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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Maximising Solar PV Generation Increasingly, when applications are submitted for the installation of solar photovoltaics, the network provider restricts the amount that can be installed and/or limits the amount of solar power that can be exported back into the grid. GNT Engineering has developed and manufactured solutions that will allow customers to maximise their own power generation. The ZED (Zero Export Devices) family of devices allows for the management of three-phase and single-phase solar PV systems, ensuring there is zero export of solar back into the grid. The CED (Controlled Export Devices) is factory programmed where there are limitations on how much power can be fed back to the grid. The devices constantly monitor how much electricity is being consumed from the grid. The device in turn communicates with the inverters, specifying how much power they are required to generate. This can be as little as 1% or as high as 100%. The devices are web-enabled, allowing for live viewing of energy consumption and solar PV generation; data is also transmitted to the cloud where customers have access to all of their historical data. The ZED/CED family of devices are compatible with a range of quality inverters. Contact: GNT Engineering 4/33 Expansion Street, Molendinar, QLD 4214 Phone: (07) 5564 6828 Website: www.gnteng.com.au Gooligum’s Raspberry Pi Prototyping Board Into Raspberry Pi? Gooligum Electronics’ new “Wombat” prototyping board makes it easy to create projects for this popular platform. All of the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins are clearly labelled and made readily accessible alongside a large breadboard with a 3.3V 500mA supply rail to power complex projects. The Wombat provides eight analog inputs, plus LEDs and pushbutton switches, all supported by a supplied Python library. It also adds a USB serial console to the Raspberry Pi – very useful when debugging! A set of starter projects featuring an RGB LED, light and temperature sensors is bundled with each board. For details go to www.gooligum. com.au Built for tight spaces! Party Lighting from Jaycar RS Components is now stocking the latest GearWrench 120XP ratcheting socket wrenches and spanners, which feature a precise 3° swing arc and long reach, with a compact head design to work quickly and efficiently even in inaccessible areas. They’re available in 1/4-, 3/8- or 1/2-inch square drive, with long handles giving lengths of 13mm, 21mm and 28mm respectively for enhanced reach. They also feature a low-profile teardrop-shaped head with 6-position adjustable angle, which enhances usability in tight spaces such as inside enclosures or behind panels. They are available individually, as a 3-wrench set, or in multi-piece socket sets containing a selection of SAE and metric size sockets. The 120XP line also includes several ranges of combination spanners, including solid steel spanners in sizes from 6mm to 19mm, and flex head spanners with a choice of open non-ratcheting end or 0° offset box-type non-ratcheting end in sizes from 8mm to 19mm. Ratchet gimbals with 1/4- and 3/8-inch square drive are also available, with rotation on two Contact: planes at various angles and fit RS Components Pty Ltd conveniently in the palm of the 25 Pavesi St, Smithfield NSW 2164 hand to allow quick and easy Tel: 1300 656 636 tightening. Website: http://au.rs-online.com Tempted to build the LED Party Strobe in this issue? Jaycar Electronics has a range of party lighting gear to go with it – and really make your next party MOVE! Shown above are just some of them: the Stage DMX LED PAR Lights (ST-3600; $69.95) on the left; centre is the DMX Laser Light (SL-3451; $199.00); while on the right is the Portable Stage DMX light (ST-3604; $299). While most lighting effects can be used in stand-alone mode, Jaycar also have DMX (digital multiplex) controllers to turn your lighting into an art form! Prices start at just $49.95. Contact: You’ll find these light- Jaycar Electronics ing products (and many All stores and online TechStore more) in the 2015 Jaycar Tel: 1800 022 888 (orderline) catalog or on their website. Website: jaycar.com.au siliconchip.com.au August 2015  61