New features enhance shrinking M30 sensors

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 18, 2004

Balluff has completely revised its proven mic range of universal compact sensors in partnership with Microsonic, and reckons the new mic+ series sets new standards.

Balluff has completely revised its proven mic range of universal compact sensors in partnership with Microsonic, and reckons the new mic+ series sets new standards.

The advantages of the noncontact measuring method of ultrasonic sensors are undisputed - noncontact reliable measuring under extreme ambient conditions, almost independent of the measuring object's shape, colour and material.

Operators have often called for direct entry of parameters and a direct display of the sensor's measuring results.

The mic+ is billed as the first ultrasonic sensor with a brightly illuminated LED display, fulfilling these requests for easy parameterisation and direct display of the current measuring values.

Two keys at the operating panel facilitate the call-up of the parameters to be set, prompted by a self-explanatory menu structure.

This touch-control function allows easy operator input.

Important information such as the current distance value can be read from the three-digit LED display, which automatically alternates between millimetre and centimetre representation.

And as regards precision, with a resolution of only 0.18mm for all sensing ranges (irrespective of the set window width) and with internal temperature compensation, the new mic+ can scan even the smallest objects within a range of 30mm to 8m with unprecedented accuracy.

The analogue sensors in the M30 product range verify the load connected to the output and automatically set a current output value of 4-20mA or a voltage output value of 0-10V, respectively.

Yet, with touch control, the operator can also preset the sensor to current or voltage output.

For switching outputs and the analogue output, both switching distances as well as window limits can be easily preset manually using the LED display (numerical plain text display or percentage display).

For this, the object to be scanned need not be placed within the detection range.

This allows the sensor to be preset without the need for auxiliary reflectors.

Furthermore, the operator can select several additional functions from the addon menu, such as measuring value filters.

All mic+ sensors are available with one or two switching outputs in PNP or NPN format or with analogue output.

A special sensor version (analogue output plus switching output) is available for applications that require a limit value monitoring in addition to a distance-proportional signal.

If several mic+ sensors (up to 10) are to be operated in confined spaces in adjacent or adverse arrangement, mutual interference can be avoided by synchronisation.

In redesigning its product range, Microsonic has also considerably reduced the devices' length, producing the smallest and most functional ultrasonic sensors in the cylindrical M30 outline.

By the end of 2004, customers will be able to choose from more than 100 different designs.

Thanks to this broad product range, customers can select the exact sensor for their individual application requirements.

All sensors are also available in full-metal design with metal plug for harsh application conditions, such as agricultural machines or rock crushers.