon, a founding member of the Alliance, is a provider of powerline ICs for HomePlug 1.0 and AV-based products deployed into the IPTV/service provider, retail, consumer electronics and Smart Grid markets," said Christopher Henningsen, VP of marketing for Intellon. "We fully support interoperable HomePlug products for these segments as well as future standards that are interoperable with the installed base on HomePlug devices."
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"Joining the Board, SPiDCOM strengthens its long time technology contributions to HomePlug standards," said Frederic Onado, COO of the Europe headquartered SPiDCOM Technologies and VP EMEA of the HomePlug Alliance. "We are glad our newly released HomePlug AV chip belongs to the only multi-silicon vendor powerline ecosystem in existence."
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Gigle Semiconductor provides system-on-chip integrated circuits for multimedia home networking over any wire (including powerline, coax, and phone line) targeting applications such as IPTV, BBTV, VoD, and VoIP.
Intellon a developer and supplier of powerline communications.
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NEC Electronics specializes in semiconductor products encompassing technology solutions in for computing and broadband networking markets; system solutions for the mobile handset, PC peripheral, automotive and digital consumer markets; and multi-market solutions for a range of customer applications.
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SPiDCOM Technologies is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in integrated circuits and Linux-based software bundles for Multimedia Home Networking, EoC (Ethernet over coax), BPL Access, Smart Grid and other "any-wire" based applications (powerline, coax, phone line).
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Sunday, May 17, 2009
What Is Marketing Automation and Why Should You Care?
The term "marketing automation" is perhaps one of the most widely used, ill-defined and ambiguous terms in the marketing and sales technology landscape. Ask 10 different people how they define marketing automation 
, and you'll probably get 10 different answers.
, and you'll probably get 10 different answers. Are there marketing automation solutions? Is it a category? Is it a type of technology? Or is it just a bunch of hooey?
As an analyst, I thought it would be appropriate for me to dispel some of the myths and haziness that shroud the marketing technology landscape, particularly the use of the term "marketing automation." In my opinion, much of the uncertainty and ambiguity has stunted growth of technology that will be critical for every company to embrace in order to maintain a competitive foothold in the market. The research I have conducted has consistently shown that marketing automation technology has a direct impact on bottom-line cost reduction and top-line growth. However, before we tackle that, let's define "marketing automation."
First, a disclaimer: I do not seek to provide a new standard in the market for defining marketing automation. I wholeheartedly understand that there are other analysts, thought leaders and product marketing managers who may not agree with all the components of my definition. However, I believe the definition below will help clarify and provide structure around the concept of marketing automation and hopefully help conceptualize why automating marketing activities is of value for every organization.
Engagement Technology
I believe marketing automation is technology; it's technology that helps automate marketing management and customer engagement. In some cases marketing can be automated with formalized processes, but excluding technology, this is more marketing optimization and process. Technology can automate manual, repetitive, mundane tasks in the marketing function and therefore, in my opinion, exclusively provides the source of marketing automation.
Today, the marketing technology landscape is extremely fragmented, with hundreds of providers and an eclectic mix of solution offerings ranging from one-solution-fits-all to niche marketing channel-specific solutions. Technology providers typically automate internal marketing management processes and/or the execution of customer engagement across one or more channels. Let's look at the difference between automating marketing management and customer engagement:
* Marketing Management Automation. This encompasses automation of internal marketing processes. These might include things like budgeting and planning, workflow and approvals, the marketing calendar, internal collaboration, digital asset creation and management, and essentially everything that supports the operational efficiency of the internal marketing function.
* Customer Engagement Automation. This encompasses automation across one or more marketing channels: email, the Web site, microsites, direct mail, and dozens of marketing channels. In other words, the technology helps automate the process of engaging with customers across one or more channels. This might include setting up an email campaign, sending it out, and tracking performance; or creating a new landing page with a form capture element; or more importantly, managing communication with a prospect across multiple channels (email, the Web site, microsites), and tracking their behavior to identify the relative propensity to purchase.
The line between marketing management and customer engagement is a bit of a gray area, and technology providers that deliver marketing automation typically automate elements of each. However, the definition above leaves room for the email marketing vendor that delivers only basic email campaign capabilities. An automated email marketing solution with basic email automation would mostly fall under "customer engagement," which technically is marketing automation. While it can be difficult to see the term "marketing automation" smattered throughout vendor Web sites and collateral, I think splitting it between marketing management and customer engagement helps clarify exactly how each technology solution will be of value depending on the type of activities it automates for the marketing function.
At this point, it's pretty obvious that marketing automation is a category, not necessarily a uniquely defined technology with a specific set of features that are consistent across all technology providers. In much the same way as the word "transportation" broadly defines all types of vehicles, "marketing automation" defines the set of technologies that help automate internal processes and customer engagement.
Most companies search for technology to address a specific business pain: "need to improve internal productivity Save 50% on Microsoft Office for Mac 2008. Click here to learn more. and process"; "need to send more personalized emails"; "need a more engaging Web site"; etc. As a result, it's critical to understand the different solutions that fall under marketing automation to invest in the right technology for the organization's resources and culture.
There's one more undefined capability that the definition of marketing automation must embody. It's the notion that customer engagement (and, to a certain extent, marketing management) produces data that must be transformed into actionable insights that allow an organization to make better decisions over time.
Without a measurement and analytics component, all "automated" technology is of little more value than a car without a steering wheel. Thus, in order for any customer engagement component to be valuable, it must return actionable data that can be analyzed and benchmarked over time to consistently improve performance -- otherwise what's the point of automating in the first place? Data integration has become the foundation for extracting limitless value from marketing automation.
Why Invest in Marketing Automation?
The value of marketing automation is that it has the potential to impact the top and bottom lines of an organization. Marketing management capabilities address operational efficiency, productivity and cost savings -- the bottom line. Customer engagement helps maximize the demand for products and services -- the top line. Isn't that what every CMO wants -- some way to measurably quantify and justify the tangible impact marketing has on the top and bottom line in one easy-to-use solution? This is the driving force behind adoption of marketing technology.
However, 89 percent of organizations still struggle with automating the marketing function. In fact, only 23 percent of organizations in an April 2009 study from the Aberdeen Group, "Marketing Automation: A Strategic Guide for Optimizing End-To-End Marketing Activities", indicated they used an "integrated marketing platform" that centralized the marketing management and customer engagement capabilities in one solution. Research consistently demonstrates that marketing automation has a long way to go before it joins the ranks of CRM, sales force automation, and ERP More about enterprise resource planning (enterprise resource planning) in terms of widespread adoption.
Research from the customer management practice at Aberdeen Group helps define the measurable value in automating marketing activities. For example, companies that achieve the highest performance in annual revenue and return on marketing investment (also defined as "Best-in-Class" based purely on performance), were four times more likely than peers to automate customer engagement with a marketing automation solution.
Likewise, Best-in-Class were 4.7 times more likely than their peers to use an integrated solution that automated both marketing management and customer engagement. These trends suggest a discernible correlation between performance and the use of automated technology in the marketing function. However, it's important to note, Best-in-Class firms also display a unique set of organizational capabilities that allow them to extract more value from technology investments.
Despite the noted benefits, challenges abound when it comes to automating marketing activities. In the April study on marketing automation, 67 percent of the 130 respondents indicated they primarily relied on multiple siloed niche solutions for automating marketing activities. This is a huge problem for most organizations. Data silos, multiple interfaces and a general inability to holistically tie together performance and marketing leave many CMOs frustrated. Therefore, it's no surprise to see 58 percent of respondents planning on adopting an "integrated marketing solution" that delivers both marketing management and customer engagement capabilities. Only time will tell if these trends will actually translate to strategic action and purchase decisions.
For many organizations, the recession is a scary time. It hardly seems the time to make major purchase decisions about marketing automation technology investments. However, the recession might be the most forgiving time to work out new processes and add capabilities that automation will bring to the organization.
Marketing automation will be a critical component for every organization to grow market share after the recession lifts. Nobody expects stellar performance during a recession, so it's the best time to toss in a few speed bumps on top of the landslides. Again, companies that achieved the highest performance in key metrics like revenue, conversion and return on investments are more likely to use marketing automation technology. These are the organizations that are achieving the highest performance during the recession and, therefore, will be in a position to sustain a competitive advantage after the recession is over.
http://www.crmbuyer.com/story/What-Is-Marketing-Automation-and-Why-Should-You-Care-67061.html
Friday, April 24, 2009
German electronics automation builder revived
ACI-ecotec of St Georgen, Germany, producer of automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry, is enjoying new investment.
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Electronics Workbench design automation joins NI
National Instruments today announced the acquisition of Toronto-based Electronics Workbench, a leading supplier of electronics design automation software
National Instruments today announced the acquisition of Toronto, Canada-based Electronics Workbench, a leading supplier of electronics design automation software.
The Electronics Workbench flagship product, Multisim circuit simulation software, is widely used for electronic circuit design, board layout and electrical engineering training programs by companies and academic institutions including Sony, Boeing, MIT and DeVry University.
The acquisition strengthens the integration between functional test and design tools and will advance graphical system design technology.
"Our customers are not satisfied with the integration of design, simulation and test tools in the industry today," said Ray Almgren, NI Vice President of Product Marketing and Academic Relations.
"A graphical system design platform that integrates these disparate tools will increase productivity and make testing throughout the design process more seamless.
Our acquisition of Electronics Workbench is a major step forward in making this vision a reality and satisfying the needs of the design engineering community in industry and academia." For several years, Electronics Workbench and National Instruments have collaborated to integrate Multisim with the NI LabVIEW graphical development environment through downloadable software and technical resources that have helped thousands of engineers quickly design, simulate and validate electronic circuits.
The Electronics Workbench acquisition adds graphical design and simulation software to the National Instruments platform of graphical development tools.
"We migrated to Multisim last year because it is a superior tool for teaching electronic circuits and because students can use it to easily integrate their simulations into LabVIEW," said Dr Archie Holmes, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, one of the leading institutions for engineering education in the U.S.
"The complex design of current and future systems demands a higher level of integration among design, simulation and test tools.
This acquisition provides a closer link among these tools, which helps us better prepare our students to serve the growing demands of the market." NI will retain all Electronics Workbench employees and continue to operate the company as a separate entity in Toronto, Canada.
National Instruments and Electronics Workbench development teams will work to further integrate the products and knowledge of the two companies.
As a wholly owned subsidiary of NI, Electronics Workbench plans to continue to develop and offer its complete line of design automation software and directly support educational initiatives with uninterrupted support to participating schools.
http://www.processingtalk.com/news/nti/nti110.html
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
German electronics automation builder revived
ACI-ecotec of St Georgen, Germany, producer of automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry, is enjoying new investment.
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Electronics automation developments to be shown
Automation company will show equipment for small and medium volume manufacturers, from pick and place, through reflow and conveyoring to stencil printing and optical inspection at Nepcon.
Contax, the production automation specialist, will be exhibiting at the UK's Nepcon on May 9-11, at the NEC, Birmingham.
On its stand, number D20, Contax will be demonstrating 14 systems, six of which will be on show for the first time in the UK.
All of the equipment displayed is ideally suited to small and medium volume manufacturers, and offers excellent flexibility and price/performance.
The systems span the full range of production processes from pick and place, through reflow and conveyoring to stencil printing and optical inspection.
Whilst automation and wire preparation needs are also addressed with semi-automatic workstations and automatic wire crimping machines.
Furthermore, Contax will be announcing Q-UpNavi, new management analysis and SPC (Statistical Process Control) software from Omron, designed for use with its range of VT-RNS automatic optical inspection (AOI) systems.
Essemtec - Contax will be presenting three systems from Swiss manufacturer, Essemtec, covering pick and place, reflow and stencil printing.
These are: * Essemtec FLX2020.
On display for the first time in the UK, the FLX2020 is one in a series of FLX2000 SMT pick and place machines.
All are extremely flexible, being both modular and upgradeable, and available with a wide selection of feeders.
Other attributes include high production speeds and zero downtime during changeover.
* Essemtec RO400FC.
One of Essemtec's best selling systems, RO400FC is ideally suited to lead-free solders for small to mid-size volume productions.
It is a full convection reflow oven that heats the PCBs uniformly using vertical laminar flow convection technology, so providing efficient heat transfer with the lowest delta T values.
* Essemtec SP200 printer.
A flexible fine-pitch stencil printer with vision for automatic stencil alignment.
The SP200 is easy to program and operate, with a quick changeover and print size up to 360 x 400mm.
Omron - Omron's two AOI systems will be on Contax's stand, whilst the new Q-UpNavi software will be launched by Contax at the Show and available to view.
* Omron VT-RNS - n intelligent, high quality in-line AOI system, the VT-RNS is ideally suited for lead-free inspection.
Using its colour highlight system, LEDs emit coloured light and information is extracted through chromaticity.
This ensures that inspections are not affected by fluctuations in the brightness of the surface of the solder, as can happen with lead-free paste.
The system can be placed at varying points on the line - post-printing, post-placement and post-reflow - to prevent defects at any specific stage of production.
* Omron VT-RNS-ptH - n show for the first time, the VT-RNS-ptH is the first benchtop system available to offer true analysis rather than pattern recognition as the basis for its inspection.
A sophisticated system that uses the same analysis technology as the larger VT-RNS, but is available in a compact footprint, so making it ideally suited to a production environment where space is limited.
Other new products will include: phoenix x-ray microme x X-ray inspection system for PCB assemblies; ATF 23-33 wave soldering machine for leaded and lead-free solder; and Pillarhouse Orissa, a low cost, in-line or stand-alone system that can handle both small and large batch soldering.
The remaining systems on Contax's stand are all proven best-sellers.
These include: Speedline MPM AccuFlex stencil printer; Contact C5 pick and place; Shuttleworth conveyoring system; Sigma semi-automatic workstations and Komax Kappa range of automatic stripping machines.
"We are very happy to be exhibiting at Nepcon at its new venue in the NEC," said Mike Rapson, managing director at Contax.
"This new, larger site suits our needs very well and we are able to bring more equipment to the stand, and offer visitors even more choice.
We select only the best systems worldwide, and the equipment on our stand reflects this.
We will be showing a range of world-class products from leading suppliers such as Essemtec, Omron, phoenix x|ray and Speedline - some of these are new to the market - and others tried and tested solutions.
Small and medium sized manufacturers have very specific production needs.
They need equipment that is flexible and reliable, and offers high performance at a realistic cost.
We will be bringing a small selection of our recommended systems to Nepcon, so providing visitors with a sample of the most advanced systems available today," he said.
* About Contax - Contax is one of the UK and Ireland's most comprehensive suppliers of automation equipment.
Products range from PCB assembly, automatic optical and X-ray inspection, reflow solder, screen printing, precision liquid dispensing, cable preparation, robotic soldering and robotic assembly as well as cleaning systems.
All of this is backed up by Contax's unique support programme called 'hands-on' and an extensive second user department to fully support their installed base.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/cox/cox113.html
Contax, the production automation specialist, will be exhibiting at the UK's Nepcon on May 9-11, at the NEC, Birmingham.
On its stand, number D20, Contax will be demonstrating 14 systems, six of which will be on show for the first time in the UK.
All of the equipment displayed is ideally suited to small and medium volume manufacturers, and offers excellent flexibility and price/performance.
The systems span the full range of production processes from pick and place, through reflow and conveyoring to stencil printing and optical inspection.
Whilst automation and wire preparation needs are also addressed with semi-automatic workstations and automatic wire crimping machines.
Furthermore, Contax will be announcing Q-UpNavi, new management analysis and SPC (Statistical Process Control) software from Omron, designed for use with its range of VT-RNS automatic optical inspection (AOI) systems.
Essemtec - Contax will be presenting three systems from Swiss manufacturer, Essemtec, covering pick and place, reflow and stencil printing.
These are: * Essemtec FLX2020.
On display for the first time in the UK, the FLX2020 is one in a series of FLX2000 SMT pick and place machines.
All are extremely flexible, being both modular and upgradeable, and available with a wide selection of feeders.
Other attributes include high production speeds and zero downtime during changeover.
* Essemtec RO400FC.
One of Essemtec's best selling systems, RO400FC is ideally suited to lead-free solders for small to mid-size volume productions.
It is a full convection reflow oven that heats the PCBs uniformly using vertical laminar flow convection technology, so providing efficient heat transfer with the lowest delta T values.
* Essemtec SP200 printer.
A flexible fine-pitch stencil printer with vision for automatic stencil alignment.
The SP200 is easy to program and operate, with a quick changeover and print size up to 360 x 400mm.
Omron - Omron's two AOI systems will be on Contax's stand, whilst the new Q-UpNavi software will be launched by Contax at the Show and available to view.
* Omron VT-RNS - n intelligent, high quality in-line AOI system, the VT-RNS is ideally suited for lead-free inspection.
Using its colour highlight system, LEDs emit coloured light and information is extracted through chromaticity.
This ensures that inspections are not affected by fluctuations in the brightness of the surface of the solder, as can happen with lead-free paste.
The system can be placed at varying points on the line - post-printing, post-placement and post-reflow - to prevent defects at any specific stage of production.
* Omron VT-RNS-ptH - n show for the first time, the VT-RNS-ptH is the first benchtop system available to offer true analysis rather than pattern recognition as the basis for its inspection.
A sophisticated system that uses the same analysis technology as the larger VT-RNS, but is available in a compact footprint, so making it ideally suited to a production environment where space is limited.
Other new products will include: phoenix x-ray microme x X-ray inspection system for PCB assemblies; ATF 23-33 wave soldering machine for leaded and lead-free solder; and Pillarhouse Orissa, a low cost, in-line or stand-alone system that can handle both small and large batch soldering.
The remaining systems on Contax's stand are all proven best-sellers.
These include: Speedline MPM AccuFlex stencil printer; Contact C5 pick and place; Shuttleworth conveyoring system; Sigma semi-automatic workstations and Komax Kappa range of automatic stripping machines.
"We are very happy to be exhibiting at Nepcon at its new venue in the NEC," said Mike Rapson, managing director at Contax.
"This new, larger site suits our needs very well and we are able to bring more equipment to the stand, and offer visitors even more choice.
We select only the best systems worldwide, and the equipment on our stand reflects this.
We will be showing a range of world-class products from leading suppliers such as Essemtec, Omron, phoenix x|ray and Speedline - some of these are new to the market - and others tried and tested solutions.
Small and medium sized manufacturers have very specific production needs.
They need equipment that is flexible and reliable, and offers high performance at a realistic cost.
We will be bringing a small selection of our recommended systems to Nepcon, so providing visitors with a sample of the most advanced systems available today," he said.
* About Contax - Contax is one of the UK and Ireland's most comprehensive suppliers of automation equipment.
Products range from PCB assembly, automatic optical and X-ray inspection, reflow solder, screen printing, precision liquid dispensing, cable preparation, robotic soldering and robotic assembly as well as cleaning systems.
All of this is backed up by Contax's unique support programme called 'hands-on' and an extensive second user department to fully support their installed base.
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/cox/cox113.html
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Beijer Electronics Automation AB establishes subsidiary in Denmark
NORDIC BUSINESS REPORT-10 January 2007-Beijer Electronics Automation AB establishes subsidiary in Denmark(C)1994-2007 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD http://www.m2.com
Swedish automation supplier Beijer Electronics AB said on Wednesday (10 January) that its subsidiary Beijer Electronics Automation AB has established operations in Denmark.
The new company, Beijer Electronics A/S, will distribute Mitsubishi Electric's products in the Danish market and is expected to achieve sales of approximately SEK50m in 2007.
Beijer Electronics took over the Danish distribution rights for Mitsubishi Electric's products on 1 January.
The company has initially five employees and is based in Ballerup outside Copenhagen.
"Our offensive in Denmark is a part of our new and increased investments on the Nordic and Baltic markets," said Goran Sigfridsson, president and CEO of Beijer Electronics.
"We estimate that business area Automation reaches sales of some SEK50m on the Danish market in 2007. In the long-term, we also see good opportunities for growth, as there is considerable scope for taking additional market shares," Sigfridsson added.
Beijer Electronics, headquartered in Malmo in Sweden, develops and distributes automation solutions and products. The company has operations in the Nordic countries, the Baltic countries, Taiwan, Germany and the US. Beijer Electronics is listed on the Nordic Exchange in Stockholm.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0HXI/is_2007_Jan_10/ai_n24998768?tag=content;col1
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
German electronics automation builder revived
ACI-ecotec of St Georgen, Germany, producer of automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry, is enjoying new investment.
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
ACI-ecotec and Co KG of St Georgen, Germany (formerly 'ecotec ') has recently been re-launched with a new strength of German investment.
This new investment is providing a boost of re-development to an existing well understood product range to a substantial customer base including, Siemens, Papst, Sennheiser, Alcatel and many others.
In realising the strengths of the company, the existing skill base has been preserved by keeping 95% of its engineers and technicians, skilled and experienced in automated soldering technologies and automated cells and production lines for the electronics industry.
ACI-ecotec also specialise in bespoke 'micro-assembly' machines (for 1-2mm parts or less) and general assembly machines, offering a custom solution to a standard but modular and flexible cell for use as an isolated cell, or as a production line unit that can be configured to the application, or added to existing production lines.
ACI-ecotec have named this system, the 'Multiflex' offering modularity and flexibility.
The advantages include shorter delivery times from a standard cell whilst maintaining the bespoke flexibility to configure the cell to the application and the modularity required to add to existing lines.
An evaluation of the application then provides a concept.
Evaluation Process - How does it work? Define the application - provide samples and data.
Evaluate the application - from samples and data.
Offer solution to the customer using a standard Multiflex cell configured to the suit the application.
IF 3 = OK - GOTO 4.
ELSE GOTO 3 with revision.
Agree contract.
Configure the 'Multiflex' to the application.
ACI offer a standard cell which if required will adhere to the SMEMA 1.2 standards (SMEMA - Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers Association (SMEMA 1.2 - Mechanical Equipment Interface Standards).
The base plate inside the cell is machined to suit either a semi-automatic or fully-automatic loading system and employs an OEM SCARA robot arm providing accurate positioning and repeatability of 0.020mm.
The 4-6 axis robotic arm is able to deal with all automated applications that the 'Multiflex' is offering to provide the following.
* Selective soldering.
* Selective cleaning (using a revolutionary two part carbon dioxide snow jet cleaning system, see CO2 Cleaning below).
* Dispensing of adhesives or other fluids that require a repeatable dosage.
* Mini-wave soldering.
* Bending.
* Assembly.
* Micro-assembly.
* Optical inspection.
You can configure an entire automated production line using Multiflex cells configured to each production step therefore ensuring integration and line support from a single provider, whilst maintaining the option of support direct from a number of agents and OEM suppliers.
Or the unit can be configured as a semi-automatic tool, with two manual I/O ports for maximum throughput.
The Multiflex can be the first building block in a new production line that can be added to later, or added to an existing production line.
* The essence of continued support - ACI-ecotec do not claim to be the lowest cost option that you will find, but they do aim to remain competitive and claim highly dependable continued support from experienced designers, engineers and technicians.
The existing customer base believes this to be the most important cost of all.
* Entrance into the UK - recently Gateway Design, a robotics and automation consultancy and design company based in Devon have signed up to an exclusive UK agency for ACI-ecotec.
Michael Gadd CEng of Gateway Design said: "We are always looking for new projects, this keeps engineering alive.
I am really looking forward to the future bringing ACI-ecotec and Co KG to the UK.
I have spent much time working with German engineers which in my opinion have some of the best in the world.
Just look around the next time you are driving.
I am looking forward with ACI-ecotec to new challenges, so if you have something that has not been done before, or perhaps you just need to chat about an idea, then I would like to talk to you.".
http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gaw/gaw100.html
Friday, February 27, 2009
Power & Signal Group and Omron Electronic Components Enter Design and Distribution Agreement
CLEVELAND & SCHAUMBURG, Ill., Feb 27, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Omron Electronic Components LLC has expanded its relationship with Arrow Electronics, Inc. ![]()
ARW, , ) to include Power & Signal Group, a strategic group within Arrow Electronics, Inc. dedicated to the unique design and distribution requirements of the transportation industry. Power & Signal Group is now authorized to distribute Omron's broad array of switches and relays for the transportation market.
ARW, , ) to include Power & Signal Group, a strategic group within Arrow Electronics, Inc. dedicated to the unique design and distribution requirements of the transportation industry. Power & Signal Group is now authorized to distribute Omron's broad array of switches and relays for the transportation market.
With over 25 years experience in the transportation sector and a focus on off-the-board designs and applications, Power & Signal Group is uniquely qualified to design and distribute Omron's portfolio of switches and relays into the transportation market. Power & Signal Group's wiring harness customers will be able to utilize the company's extensive array of supply chain management and distribution services, reaping the productivity benefits of consolidating their purchasing requirements with a smaller number of vendors.
"In addition to our supply chain management strengths, our strong relationships at OEM Commercial Vehicle design centers and engineering teams will allow us to deepen those relationships as we broaden our portfolio to include solutions for their switch and relay application needs," said Don Akery, vice president of Power & Signal Group. "Our proven dedication and expertise allows us to provide our OEM clients with the application guidance they need to bring their products to market faster. The array and quality of the Omron product portfolio will serve to strengthen our position."
"For Omron, our challenge was to find a partner who both understands and responds to the unique distribution needs of transportation customers, as well as offers qualified technical advice and assistance to the industry's engineering and design teams," said Nigel Blakeway, chief operating officer and managing director of Omron Electronic Components LLC. "Our goal is to help and assist customers incorporate our new technologies into their equipment, giving them a competitive edge in the market. Power & Signal Group will help us to achieve that goal."
About Omron
Omron Electronic Components is a leading manufacturer and provider of advanced electronic components. Extensive product groups include relays, switches, connectors, MEMS flow sensors, pressure sensors, and optical components. Omron Electronic Components is the Americas subsidiary of Omron Corporation, a $7.5 billion global leading supplier of electronics and control system components and services. Their broad product offering can be found in applications for the communications, transportation, medical, HVAC, appliance, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and test and measurement markets around the world. Omron Electronic Components has an extensive sales network consisting of regional sales engineers, inside sales representatives, technical sales assistants, customer service staff, and an authorized distributor network.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/power--signal-group-omron/story.aspx?guid={580A39A1-700C-4781-A677-A0E5CA980BDA}&dist=msr_2
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Buehler Motor, Inc., Targets U.S. Medical and Electronics Industries with Its Next-generation ec4more Brushless Motors
Buehler Launches High-performance, Custom-Engineered BLDC Motor Line at MD&M West and Electronics West Expos
Buehler Motor developed the new line specifically to help U.S. medical technology, office equipment and building/industrial automation manufacturers and suppliers solve specific friction, durability, noise and other extreme engineering and product-development challenges.
"Leveraging the company's decades of engineering and manufacturing experience, the Buehler R&D team set out to create a family of next-generation BLDC motors that would deliver more efficient energy and a higher output than dimensionally comparable products in the market - and the result is the ec4more line," said
According to Riedford, BMI is unique in that it specializes in providing customized drive solutions - and is the only international provider that can offer customers more than 50 years of German engineering, R&D and manufacturing expertise, local sales support and competitive pricing advantages that come from global production resources.
Buehler Motor ec4more BLDC
The Buehler Motor ec4more BLDC line is designed for maximum reliability and optimal control under extreme environmental conditions. The key feature of the ec4more line is its segmented stators capable of delivering high power density and efficient power with low noise, longer life cycle, abrasion resistance, electromagnetic compatibility and superior dynamics. The line includes cylindrical diameters of 30 to 60 mm with lengths of 50 to 119 mm, and output up to 400 watts:
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.027.2xx) - cylindrical diameter of 30 mm; length of 50 mm
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.027.4xx) - cylindrical diameter of 30 mm; length of 70 mm
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.037.2xx) - cylindrical diameter of 40 mm; length of 70 mm
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.037.4xx) - cylindrical diameter of 40 mm; length of 100 mm
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.047.2xx) - cylindrical diameter of 50 mm; length of 100 mm
- Buehler EC Motor (1.25.056.2xx) - cylindrical diameter of 60 mm; length of 119 mm
Specifications and dimensions of the Buehler ec4more BLDC motors meet standard specifications of multiple industry applications, enabling engineers to replace current motors with higher performance Buehler motors.
The Buehler Motor ec4more BLDC motors meet the highest quality standards and production requirements demanded by the automotive and aviation industries (FMEA and/or APQP). These standards make the ec4more line ideal for all applications which require superior performance, reliability and safety requirements.
About Buehler Motor, Inc.
Buehler Motor is an independent, globally active company focused on the development, production and marketing of technically challenging mechatronic drive solutions for the world's leading manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, business automation, medical device and other industries. Driven by innovation, Buehler Motor offers comprehensive in-house research and development with more than 140 engineers and 1,400 qualified employees delivering more than 22 million units worldwide. Buehler Motor's Product Implementation Process (PIP) ensures superior manufacturing processes and the highest quality product for all standard line and customized drive solutions.
As part of the worldwide Buehler Motor family, Buehler Motor, Inc. (BMI), based in
http://news.prnewswire.com/DisplayReleaseContent.aspx?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/02-09-2009/0004968415&EDATE=
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Alps Electric Selects Berkeley Design Automation Analog FastSPICE(TM) and Noise Analysis Option(TM)
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan 21, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Berkeley Design Automation Inc., provider of Precision Circuit Analysis(TM) technology for advanced analog, mixed-signal, and RF integrated circuits (ICs), today announced that Alps Electric Co. Ltd., a leading global manufacturer of electronics devices and sensors for automobiles, PCs, cellular phones, audio, and home appliances, has selected the company's Analog FastSPICE(TM) circuit simulator and Noise Analysis Option(TM) for characterization and performance simulation of its advanced electronic devices.
"At Alps Electric we make careful decisions to upgrade our design flow with next-generation tools that extend our competitive advantage, compress our design cycle, and help us continue to deliver high quality designs to our customers," said Mr. Keisho Miyazaki, Group Manager, Alps Electric Co. Ltd. "Our products require true SPICE accuracy and accurate transistor-level noise analysis prior to fabrication. Analog FastSPICE easily delivered identical waveforms to our traditional SPICE simulator 5x-10x faster. The Noise Analysis Option enables us to accurately analyze the noise specifications of our circuits including the impact of device noise with excellent silicon correlation."
Berkeley Design Automation tools include Analog FastSPICE(TM) circuit simulation, Noise Analysis Option(TM) device noise analyzer, RF FastSPICE(TM) periodic analyzer, and PLL Noise Analyzer(TM). The company guarantees identical waveforms to the leading "golden" SPICE simulators down to noise floor (typically 0.1% or less) while delivering 5x-10x higher performance and 5x-10x higher capacity. It achieves this by using advanced algorithms and numerical analysis techniques to rapidly solve the full-circuit matrix and the original device equations without any shortcuts that could compromise accuracy.
Design teams from top-10 semiconductor companies to leading startups use Berkeley Design Automation tools to solve big analog/RF verification problems. Typical applications include complex-block characterization (e.g., PLLs, ADCs, DC:DC converters, PHYs, Tx/Rx chains) and full-circuit performance simulation (e.g., wireless transceivers, wireline transceivers, high-speed I/O macros, memories, microcontrollers, data converters, and power converters).
"We are delighted that Alps Electric, a leading global supplier of precision electronic devices and sensors, has selected Berkeley Design Automation," said Ravi Subramanian, president and CEO of Berkeley Design Automation. "Alps Electric's selection of both Analog FastSPICE and Noise Analysis Option further reinforces the unique, strong, and compelling advantage our technology provides over today's other SPICE solutions. We are proud to help Alps Electric extend their competitive advantage and continue to deliver innovative high-quality products."
About Berkeley Design Automation
Berkeley Design Automation, Inc. is the recognized leader in advanced analog/RF verification. Its Precision Circuit Analysis technology combines the accuracy, performance, and capacity needed to verify GHz designs in nanometer-scale silicon. Berkeley Design Automation has received numerous awards including EDN Magazine's 2006 Innovation of the Year, the 2006 Red Herring 100 North America, and the 2007 Red Herring Global 100 Finalist. Founded in 2003, the company is funded by Woodside Fund, Bessemer Venture Partners, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd., and NTT Corporation. For more information, see http://www.berkeley-da.com.
Analog FastSPICE, Noise Analysis Option, RF FastSPICE, PLL Noise Analyzer, WaveCrave, and Precision Circuit Analysis are trademarks and Berkeley Design is a registered trademark of Berkeley Design Automation, Inc. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/alps-electric-selects-berkeley-design/story.aspx?guid={C2D2314B-BC0F-43F5-891F-93A1AC84F286}&dist=msr_2
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/alps-electric-selects-berkeley-design/story.aspx?guid={C2D2314B-BC0F-43F5-891F-93A1AC84F286}&dist=msr_2
Sunday, January 11, 2009
SMT connector family offers up to 54 pins
ERNI Electronics has broadened its 0.8mm MicroStac SMT connector series to include a 10- (single row) and 54-pin (dual row) version.
The MicroStac advantage is based on a patented hermaphroditic design, a special design requiring only one part number which enables reduced logistic and inventory costs for board-to-board applications. The powerful combination of the MicroStac's miniature construction and its innovative design makes it suitable for extremely compact and demanding applications. The connectors can be used to a wide scope of applications including sensor technology, medical instruments, mobile communication, automotive electronics, automation engineering, measurement technology, test equipment and building automation. For medical applications, new antistatic versions are now available upon request.
The SMT construction and unique design of the MicroStac allow for economical and automatic assembly. The stability of the miniature connector is facilitated through a tilt-proof contact principle with dual side positioning of the contact on the PCB. In addition, with its corresponding features of minimal weight (just 0.18g for the 6-pin design), 100 percent SMT co-planarity of <0.1mm>
Even with their compact construction, MicroStac products can achieve a high current-carrying capacity. The contact is formed through precision stamping, a process which offers the most reliable form of contact possible. As a result, the contacts offer an extensive cross-section for low ohmic resistance, while at the same time providing a large radiating surface that yields higher power carrying capabilities than similar competitors' products. With an ambient temperature of 20°C and current feed to all contacts, the MicroStac 50-pin connector can transfer 1.6A per contact (in acc. with IEC 60512, test 5b), or can safely and reliably carry 80A inside a very small footprint.
Within the MicroStac connector family, new versions are now available with 6, 9, 10, 12, and 14 pins (all single-row), and 50 and 54 pins (both two-row). Depending on the connector version, the board-to-board height ranges from 3mm to between 5mm to 6.5mm. Despite the subminiature design, the MicroStac is designed to be used in multiple mated pairs between two boards. Subsequently, when using the MicroStac, there is no need to fear 'negative tolerance stack up'. The permissible center offset, when connected, is ± 0.7mm in the longitudinal direction and ±0.5mm in the transversal direction. The permissible angular offset is ±4°.
In addition, the MicroStac connectors feature a high temperature-resistant insulating body (PA46), and 100 percent SMT coplanarity to ensure a secure soldering experience. The black isolating body allows simple visual recognition during automatic assembly and, when delivered in the antistatic packaging, the connectors are protected and ready for automatic assembly.
ERNI's MicroStac connectors are available immediately and pricing varies by pin count and volume.
http://www.eetasia.com/ART_8800559403_590626_NP_599d167d.HTM
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