Beam alignment.

Laser Components has added the third edition to the PR Series – IR THz Receivers, enabling real-time beam displacement measurements using the PR No3. This uncooled 4-quadrant pyroelectric receiver expands on the previous editions by implementing a unique 2.0 mm round active area, divided into four segments, with vertical and horizontal side lengths at 980 µm × 980 µm, separated by a small gap.

The PR No3 delivers consistent performance over a wide spectrum, from the ultraviolet (UV) to the far-infrared (FIR). The device includes four individual analog outputs, excellent channel-to-channel uniformity, and precise quadrant alignment relative to the housing. Make full use of the PR No3 in applications like beam positioning with at 50 kHz -3 dB bandwidth (typical for the IR version), long beam path experiments, calculating fast pulse-to-pulse fluctuations, and hysteresis correction in scanning systems.

The two configurations available include the PR No3 IR that supports wavelengths up to 30 µm, and the PR No3 THz designed for frequencies down to 40 GHz with 10x higher responsivity at an 8kHz bandwidth. Both versions of the PR No3 are individually calibrated for responsivity and noise over frequency, offering a plug-and-play solution for traditionally difficult IR systems.

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@LCGermany @lasercomp_uk @PresseBox #Automation

Hall-effect sensor IC

Customer-programmable linear Hall-effect sensor IC with pulse-width-modulated two-wire output

The new A1357 from Allegro MicroSystems is a high-precision, customer-programmable, linear Hall-effect sensor IC with a pulse-width-modulated current-sourced two-wire output.

Featuring a wide ambient temperature range of -40°C to +150°C, the A1357 device is targeted at the automotive and industrial sectors, particularly in applications where signals have to travel over relatively long distances in noisy environments.

The A1357 converts an analogue signal from its internal Hall sensor element to a digitally encoded PWM output signal with a frequency of 1 kHz and a duty cycle that is proportional to an applied magnetic field. The coupled noise immunity of the digitally encoded PWM output is far superior to the noise immunity of an analogue output signal.

The monolithic BiCMOS circuit in the A1357 integrates a Hall element, precision temperature-compensating circuitry to reduce the intrinsic sensitivity and offset drift of the Hall element, a small-signal high-gain amplifier, proprietary dynamic offset cancellation circuits, and PWM conversion circuitry. The dynamic offset cancellation circuits reduce the residual offset voltage of the Hall element, which is normally caused by device overmoulding, temperature dependencies, and thermal stress.

The high-frequency offset cancellation (chopping) clock allows for a greater sampling rate, which increases the accuracy of the output signal and results in faster signal processing capability.

The A1357 sensor IC is supplied in a lead (Pb) free 3-pin single inline package (KB suffix), with 100% matt tin lead-frame plating.

Smart US sensors

The new lower cost rugged MassaSonic series M-300/150, M-320/150 (range 2.5M) and M-300/95, M-320/95 (range 4.5M) RoHS compliant smart ultrasonic sensors are now available from Vydas stock in Britain. Programmable switched outputs or analogue outputs of 0-10VDC and 4-20mA are now available.

Applications for this sensor include, liquid level control, mechanical positioning, roll diameter measurement, web loop/break monitoring, asset tracking, remote monitoring, automatic filling operation, automatic packaging, bulk level control, paper and plastic film processing and many others.

The M-300/320 ultrasonic sensor design incorporates state-of-the-art ultrasonic and microprocessor technology to provide low cost precision non-contact distance measurement for factory automation or industrial process control.

Beam sensors

New through beam sensors fit narrow aluminium door frames

Carlo Gavazzi Automation has expanded its family of pedestrian door and entrance sensors with the introduction of a new slim line device. The PD70 sensor measures just 11.5 x 11.5 x 70mm, making it suitable for installation in narrow aluminium door profiles as well as pass gates, turnstiles and other applications where space is limited.

Designed in accordance with the latest standards for Europe and North America, the PD70 complies with regulations such as EN12978, EN12445, EN12453 and UL325. Its high efficiency aspheric lens geometry increases sensing distance to 12m, and provides s a wide +/- 5 degree detection angle that nevertheless meets ESPE-2 industry norms.

Sensitive components in the receiver are covered by a metal shield, which not only ensures high EMC immunity, but also functions as the aperture for the received beam.

Sensor and emitter are powered by a 10-30V DC supply. The 100mA receiver output is available with NPN or PNP transistors, and with either make (NO) or break (NC) switching. A separate test input (mute) on emitter allows fast verification of the sensing functions, typically required to be carried out daily.

Solid polycarbonate construction, together with IP67 protection against dust and water ingress, extends the applications from entrance safety and control, out to industrial doors and retail checkout counters.
Mounting holes are provided for self-cutting 2.9x10mm or M3 through-hole screws, so the PD70 can be installed as a replacement for existing popular door sensors, whether in retrofits or new builds. A double sided tape is supplied to simplify the installation of the sensor fixing screw.