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Explosion-Proof Laser Transmitter Measures Level, Distance, & Position in Challenging Bulk Solids Applications

Houston, TX (June 6, 2005) - ASI Instruments announced the EasyTrak XP laser transmitter, designed for measuring dry bulk solids, regardless of the presence of surrounding vapor or moderate dust. The device is housed in an explosion-proof assembly with screw-on cover for quick and easy access. The dual-compartment design allows users to isolate the wiring and terminations from the sensing elements and internal electronics. Meeting the requirements for use in hazardous areas the EasyTrak XP's rugged, powder coated aluminum enclosure is rated for IP67 or NEMA 4X and DIP ratings. This ensures operation even in the harshest of conditions.

The EasyTrak XP can measure virtually any solid surface at any angle, whether grain, plastics, or aggregates. The small wavelength of the laser means a narrower beam with virtually no beam divergence and, therefore, no false echoes. This provides high accuracy readings even when dealing with the most challenging circumstances, such as measuring inside silo cones and even silo chutes or through narrow openings in protective grids.

The EasyTrak XP measures distances from 1 to 50 feet (0.3 to 15 meters). The precise, pulsed laser diode features virtually no beam divergence (0.2љ beam spread) and no false echoes. As a result, the laser can be directed through very tight spaces, as small as two and a half inches in diameter.

The EasyTrak XP is immune to reflections and echoes, thus providing consistent performance on solids and immunity to "cone up" and "cone down" variations in the material being measured. It is available in a small, compact enclosure and provides a better alternative to open air radar and ultrasonic devices.

The EasyTrak XP delivers speed and accuracy in a compact unit. Users are up and running quickly because no calibration or special configuration software is required.

The unique, all-digital design features an advanced timing system and sophisticated, self-correcting digital signal processing (DSP) functions. This provides accurate and reliable measurement of level, distance, and position in the harshest of conditions. The EasyTrak XP is able to select true signals even in the presence of surrounding noise, such as moderate dust or agitator blades. The transmitter's variable gain allows the system to select the best return signal in quickly changing visibility conditions such as moderate dust, vapors, and materials of different color. Color compensation corrects for weak or excessive return signals, even at high speeds. Readings can be updated as quickly as three times per second. A stainless steel dust tube prevents dust build-up and protects the optical lens from being coated.

The EasyTrak XP is easily programmed with a Palm or Pocket PC handheld device or a desktop/laptop personal computer. Convenient, portable mounting options allow users to position the laser in any direction. ASI Instruments uses Class 1 lasers, making the EasyTrak products safe for the human eye. No special safety glasses are required.

Contact:

Kevin Hambrice, Director of Marketing

ASI Instruments, Inc.

8570 Katy Freeway, Suite 117

Houston TX 77024 USA

Tel.: 800.245.7056, +1 225.673.6100, fax: +1 713.461.7348

E-mail: khambrice@asiinstruments.com