Bangor-based DeepStream Technologies has signed a $16m deal to supply digital current sensors to German switch gear maker Moeller
"We have been working with Moeller for the last couple of years and can at last name them only because Moeller has launched their product," DeepStream v-p sales Rob Furness told Electronics Weekly.
The Welsh firm has sensing, 3D leadframe and ASIC technology which it has combined to produce residual current sensing modules for the inside of Moeller circuit breakers. "Because they are 3D, we can design modules to fit in existing shapes and make drop-in replacements, as well as modules for new products," said Furness.
Using "custom digital residual current measurement component," said DeepStream, "the RCD will be the most advanced and accurate device in the market place and will carry the DeepStream brand mark."
For the first time, the RCD also gives pre-trip information: "We have an LED in the module that normally flashes green, then turns solid green, amber, then red as the trip threshold is approached."
A light pipe takes this indication to the outside of the breaker. Furness, speaking from this week's Light+Building show in Frankfurt, said this indication feature was causing a stir amongst visitors to the Moeller stand as it allows preventative maintenance before serious earth leakage occurs.
Production ramp-up is in the hands of Moeller, although Furness estimates it will be in the next six months.
All module production will be in DeepStream's automated Welsh factory. "It is not labour intensive, so there is no point in moving it elsewhere," said Furness.
Furness would not say anything about other customer announcements in the pipeline.
The firm employs 80 staff, mostly engineers. Founded in 2004 and backed by investment from 3i and Doughty Hanson, DeepStream Technologies hired its 40th employee in September 2005.
It was voted Start-up of the Year at Elektra 06, Electronics Weekly's European Electronics Industry Awards.