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Technologies in Depth

In-depth technical articles on the various types of sensors and how they work.


Article
ZigBee Meets IP   January 1, 2009

The Compact Application Protocol (CAP) is an open framework that combines the IP world with ZigBee technology, enabling users to operate devices produced by different vendors on existing networks without using an inefficient gateway translation layer.More>>

Article
What a Mesh! Part 2-Networking Architectures and Protocols   December 1, 2008

In the second part of this two-part article we tackle network architectures and compare and contrast point-to-multipoint, ZigBee PRO (ZigBee 2007), 6LoWPAN, Wireless HART, and Digi Mesh networking protocols, laying out their key characteristics, benefits, and limitations.More>>

Article
Simplifying Sensor Signal Path Design   December 1, 2008

Sensing applications require some form of signal conditioning and the interplay of the various analog components can spell success or misery. A new Web-based tool aids engineers in designing sensor signal paths with discrete analog components.More>>

Article
Making Smarter Tools   December 1, 2008

Significantly improved condition monitoring of metal-cutting machinery is now possible with the help of wireless sensors. The payoffs include optimized manufacturing and reduced operating costs.More>>

Article
What a Mesh! Part 1-The Ins and Outs Of Mesh Networking   November 1, 2008

The first part of this two-part article discusses the basics: what do you need to know about wireless mesh networking and what criteria you should use when assessing a mesh networking technology.More>>

Article
Color, Contrast, and Luminescence Sensors: Which One Should You Choose?   November 1, 2008

When faced with so many photoelectric sensor choices, how do you choose the right one for your application? Here are some general guidelines for selecting among color, contrast, color mark, or luminescence sensors.More>>

Article
Designing Smart Energy Devices   November 1, 2008

ZigBee's newest profile streamlines the development of communications technology that will help consumers rein in energy consumption.More>>

Article
Energy Harvesting-The Next Evolution for Wireless Sensors   October 1, 2008

As the power requirements of electronics decrease and the power output of energy-harvesting devices increases, the convergence of these trends makes wireless sensors an ideal application for energy harvesting.More>>

Article
A Rugged Logger for Better Wheel Welds   September 1, 2008

GKN Wheels approaches Sigmapi Systems with an interesting challenge: Build a rugged, capable DA system to monitor the butt-weld process used in its wheel manufacturing process.More>>

Article
Asset Tracking in Industrial Settings—A Review of Wireless Technologies Part 3: RSSI-, RuBee-, and UWB-Based Systems   August 1, 2008

Most wireless technologies to be used for industrial asset tracking are nowhere near the point of offering plug-and-play operation. Before you decide to use a system based on RSSI, RuBee, or UWB in a RTLS, make sure you know what you're signing up for.More>>