Internet Resources

Control System Integrators Association online directory

The CSIA offers a new directory of its integrator members through the Find an Integrator function of controlsys.org. With the tool, site visitors can locate integrators who offer specific services and applications within an industry and geographic territory.

The search results also indicate (with a blue ribbon) members who have become Certified Control System Integrators by passing an independent audit of 76 criteria covering all aspects of business performance, including general, financial, project, and quality management, as well as supporting systems, human resources, and more. Certified members are audited every three years and recertified if they meet current performance standards. These certification criteria are fully outlined in CSIA's Best Practices and Benchmarks.

Though the Find an Integrator function requires registration, many technical sections of controlsys.org are accessible to all.

Motion Control YouTube channel

A new YouTube channel includes more than 80 informative and technical motion-control videos. Visit the site, hosted by Electromate, at youtube.com/Electromate.

Sort by price

Electronic-components distributor Digi-Key Corp. now offers a Sort by Price feature to all registered Digi-Key users.

The figures listed are based on Tier One or unit pricing, and apply to all parts, Digi-Key websites, and supported currencies. Registered users can sort by ascending or descending price, and apply filters for products that are in stock, lead-free, and RoHS-compliant.

An Advanced Sort option allows users to request parts in specific quantities.

An account is not required to place an online order at the Digi-Key website, but the Sort by Price feature is only available to registered users of digikey.com.

CAD file repository

Free maxon motor 2D and 3D CAD-file downloads are now available at tracepartsonline.net. The library also offers information and technical drawings regarding maxon's dc brush and brushless motors, sensors, gearheads, brakes, and control electronics. The site's multi-CAD capability ensures compatibility with all standard CAD systems: SolidWorks, Catia, Pro/Engineer, Inventor, Solid Edge, TopSolid, thinkdesign, Unigraphics, Alibre Design, Acis, STEP, IGES, DWG, and DXF. In fact, tracepartsonline.net is one of the world's largest CAD component libraries, with more than 100 million models. Since the merger of CAD content from TraceParts and web2CAD, the TraceParts portal is open to engineers worldwide for free.

Also visit maxon's e-Shop at shop.maxonmotor.com; the site details the company's dc brush and brushless motors, gearheads, sensors, and control electronics, and allows users to order up to 49 items. All technical documents and drawings are available for free in PDF, DXF, and STEP formats.

Technical databases

Onvio's new new technical web site is at onviollc.com. Comprehensive application sizing and selection tools benefit OEMs, integrators, and distributors. Also included are extensive motor performance libraries, so engineers can confidently input critical application details and match precision motion products that will suit current applications.

Technical databases developed through decades of design, manufacturing, and application expertise can be accessed; Onvio engineering support is also available.

World's Smartest Design Engineer contest

The World's Smartest Design Engineer tournament will begin anew in 2011. Visit smartestdesignengineer.com to register, roll up your sleeves, and play. The new game will award several monthly prizes.