- October 04, 2004
- ifm efector inc
ifm efector introduces its new fiber optic controller designed for multiple sensing point applications. The controller reduces excessive wiring for multiple fibers with a single homerun cable. The LCD operator interface is used to program fibers with the controller’s pushbutton programming and user menu. Single homerun cable reduces wiringThe compact, mechanically robust fiber optic controller is available in 2-, 4-, 6-, and 8-fiber models that are DIN-rail mountable. The one-piece housing incorporates the fiber channels directly into the unit, eliminating the process of connecting multiple amplifiers to program multiple fiber points. A single homerun cable connects to the controller and eliminates additional wiring previously required for individual amplifiers. Automatic setup with digital output displayed numericallyThe controller can be quickly programmed using the automatic setup feature. A digital output of the switching threshold is displayed in a numeric value. The threshold can be manually adjusted by using the pushbuttons to enter a new value. During continuous monitoring of the fibers, the controller indicates the amount of gain detected by each fiber on its backlit bar graph display. Highly visible LEDs indicate each fiber output.AND/OR logic functionsThe controller is able to perform AND / OR logic functions used in applications such as error proofing and inspection. For applications that require more feedback such as contrast detection and part verification, a single fiber can be programmed for up to two switchpoints. The controller’s excess gain enables fibers to provide greater sensing ranges than with traditional fiber optic amplifiers. The 24 VDC controller provides programmable light on / dark on PNP outputs. Switching frequencies range from 800 to 2700 depending on the model. ifm efector is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of sensors and control products for industrial control applications. Products include proximity switches, photoelectric sensors, fiber optics, speed monitors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, level sensors, valve position sensors and a complete line of AS-i networking and control products.