In Brief

Engineers can now configure computer-based motion systems using a free Web-based tool that helps to select motion controllers from National Instruments and compatible stages from suppliers including Anorad, Bayside, and Danaher Precision Systems. NI`s Stage Advisor tool (available at the NI Web site) evaluates applications and generates a list of suitable equipment, including datasheets.

The US market for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) will grow by more than 20% a year in the coming years to reach $3.5bn by 2006, and more than $9bn by 2011, according to a new study by the US market analyst, the Freedonia Group. By 2011, telecommunications applications will account for more than 40% of the MEMS market with industrial applications remaining small-scale and specialised, the report says.

Profibus International has founded the first Profinet Competence Centres in the US and Germany to support users and manufacturers in the application and development of Profinet-compatible devices.