Aeroflex unveils low-cost analyzer

Aeroflex’s IFR subsidiary has announced a new spectrum analyzer that balances affordability and high performance in a portable size. Designed for wireless infrastructure and production testing, the 2397 also will be used for satellite telephones and ground stations, television broadcast and cable television field-testing, quality measurements for manufacturing or laboratory applications, and other general purpose RF and microwave applications.

The 2397 spectrum analyzer can be configured with options similar to those available for other members of the 239X spectrum analyzer family.

Hardware options include a tracking generator, AC/DC power supply, high stability timebase and quasi-peak detector.

Software options include Distance to Fault, Marker Label Edit, and EMC for pre-compliance testing.

The 2397 spectrum analyzer is part of the 239X family of spectrum analyzers from IFR. The 239X range extends from 9 kHz to 3 GHz in the 2397, and up to 26.5 GHz in the 2395 spectrum analyzer. The 2397 is lightweight (20 lbs.) and offers many of the same features found in higher priced instruments. The marker system simplifies troubleshooting by allowing nine markers to be displayed on the screen at any one time. A marker table shows the frequency and level of each marker selected, thus allowing multiple signals to be evaluated simultaneously. The standard RS-232 and GPIB interfaces allow remote control of the instrument. A VGA output allows the user to connect to a VGA color monitor and view the larger display in color.

EMC testing can also be carried out, an option that provides the measurement facilities and resolution filters required for pre-compliance testing.

Price and availability

The 2397 spectrum analyzer is available immediately. Delivery is four weeks upon receipt of order. It has a list price of under $7,000 (U.S.) without options. Hardware options available for the 2397 include the 100 kHz to 3 GHz Tracking Generator (2397/1), Option 03 High Stability Timebase, Option 04 Quasi-Peak Detectors and EMC Filters, Option 06 AC/DC Power Supply and optional Battery Pack.

Software options include Option 11 Distance to Fault, Option 12 Marker Label Edit and Option 13 EMC.

Cobalt Audio & Video debuts

Cobalt Audio & Video is a new offering of innovative headsets and vehicle headset intercoms specifically designed to meet the needs of fire apparatus responders, EMS crews and fire ground tactical teams.

CobaltAV is a development of Comtronics Industrial Communication Systems and Aviation Communications, Inc., each company with proven experience. The dual muff headsets are lab certified for 24 dB NRR.

Innovations include choice of headset or panel switch controls, EMI shielded cable, special “combine-isolate” EMS intercom package and Medic headset, electronic stethoscope ready.

CobaltAV also offers add-on headsets for other intercom brands.

www.cobaltav.com

Decibel rolls out new antennas

Decibel Products has introduced new versions of its leading 800/950 MHz log periodic antennas. Featuring Decibel’s state-of-the-art air dielectric design and field adjustable electrical downtilt, this family now includes antennas with 45°, 65°, 80°, 90°, and 105° horizontal beamwidths.

Decibel’s family of log periodic antennas provides sharper azimuth roll-off and better control of energy behind the antenna. This reduces system interference and improves capacity, resulting in fewer dropped calls. Included in the new log periodic family are 45° and 65° offerings without an external reflector.

The new antennas are equipped with the VARI-TILT technology, which allows customized adjustment of the main beam-tilt angle during installation and throughout the life of the system as new sites are added.

Additionally, featuring an inherently low loss air dielectric feed system, these new log periodic antennas eliminate passive intermodulation by avoiding the use of screws, rivets, and soldering while capacitively coupling to the radiating elements.

www.allentele.com

Radio Waves unveils Xcelarator series

Radio Waves Inc. has released a new series of flat panel antennas for 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks. These new antennas are a significant improvement over Radio Waves last generation. The new antennas are offered in both 1-foot and 2-foot versions that are only a half-inch thick. The Xcelarator series offer a VSWR of only 1.4:1 across the entire 5.15 to 5.85 GHz band and have a F/B ratio of 38 dB. The Xcelarator specifications are far superior to other models on the market.

Both the FP-5-24 and FP-5-28 come with Radio Waves industry leading three-year warranty.

WLAN security solution rolled out

Meetinghouse Inc. has announced AEGIS Client for Pocket PC 2002. Meetinghouse’s AEGIS Client for Pocket PC 2002 supports a broad range of Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) methods, including: MD5, TLS, TTLS, Cisco LEAP and PEAP to meet the security needs of enterprise networks. AEGIS Client works with 802.1X-compliant Access Points and RADIUS Servers, such as Meetinghouse’s AEGIS Server, Funk’s Steel-Belted, Cisco ACS and Microsoft’s AIS, to provide standards-based authentication.

Using industry standard 802.1X technology, AEGIS provides secure standards-based authentication for wireless LANs in enterprise and public access networks. In addition, AEGIS mitigates commonly known vulnerabilities and weaknesses in 802.11 wireless networking by providing the enhanced tunneling authentication solutions, TTLS and PEAP. Tunneled authentication simplifies network management, eliminates the burden of client-side certificates, and leverages existing standard user name and password infrastructure. AEGIS Client and AEGIS Server software can be used with other industry standard 802.1X authentication software.

In addition to supplying the enterprise market with standards-based WLAN authentication software, Meetinghouse offers an API for the AEGIS Client enabling the seamless integration of its binary code into OEM solutions.

Pricing and availability

AEGIS Client for Pocket PC 2002 will be commercially available in April 2003. A beta version of the AEGIS Client for Pocket PC 2002 is available now for download from the Meetinghouse web site [http://www.mtghouse.com/support/downloads/index.shtml]. Priced at $39.95, volume discounts are available. AEGIS Server pricing ranges from $2,500 to $3,200.

AEGIS Client supports EAP-MD5, EAP-TLS, EAP-TTLS, Cisco’s LEAP and EAP-PEAP on Linux, Mac OS X, Windows XP, NT, 2000, 98, ME, and Pocket PC 2002. AEGIS Server supports Microsoft MD5, TLS, TTLS, LEAP and PEAP on Linux, Solaris, and Windows XP/2000.

www.mtghouse.com

CIS Technology provides a new tool

PEPRO, Pioneer Energy Products, has developed an innovative convergent interstitial shield technology (CIS). This enclosure, called the GAUSSBUSTER protects sensitive solid-state electronics or digital micro-processor based equipment from lightning, electromagnetic fields, and radio frequencies.

In addition to lightning protection, CIS technology also minimizes the ability of radio frequency signals to penetrate the enclosure and cause fundamental signal overload or intermodulation with an average shielding effectiveness rating of 70 DB.

Tested by internationally recognized laboratories, Lightning Technologies and National Technical Systems Lab, PEPRO’s enclosure systems are designed to power industry standards. Results show that approximately a 50,000 volt 50,000 amp lightning strike directed onto the enclosure will result in less than .5 volts penetration to the inside of the enclosure.

The GAUSSBUSTER delivers the highest level of protection at a price far less than the total installation cost of conventional unprotected enclosures. Offered with a maintenance free exterior, the GAUSSBUSTER comes in a variety of sizes, which includes both, a walk-in model or a lightweight compact, low-profile model for small site restrictions and roof top applications.

Designed with an aluminum welded unibody construction and an insulated, paneled interior, the units are factory assembled and tested prior to shipment.

The GAUSSBUSTER is available with a variety of optional features such as automatic or manual transfer switches, hydrogen detectors, air conditioners, or hi-temp alarm/shutdown switches. PEPRO’S patented technology, the GAUSSBUSTER, is the only commercially available shielded aluminum enclosure that provides this high level of security for computers, wireless technology, and other sensitive electronic equipment used in the oil/gas industry, electric utility industry, or public safety radio communications.

www.gaussbuster.com/ogpe

Vertex launches new mobile series

The Vertex Standard rollout of new products continues with the introduction of the VX-6000 Mobile Series in Lowband, VHF and UHF models.

As with all Vertex Standard products, the VX-6000 is built tough and meets or exceeds Mil Std 810 C/D/E standards for dust, humidity, pressure (high and low), salt fog, shock, solar radiation, temperature and vibration. This new series offers an impressive 120W (Lowband), 110W (VHF) and 100W (UHF) RF power output (selectable by channel) to get the user’s message through under the most demanding of operating conditions.

The VX-6000 has an outstanding list of flexible and user-friendly features, starting with a large 8-character, alphanumeric display and up to 7 programmable function keys on the front of the unit that can be used to customize it for the user.

From the 250 channel capability to the versatile scanning features, to the optional Dual Band / Dual Head configurations, the VX-6000 Mobile is built for ease of use.

The advanced Audio Companding System provides full-sounding audio regardless of transmission bandwidth restrictions. Clear communications are also enhanced by ARTS, a Vertex Standard exclusive. The Auto-Range Transponder System alerts the radio operator when another unit moves out of range. A true benefit when these units are used mobile-to-mobile in a search and rescue type operation.

A full line of accessories complements these new mobiles and the VX-6000 models are backed with a full 3-year warranty from Vertex Standard.

www.vxstdusa.com

Quasi-Sync offers simulcast solution

The benefits of simulcast systems are well documented and time tested. However, the drawbacks of simulcast may not be as evident.

Traditionally, simulcast radio systems provide wide area radio coverage by using a number of transmitter sites all transmitting on the exact same frequency. This approach places great demands on mobile radio system components and on the linkage between sites. In some areas, reception can be dominated by a single transmitter, while in others a user may receive signals from two or more transmitters simultaneously. The result oftentimes is signal cancellation.

However, there is an alternative to traditional simulcast that promises to solve this and other issues.

The Tait Quasi-Sync system differs from others in that it uses a closed loop equalization system. That is, the signal that is being fed to each of the transmitter sites goes through an equalization process that compensates not only for differences in the transmission line, but also for variances in the transmitter equipment. This is done through the use of an off-air monitor receiver that feeds back the received signal into an equalization process. This has the advantage of allowing the Tait Quasi-Sync system to not only use different transmission mediums for each inter-site connection, but also different makes and models of transmitter equipment.

The Tait Quasi-Sync system uses high stability oscillators to maintain a very stable transmitter frequency. In addition, digital signal processing (DSP) based Line Equalizer Modules, routing audio to each transmitter, analyze the characteristics of a neighboring transmitter and adapt their own signals to match.

Superior Coverage and Enhanced Reception are two other key features that make Quasi-Sync unique. Wide area coverage is achieved with a single channel, eliminating the need for multiple licenses and releasing frequency spectrum.

Wavetek introduces new data option

Wavetek Meterman Test Tools has announced an affordable data acquisition option with a suggested list price of $169.90. The data acquisition package comprises a 10,000-count, full-function digital multimeter with companion Microsoft Windows-based data logging software and PC interface cabling.

The specially developed 38-SW software is simple to use and logs, displays, and stores data from all 38XR measurement functions for later retrieval or further analysis. It can also export data for advanced analysis, charting, and reporting in Microsoft Excel.

This DMM and software package is especially attractive when used in combination with a laptop computer as a portable data acquisition package. The 38XR DMM has a full complement of basic and specialty measurements that can be logged including temperature, frequency, 4-20 mA control loop percent, and duty cycle. True rms current draw and voltage supply can also be logged for an accurate, basic snapshot of unattended equipment operation.

Broadax rolls out rugged server

Broadax Systems, Inc. announced the immediate availability of their PServer R9, a truly portable server that brings rack mount system power to the road. This unique system is a self-contained, highly reliable rugged server built with dual 2.8GHz Intel Xeon processors, up to 12GB double data rate (DDR) PC3200 SDRAM, and four drive bays for 7,200 or 10,000 RPM hard drives, DVD, DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW drives. Each system can be configured for the user’s unique needs and applications for such military and industrial situations as onboard military aircraft, naval and coast guard vessels, military deployment, explorations in extreme locals as in oil exploration, and other field applications.

The ultra-rugged multi-slot PServer R9 transports ultra-server power, reliability and redundancy to any field environment or portable application. The server’s aluminum alloy chassis accommodates an extended ATX form-factor motherboard able to resist jarring, shocking extremes. The unit enjoys up to 2.8 GHz processing power using dual Intel Xeon CPU’s working in unison and/or redundantly. Extending this power, the PServer R9 can be configured with 12 GB of DDR SDRAM making the unit as powerful as any desk or rack server.

The PServer R9 deploys four isolated drive bays that can support a single or multiple hard drives and a variety of optical disk drives including DVD, DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW. Disk configurations include three 7,200RPM ATA-100 IDE SCSI HDD or three 10,000RPM SCSI HDD, both configurable for RAID 0,1 or 5 with an optional hardware IDE RAID card that supports hardware RAID 0, 1, 5 or 5+1.

Each system includes a large flat panel display, detachable keyboard with touch pad, and amplified speakers. Display options include a 15″ 1280×1024 500nit sunlit-readable SVGA or a 15.4″ or 17″ 1280 × 1024 SVGA display. The PServer R9 accommodates a built-in digital conversion board allowing users to incorporate third party video cards. Available for this feature are 8MB integrated ATI graphics controller, GeForce4 128MB MGP card, 16MB PCI graphics card and 32MB 3Dlabs Oxygen VXI PCI graphics card.

Other features of the PServer R9 include a network ready dual port 100 Base Tx or 1000 Base Tx network interface card (NIC), a full range of 400 Watt ATX and DC power supplies for flexible input power, three 64-Bit PCI card slots for application flexibility and a padded transit case for added safety. The dimensions of the unit are 17.25″ (W) × 13.38″ (H) × 9.25″ (D).

Price and availability

The PServer R9 family of products starts as low as $7,995 with dual Xeon 2.0GHz processors, 128MB DDR SDRAM, 20GB hard drive and 15.4″ TFT 1400×1050 SXGA. Prices vary with faster CPUs, additional drives and memory, different displays, all weather options, and others. GSA and quantity discounts available. Delivery is 2-3 weeks ARO.

Roxtec’s Port Seal breaks ground

Roxtec introduces the new Port Seal, a cable sealing solution, developed to fit in existing cable entry port panels on cabinets and shelters. The Port Seal allows for the installation of pre-terminated cables without cutting connectors and eliminates the need for silicone sealants or hose clamps, while providing a custom fit even in applications using cables with multiple dimensions. The Port Seal uses a high tech rubber, proven in worldwide installations, and is completely resistant to environmental hazards while reducing the overall cost of installation.

The Port Seal is designed to seal 1 to 9 cables through a single opening by using Multidiameter technology, developed by Roxtec and used worldwide for telecom, marine, OEM and other exposed environments. It creates a flexible seal that is completely impermeable to water, dust, insects, rodents and vibration.

The Multidiameter technology also makes it possible to quickly and easily install the sealing kit without special equipment. Users can add additional cables later without having to remove the sealing kit or drill new holes in the existing solution.

The Roxtec Port Seal kit is available in four different configurations and delivered as a completely self-contained unit. The Port Seal 9, for example, accommodates up to nine cables with diameter range from 0.157″ to 1.278″, while the Port Seal 1 accommodates a single cable with a diameter range from 0.944″ to 2.124″.

Alvarion system a Breeze

Alvarion Inc. announced the commercial availability of BreezeACCESS, a traffic management system that offers public safety officials, city IS managers and service providers the ability to securely carry and manage 911 and other emergency messages in their wireless fixed and mobile networks. Comprising a complete set of traffic management tools contained in a stand-alone system extension to the BreezeACCESS product line, the TM solution enables traffic managers to accurately control the amount of bandwidth allocated to each user and the priority of each message in the link.

Building on the field-proven quality of service (QoS) capabilities of the BreezeACCESS product family, the TM system is typically deployed at the network operations center to establish up to 10 levels of overall traffic priority and to set the bandwidth throughput of each subscriber in the network as defined by minimum, maximum, guaranteed and committed burst rates. While in operation, the TM system matches each traffic session with a user and then forwards data packets according to the parameters set by the administrator for that user. As a result, bi-directional wireless network traffic for every user and application can be monitored, managed and shaped.

Because it increases network security and ensures data delivery, BreezeACCESS TM now allows carriers to sell independent and protected bandwidth to municipal organizations for public safety applications. In turn, homeland security agencies can use TM’s accounting services module, which aids the measurement of customer resource usage, to sell bandwidth to the municipality, generating extra revenue from an underused radio network.

Traffic supervision is accomplished through a user-friendly Web interface, which enables IS managers to set policies that regulate MAC address or IP address authorization and even network access, thereby allowing them to turn a specific user’s access to the network on or off.

Optimized for various customer needs and operating environments, the TM is available in four versions. Ranging from the TM-502 which supports 256 communication links of up to 2Mbps each, 12,000 simultaneous users, and 2,048 QoS policies, to the TM-1100 which supports 1,024 communication links of up to 100 Mbps each, 96,000 simultaneous users, and 4,096 QoS policies. All TM systems feature three 10/100BaseT ports, including shaping, monitoring and hardware bypass features.