For the Taipei Metro (also called MRT System), regular train maintenance and train scheduling are the key factors to deliver quality services as well as ensuring the safety of passengers, while its convenience, speed and numerous advantages are making people to rely on it to get around the city. Accordingly, through a normal electric source switching for each rail track to maintain the accuracy of train dispatching and operations is a great challenge in maintenance depot.In response to such demand, the power supply system in Luzhou Depot adopted Advantech's products to control and monitor a mass of relays and to cover the entire area through optical fiber transmission. Additionally, this solution empowers traditional serial (RS-232/422/485) devices to transmit data over an IP-based network, and its redundancy mechanism and rugged feature also provide reliability assurance so as to leverage the operating performance of power supply system.System Requirement:Before the Xinzhuang and Luzhou Line was officially opened to traffic in November 2010, a System Integrator, which is responsible for the power system construction of Luzhou Depot and has over 30 years of experience in the power transmission and distribution field, was evaluating a variety of hardware products so as to establish a complete system. Due to safety and stability considerations, the related products have to provide a feature for connecting multiple RS-485 serial devices to an Ethernet network without building the dedicated transmission line, and offer an easy way to set up a redundant Ethernet network for backup connection. Because the Depot covers an area of 16 hectares, supporting the long-distance transmission by optical fiber device is the critical demand. Meanwhile, the mechanical and electrical equipment is exposure to the sun that leads to the high temperature during operation, and high-voltage power environment can cause electromagnetic interference; therefore industrial grade specification is a prerequisite for this case.System Description:The electromechanical apparatus which is installed next to the rail contains two kinds of Advantech's products, EKI-152X and EKI-7659C to offer excellent data transmission quality. By using EKI-152X to connect on-site serial device via RS-485, the engineering staff can use the computer in control room to always monitor the condition of protective relay so as to further control RTU (Remote Terminal Unit, a microprocessor-controlled electronic device). With dual Ethernet connections, this network-based Serial Device Server can greatly improve the device connectivity reliability and increase system stability. Besides, its software utility provides a friendly user interface with simple and easy configuration allowing users to comfortably manage EKI-152X devices.As for the Industrial Ethernet Switch, EKI-7659C provides an easy way to establish a redundant network (X-Ring Pro) with ultra high-speed recovery time less than 20 ms; moreover its feature of optical fiber communication enables the data transmission (up to hundreds of kilometers) to cover greater distance. Both of EKI products support wide operating temperature (-10~60 degrees C) to withstand the severe test in outdoor environment, and their metal shielded enclosure with robust design can not only protect the product but also can eliminate the problem of interference.Conclusions:Train dispatching is one of the core tasks in running MRT operations. Advantech EKI products are able to help Metro's maintenance depot to stabilize power supply, and our solution can allow any serial device to be easily implemented in IP-based network to provide less-costly and efficient data transfer. In addition, the features of wider temperature, anti-interference, redundant function and metal shell are our best guarantee for high quality and high stability. Since MRT passenger capacity continues upward trend and Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC) plans to open new lines to traffic, the system supplier is willing to continually use more Advantech solutions to strengthen its power supply system all because we are capable of providing the superior products and best technical support.As for the Industrial Ethernet Switch, EKI-7659C provides an easy way to establish a redundant networ.

Razer has announced the release of the Razer Tartarus, a membrane gaming keypad featuring 25 programmable keys including an eight-way directional thumb pad. The thumb pad allows gamers to move with more precision, while also acting as modifier keys, multiplying the keyset count by eight, providing 128 different command options.The Razer Tartarus also provides users switching between eight key maps. The Razer Tartarus features full anti-ghosting, with backlit keys that give users total control in dark conditions.The Razer Tartarus is enabled to be configured with Razer Synapse 2.0, which functions as the brain of the keypad. Razer Synapse 2.0 allows users of Razer products to save custom profiles and sync them through the cloud system to be accessed from any computer anytime, anywhere, the vendor said.Razer Tartarus membrane gaming keypadPhoto: Company

Asustek Computer has announced the Maximus VI Impact, a mini-ITX gaming motherboard based on Intel Z87 chipset for the fourth-generation Intel Core processors.The Maximus VI Impact features the SupremeFX Impact discrete sound card for 115dB SNR audio and Impact Power digital power-management technology for the same overclocking control as ROG full-size ATX motherboards. The Maximus VI Impact also features connectivity with onboard 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0.The ROG Maximus VI Impact features the SupremeFX Impact discrete sound card with a custom design that keeps the PCI Express x16 slot free. The dual-differential circuit design splits the audio chip's analog signal into opposing phases that are combined by four operational amplifiers (op-amps) to produce a single, stronger and cleaner output, while ELNA audio capacitors help provide smooth high and low-frequency signals to deliver warmer sounds, the vendor said.The Maximus VI Impact also features Perfect Voice technology that uses active noise cancellation on the microphone input to keep VoIP chat clear in noisy environments, and Music PnP technology that allows external sound sources to play through PC speakers when the PC is shut down. Together with exclusive SupremeFX Shielding that reduces audio distortion from electromagnetic interference, lossless 115dB output and the ability to drive high-impedance headphones (up to 600ohms).Based on ROG Extreme Engine DIGI+ III technology, Impact Power is compact voltage-regulator module (VRM) with 60A BlackWing chokes and 10K black metallic capacitors that gives precise digital power management for complete overclocking control that is on a par with ROG full-size ATX motherboards, the vendor said.Other bundled tools include ROG RAMDisk that allows up to 80% of a computer's available RAM to act as a high-speed virtual drive for accelerated game-loading times, while SSD Secure Erase built in to Maximus VI Impact's UEFI BIOS lets users quickly restore drives to a factory-fresh condition for the best possible performance.Built-in diagnostic and troubleshooting features on the I/O backplate make it easier for PC enthusiasts to test different overclocking configurations with ROG Maximus VI Impact. The Q-Code display shows two-digit codes for rapid identification of POST errors, while pressing the DirectKey button enters the UEFI button immediately. Maximus VI Impact also features a MemOK! button on the motherboard that automatically loads failsafe memory settings when overly aggressing timing prevents the PC from booting.Asustek Maximus VI Impact mini-ITX gaming motherboardPhoto: Company

Gigabyte Technology has announced its new FM2+ motherboards including the newest addition to its G1-Killer range of gaming motherboards, the G1.Sniper A88X, which features Gigabyte USB DAC-UP, which is optimized for users employing a digital-to-analog converter, and Gain Boost, which provides high gain output for advanced headphones and speakers.The AMP-UP Audio combines a range of unique features and technologies that are designed to give audio enthusiasts and PC gamers more control over their motherboard audio.Featuring a gold plated USB 2.0 port, the USB DAC-UP provides clean, noise-free power delivery to users' digital-to-analog converter, the vendor said. DACs can be sensitive to fluctuations in power from the other USB ports and the USB DAC-UP can take advantage of an isolated power source to help minimize potential fluctuations and ensures the audio experience.The USB DAC-UP also allows the port to be configured in BIOS for enthusiast system configurations which do not require USB power to the DAC.Gigabyte motherboards also debut Gain Boost, which provides onboard switches to select between 2.5x and 6x amplification modes depending on output device. Most OP-Amps are capable of providing a high-gain audio output that is ideal for high-end headphones and speakers that have higher impedance headroom. Gain Boost allows users to switch between 6x and x2.5 amplification modes depending on the speakers or headphones being used.To help protect and insulate the Realtek ALC898 audio processor and onboard amplifiers from electrostatic interference (ESD), the Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X motherboard features an audio noise guard that separates the board's sensitive analog audio components from potential ESD pollution at the PCB level. LED trace path lighting illuminates to show the separation of the PCB layers.The Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X motherboard uses the Nichicon MUSE ES series audio capacitors at each channel layout. The Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X motherboard uses gold plated hardware for improved connectivity and long lasting durability for the USB DAC-UP port and audio connectors, the vendor said. Gold has superb signal conductivity and will not tarnish over extended periods of use. The Realtek ALC898 audio processor is also shielded by a gold-plated cover which eliminates electrostatic interference.The Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X motherboard features the new FM2+ APU socket, and is also designed for forthcoming Kaveri AMD APUs, while preserving compatibility for current AMD FM2 Trinity and Richland APUs.FM2+ AMD APUs offer native support for 8 GT/s PCI Express gen 3.0 as well as DirectX 11.1 support, integrating the high performance Steamroller core. AMD socket FM2+ APUs also offer native support for ultra HD resolution displays on HDMI and DisplayPort.Gigabyte G1.Sniper A88X gaming motherboardPhoto: Company

Samsung Electronics America has announced the availability of its first Curved OLED TV in the US. The KN55S9C is also the first TV to feature MultiView capabilities with Full HD and stereo sound, according to the company.With Samsung's MultiView feature, two people can simultaneously watch completely different full-screen Full-HD content, even in 3D, on the same display, with corresponding audio and controls. The MultiView feature is enabled by Samsung's 3D Active glasses, which come with built-in personal speakers providing full stereo sound.Samsung's Curved OLED TV also incorporates the latest Samsung Smart TV features like the new Smart Hub interface, which organizes entertainment and content into five convenient panels: On TV, Movies and TV Shows, Social, Apps as well as Photos, Videos and Music. The built-in S Recommendation feature helps customers discover new content to watch.The 55-inch KN55S9C is now shipping to specialty retailers in the US and will be available for US$8,999.99.Samsung Curved OLED TVPhoto: Company

Intel has introduced an education-focused tablet reference design, featuring an Intel Atom processor and the Android operating system. The Intel Education tablet is specifically for education, featuring student-friendly designs that empower students to create compelling content. Features including front- and rear-facing cameras, a stylus, integrated speakers and microphones bring interactive, multimedia content into learning, according to Intel.The tablet is fully equipped with Intel Education Software, a suite of applications including an e-reader, science exploration and data analysis application and painting tools. It also has management software that provides teachers and administrators with tools to protect students and manage technology.The Intel Education tablet with a 10-inch screen has a dual-core Intel Atom processor Z2460, Android 4.0, more than 6.5 hours of battery life, and weighs 1.5lbs. Intel also offers an Intel Education tablet with a 7-inch screen, single-core Intel Atom processor Z2420, Android 4.1, nearly 8 hours of battery life and weighs 0.78lbs. Both tablets are equipped with McAfee Mobile Security. The screens have even been designed with shock-absorbers, so they are cushioned in case of a fall.The tablets are designed to enable interactive, collaborative learning to prepare students for success in school and beyond. These reference designs align with the Intel Education platform, which assists teachers and students in technology-enhanced learning.Intel 7-inch Education tabletPhoto: Company

Indium Corporation announced a new technology platform using the SACM solder alloy that satisfies the continuing demand for cost-effective reliability requirements of portable electronic devices. SACM solder alloy offers drop shock performance far superior to other SAC alloys, without compromising on thermal cycling. Its low silver content makes this a cost-effective solution for portable electronics.The platform consists of Indium8.9 Series solder pastes using Indium Corporation's patented-pending SACM solder alloy technology for board-side interconnect, and SACM solder balls (spheres) for package level interconnect.SACM solder alloy technology addresses these challenges. "SACM's stable, micro-structural improvements to the intermetallic compound layer of the solder-to-pad interface are impressive. We see a fine grain size with a thin, stable IMC layer, even after exposure to accelerated life conditions. These micro structural improvements translate into an 8X (800%) improvement in drop-shock performance and 50% extension in thermal cycling," said Dr. Ning-Cheng Lee, Indium Corporation's Vice President of Technology.The portable electronics industry is faced with the ongoing challenges to: improve drop-shock performance without sacrificing thermal cycling performance; reduce the need for expensive board-level underfills (and the associated material, process and re-work costs), as well as the inability to even reach some areas with underfill; and reduce costs by extending wafer-level package size to larger areas, enabling higher functionality of the low cost-per-I/O package.Solder joint architectures that utilize both SACM solder paste and SACM solder balls can maximize reliability benefits with enhanced interfaces for both solder-to-package and solder-to-printed circuit board.Indium Corporation is a premier materials manufacturer and supplier to the global electronics, semiconductor, solar, thin-film, and thermal management markets. Products include solders, and fluxes; brazes; sputtering targets; indium, gallium, and germanium metals and inorganic compounds; and NanoFoil. Founded in 1934, Indium has global technical support and factories located in China, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the USA.For more information about Indium Corporation visit www.indium.com or email abrown@indium.com.Indium's SACM increases portable electronics drop-shock performance by 800%

Micro-Star International (MSI) has announced the release of the new MSI N760 Hawk graphics card, featuring a new TWIN BIOS design. For cooling, the MSI N760 HAWK is equipped with the new Twin Frozr IV Advanced, which features two 10cm Propeller Blade Technology-based fans and new Airflow Control Technology. With the Twin Frozr IV Thermal Design, it helps boost the graphics card's cooling performance, dropping temperatures by 10 degrees Celsius and noise by 12.48dB, compared to the reference design.The graphics card also features Dust Removal Technology to extend longevity. The N760 HAWK uses Military Class IV components that have been tested and certified against the MIL-STD-810G standard by an independent laboratory.MSI also offers its in-house overclocking tools such as the V-Check Point, which helps monitor GPU, memory and VRM voltages, and Afterburner, supporting Triple overvoltage.MSI N760 Hawk graphics cardPhoto: Company

Ideal for use in machine manufacturing industries such as semi-conductor manufacture, Advantech's Industrial Automation Group has launched an exciting new range of Web operator panels. These newly designed models, with flat panel IP66 certified aluminum edging, include the latest Intel Cortex-A8 processor which is not only faster but also consumes the minimum amount of power and also support for CANopen, Modbus and Ethernet protocols to ensure that they'll connect to your existing network.Unique in their class, the new WebOP 3000 series have dual Level 4 Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection and fully meet IEC-61000 requirements. This level of protection makes them ideal for work in semi-conductor factories where ESD is a major concern.To protect the models from sudden spikes in the electricity supply, the WebOP-3000T series is equipped with power and terminal I/O port isolation protection so that in the event of power surges the panel's components will not be affected. This level of protection not only prevents immediate damage to the devices but also increases the life of the products.In the event of power failure to the WebOPs, they are protected against immediate data loss by the inclusion of 128KB FRAM (Ferroelectric RAM) which doesn't require a battery to operate. Storage memory is 512MB SLC flash memory, which provides faster access times and 100,000 read-write cycles making it ideal for heavy use industrial applications that also require lower power consumption.To further enhance these model's specifications they have been designed to work in temperatures as low as -20 degrees C and as high as 60 degrees C so they'll continue to work in the harshest of environments.With their powerful features, the WebOP 3000 series are latest operator panels to be used in restricted environments such as: automated parking, bottling plants, semi-conductor manufacturing, petrochemical plants and many more.The WebOP-3070T and WebOP-3100T are available immediately and the WebOP-3120T and WebOP3150T will be available in Q4. To find out more, contact your local sales representative or go to http://www.advantech.com/.WebOP-3000T series

As the most innovative and authoritative event in China's telematics industry, The 3rd Telematics China Summit, organized by Genesis Resourcing Consulting China and sponsored by BYD, Altran and Magneti Marelli Automotive Electronics, will be held in Shanghai on the 5th-6th of September.More than 30 professional speakers have been invited from various companies, including Mercedes Benz, Volvo, Geely, Cherry, BYD, Qoros, China Mobile, China Telematics, ChinaUnicom, Neusoft Group, Altran, Yutong Buses, etc. This event will gather more than 200 decision makers from global auto OEMs, wireless carriers, telematics services providers, hardware/device manufacturers, technology solutions and application developers to discuss the macro industry business environment, technology trends, profitable business models and customer applications.This year we will help you to find out the answers about the key trends of the Chinese telematics services market. How can customers be maintained through decreasing costs and boost adoption rates after the free telemtics maintenance service period ends? How profitable new business models, such as e-commerce, can be developed? How can one offer navigation and value-added connected services to the mass market to boost auto sales in China? As the smartphone penetration continues to grow, will mobile phone-based telematics dominate the China market? How will smartphone apps affect the connected car environment? And how will cloud computing and the integration of vehicle and consumer electronics boost connected services?As more domestic players are expected to take part in the telematics services market, more supply chain integration and cooperation between industry players are required to ensure the development of the Chinese telematics market.The 3rd Telematics China Summit" will provide you with a precious platform to form partnerships and find opportunities to bundle other value-added services and differentiate your solutions in the market. China is no doubt emerging as one of the largest markets for automotive navigation and telematics services. Register today to ensure significant success in the market by leveraging strategic partnerships with Chinese players.For more information about ths event, as well as making reservations or arranging sonsorships, please contact Ms. Michelle at +86 21 2230 6790, or email to michelle@genesis-resourcing.com or visit http://www.tcs.genesis-resourcing.com/ to book your place today! The organising committee of The 3rd Telematics China Summit is looking forward to meeting you in Shanghai this September.