Tools of the Trade

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June 2008

Unbreakable magnets

Suitable for harsh off-highway applications, high-strength Plastalloy magnets from Electrodyne are said to extend the service life of drivetrains, hydraulic lines, and metalworking equipment by capturing metal filings, chips, and other ferrous materials that could damage downstream components. Available in various configurations as sheets or shapes, the oil-resistant magnets operate in temperatures up to 150°C (302°F) and improve filter element performance. Unbreakable Plastalloy can be magnetized using various methods, including conventional, two-pole, and multiple-pole, and is suitable for environmentally sensitive applications. Magnets can be bent, twisted, and flexed without losing magnetic energy.
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April 2008

USB-based analyzer

SPI Xpress is a high-speed SPI (serial peripheral interface) exerciser/analyzer for debug, analysis, programming, and testing of chips and electronic boards from Saelig. The tool works on various serial interfaces, including three-wire with bidirectional data line, all at up to 50 Mbit/s data rate for cycle-accurate operation and zero latency between accesses. 8PI control panel software features an SPI application with graphical user interface, integrated waveform viewer, scripting TCL/tk interface, and direct C/C++ DLL access to enable automated control and integration within custom environments. Powered either from a USB bus or from an external power supply, the versatile SPI Xpress three- and four-wire analyzer uses a 2.0 USB high-speed interface to analyze for chip-to-chip communications. Suitable applications include both in-lab development and on-site servicing.
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March 2008

Marine filter media

The Racor Division of Parker Hannifin offers the ECO II series high-soot capacity intake filters for marine applications. The filters are designed for applications where high-soot concentrations are present. Marine-grade filter media extends service life in such environments when compared to conventional heavy-duty, paper-type air cleaners. ECO II intake filters are currently available in two sizes: 15 x 15 in (381 x 381 mm) or 15 x 24 in (381 x 610 mm). Features and benefits include extended service life, increased capacity, and lower pressure differential for improved power and fuel economy.
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