At PLASA London 2014, HARTING is featuring its RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) systems for asset management in the theatre and touring environment, along with rugged connectivity solutions for audio-visual multimedia events.
HARTING’s RFID technology can be applied for improved asset management for entertainment rental/hire companies and for theatres which share equipment for touring shows. The Ha-VIS RFID system offers a high degree of flexibility to simplify the implementation of scalable solutions in different application sectors.
The system combines rugged, high-performance RFID readers with powerful data pre-processing to ensure high-speed data transmission and optimum dynamic network performance. An efficient software solution allows the scaling of RFID solutions from individual readers through to enterprise-wide solutions across different locations.
As an aid to integration of the RFID transponding functions, all the readers provide UHF technology as a standard feature. Their rugged design and construction allows them to be used in a wide range of industrial environments, including mounting on metal surfaces.
A major new connectivity development is Han(R) Hood Link: a new locking system that speeds cable-to-cable connection by allowing the connection of two standard HARTING 16B hoods while simultaneously achieving an IP 65 degree of protection.
A key feature of the new connection is that it is made from a resistant elastomer which provides optimum protection against external mechanical forces, as well as good resistance to oils and gases. When used in conjunction with a specially contoured design, it achieves locking and sealing in a single action. As a result, housings can be quickly assembled and disassembled with minimal effort – all without tools. A further product variant also permits housings to be locked together with both bulkhead and surface mounted housings.
This type of simple and robust locking element is particularly useful in concert and stage installations, since it minimises the risk of connectors falling from heights and the associated damage to the locking device on impact. This impact can be prevented by the elasticity of the new Han(R) Hood Link, which enables external mechanical forces to be absorbed. It also allows cables in machinery to be pre-assembled quickly and conveniently.
HARTING will also show managed and unmanaged Ethernet switches for applications in theatre/concert lighting and automation networking. These switches can be built into customised control and junction boxes, providing theatres or concert event installers with a useful box-build assembly service backed up by a high level of expertise and advice of on-site integrated system connectivity.
Other new connector products on show include the Han-Yellock(R) series of rugged rectangular connectors, the Han-Eco(R) Outdoor family of rugged, lightweight plastic-based connectors and Han-Fast(R) Lock, which provides a power connection from Han-style connectors directly to a printed-circuit board.
Harting will be at the international pro audio and entertainment lighting event at ExCel, London, 5th – 8th October 2014, stand number G15.
