(PRWEB) February 1, 2006 -- Multi-loop industrial electronic temperature controllers are purchased for multiple zone applications, and the number of loops in these is increasing, according to a new study, "Industrial Electronic Temperature Controllers: Global Market Demand Analysis, Ninth Edition," by Venture Development Corporation.

Among the users implementing temperature control loops with MP-ML controllers, an increasing number are purchasing these with a greater number of control loops. By purchasing more expensive MP-ML controllers having a greater number of control loops, users are able to control more complex processes and more pieces of equipment with fewer controllers, allowing them to get the most out of their equipment and save themselves money in the long run.

Survey Findings

VDC found in a survey conducted with purchasers (end users, OEMs, and systems integrators) of MP-ML temperature controllers that they expect to be purchasing in the future units with more control loops. Among those in the survey, two-loop MP-ML controllers are the most popular, and this will remain so, however, with fewer of the respondents. For a significant share the most typical number of control loops will be shifting to 4 or more, with the largest gain expected for 8 loop controllers.

Most Typical Number of Control Loops Required in Microprocessor-Based Multi-Loop Industrial Temperature Controllers
(Percent of User Responses)

A) In 2005

2: 48%
3: 14%
4: 15%
5: 5%
6: 4%
8: 5%
Other: 9%

B) Expected in 2010

2: 35%
3: 9%
4: 17%
5: 9%
6: 5%
8: 15%
Other: 10%

This reflects an ongoing trend to added complexity of industrial systems, with added control needs for multiple zones. Implementing these in MP-ML controllers when needed can be more cost effective than buying separate units with fewer loops. These can cost less per loop, be easier to install, and easier to maintain.

However, the optimum number of control loops in a controller is a function of the application, as the total number required is limited, and the required location for many may not be at the same place.

Modular Products

To meet the shifting market demand, MP-ML suppliers are offering modular products made up of 2 and 4 loop controllers. With these they can form units with 8 and more loops. These can be less expensive to produce than manufacturing separate 8 and 8+ loop controllers. These also have the added attractiveness of providing easy expansion. Many users are already purchasing modular MP-ML controllers, and more expect to in the future.

Suppliers of industrial electronic temperature controllers are facing increasing competition from the implementation of temperature control loops in DCSs, PCs, and PLCs, which can provide ease of use, expansion capability and low-cost solutions. Modular products are one means by which industrial electronic temperature controller suppliers are facing up to this competition.

*************************************************************************
To view this entire press release (including exhibit), go to:
http://www.vdc-corp.com/industrial/press/05/pr05-61.html

Report Availability
http://www.vdc-corp.com/industrial/reports/05/br05-18.html
*************************************************************************

About VDC

Venture Development Corporation (VDC) is an independent technology market research and strategy consulting firm that specializes in a number of industrial, embedded, component, retail automation, RFID, AIDC, datacom/telecom, and defense markets. VDC has been operating since 1971, when the firm was founded by graduates of the Harvard Business School and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Today, we employ a talented collection of analysts and consultants who offer a rare combination of expertise in the market research process; experience in technology product and program management; and formal training in engineering and marketing. VDC's clients include thousands of the largest and fastest-growing tech suppliers in the world and the most successful investors participating in the markets we cover.

For further information about "Industrial Electronic Temperature Controllers: Global Market Demand Analysis, Ninth Edition" or any other VDC service, contact:

Eric Heikkila, Analyst, 508-653-9000 ext. 145.

Join the VDC mailing list to receive future updates at: http://www.vdc-corp.com/subscriptions