Keywords
Citation
(2001), "Stacking sensors together", Sensor Review, Vol. 21 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2001.08721caf.013
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Stacking sensors together
Stacking sensors togetherKeywords: Sensors, Integration
With Omron's new E3X-DA-N digital fibre optic amplifier, up to 16 sensors can be stacked together. With this set-up, a "master" amplifier distributes power to "slave" amplifiers via a "master" connector. As a result, the power lines that each slave amplifier normally requires are eliminated, minimising wiring and reducing wiring time. A detachable connector design eases maintenance, in that typically users not only have to remove the sensor but also disconnect the output wires. With the new design, users can simply detach the amplifier without disturbing the output wiring and fibre optics. Further, the amplifier can be used with more than 60 types of fibres. With built-in mutual interference circuitry and optical communications, up to ten amplifiers can be closely mounted without interference.
After some time, LEDs degrade and conventional sensors need their threshold points readjusted to ensure proper detection. With the new amplifier's APC circuit, however, users no longer need to readjust the sensor's threshold point. The APC continuously monitors the LED's light intensity level. When it detects a reduction in the LED's light incident level, it supplies current to offset the reduction so that the incident level remains constant. A monitor focus feature increases the sensor's resolution by defining the upper and lower limits of the incident level of the incident level.
Moreover, because some locations are dangerous for operators to adjust a sensor, the E3X-DA-N can be programmed with a remote control with either a 5 or 16ft cable. Copy and paste functions duplicate settings from one amplifier to another easily. It also lets users upload various settings into the remote controller's ten memory banks. With the remote control programmer, the sensor's hysteresis can be adjusted for more accurate sensing. The programmer can also be used to activate a function lock, which locks and protects the sensor's settings.
In addition, users can create a simpler display by selecting the number of digits the amplifier should show, saving power that would otherwise be used displaying unnecessary digits.