Inductive at high speeds.

Distance Sensor with IO-Link Interface for Precise Measurement and In-Depth Analysis

Measuring inductive distance sensors featuring IO-Link interface have been launched by Pepperl+Fuchs. The devices are suitable for Industry 4.0 applications and offer not only high-precision measurement capabilities, but also comprehensive information for condition monitoring and predictive maintenance.

The sensors can detect objects at a speed of up to 3 m/sec and deliver precise measurement data with a repeat accuracy of 5 percent. Their measuring range is up to 30 mm. The sensors determine the speed and acceleration of the damping element. Two independent switching windows and defined limit values can be individually parameterized. Adjustable filters allow the measurement speed and accuracy to be adjusted. The high switching frequency of up to 1300 Hz enables very short throughput times, thereby helping to increase productivity.

Additional data, including temperature and operating times and counters, is transmitted via the IO-Link interface. The monitoring of speed and acceleration and the historical values of these variables allow the detailed analysis of sub-processes such as opening/closing for valves and acceleration/braking for absorbing elements. This monitoring of the machine status facilitates predictive maintenance and prevents unplanned downtimes. 

Devices with analog outputs are also available for classic applications.

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@PepperlFuchsUSA @Cepsa @mepaxIntPR #Pauto #IO

Pulse ranging technology applied.

Compact Distance Sensor with up to 60 m Measuring Range

The trend toward miniaturization continues, creating demand for increasingly powerful sensors with more compact housing dimensions. To keep up with this trend, the time-of-flight principle of measurement has been integrated into Pepperl+Fuchs' R20x compact housing design, combining precise and rugged long-distance measurement technology for areas where space is very limited.

Today's automation functions place ever greater demands on the performance of the sensors used while simultaneously reducing the occupied space. The new R200 distance sensor with Pulse Ranging Technology satisfies this market trend exactly. In the compact housing of the R200 series, the optical sensor achieves detection ranges of up to 10 m on white objects and up to 60 m in combination with a reflector. It always outputs a rugged distance signal and maintains a repeat accuracy of up to 3 mm. Featuring an integrated IO-Link interface in the latest version V1.1.3, this sensor is also ideally suited for future Industry 4.0 applications.

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@PepperlFuchsUSA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto 

Small housing, big operating range.

New compact diffuse sensor from Leuze achieves an operating range of up to two metres detecting the presence of objects and at the same time transmiting measurement values.

The Sensor People from Leuze are extending the operating range of their 3C series distance sensors with the new ODT3CL1-2M laser diffuse sensor. Thanks to innovative time-of-flight (TOF) technology, the switching and measuring sensor with background suppression works with an operating range of up to two metres. This makes the ODT3CL1-2M suitable for all applications in intralogistics where long distances need to be bridged: e.g. in automated guided vehicles for monitoring the position of goods, for controlling robot grippers or in quality control. Reliable use is guaranteed even under harsh conditions. This is because the sensor satisfies the high requirements of degree of protection IP69K.

Practical 2-in-1 solution.
As a 2-in-1 solution, the ODT3CL1-2M reduces the cost and effort for users in terms of procurement, installation, commissioning and in operation. With its two independent switching points, it is able to perform detection and measurement tasks at the same time. System operators can therefore solve both requirements using just one sensor. This is an advantage if, for example, shuttles are used: They can optimally set and vary their speed via the independent switching points. This enables goods to be transported quickly to their target position.

Everything in view via IO-Link.
IO-Link can be used to transmit measurement values and process data of the sensor to the machine control. This allows users to effortlessly evaluate the comprehensive diagnostic data from the diffuse sensor – e.g. temperature information, information on signal quality and warnings. It also makes device swap-out easy: The presettings are transferred to the new device loss-free via IO-Link without the sensor having to be taught in again.

Fits in any space.
Thanks to its compact design (11.4 x 34.2 x 18.3 millimeters; W x H x L), the ODT3CL1-2M laser diffuse sensor can also be used where space is limited. For example, it can be used in the gripper of a robot arm, on shuttles or stacker cranes. The small, clearly visible light spot allows fast alignment during commissioning. The operating range can be set numerically via IO Link. Another advantage of the diffuse sensor is its integrated object test. This allows the function reserve to be quickly checked.

3C series: for any operating range.
The Leuze 3C seriex provides a sensor solution that is also suitable for distances of less than two meters. The ODT3C diffuse sensor is therefore ideal for operating ranges up to 150 millimeters – perfect for packaging processes, for example.

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@LeuzeUK @LeuzeUSA @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Manufacturing

Precise distance measurement.

Pulsed Laser Diodes with Micro-optics

The highest efficiency and accuracy in distance measurement may be guaranteed with integrated micro-optics, pulsed laser diodes (PLDs) from Laser Components. So-called fast axis collimation (FAC) lenses compensate for the astigmatism that occurs with edge-emitting PLDs and thus ensures that as many photons as possible reach the target. The optics and laser diode are precisely fitted into a hermetically sealed TO package, and the window is only slightly higher. The overall beam quality is improved without additional optical or mechanical components, which can result in lower operating costs.

The PLDs with integrated FAC lenses are available for 905nm and 1550nm wavelengths. The divergence on the “fast axis” is reduced to 3.8mrad at 1550nm and 33mrad at 905nm. It can be further adjusted upon customer request.

PLDs from Laser Components are primarily used in laser rangefinders (LRFs). The accuracy of these systems depends on as many photons as possible reaching the target and being reflected back to the detector – an avalanche photodiode (APD). A beam focused by an FAC lens requires a lower output power for this purpose. This makes it possible to develop smaller LRFs that are more energy efficient without compromising the reliability of the measurement.

“Laser Components does not just manufacture standard components,” says Éric Desfonds, product manager at Laser Components Canada. “Our greatest strength is the rapid and cost-effective development of customized products. Together with our customers, we can analyze the entire optical chain with PLD and APD subsystems and then deliver a product that exactly meets their requirements.”

@LCGermany @lasercomp_uk @PresseBox #Automation #PAuto

Enclosure heaters on display.

STEGO Elektrotechnik will be presenting its enclosure heater with a novel loop design at this year's SPS in Nuremberg (D).* STEGO's showcase for the return of the SPS trade fair also features an update to the KTO/KTS control cabinet thermostats and new smart sensors.

LTS064 loop-heater touch-safe

Their LPS and LTS product series give an update to its PTC-based convection heaters with capacities of between 10 and 150 W. The cooler bodies in the new loop profile design absorb the heating capacity of the PTC elements better and ensure a higher stability of the device against vibration. This means the LTS series of heaters is able to comply with the standards for mobile railway applications (DIN EN 60068-2-27:2010-02 and DIN EN 60068-2:64:2009-04). STEGO consistently uses push-in terminals for electrical contacts in the LPS and LTS series. Easily accessible on the front of the devices, the push-in terminals provide time savings of up to 50% by allowing for tool-free insertion of the cables. The terminals exert constant pressure on the supply lines, which provides added security even when transporting pre-assembled control cabinets, for example. You therefore do not need to worry about the connecting cables coming loose and resulting short circuits.

New editions of their KTO/KTS fine-tune STEGO's mechanical thermostats to better meet the needs of control cabinet construction in practice. The thermostats are designed as two-point regulators with a thermobimetal sensor element. The KTO 111 is a contact breaker (NC) for controlling heaters. The KTS 111 is a contact maker (NO) for controlling filter fans, heat exchangers, coolers and switching signal devices. Push-in terminals are used for making electrical contact. They ensure that connecting the power cables is safe, tool-free and fast. Users can expect a reduction in installation time of up to 50%. STEGO engineers have also optimized the housing design so that the thermostat now literally has more air. Larger air vents in the main unit, which tapers towards the back,

The newly developed DSS 015 Distance Smart Sensor (right) measures the distance of objects using the time of flight (ToF) of ultrasound waves. The DSS 015 Distance Smart Sensor is designed for monitoring distances or fill levels in industrial applications. The DSS 015 can even detect transparent objects such as glass, films and fluids. It is also unaffected by changing light conditions, and easy to connect to higher-level control systems (eg SPS) via its IO-Link interface.

STEGO is expanding its range of sensors for industrial applications that use IO-Link. Their SHC 071 Sensor Hub offers a cost-effective interface through which STEGO sensors can easily be connected to IO-Link installations. The SHC 071 Sensor Hub records measuring data on the process level from up to four external, non-IO-Link-capable STEGO sensors and transmits the data via the IO-Link Master to higher-level control units such as Edge computers, the cloud , SPS control etc. The Sensor Hub can be used to connect up to four external STEGO sensors while using only one port on the IO-Link Master, saving the IO-Link Master's connection capacity. The number of connected sensors and the allocation of sockets can be freely chosen by the user. Sensors from the SEN 073 series are available for the Sensor Hub. The sensors are pre-calibrated and are easy to connect to the Sensor Hub using a plug. Clustering IO-Link functionality in the Sensor Hub allows the sensors to take on a compact form factor. Sensors in the SEN 073 series can be used to record data in the following fields of application: temperature and relative humidity, temperature and absolute air pressure, visible light, illuminance and VOC.

*SPS - Nürnberg (D) November 8th-10th 2022

@stego_de @spsmesse @PresseBox #PAuto

Radar system detects filling levels.

The radar experts at InnoSenT GmbH have developed a new system for focused distance measurement. The iSYS-6030 is the new edition of the successful iSYS-6003 filling-level radar. The product update is more economical, faster, and more accurate than its predecessor. The sensor’s features are adapted to the application of filling-level measurement and collision avoidance. The technical enhancements also extend the scope of applications.

Using contactless radar detection, the product accurately detects the filling level of a manufacturing or storage container. The iSYS-6030 radar system sporadically determines the distance between the sensor and an object’s surface. Thanks to its narrow antenna orientation, the product has a focused radar beam for high-precision measurements.

The iSYS-6030 detects a wide variety of materials regardless of their properties and reflection characteristics: Whether cohesive or coarse bulk materials, fine powder, granulate, slow-flowing liquids, or viscous pastes, the system detects any of these materials precisely thanks to its 60 GHz radar technology.

The new product handles the measurement of filling levels even in challenging indoor and outdoor measuring environments. Extreme temperatures, dust, fog, steam, formation of foam, vibrations, or pressure do not impede radar detection. Due to its focused field of view of 6° in azimuth and elevation, the system is also suitable for use in narrow vessels, asymmetrical special structures, or containers with internal mixing systems installed. The iSYS-6030 also provides reliable measurement results in this area by means of sporadic radar detection.

The robust technology is not susceptible to interference due to aggressive filling materials, harsh work environments, or dirt. No regular maintenance is necessary. This makes the product well-suited for use in many different sectors, such as the water, energy, construction materials, food, chemical, pharmaceutical, and environmental technology industries.

While the predecessor product was primarily focused on determining filling levels, the iSYS-6030 boasts a further area of application: thanks to its continuous and reliable distance monitoring, the system is ideally suited for collision protection.

Thanks to technical optimisation, the new product enables faster measuring cycles. The system is booted up and ready to collect data within 90 ms. The update rate in single-target mode is only 20 ms. This enables intervals to be monitored in real time and timely warnings in the event of an impending collision.

In another application, the radar helps to initiate safety measures such as speed reduction when a predefined zone is reached. The user defines the zone individually using the distance information. The iSYS-6030 radar system provides information on when the safety distance is neared or the zone is reached.

Integrating such a system proves beneficial not only with semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles, but also for controlling complex systems. The radar system continuously collects accurate measurement data. These are useful in maintaining minimum distances and precise positioning. At port facilities, this enables a distance between cranes, transport units, buildings, or containers to thus be determined on site with millimetre precision.

The iSYS-6030 radar system operates in the frequency band from 57 to 64 GHz. The sensor is compact and equipped with a signal-processing unit and a dome-shaped radome. The radar component can thus be easily integrated into end products or customer housings. The measurement data (signal strength and distance) are provided as a target list via a UART interface. The maximum range is 40 metres.

Customers choose between two detection variants, depending on the application: single-target and multi-target mode. This way, the system measures the distance to the object surface either at a single point or at different points within the detection area. The radar distinguishes between two targets with the same radar cross-section with a resolution of 12 cm.

The low deviation rate of ±0.1% ensures outstanding precision even with increasing distance between the object and the sensor. The system can be operated in a temperature range of -40 to +85° C.

Since the new system has the same structural design, it can directly replace the old iSYS-6003 product version and offers useful enhancements to existing customers.

‘We have made significant progress in radar development in recent years. In addition, we have learned quite a bit about our customers’ needs through the practical use of our filling-level radar. We thus decided to optimise the system’, explains Product Manager Dr Eva Buchkremer regarding the product update, and she adds:

‘Compared to its predecessor, the iSYS-6030 is more energy-efficient and accurate, longer-range and faster. We thus provide our customers with greater flexibility in using the product. We also offer more customisation options. Its technical features make the new system the ideal radar solution in industry for avoiding collisions and measuring filling levels.’

Using the user manual and the API software protocol, the customer adapts the radar detection to their intended purpose. For example, they can limit the range or use the signal strength setting as a filter. In addition, customers have the option of configuring the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) in 1 dBm increments, for example in order to comply with technical limits required for approval purposes.

The system also has four digitally, freely assignable and programmable outputs. These enable simple control tasks and can be used as targeted signal triggers. For easy integration and configuration of the sensor, InnoSenT also provides an evaluation kit with a GUI.

@InnoSenT_GmbH @pressebox #PAuto

Maintaining physical distancing!

Organizations can Automate Capacity Counting for High Foot-Traffic Spaces to Maintain Social Distancing Compliance

FLIR Systems has announced availability of the FLIR Occupancy Management Solution for their Brickstream 3D Gen2 to automate occupancy counting within high-traffic and capacity-limited areas. To support social distancing guidelines during and following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Occupancy Management Solution provides organizations with an easy-to-use, real-time capacity counting and display tool for multiple entries and exits.

“Many organizations are manually measuring occupancy, but this process is often inaccurate, cumbersome and expensive,” said Paul Clayton, General Manager, Components Business at FLIR Systems. “FLIR addressed this challenge by introducing a cost-effective, scalable, self-contained, and automated monitoring solution suitable for a variety of locations from grocery stores, stadiums, theaters, transportation hubs, to manufacturing plants, and office spaces.”


The Occupancy Management Solution is platform agnostic with an integrated IoT architecture, which can be implemented within existing Wi-Fi access points, offering a complete edge-based solution with the Brickstream 3D Gen2 hardware. It provides a simple display dashboard for capacity updates that can be viewed by staff or customers on devices with a web browser. It may be used as a stand-alone or integrated into existing perimeter systems, making it ideal for most environments where occupancy must be closely managed. Current Brickstream 3D Gen2 customers can purchase and add this feature with via a remote firmware upgrade.



This solution is part of FLIR Systems’ COVID-19 response product portfolio, which includes the FLIR EST camera series, to help organizations improve safety in public places and other high traffic areas. The FLIR Occupancy Management Solution for Brickstream 3D Gen2 is available today from FLIR and its global Brickstream distribution partners.

 @flir #Safety #MEpax #coróinvíreas #COVID19 #coronavirus

Distant sensors.

Leuze electronic is expanding its range of distance sensors and and can now offer its customers a solution for specific applications in pallet warehouses.

With the new ODS 110/HT 110 and HRT 25B L distance sensors, Leuze electronic is expanding its series of distance sensors and offers its customers a large selection of different designs with long operating ranges and several switching points available. Due to their compact housing size and with an operating range of up to 5 meters, they are particularly suited for use in situations with limited installation space in pallet warehouses and for applications in the field of automated material flow for which at least two different switching points are required. In addition to the multi-depth compartment occupation check, these include for example push-through or collision protection in shuttle applications.

The new distance sensors are characterized by a high repeatability of 3 mm and extremely high color and surface independence ensuring fine positioning as well as easy commissioning. Models with an analog output and IO-Link are also available.

@Leuzeelectronic #PAuto 

Precise positioning over long distances.

The FLEXPOINT Long Range Line Module from Laser Components is a highly-precise positioning tool for long distances. Even at 50 m, the line is only 4 m long and can be adjusted to line widths of a few millimeters with an easy-to-use focusing device.

This module is available with red (660 nm) or green (520 nm) lines. Customers have the choice of any output power in a range between 5 mW and 30 mW.

Using the optional battery packs, the laser module can also be operated without a power line - for example in mobile use. A special precision mount, allows for exact beam alignment along two axes.

The Long Range Module is ideally suited for tunnel construction, alignment of large machines, or other adjustments over long distances.

 #PAuto @LaserComponents

Linearisation and Teach.

Thanks to linearised calibration curves and very low standard dispersion rates, the new distance-measuring inductive sensors IR08, IR12 and IR18 from the Baumer AlphaProx family offer easy and reasonably priced analysis of the measurement results without any additional cost or effort for programming. Complex reference measurements are also things of the past.

A simple and innovative 1-point teaching process makes it possible to set or adapt the sensors to a special application quickly and easily, more or less at the press of a button. The sensor is only taught at one certain position. The output signal from the teaching point is linear, with the required steepness. This means that the sensor can also be installed wherever the teaching of a second point is not possible on account of the dynamic range of the application. An example of this is the measurement of the deformation of a shaft. Installation tolerances are eliminated directly in the sensor, guaranteeing reproducible measurements and reducing installation costs.

The steepness of the calibration curve can be adapted individually to different applications using an easy-to-operate 2-point teaching function. The sensors assume an exactly defined value at the minimum and maximum distances, and between these the output signal is linear. For applications in which, beside the analog signal, a switching signal is to be generated at certain points on the calibration curve, for example to indicate a critical range, Baumer also offers AlphaProx models with an additional digital output. This combination of two outputs in one sensor allows the sensor to be installed even in places where there is no room for two sensors, thus cutting costs as well.

@BaumerGroup #PAuto 

Linearization and Teach!

Thanks to linearised calibration curves and very low standard dispersion rates, the new distance-measuring inductive sensors IR08, IR12 and IR18 from the Baumer AlphaProx family offer easy and reasonably priced analysis of the measurement results without any additional cost or effort for programming. Complex reference measurements are also things of the past.

A simple and innovative 1-point teaching process makes it possible to set or adapt the sensors to a special application quickly and easily, more or less at the press of a button. The sensor is only taught at one certain position. The output signal from the teaching point is linear, with the required steepness. This means that the sensor can also be installed wherever the teaching of a second point is not possible on account of the dynamic range of the application. An example of this is the measurement of the deformation of a shaft. Installation tolerances are eliminated directly in the sensor, guaranteeing reproducible measurements and reducing installation costs.

The steepness of the calibration curve can be adapted individually to different applications using an easy-to-operate 2-point teaching function. The sensors assume an exactly defined value at the minimum and maximum distances, and between these the output signal is linear. For applications in which, beside the analog signal, a switching signal is to be generated at certain points on the calibration curve, for example to indicate a critical range, Baumer also offers AlphaProx models with an additional digital output. This combination of two outputs in one sensor allows the sensor to be installed even in places where there is no room for two sensors, thus cutting costs as well.

@BaumerGroup #Pauto 

Long range ultraSonic sensors.

P43 ultrasonic sensors from PIL, measure distances. Applications include object recognition for agriculture and fluid levels, distance measuring for trucks and loading ramps, level sensing in dusty conditions, parking lot detection/barrier monitoring as well as a variety of other industrial and manufacturing applications.

These ultrasonic sensors provides the industry’s greatest range  – from 250 mm to up to 6000 mm. M12, M18 and M30 dimensions are available - with or without thread or cubic housing. Highly accurate, it provides a small sound cone shape, two integrated internal LED’s for echo justification, and analog internal sensors – no need for digital translation and no loss of accuracy. The P43 provides a standard analog 0-10V / 4-20mA output and two switching outputs. In addition to these fixed settings, the P43 series can be programmed via Teach-In for various other custom settings.

“The new PIL P43 Ultrasonic sensors are an excellent solution for a variety of applications where highly accurate distance sensing is critical,” explains Dr. Heimann, CEO of PIL.  “We are very excited to provide the industry with the first long range Ultrasonic sensor that can provide accurate results at a distance of up to 6000 mm.”

Ultrasonic sensors use an ultrasonic transducer to send and receive sound waves. Specially coded ultrasonic signals are transmitted in a set pattern. After being reflected from the object to be measured, the signals are received by the sensor and decoded. The recorded time of flight is temperature compensated and converted to distance data.  Ultrasonic distance sensors are often used in harsh, industrial environments because they are independent of the material and the color of the object to be measured and are not affected by light, dust and fog. They function very precisely and linearly with background suppression.

A variety of PIL ultrasonic sensors were previously introduced to the US market and were known under different names and brands. An up to date cross-reference list can be found at the website of their partner H+K Inc.

Robust, non-contact distance measurement!

A new bearingless encoder for linear distance measurement has been introduced by Baumer. The MIL10 comprises a sensing head and an adhesive magnetic tape.The non-contact magnetic sensing method is wearfree and hence provides virtually unlimited service life.

Robust and wearfree: 

MIL10 for linear 

distance measurement

Magnetic tape encoding is by poles of 2mm width. Signal processing integrated in the sensing head allows for resolutions up to 5 µm. The fully encapsulated magnetic sensor provides IP 66 and IP 67 as standard protection. Used in conjunction with a masking tape of stainless steel, the system is even up to demanding environments with a high degree of soiling by dust, chippings, splints or oil. Operating temperature may range from -40°C to +85°C.

Sized 10 x 15 x 45,5 mm, the sensor is extremely compact. It withstands shocks and vibrations up to 500 respectively 30 g. The Polyurethan cable capable of flexible carriers and frequently changing bending radii is shielded and twisted in pairs - and in conjunction with the sensor’s robust metal housing the ultimate protection against electromagnetic interference.

The output frequency of max. 350 kHz allows for travel speed up to 25 m/s. MIL 10 is available with 5 VDC supply and TTL / RS422 compliant line drivers and as a 10…30 VDC variant with push-pull. Both output two inverted channels with 90° shift and generate an additional pole-periodic inverted index pulse.

Robust, non-contact distance measurement!

A new bearingless encoder for linear distance measurement has been introduced by Baumer. The MIL10 comprises a sensing head and an adhesive magnetic tape.The non-contact magnetic sensing method is wearfree and hence provides virtually unlimited service life.

Magnetic tape encoding is by poles of 2mm width. Signal processing integrated in the sensing head allows for resolutions up to 5 µm. The fully encapsulated magnetic sensor provides IP 66 and IP 67 as standard protection. Used in conjunction with a masking tape of stainless steel, the system is even up to demanding environments with a high degree of soiling by dust, chippings, splints or oil. Operating temperature may range from -40°C to +85°C.

Sized 10 x 15 x 45,5 mm, the sensor is extremely compact. It withstands shocks and vibrations up to 500 respectively 30 g. The Polyurethan cable capable of flexible carriers and frequently changing bending radii is shielded and twisted in pairs - and in conjunction with the sensor’s robust metal housing the ultimate protection against electromagnetic interference.

The output frequency of max. 350 kHz allows for travel speed up to 25 m/s. MIL 10 is available with 5 VDC supply and TTL / RS422 compliant line drivers and as a 10…30 VDC variant with push-pull. Both output two inverted channels with 90° shift and generate an additional pole-periodic inverted index pulse.

New product catalogue for position sensors

Sensors for distance, angle and inclination – with application examples

With its new product catalogue ASM provides engineers with a practical decision-making tool for selecting the right position sensor.

Whether distance, angle or inclination, ASM offers with six innovative product lines sensor solutions for a wide variety of applications requiring feedback position sensors. The company is known for three decades for the production of high-quality sensors.

With this new catalog it provides not only an overview of the unique product range with technical specifications. The operating principle of each sensor line is described in detail, too. Along with many application examples, design engineers receive a reference tool for the selection of the right sensor technology and therefore the most suitable model.

Distance and angle measurement in mobile machinery applications

A new resource brochure that provides a  summary of linear and angular feedback measurement for mobile construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and other harsh environment applications is available from Variohm EuroSensor. The four page brochure from their distribution partner Novotechnik highlights application specific requirements for  environmental protection, safety considerations and specification requirements, and includes an overview of standard products as well as customer-specific options available from the German sensor technology specialists.

As the trend for increased control and automation for mobile machinery continues unabated, and as the selection of a suitable sensor is always determined by the measurement task, Novatechnik produced the resource to demonstrate to OEMs and equipment designers just what is possible in terms of high reliability position feedback across its range durable and compact sensors.

Novotechnik's position and angle sensors cover temperature ranges from -55 ° C to 140 ° C with protection to IP69 to and many models are available with redundancy up to SIL 3.

Power harvesting

Ultralow voltage 20mV step-up converter & power manager for energy harvesting applications

We are hearing more and more about energy harvesting as a means of powering units in remote, difficult to reach or in areas where cables are not acceptable or possible especially in wireless transmitter/sensors.

Now Linear Technology has introduced the LTC3108, a highly integrated step-up DC/DC converter designed to start-up and run from extremely low input voltage sources such as thermoelectric generators (TEGs), thermopiles and small solar cells. Its self-resonant topology steps up from input voltages as low as 20mV. Small temperature differences can be harvested and used to generate system power instead of traditional battery power. Energy harvesters are designed for applications requiring very low average power, but require periodic pulses of higher load current. For example, in many wireless sensor applications the circuitry is only powered take measurements and transmit data periodically at low duty cycle.

The LTC3108 uses a small standard step-up transformer to provide a complete power management solution. Its 2.2V LDO can power an external microcontroller, while its main output is pin selectable to one of four (2.35V, 3.3V, 4.1V or 5V) fixed voltages to power a wireless transmitter or sensors. A second switched output can be enabled by the host in order to power devices that do not have a micropower shutdown capability. The addition of a storage capacitor provides continuous power even when the input energy source is unavailable. The LTC3108’s extremely low quiescent current (<6µA) and high efficiency design ensure the fastest possible charge times for the output reservoir capacitor. The combination of the LTC3108’s
3mm x 4mm DFN package (or SSOP-16) and very small external components ensure a highly compact solution for energy harvesting applications.

The LTC3108EDE’s in a 3mm x 4mm DFN package and the LTC3108EGN is available in a SSOP-16 package. Pricing starts at $2.95 each for 1,000-piece quantities. Industrial temperature grade versions, the LTC3108IDE and LTC3108IGN, are also available. Pricing starts at $3.45 each for 1,000-piece quantities. All versions are available from stock.

Distance

New laser distance meter talks you through measurements with extended 100-meter range

Stores 20 measurements for quick distance recall

Laser technology: far ahead for measuring distance Laser distance meters emit light pulses with a defined wavelength and frequency. The laser beam is reflected off the target and back to the distance meter at the speed of light. The returning wavelengths and light pulses change in relationship to the ones sent out by the meter. The difference between the two signals is proportional to the distance to the target. Unlike ultrasonic meters, the laser distance meter’s narrow laser beam prevents reflection off objects that are not targeted, avoiding false readings. Laser distance meters are much more accurate and reliable, and measure much longer distances than ultrasonic meters. It comes with an instruction book, carrying pouch to secure on a tool belt, batteries and a two year warranty.

Fluke has introduced its most advanced and capable distance measurement device, the Fluke 421D Laser Distance Meter. Its advanced features include audible feedback for taking room angle and incremental measurements, a +/- 45° tilt sensor for taking indirect measurements in hard-to-reach areas and enhanced Pythagoras calculation for indirectly determining distance. The Fluke 421D automatically stores the last 20 measurements for quick recall of previous measurements.

The 421D measures distances up to 100m with one push of a button. Laser distance measurement technology makes the Fluke 421D Laser Distance Meter far more accurate and dependable than devices using ultrasonic technology. It is IP54 rated for resistance to water spray and dust.

Like their other distance meters, the Fluke 421D helps electricians, facilities managers and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) contractors save time and labour. Instead of walking back and forth across a space with a tape or a wheel, the user can simply place the meter at the starting point, point the laser at the target, press one button and instantly read the distance, all without the help of a second person to hold the other end of a tape measure.

The Fluke 421D has a bright laser for easy targeting and a large liquid crystal display. Buttons are positioned for one-hand operation. The simple user interface allows the user to easily add or subtract measurements and quickly calculate area and volume. An automatic shut-off feature improves battery life, providing up to 5000 readings from a pair of AAA batteries.

These Meters boost productivity and save money by helping speed the measurement process and eliminate costly estimation errors. They are built to withstand a four-foot drop, featuring the ruggedness and reliability professionals expect from Fluke.