There are many different styles of photoelectric sensors, but really only four basic technologies: through-beam, reflective, diffuse, and background suppression. The chart describes some advantages and disadvantages of each technology. To learn more about AutomationDirect’s photoelectric sensors visits www.AutomationDirect.com/photoelectric. Through-beam Advantages: Disadvantages: Reflective Advantages: Disadvantages: Diffuse Advantages: Disadvantages: Background Suppression Advantages: Disadvantages: To read more articles…
Proximity sensors allow non-contact detection of objects. Therefore, they are used in many industries, including manufacturing, robotics, semiconductor, and many more. Inductive sensors detect metallic objects while capacitive sensors detect all other materials. Ultrasonic sensors detect all materials by using sound wave reflections to determine presence. All applications have certain specific needs, but, in general, the…
What do sports cars, opera, balsamic vinegar, and industrial sensors have in common? The answer is Modena, Italy. This part of Northern Italy is home to world renowned opera tenor Luciano Pavarotti, founder of Ferrari Motor Company Enzo Ferrari,
ApplicationAutomationDirect SpotlightDiscrete SensingEducation/DIYIndustryIssue 28 - 2014Machine ControlNotebook IssueProductRelays & TimersStudent SpotlightStudent Spotlight
What a Drag!
CO2 powered drag strip teaches students the science of speed. John Harpell’s 9th grade class at Moira Secondary School in Belleville, Ontario, Canada has built and automated a model racecar track for CO2 powered “dragsters” using various components from AutomationDirect. A CO2 powered dragster is a small lightweight vehicle fitted with a CO2 cartridge; think “pine-wood-derby on…
Encoders are used to determine the position, velocity and direction of a motor shaft or other mechanical motion. They provide information required for the precise control of a variety of applications, such as positioning a rotary table, pick and place, machine assembly, packaging, robotics and more. Regardless of type, all encoders provide a method of orientation detection that’s used as…
Cumming, GA — August 22, 2012 … AutomationDirect’s ultrasonic sensor offering now includes additional 18mm round plastic DC models. The UK1 series are IP67 rated sensors with a 15 to 30VDC operating range and are fitted with an M12 quick-disconnect. The UK1 series offers six different output types: single PNP, Dual PNP, 4-20 mA only, 0-10V only,…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookDiscrete SensingIssue 25 – 2013Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductTechnology Brief
Encoders Explained
What is an Encoder? An encoder (for industrial controls) is a special sensor that captures position information and relays that data to other devices. The position information can be read in many ways (optically, magnetically, capacitively, etc.). There are two basic geometries for encoders: linear and rotary. A linear encoder typically consists of a scale…
New Koyo Encoders with Inch-Size Shafts, as well as Miniature Bodies. Koyo inch-size light and medium-duty encoders have been added to our line of positioning and motion control products. These stainless steel solid-shaft encoders provide a cost-effective solution for many applications. The TRDA-2E series light-duty encoders have a 0.25-inch diameter stainless steel solid shaft and offer…
ApplicationApplication StoriesAutomation NotebookAutomationDirect SpotlightData CollectionDiscrete SensingEducation/DIYIndustryIssue 16 – 2010Learning ResourcesMachine ControlNotebook IssueProductStudent SpotlightStudent Spotlight
Racing as Field Lab for Automotive Design
The University of Wisconsin Formula SAE team competes against over 130 universities from around the world in an annual competition held at Michigan International Speedway. The competition is based on the design and manufacture of a small scale open wheel, open cockpit racecar. Teams are usually comprised of engineering students who, in the fall semester,…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookDiscrete SensingFYIIssue 7 – 2006Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProduct
Sensors Frequently Asked Questions
AutomationDirect’s Technical Support Team has compiled a list of customer frequently asked questions for many of our products. The complete listing can be found on the technical support page of our Web site. Here are some of the more commonly asked questions regarding our sensors. 1. Q: How do inductive proximity sensors work? A: Inductive proximity…