Invensys Process Systems is introducing seven new wireless-enabled systems as well as expanded global network implementation and support capabilities. Measurement specialist Micro-Epsilon has recently introduced what is claimed to be the world’s first confocal miniature sensor with a diameter of just 4mm. Lead solders, such as the tin-lead variety, have been used in electronics for the past 50 years. Their long-term reliability is well understood. However, lead is toxic and regulations require the use of lead-free materials. Jean-François Bauer outlines how to meet the stringent standards of medical device assembly. Dr Keith Parsons discusses the challenges of developing electronic displays for use outdoors, and introduces the latest generation of film substrates enabling displays to function effectively regardless of the ambient light conditions. PI (Profibus & Profinet International) has specified Profisafe for wireless networks. In January 2007 an Irish technology development company, Steorn, announced that its free energy technology would be made widely available to the development community immediately after an independent scientific validation process that is expected to be complete by the end of 2007. Perpetual motion machines have been the subject of ridicule for hundreds of years, but there is plenty of scope for harvesting small amounts of energy from various sources for performing useful tasks. Jon Severn reports on how technological developments are presenting new opportunities for low-powered wireless electronic devices. EZ-COMPASS-3A, -3AV and -3AH is a new series of miniature magnetometer compasses with tilt and temperature compensation from Variohm Eurosensor Ltd. ATorqSense transducer is helping ensure the reliability of powered wheelchairs, scooters, golf buggies and other electric vehicles, having been incorporated into a dynamometer rolling road built by PG Drives in Dorset. The Antikythera Mechanism is believed to be one of the world’s oldest known geared devices. It dates from around the 1st century BC and is the most sophisticated mechanism known from the ancient world. Machinery safety is often viewed as a market sector where customers are conservative and progress in developing new and innovative products is perhaps slower than elsewhere. Charles Austen Pumps manufactures pumps designed to specific customer requirements that cannot be satisfied by off-the-shelf units. next