Sensors Enable High-Current Measurement

A range of current sensors that allows the Yokogawa range of precision power meters to be used for measuring very high currents has been made available. Developed and manufactured by Hitec Power Protection, the Zero-Flux current sensors allow the precise measurement of currents up to several thousands of amperes - including simultaneous measurement of AC and DC currents - while providing accurate phase-shift information.

Other key features of these sensors include isolation from the primary circuits, very high stability and accuracy, high bandwidth, saturation detection with automatic reset after overcurrent and the ability to switch on the devices with current already present when connected. There are three types of current sensor in the Zero-Flux range: the MACC Plus external current sensor; the SC1000 split-core sensor; and the CURACC current-measuring system.

The MACC Plus external current sensor offers a 1000:1 current transfer ratio for maximum 850A peak current (600A RMS). For DC currents, a maximum of 600A DC can be measured continuously. Versions with voltage outputs are also available. With an overload capacity of 20 per cent, sinusoidal currents of 85A RMS, 170A RMS and 430A RMS can be measured. Maximum continuous DC currents are the same as the AC peak limits. The SC1000 split-core Zero-Flux current measuring system is designed for applications where it is not possible to switch off a motor in a production facility or in a critical safety environment such as a nuclear power plant.

It can also be used in situations where it is inconvenient or costly to remove and replace the glands on thick power cables in order to run them through the sensor hole. The SC1000 measures primary currents up to 1,000A peak (700A RMS), with a transfer ratio of 1,000A peak/0.5 A peak or 1,000A peak/10V peak for a voltage output. If 1,000A peak (700A RMS) is not enough, the CURACC series offers up to 6,000A peak (4,240A RMS) for 'current-in/current-out' applications. For currents up to and including 2,000A peak (1,400A RMS), a resin-encapsulated head is available.

For DC currents, a maximum of 6,000A DC (model E) can be measured continuously. A range of junction units is available to minimise wiring. Yokogawa products with which these current sensors can be used include the WT3000 precision power analyser, WT500 compact power analyser, WT210 (single-phase) and WT320 (2/3-phase) power meters, WT1600 and WT1600S digital power meters, and PZ4000 single-shot power analyser.

Sensors Reduce Ventilation Costs By 20 Percent

The Ventostat 8000 series from GE Sensing and Inspection Technologies monitors temperature, carbon dioxide (CO2) and humidity via one cost-effective transmitter unit. This allows building managers to easily control indoor air quality within a building management system. Through monitoring, energy loss from over ventilation can be reduced and may provide building owners with savings of up to 20 per cent of the ventilation costs.

Replacing the existing Telaire Ventostat, this new transmitter for HVAC demand control ventilation brings three technologies together into one sleek modern design. The Ventostat was recently honoured with Chicago Athenaeum's Good Design Award, recognising designers and manufacturers for advancing new and innovative product concepts and designs. The ABC Logic self-calibration logarithms provide a lifetime calibration guarantee, which eliminates long-term cost.

GE Sensing and Inspection Technologies designs a wide range of sensors that help monitor indoor air quality and help maximise energy use. GE building transmitters, such as those found in the Ventostat product range, can help achieve green building objectives and reduce a building's environmental footprint.

Circular Photodiode Sensors Feature Round Geometry

Ophir-Spiricon has launched the PD300-R line of circular photodiode sensors. Identical in performance to the company's PD300 laser detectors, the PD300-R sensors feature a round geometry to facilitate mounting and centring on collinear optical bench systems. SM-1 mounting threads on all components ensure a fit with most optics. The sensors are designed to detect a range of light levels, from 500pW to 3W.

Each device has a built-in filter that reduces the light level on the detector and allows measurements of up to 30mW without saturation. A second, removable filter allows measurement up to 3W.

Four models are available: the PD300-R measures from 500pW to 30mW filter-out, 200uW to 300mW filter-in and wavelengths from 200nm to 1,800nm; the PD300-R-3W measures from 5nW to 100mW filter-out, 200uW to 3W filter-in and wavelengths from 200nm to 1,800nm; the PD300-R-UV measures from 20pW to 3mW filter-out, 2uW to 300mW filter-in and wavelengths from 200nm to 1,100nm; and the PD300-R-IR measures from 5nW to 30mW filter-out, 200uW to 300mW filter-in and wavelengths from 700nm to 1,800nm.

The PD300-R circular photodiode sensors work with all Ophir smart meters and PC interfaces, including the Orion PE, Nova, Nova II, Vega and Laserstar meters and the Juno and Pulsar PC interfaces. Each display features a 'smart connector' interface that automatically configures and calibrates the display when plugged into one of the company's measurement heads. The PD300-R circular photodiode sensors are available now. OEM pricing is available on request.

Advantech Selects Zytronic PCT-Based Touch Sensors

Advantech has again selected Zytronic's projected capacitive technology (PCT)-based touch sensors and is offering the option of a Zypos touch sensor in its latest rugged 17in (43cm) panel PC. The PPC-175T has a 17in colour TFT LCD with a 1,280 x 1,024 resolution and features a high-performance Intel microprocessor chip (Pentium or Celeron M), 2Gb of DDR RAM memory and a host of high-speed interconnects.

Designed for use in harsh industrial environments, the PPC-175T has an operating temperature that extends from 0C right through to +50C in humidity levels of up to 85 per cent and is capable of withstanding up to 10G of shock. It is also encased within an IP67-rated enclosure to fully protect it against water ingress. The 17.1in Zypos touch screen, which forms an integral part of the panel PC, is based on Zytronic's proprietary PCT.

The sensing element consists of an interlocking matrix of micro-fine capacitors, each one only 10um in diameter (a quarter of the thickness of a human hair), optically laminated behind a pure glass panel. The PCT sensor element is not located on the outer surface or edge of the screen, where it would be exposed to potential sources of harm, but instead embedded into a durable laminated glass substrate that can even be placed behind and operated through a thick layer of glass or polycarbonate for added protection.

With a pure glass front, the sensor can be completely sealed into its enclosure. PCT-based touch screens are suitable for a variety of heavy-duty industrial applications and can even be operated with a gloved hand. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, even in harsh climates, Zytronic's projected capacitive touch sensors enable a long and trouble-free operating lifespan and reduce the need for expensive maintenance call-outs, according to the company.

Ixthus Offers FTS Fibre-Optic Displacement Sensors

The new Philtec FTS fibre-optic displacement sensors, which are distributed by Ixthus Instrumentation, are designed for flight-test applications. Weighing 175g, the sensor electronics feature a 25 x 50 x 75mm enclosure with a MIL-DTL-83513 Micro-D connector for power and output signals. Philtec provides customised non-contact fibre-optic sensors that are suitable for the extreme environments of many aerospace applications.

A small probe size, a wide sensor bandwidth and extreme temperature ranges are key advantages. These devices measure linear distance and displacement up to 50mm. Typical applications include valve and actuator measurements, turbine-shaft and blade-tip dynamics and satellite component testing in cryogenic chambers.

ZF Launches Cherry Magnetic Position Sensors

ZF Electronics has launched four ranges of Cherry magnetic position sensors: the MP1014 series, the MP1001 series, the MP1005-MP1007 series and the MP1013 series. With a variety of different housings, features and electrical specifications, these Cherry position sensors are designed to suit a range of applications, including door position sensing, flow sensing and pedal switches, and to provide reliable operation and a long product life across diverse operating environments.

The MP1014 digital Hall-effect position sensors have low-profile flange-mount housings and include two unipolar switch models (MP101401 and MP101402) and one bipolar latch model (MP101403). Capable of millions of operations, the sensors meet IEC529 IPX5 standards for water protection and have reverse battery protection to -24VDC, as well as being RoHS compliant. The MP101401 series features south-pole-activated unipolar switching and has a maximum operate point of 185 Gauss (south) and a minimum release point of 60 Gauss (south).

The MP101402 series features sensitive unipolar switching for applications such as automotive, security doors and vending machines and has a maximum operate point of 95 Gauss (south) and a minimum release point of 20 Gauss (south). For applications that require a bipolar latch, the MP101403 latches in the presence of the south-pole magnet and unlatches in the presence of a north-pole magnet. Electrical specifications across all MP1014 series are: an operating voltage range of 4.5-24VDC; a supply current of 5.2mA maximum; an output via a three-wire sink with an output saturation voltage of 400mV maximum; and an output current of 20mA maximum.

The MP1001 series features solid-state, magnetic position sensors featuring electrical immunity protection and is suitable for applications that require a stable output over an operating temperature range of -40C to +105C, including safety doors, power sliding doors and flow sensing applications. Meeting IEC529 IP67 for dust and water protection, these sensors are also RoHS compliant. MP100101 and MP100102 position sensors are compatible with unregulated power supplies and are reverse battery protected to -24VDC; they also feature internal circuit protection to IEC529 1000. Their open-collector (sinking or NPN) output can be used with bipolar or CMOS logic circuits with a suitable pull-up resistor.

Adjustable, threaded anodised aluminium housings are available on Cherry MP1005 and Cherry MP1007 solid-state magnetic position sensors. Offering output stability over operating temperatures ranging from -40C to +125C (MP100502) and -40C to +105C (MP100701), both MP1005 and MP1007 sensors are south-pole activated, reverse battery protected to -24VDC and do not require a regulated power supply. Applications include limit switches, home security and door position products. The MP100502 is suitable for supply current up to 12mA maximum, while the MP100701 is suitable for a supply current up to 16mA maximum. The open-collector NPN output can be used with bipolar or CMOS logic circuits with a suitable pull-up resistor.

For applications that need a snap-fit mounting sensor, such as door interlock sensing, speed sensing and water flow sensing, the MP1013 series of two unipolar switches (MP101301 and MP101301) and one bipolar latch (MP101303) provide an economical solution. Meeting IEC529 IP67 for dust and water protection, these Hall-effect position sensors also offer solid-state reliability and output stability over an operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. Their open-collector (NPN) outputs can be used with bipolar switch or CMOS logic circuits and they do not require a regulated power supply.

Ginetta G50 Race Cars Use Variohm Pressure Sensors

Leeds-based Ginetta Cars has chosen Variohm EPT3100 pressure transducers to monitor oil, fuel and water pressure across all of its G50 series of race cars. The 300bhp G50 'Cup' race car is exclusively used for the single-make Michelin G50 Championship, which starts again in April 2010. A newly introduced G50Z version features a 400bhp Ford Zytek engine and is aimed at top-level GT sprint and 24-hour racing.

The latest derivative, the G50HC (hot climate), is built for the Middle East race-car market and is designed for track temperatures up to +60C. Throughout the G50 series, the engine control unit and data logging systems are used to ensure optimum performance and Variohm's EPT3100 series pressure transducers are built for challenging applications where high performance and reliability need to be balanced with lightweight design, compact dimensions and a competitive cost.

The EPT3100's thin-film measuring cell and high-level-output circuit technology provide a pressure output from 0.25bar to 4,000bar in several range options, with accuracy better than +/-0.8 per cent and stability more than +/-0.1 per cent. Output options include 0-5V, ratiometric and 4-20mA with up to 32V input. For maximum durability, the EPT3100 features a 1,000g shock rating and a 25g peak vibration rating at 20-2,000Hz. The IP66-rated sealed sensor is housed in a hermetically welded 304 stainless-steel casing, weighing 60g and measuring 22mm in diameter and 54mm in length.

A choice of miniature or standard DIN43650 connectors, or flying leads, is designed to make installation and field replacement straightforward. To meet the demands of the gruelling conditions for all types of autosports - and the most challenging industrial applications - the EPT3100 has an over-range pressure rating of 2x and a burst pressure capability to 5x, with a rated life of more than 10 million pressure cycles. The EPT3100 is a part of a range of specialist sensors and transducers that Variohm Eurosensor supplies across the autosports industry, including Formula 1, A1GP, WTCC, GP2, Champ, Nascar, ALMS and Superbike.

The complete range includes pressure and temperature sensor solutions for fuel, oil, coolant and brakes as well as force, torque and position measurement sensors for suspension travel, throttle and gearbox. Laser and infrared technologies are also supplied for ride height position and tyre condition.

Ultrasonic Sensors Have Sound-Absorbent Material

Datasensor has introduced US30 Ultrasonic Sensors with M30 housing to expand its measurement and detection product portfolio. All the models present radial acoustic emission and the versions can have the following features: configurable PNP/NPN NO/NC bipolar digital output; 0-10V analogue output; and 4-20mA analogue output. Models also feature a detection field of 100mm-1m or 200mm-2m.

The response time is fixed in the models with digital output (45ms for 1m models and 92ms for the 2m models) and is selectable in the models with analogue output (45ms or 105ms for 1m models and 92ms or 222ms for 2m models). Electrical connection can be carried out using standard M12 five-pole connector. The sensors can be configured using the Teach-In procedure, using the two push-buttons on the rear side of the sensor, or using the remote input present on the connector. Two signalling LEDS show the operating status. The temperature compensation function corrects the sound speed changes due to temperature variations and maintain the sensor precision in all situations, thus guaranteeing a minimum resolution of 0.5mm for the 1m models and 1mm for the 2m models.

These functions make the US30 ultrasonic sensors an alternative to other typical detection technologies in critical applications in presence of fog, dust or smoke. Datasensor claims that these sensors can contribute to improving the quality and productivity in industrial automation systems. The US30 ultrasonic sensors detect all objects independently from their sound-absorbent material, transparency and colour, making them the suitable for applications in sectors such as automotive, packaging, machine tool and material transformation processes.

Autonnic Unveils Sensors For Engine Lever Controls

Autonnic has announced the launch of a range of waterproof, non-contact interaction devices, designated the A3300 lever control module. A requirement of the marine sector is that conducting, corrosive seawater must not encounter electronic circuits - however, switches, controls and buttons must be placed where a wet mariner can reach and touch them. Autonnic said it has applied the latest version of its three-axis fluxgate technology to its solution to this interface problem.

The company's solution is magnetic and therefore non-contact, which solves the problem of how to keep the sea out of the electronics behind knobs, levers and buttons. The first of the series to launch is the A3300 set of OEM modules to provide the basis of non-contact engine lever controls for either one or two engines. Originally based on cables, lever controls are the electrical means to communicate between the bridge and engine room.

Fundamental to the operation is a method to convert a hand movement into an electrical signal. While a potentiometer is often used it has a number of disadvantages and Autonnic's challenge has been to solve these while remaining cost-effective. First, potentiometers are not non-contact. The electrical part is mechanically connected and a rotary seal is therefore needed to keep the water out. Second, potentiometers use sliding parts that wear and give rise to electrical noise, which could lead to unreliable operation.

Third, the potentiometer is itself a mechanical turning part and its own movement has to be rigidly accommodated within the final lever product design. Autonnic's solution is based on its low-cost magnetic technology. At its simplest, the company applies a magnet on a lever externally and a sealed internal fluxgate will indicate to what angle the lever has been turned. For adjacent controls, such as a twin-engine lever control, something else has to be put in place - Autonnic's switched magnet technology (SMT).

By using asymmetric passive cores on the lever shafts a common fluxgate can be shared between the two, keeping all the advantages. Because SMT is a vector magnetic method the background field is always being removed from the reading, leaving it unaffected by stray magnetic fields. For the highest precision applications - higher even than lever controls - Autonnic can replace the passive cores with excited symmetric cores so that the movement of one shaft does not distort the field due to the other in even the slightest way so that cross-talk is eliminated.

Non-Contact Sensors Measure Solar Glass Panels

Schott Solar Thin Film, a manufacturer of thin-film solar-power modules, is using non-contact measurement systems from Micro-Epsilon to inspect the quality of solar glass panels. The measurement system has helped to reduce the cost of processing defective parts. Thin-film technology is the manufacturing technology used to produce thin solar cells, which are deposited directly onto a low-cost carrier material, typically glass, metal foil or plastic film.

The advantages of using thin-film technology are the material and energy savings made during the production process, good conductivity and the ability to produce large-area solar cells. Schott Solar Thin Film delivers glass panes with a conductive layer (electrode). To optimise the production yield of the thin-film solar cells, all incoming glass panes are measured and inspected on delivery. Here, one of the most important criteria is the evenness or flatness of the glass panes.

This must be accurate to just a few millimetres across the complete surface of the glass, which means they need to be measured to an accuracy/repeatability of hundredths of a millimetre. Other inspection criteria are thickness, length, width and squareness of the glass. The edge must also be inspected for cracks, shell defects or breakouts. The QA station Schott uses comprises several stages. Loading is carried out by a robot that places the glass panes onto a conveying unit. The panes are then automatically inspected for their length, width, squareness, edge damage, thickness and evenness.

These tasks are performed using a measurement system supplied by Micro-Epsilon. For these inspection tasks, Micro-Epsilon employs two different optical-measurement methods: confocal chromatic sensors and the light intersection method. The glass pane, which is lifted onto the conveyor belt by a robot, is placed on a solid block of granite in order to have a defined, flat reference surface. Six OptoNCDT 2401 confocal chromatic sensors are positioned on a traversing beam directly above the pane and measure the thickness and planarity in six planes. In this way, the glass pane can show a target thickness of 2 - 4mm.

The required flatness and thickness must be accurate to within millimetres or tenths of a millimetre, which means that the measurements must be precise, down to hundredths of a millimetre. The desired distance or thickness information for the confocal principle is obtained from polychromatic white light. A conventional LED provides the light source. The sensors have a measuring range of 10mm and only measure the thickness from one side. During the traversing process, a Micro-Epsilon Scancontrol laser scanner circumnavigates the glass pane. Therefore, the edge of the pane is simultaneously inspected for damage and its geometric values (length, width and squareness) are measured.

A maximum deviation of +/- 1mm is permitted for a length of 1,300mm and a width of 1,100mm. For this, a laser line is projected onto the pane and the diffuse reflected light is received by a CMOS matrix. In this way, the surface profile of the edge of the pane can be accurately reproduced. Next, the film resistance and the transmission of the pane are measured. If the pane is defect-free, it is then channelled into the production process by another robot. Another QA station is located at goods despatch for edge inspection of the flat glass panes refined by the production process.

Here, damage to the edge of the pane is inspected. The test rig is an identical design to the system in goods inwards. An optical laser scanner on a traversing beam carries out the quality inspection by circumnavigating the glass pane. Micro-Epsilon's measuring system enables rapid, 100 per cent inspection at goods inwards and despatch. The system, which was specially developed for these inspection tasks, reduces the cost of processing defective parts.

Kistler Offers Sensitive And Robust Torque Sensors

Kistler's piezoelectric torque sensors have a wide measuring range and are adaptable to match most configurations, making them suited to manufacturing-process monitoring. The sensors are available with measuring ranges of 1, 10, 25, 200 and 1,000Nm and all are suitable for torques from approximately 0.001Nm.

The torque sensors are supplied calibrated for 100 and 10 per cent of the measuring range with additional calibration ranges available as an option. Installation is flexible as each sensor has an end flange with four or six threaded mounting holes and a centring seat for precise coaxial installation. A central hole allows a shaft to pass through the sensor.

The high sensitivity, rigid construction and compact dimensions of the sensors make them particularly suited to monitoring applications in assembly processes and product testing where rotary movements are involved: typically screw, bolt or nut tightening to specific torque; rotary potentiometer and switch testing; and screw-cap fitting.

As piezoelectric sensors are immune from fatigue and wear when properly used, their service life is virtually unlimited, making them suitable for use as calibration sensors and for general torque measurement in manufacturing and research-and-development applications.

Rotary Position Sensors Added To ST350 Series

Sensor Systems has added a range of Hall-effect rotary position sensors to its ST350 series. The company said the sensors simplify customer use by providing the CANbus outputs needed for new-generation control systems. An operating range up to 360deg gives customers greater control and system accuracy by allowing them to select a range more closely suited to their application. Supply voltage up to 30VDC and the CANbus DS301/DS406 profiles up to 1Mbits/s improve compatibility with a variety of control systems.

Linearity of +/- 0.50deg with a resolution of about +/- 0.09deg provides customers with increased measurement precision. Thermal drift lower than 100ppm/C allows applications under adverse ambient conditions. Different connector choices (for example, AMP Superseal or Deutsch) satisfy customer connection requirements. The ST350 series sensors use solid-state Hall-effect technology, providing non-contact operation, enhancing service life and reducing wear-out mechanisms.

This series uses a magnetically based, Hall-effect IC to sense rotary movement of the actuator shaft over an operating range. The IC, together with conditioning and protection circuitry and a permanent magnet, is sealed in a rugged package rated IP67 or greater for durability in harsh environments. A dual-output version is available for redundancy and backup. The ST350 series can be used in a range of applications including marine, medical, cranes, aerial platforms, drilling machines, excavators, robotics and mobile equipment.

Explosion-Proof Sensors Added To Leuze Range

Leuze Electronic has extended its range of explosion-proof optical sensors with several new versions, and added a range of new protection housings. The housings can be fitted to Leuze Electronic's standard sensors to enable their installation in potentially explosive atmospheres.

The PH 3B55 Ex-n protective housings are designed for use with almost 200 Leuze sensors. This provides optical detection, contrast scanning, and distance measurement from its 3B, 25B and 55 series ranges. Sensors correctly mounted in the protective housing can be used in areas with a potentially explosive atmosphere consisting of a gas/air or dust/air mixture, which is expected to occur seldom and only briefly.

These are Zone 2 (gas) and Zone 22 (dust) of Group II, category 3 according to the CENELEC classification. In Zone 22, the devices can be used with conductive and non-conductive dust. The sensors also comply with the new international standards IEC EN 60079-15 and IEC EN 61241-1.

ST Offers RWT310/320 And RWT330/340 Torque Sensors

Sensor Technology's digital RWT310/320 torque sensors with integrated electronics and RWT330/340 torque sensors with separate electronics include the latest Torqsense (SAW) technology. The introduction of the new RWT310/RWT320 offers a compact transducer together with the electronics integrated within the body.

This has been achieved by developing swept electronic technology, which provides the advantages of a higher bandwidth. The RWT310 is offered in a variety of sizes for those that wish to measure torque from 100mNm to 10,000Nm, and possibly beyond with the option of 4-20MA or 0-20MA current outputs.

The RWT320 offers as standard: analogue output; RS232 output; high-speed USB output; built-in peak torque sampling, storage and averaging; self-diagnostics test package; and the option of a user-selectable current-output to enable 4-20mA or 0-20mA output. The new RWT310/RWT320 series has been designed for low cost and OEM use, but is also suitable for use as an advanced transducer.

Pepperl And Fuchs Launches Proximity Sensors

Pepperl And Fuchs has designed a range of sensors for use in industrial and commercial vehicles. The e1 certification defined for mobile equipment specifies an interference immunity of 30V/m, but the sensors from Pepperl and Fuchs are designed to far exceed this at 100V/m.

Additional protection is provided against shock and vibration, and cable strain is increased to prevent damage by any over-enthusiastic installation engineers. These sensors also have an extended operating temperature range and a high IP rating (IP69K), and are resistant to common chemical and corrosive substances such as salt spray (EN60068-2-52).

Q22 Specialty pH/ORP Sensors Resist Poisons

Analytical Technology has introduced the Q22 Specialty pH/ORP sensors, which allow for simple sensor replacement without the need for an entire system installation. In addition, the new sensors have been designed for use with all pH/ORP analysers and generic panel meters. Conventional pH/ORP sensors are based on an open reference system, which allows the reference elements and electrolytes to be in contact with the process. Chemicals diffuse into the reference chamber and contaminate the system, causing the reference potential to shift and the sensors to fail.

As a result, more cleaning and calibration cycles are required, costing more time and money. Analytical Technology's Q22 Specialty pH/ORP sensors, whether universal or loop-powered, incorporate a glass reference-system, protecting the sensors from chemical poisons that destroy conventional pH/ORP sensors. The electrodes of Analytical Technology's Q22 Specialty pH/ORP sensors are customised and user-specified to ensure optimum measurement reliability and maximum sensor lifetime.

An integral pre-amplifier is encapsulated in the body of the sensors, generating a low impedance signal output that ensures stable readings in harsh environments and maximises the distance between the sensor and the analyser. A large volume, dual junction, replaceable saltbridge maximises the in-service time of the sensors and allows for easy and inexpensive sensor regeneration. The sensor housings are made of durable materials that provide outstanding mechanical strength and chemical resistance. A free-of-charge product brochure can be downloaded from Analytical Technology's website.

Instrument Driver Allows Interface With Sensors

National Instruments has released an instrument driver that allows users of NI Labview to interface with environmental monitoring sensors that communicate via SDI-12. SDI-12 is a serial-based communication protocol optimised for battery-powered intelligent sensors NI Labview is a graphical system design platform. With NI Labview SDI-12 Application Programming Interface (API) software, researchers, engineers and scientists can easily acquire measurements such as turbidity, dissolved oxygen, tank level, soil pH, conductivity and other critical environmental sensor measurements.

The SDI-12 protocol makes it possible to communicate with a wide variety of sensors and recorders that are most commonly used in environmental data acquisition applications such as climate change tracking, water quality and testing, ecological research, soil monitoring, agriculture and weather analysis.

Using the Labview SDI-12 API, researchers, engineers and scientists can connect traditional environmental data with the wide variety of I/O that works with Labview, making it a comprehensive and flexible environmental data-logging solution.

The Labview SDI-12 API, combined with an RS232 to SDI-12 converter and any computer or NI programmable automation controller that includes a serial port, can be used to make environmental measurements in a laboratory setting or deploy stand-alone systems into remote locations.

Stainless Steel Housings Protect Proximity Sensors

The new additions to IFM Electronic's efector T series are probably the only all-stainless steel sensors with an operating temperature as high as 100C. FM Electronic has released inductive proximity sensors with housings made from stainless steel, including the sensing face. They suit the food industry, as they can be used in wet areas and survive aggressive cleaning and high temperatures

The new additions to IFM Electronic's efector T series are probably the only all-stainless steel sensors with an operating temperature as high as 100C. The IFM devices suit true flush-mounting and normal spacing between sensors.

Complemented by the IFM EVT range of M12 stainless steel food-grade connectors, these stainless steel sensors are available in M12, M18 and M30 versions with sensing ranges optimised on stainless steel targets of 3, 5 and 10mm respectively. These food-grade sensors carry IP ratings of both 68 and 69K.

Programmable Pressure Sensors

TURCK USA introduces new programmable pressure sensors that combine high accuracy and performance with simple programming, resulting in an extremely user-friendly sensor. The PS400 and PS500 sensors are easily programmed via three controls: two push buttons for scrolling through programming features and one recessed enter key. The menu is clear and concise to allow parameters such as set points, reset points, output functions, analog ranges, and a range of special options to be programmed with ease. The menu also includes an optional electronic lockout that disables the push buttons from functioning until the lockout is removed.

The high accuracy programmable pressure sensors are specified with a switch point accuracy of ≤+/- 0.5 percent, generally exceeding what is required by the machine engineering sector. The combination of high accuracy and flexible programming often allows a single sensor to replace several conventional sensors (with varying sensing ranges) resulting in a significant reduction in inventory.

These TURCK sensors feature a large, bright 4-digit, 7-segment LCD display with a constant indication of pressure in either psi (pounds per square inch), bar, kPa (kilopascals), or MPa (megapascals). This display is tilted at a 45° angle, and can be inverted electronically for easy reading in a variety of applications. The PS400 and PS500 pressure sensors are encased in compact, 34 mm diameter housing with various threaded connections for simple, versatile installation. The PS500 series also features a process connection that allows the housing to rotate 360 degrees for optimal viewing prior to locking the sensor in place.

The innovative PS400 and PS500 pressure sensors were designed to tolerate tough applications. Stainless steel housing with an integrated stainless steel M12 eurofast ® connector enables fast and reliable installation. The sensors also offer a variety of stainless steel pressure connections including G1/4 and 1/4-18NPT threads.

The sensors are highly resistant to overpressure and burst pressure, yet they also incorporate a patented medium stop system that prevents leakage when these levels are exceeded, which immediately seals the sensor if the pressure cell has been damaged. All of these features were incorporated to create a pressure sensor ideal for use in virtually any application.