Pyrometer for High-Temperature Applications and Metals.

The new FibreMini is a fibre-optic pyrometer from Calex Electronics with advanced features that allow accurate temperature readings on metal surfaces in harsh applications.

Measuring the surface temperature of metals is challenging. Reflective surfaces, high ambient temperatures and harsh environments make it difficult to achieve accurate measurements with infrared temperature sensors.

The following features, provided as standard on all FibreMini models, make non-contact temperature measurement possible in these difficult conditions:

• - Fibre optic sensing head withstands up to 200°C ambient temperature, making it ideal for mounting near furnaces.
• - Containing no electronics, the FibreMini sensing head is immune to electromagnetic interference in high-EMC applications such as induction heating.
• - Achieve accurate readings when measuring reflective objects in hot environments such as furnaces, with the FibreMini's reflected energy compensation feature. On Modbus models, adjust this setting automatically on-the-fly using RS485 Modbus communications.
• - See the exact size and location of the measurement spot with the built-in laser sighting light.
• - Large, full-colour temperature display with data logging makes the FibreMini a truly plug-and-play solution - just connect power and start measuring. A choice of 4-20 mA or RS485 Modbus outputs is available.
• - Fully configurable via touch screen.

A choice of optics for measuring small or large areas at short or long distances is available, as is a choice of temperature ranges from 250°C to 2000°C.

It is easy to feed the sensing head through conduit and trunking, thanks to the slim, flexible fibre optic cable. This is available in lengths of 3, 5 or 10 metres. An optional air purge collar is available to help keep the lens clean.

@Calex_Infrared #PAuto 

Non-contact temperature sensor.

The new PyroNFC-K from Calex Electronics is a new miniature infrared temperature sensor that is quick and easy to install in place of a traditional thermocouple probe.

Industrial processes have used thermocouples for temperature measurement for more than 100 years, but non-contact sensors are now increasingly used in their place thanks to proven, modern infrared measurement technology. Traditional contact probes have several drawbacks such as a slow response time, as well as susceptibility to mechanical failure and vibration, which can all be overcome simply by switching to infrared pyrometers.

The fully-configurable PyroNFC-K has a simulated thermocouple output, making it easier than ever to start using IR temperature sensors in place of thermocouples. Its side-entry cable and length of just 29 mm make it easy to mount in confined spaces.

The pyrometer works by measuring the amount of infrared radiation that a surface emits, and converting that into a meaningful temperature reading within 0.125 seconds. The output works just like the old Type K thermocouple that it replaces, and is connected in the same way to the same instrumentation with no need to re-configure it. Then all the sensor needs to start measuring is a supply of 6 to 28 V DC.

Measurements are highly repeatable, within 0.5% or 0.5°C, helping to ensure consistent product quality in manufacturing processes.

Non-reflective non-metals are measured easily and accurately straight out of the box, and painted metals are also no problem. The sensor can be configured for emissivity setting, averaging, peak or valley hold processing, and reflected energy compensation, without even connecting the power, via the free Android app for NFC-enabled phones. If the sensor is powered, the temperature reading is shown continuously while the phone is held against it.

The included open drain alarm output (standard on all models) can be used simultaneously with the temperature output, and a version with a linear voltage output is also available.

@Calex_Infrared #PAuto 

USB Infra-red temperature sensor.

The PyroMiniUSB, a new USB infrared temperature sensor from Calex Electronics, makes non-contact temperature measurement in benchtop, laboratory and education applications easier and more accessible than ever before.

This low-cost miniature sensor measures surface temperature with 1°C accuracy and with an instantaneous 125 ms response time.

The included intuitive, touch-friendly software provides a temperature display and a scrolling temperature chart. No configuration is necessary when measuring most non-reflective materials, however advanced software options also allow a range of partially reflective materials to be measured.

Data can be logged to an Excel-compatible text file.

Integration with third-party software is straightforward. The open Modbus protocol allows direct communication with the PyroMiniUSB sensor via a virtual COM port.

“If you want to quickly take a surface temperature measurement and see it on a PC, you won’t want an expensive sensor or extra signal conversion equipment,” said Anthony Smith, product manager at Calex. “You just need a small, inexpensive sensor with a USB plug, and simple software to read the temperature. The solution is the PyroMiniUSB.”

The sensor is built as solidly as an industrial pyrometer, with a sealed stainless steel housing that can be fixed into position with the supplied mounting nut and optional mounting brackets.

A choice of wide-angle or narrow optics allows large or small targets to be measured at short or long distances.

As well as general industrial applications, this pyrometer is ideal for schools (for teaching concepts such as heat transfer, emissivity and thermodynamics), universities and test laboratories.

IR sensor for smartphone!

PyroNFC is a small, low-cost infrared temperature sensor from Calex, that lets engineers and machine operators use a smartphone app to check temperature measurements on the production line.

The PyroNFC sensor measures the temperature of surfaces in industrial processes without contact, and at just 29 mm in length, it is the smallest sensor that the company has ever produced. It has a linear voltage output for connection to industrial process instrumentation, and an open drain alarm output that can be used simultaneously.

By touching an NFC-enabled smartphone against the back of the sensor, the user can read the measured temperature with the free app. The reading updates continuously while the phone is touching the sensor.

With the app, the user can also read or write configuration parameters including the emissivity setting, which allows an accurate reading on a variety of materials. There is no need to power the sensor to do this: hundreds of sensors can be configured in minutes on a benchtop without connecting a single wire or cable.

Advancements in consumer technology can take time to reach industrial products, but Calex is keen to push ahead with innovation. Anthony Smith, product marketing manager at Calex, explains why NFC is such an exciting new technology.

“Everyone has a smartphone, and more and more industrial products are incorporating smartphone connectivity,” he said.
“NFC is the simplest way to connect to another device. You don’t need to plug in a cable, and it is quicker than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth as you don’t need to search for devices or pair with them.
“Smartphone apps are the easiest way to do simple tasks like measuring a temperature. To take a reading it really is as simple as touching the phone to the sensor. With the app installed, you don’t even have to look for it when you want to use it. When you touch a sensor with the phone, the app opens automatically, even from the home screen. You can see the temperature immediately.”

As well as being extremely user-friendly, the PyroNFC is also very low in cost. Machine builders will appreciate this, along with its IP65 sealing, compact size and direct linear output for direct connection to instrumentation.

Simple multi-point temperature monitoring.

The PyroMiniBus, a simple system of infrared temperature sensors and interface modules designed to make multi-point industrial temperature monitoring easier and more affordable, has been launched by Calex Electronics Ltd.

The miniature non-contact sensors measure the surface temperature of products and machinery in industrial processes, and send the measurements via RS485 Modbus to a touch screen display.

Despite the potential improvements in product quality, production rate and safety that temperature monitoring can bring, as well as reduced waste and running costs, the size and price of existing systems has held some companies back from specifying new measurement equipment.

“Until now, specifying a temperature monitoring system has often meant trying to fit large sensors, bulky signal converters and multiple cable runs into a tight space and budget,” said Anthony Smith, product manager at Calex.

“By miniaturising the sensors and removing the need for signal conditioning electronics, we have simplified the system to a small, affordable set of parts. It is easier to fit the sensors into small spaces, and they weigh a lot less now. By using digital sensors the cable network is much simpler. Machine builders especially will see a huge benefit with the PyroMiniBus, and it is easy to retrofit too.”

There are just four main parts to the system: a choice of two temperature sensors for measuring small or large targets, a six-channel touch screen for configuration and data logging, and a junction box to connect them all together. Installing the system is as simple as wiring up the junction box and connecting a power supply. Relay and analogue outputs can also be added with separate modules.

The system is not limited to measuring just six locations: larger networks of sensors and interface modules can be connected as slave devices to an alternative Modbus Master, such as an existing supervisory control system.

The ability for sensors to withstand high ambient temperatures has also improved. The new sensors will operate in conditions of up to 120°C with no need for cooling, such as locations close to ovens, dryers and preheating equipment, along with many other general-purpose applications.

Precision infrared temperature sensor.

The PyroCube is a general-purpose pyrometer from Calex,  with outstanding precision temperature measurement capabilities.

Built In LED Sighting 
• Red aiming light continuously illuminates the area of measurement, showing precisely where the sensor is aimed. The light spot is the same size as the measurement area, and measurements can be taken at the same time – the light does not affect the accuracy of the reading.

Extremely Fast Response Time 
• The response time of 10 milliseconds means it is now possible to individually measure the temperature of very small objects on fast-moving production lines. The averaging function allows the output to be slowed down for general-purpose use.

Tiny Measured Spot
• A choice of precise optics allows a spot as small as 1.6 mm to be measured. Very narrow cables and small electronic components can now be individually measured. The sensor can view through very narrow holes to view the target beyond, such as the rotor of an electric motor.

Touch Screen 
• The optional touch screen interface with a backlit display provides a bright indication of the measured temperature. Two alarm relay outputs are included, and the intuitive interface allows full configuration of the sensor’s settings. An optional MicroSD Card allows easy data logging with years of storage capacity.

It is easy to measure the temperature of most surfaces using the PyroCube, including painted materials, thick plastics, food products, rubber, bulk materials and paper.

IR temperature sensor for semiconductors & metals.

It is now possible to measure the temperature of reflective metals and semiconductors, as low as 350°C, at low cost and without contact.

The new PyroMini 0.9 infrared pyrometer, from Calex, can view into a vacuum chamber through a quartz or glass window, and measure the temperature of the surface of the silicon wafer. Temperature ranges from 350°C to 2000°C are available, and the low-temperature 350°C to 800°C model opens up new opportunities for temperature monitoring and control in silicon wafer processing.

Stable and repeatable measurements can be taken continuously for long periods, with a fast response time of just 240 milliseconds. With the optional MicroSD Card installed, over a year of data can be logged, even at the fastest sample rate of one reading per second.

The highest possible accuracy is provided by the PyroMini 0.9’s short-wavelength detector, which ensures that any error in emissivity setting or change in emissivity has the minimum effect on the measurement.

Miniature sensing head:

-         Dimensions 18 x 45 mm, stainless steel 316, sealed to IP65

-         Cable length of up to 30 m available

Electronics module with optional touch screen:

-         Large, bright temperature display

-         Visual alarm indication

-         Scrolling temperature graph

-         Full sensor configuration

-         Basic models available without a screen

Outputs:

-         Choice of 4-20 mA or RS485 Modbus output

-         2 x alarm relays on touch screen models that could be connected to alarm equipment directly, without a separate trip amplifier

Accessories are available including mounting brackets, air purging and laser sighting.

Short-wavelength pyrometer with touch screen and data logging!

The new PyroMini 2.2 series of infrared temperature sensors from Calex Electronics combines the ability to accurately measure reflective surfaces and high-temperature objects with the modern and innovative touch-screen interface of the hugely successful PyroMini. A choice of temperature ranges from 100°C to 2000°C is available.

These compact industrial pyrometers use a short measurement wavelength for much greater accuracy, and improved tolerance of obstructions in the field of view, or errors in emissivity setting, than general-purpose, longer-wavelength sensors.

Miniature sensing head:
Dimensions 18 x 45 mm - ideal for mounting in tight spaces
Choice of optics for small or large targets at short or long distances
Stainless steel 316, IP65 sealed
Cable lengths of 1 m to 30 m available

Electronics module with optional touch screen:
Bright, backlit display shows the measured temperature and turns bright red in an alarm condition
Graph shows recent temperature history
Sensor is fully configurable via the intuitive interface
Built-in data logging to MicroSD Card provides up to a year of data storage at 1 sample per second
Basic version available without screen (adjustable emissivity setting via two rotary switches)

Outputs:
Choice of 4-20 mA or RS485 Modbus output
Touch screen models have 2 x alarm relays, rated 24 V DC, 1 A (may be connected directly to alarm equipment without the need for a separate trip amplifier)
Options include mounting brackets, an air purge collar, protective lens cover and laser-sighting tools.

The PyroMini 2.2 is especially well-suited to applications in the steel industry, and measuring hot steel rollers in the food, paper and print industries, among many others.

Infrared temperature measurement in thermoforming!

The process of thermoforming a plastic sheet depends critically upon temperature.

Calex pyrometers have been used by leading manufacturers to control heating and cooling in thermoforming for more than 10 years, resulting in increased product quality, consistency and production rates, and a reduction in heating costs.

Heating

Forming temperatures typically range from 120°C to 370°C. Precise temperature control is required, and the high-performance PyroMini infrared temperature sensor is ideal.

The plastic sheet is heated by infrared heaters; a temperature sensor is used for each heating zone to ensure it is heated evenly. For the best control, at least 10 points should be measured: all four corners and the centre, on the top and bottom surfaces.

The sensing head is positioned between the heating elements. High ambient temperatures mean that PyroMini JA (up to 120°C ambient) and HA (up to 180°C ambient) models are most suitable. No cooling is required for the sensing head.

Cooling After Forming
The production rate is often limited by the cooling time. The PyroMini monitors the surface temperature of the formed part as it is cooled with an instantaneous 240 ms response time, so the operator or control system can see immediately when the part is cool enough and remove it quickly.

The optional touch screen display provides a large, bright indication of measured temperature, 2 alarm relay outputs, and data logging to a MicroSD Card. The sensor is fully configurable via the touch screen.

For connection to a PLC or temperature controller, two output types are available: 4 to 20 mA or RS485 Modbus.

Calex can also provide other thermoforming temperature systems ranging from a single sensor with a PID controller, to a digital network of hundreds of sensors, with display, control, alarm, analogue output and data acquisition functions.

Multi-channel pyrometer system with data logging!

The new PM180 touch screen pyrometer hub from Calex Electronics provides temperature measurement, configuration, alarm display and data logging for up to 6 non-contact infrared temperature sensors, and may be connected to other PM180 units as part of a larger system.

This plug-and-play Modbus system makes it very quick and easy to install a multi-channel network of temperature sensors. It can be integrated with existing Modbus hardware, or used as a standalone system. These sensors are connected in a daisy-chain via the RS485 Modbus interface, and the password-protected touch screen interface of the PM180 allows full configuration of each sensor.

The bright, backlit display shows all six measured temperatures simultaneously, and the background of each temperature turns bright red in an alarm condition. Optional output modules provide alarm relay and analogue (current or voltage) outputs. Each output may be individually configured via the touch screen.

Data is logged to a MicroSD Card in .csv format so it can be imported easily into spreadsheet software such as Excel.

Multiple PM180 units may be connected to a larger RS485 Modbus network using the built-in isolated slave interface.

The wall-mountable touch screen unit is tested to industrial standards for electromagnetic compatibility. It is CE Marked and RoHS compliant. This model is compatible with all sensor models in the PyroBus series, as well as all Modbus models in the PyroMini series.

75 Watt DC/DC converter

Calex Mfg. Co has announced added two models to their 75 Watt WDE Series. Both housed in an industry standard 1/8 brick package (2.45" x 1.05" x 0.55"H), the 24S5.15WDE features a wide 9 to 36 V DC input range with a 5 volt output at 15 amps. The 24S12.6WDE features the same 9 to 36 V DC input range and provides a 12 volt output at 6 amps. Both models are fully regulated and isolated input to output.

The 24S5.15WDE and 24S12.6WDE expand the Calex WDE offering which previously consisted of 24, 28 and 48 volt ouput models with either a 9 to 36 V DC or 18 to 75 V DC input range.

In addition to the basic 1/8 brick analog functions, ie. Sense, Trim and ON/OFF, all WDE models feature a PMBus interface to allow monitoring, data logging and remote customization of the DC/DC converters. An evaluation board is available from Calex for bench testing, communication and configuration. These features make the unit an ideal solution for critical applications where monitoring and/or data logging can assist in system evaluation, monitoring and trouble shooting. Some of the key digital power management features include:

- Precision, adjustable over-temperature protection
- Configurable current-limit inception and shut-down delay
- Logging of historical fault events in non-volatile memory
- Monitoring of Vin, Vout and temperature
- Digital dynamic adjustment of Vout
- Digital warning thresholds for faults

All WDE models are housed in a fully encapsulated cast case making them ideal for still air environments. The operating temperature range of the WDE is -55 to +100 °C.

A World's first!

World’s First IR temperature sensor with built in touch screen display and data logging

The new PyroMini infrared pyrometer from Calex Electronics is packed full of exciting new features.

Its miniature sensing head measures just 18 mm x 45 mm, making it ideal for mounting in tight spaces. A high ambient version is capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 180°C without water or air-cooling, allowing significant energy and cost savings to be made. Manufactured from stainless steel 316 and sealed to IP65, the PyroMini sensing head is ideal for food and pharmaceutical applications among many others. A wide selection of optics allows the PyroMini to focus on small or large targets at short or long distances.

The special low-noise interconnecting cable is resistant to interference from movement, making the sensing head ideal for mounting on robot arms. It can be supplied in lengths from 1 m to 30 m.

The electronics module is also available with a number of different options:
The backlit touch screen interface provides a large, bright display of the measured temperature indigital format and a graph view that shows the history of the measured temperature. It also enables full configuration of the sensor including temperature range setting between -20°C and 1000°C, adjustable filtering, peak or valley hold processing, emissivity setting and reflected energy compensation. In alarm conditions, the whole display changes colour to provide an immediate and obvious alarm indication. Alarm modes and levels can be configured via the touch screen.

When fitted with a MicroSD card, the PyroMini also functions as a data logger, providing a useful means of recording process temperatures for quality assurance and traceability. The user can select the sample rate and the number of samples to be taken and schedule the data logging to start at a certain time. With a 2 GB card, the user can store 28.4 million time and date stamped readings, which provides almost 1 year's worth of data at the fastest possible sample rate of 1 per second.

Output options include 4 to 20 mA, RS485 Modbus and alarm relays, which are rated 24 V DC so there is no need for a separate trip amplifier.

Other options include mounting brackets, an air purge collar, protective lens cover and lasersighting tool.

Temperature in flourmills

Temperature monitoring in flour milling with an infrared temp sensor

Calex has designed a temperature monitoring and alarming system for a leading flour milling company to help prevent fires and explosions.

Grain passes through rollers that grind it into flour. The roller separation is finely adjusted; if they are too close together, excessive heat is generated by friction, which can cause the roller temperature to become critically high. The flour dust can then ignite, causing a fire or a devastating explosion. As well as the safety risk, this can lead to costly downtime.

Calex has worked closely with this customer to specify a system of 120 PyroBus infrared temperature sensors monitoring 60 machines in the milling room. The pyrometers are connected via an RS485 network to a PC running CalexSCADA software for temperature indication, alarming and data logging.

The system was selected for the customer's safety programme as part of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).

Two PyroBus sensors (model PB21) are aimed at the milling surface of one roller in each machine. Monitoring both ends of the roller helps ensure a hazardous temperature at only one end is properly caught.

The sensors are connected in four groups, in a daisy-chain arrangement using junction boxes. Each group has its own power supply and is connected to an isolated RS485 repeater, so a power fault or surge in one group will not affect the rest of the network. All four groups are connected to a PC via an RS485/RS232 converter.

Four alarm relay output modules are provided for each group, to trigger alarms for warning and critical temperatures. One relay output is triggered by any alarm; this may be connected to a control room beacon and/or a text-message notification system.

The CalexSCADA software displays the measured temperature and alarm state of all 120 sensors at once. The user can view detailed information and temperature history graphs for each pair of sensors. The software also logs measured temperature, sensor temperature and alarm state at 5-minute intervals to the PC hard disk.

Application tips
As the sensors may be positioned very close to the roller surface, the wide 2:1 field of view of the lowest-cost model PB21 gives good results.

To help keep the lens clean and ensure maximum accuracy, an air purge collar is used with each sensor. This customer has designed a special mounting to fit the internal thread at the opening of the air purge.

Food processing temperature application

Infrared temperature sensor for food applications with right angled sensing head and protective plastic window

Calex has been approached by a leading manufacturer of food processing equipment with a specific requirement for non-contact infrared temperature measurement.

The CI5234, a special sensor based on the existing two-piece PyroCouple M, is designed specifically for this customer's requirements. It has features that also make it ideal for many other applications.

The long, cylindrical stainless steel section of the right-angled sensing head is designed to be mounted in a gland or seal in the wall of a vessel, eliminating the requirement for an additional flange or window. The right angle allows the surface of the material in the vessel to be monitored from above.

A protective plastic window is fitted to the nose of the sensor inside a stainless steel holder. This protects the sensor's lens from damage and helps contain lens fragments in case damage occurs.

The sensing head is aimed at the surface of the food. Its narrow 15:1 field of view helps ensure that it cannot "see" the vessel walls.

The separate electronics box amplifies the signal from the sensing head and converts it to a linear 4-20 mA output. The sensor may be supplied with a cable of up to 3 m between the sensing head and the electronics box. Screw terminals in the electronics box allow easy connection to a four-core shielded copper cable.

If mixing paddles or blades are present in the vessel, then output processing should be applied to the 4-20 mA signal to ignore fluctuations in measured temperature when the paddle or blade is visible to the sensor.

The fixed emissivity setting of the CI5234 gives good results on almost all foods, and is also ideal for measuring other high-emissivity surfaces, such as wood, paper, fabric, thick plastics, asphalt and painted surfaces.

Like all infrared temperature sensors, readings can be affected by steam or contamination on the lens, so both of these should be minimised for maximum accuracy.

The sensor can withstand temperatures of up to 70°C in the vessel.

The protective plastic window in stainless steel holder can be supplied separately for use with adjustable-emissivity sensors, such as the PyroEpsilon, which has emissivity adjustment via 4-20 mA input, the PyroBus, which is equipped with an RS485 Modbus RTU interface, or the PyroUSB, which has USB communications as well as a 4-20 mA output.

Non-contact measurements in tyre manufacturing

Infrared temperature sensors from the Calex PyroCouple Series are being used by a major tyre manufacturer to detect the presence of hot rubber tyre material as it passes a point on a conveyor.

The tyre material is transported in two thin bands on a cooled aluminium conveyor. A PyroCouple model PC301MT-0 infrared temperature sensor is positioned above the conveyor, and is aimed so that both bands are contained in its field of view.

The temperature of the tyre material is normally 75°C and the cooled conveyor surface temperature is typically 20°C.

The sensor is connected to a DIN rail-mounted controller with a relay output that will switch at a chosen measured temperature (e.g. about 45°C).

The relay setpoint temperature is low enough that the relay will be triggered reliably despite the tyre material not completely filling the sensor's field of view. The system can therefore detect the presence of the tyre material, and the time that the material starts and stops being present can be logged.

Speed data from the conveyor drive system is combined with the timings from the sensor and the total length of tyre material passing the sensor can be calculated over each manufacturing period.

Application tips
This system can also be used to detect the presence of a single band of product. If the sensor's field of view is completely filled by the tyre material, then the temperature reading will also be accurate.

Tyre rubber has a high emissivity, so the low-cost, fixed-emissivity PyroCouple Series of infrared temperature sensors is perfectly suitable. For other materials, please contact Calex for advice on the most suitable sensor.

The sensor measures an average temperature across its field of view. Because the sensor can also "see" the cool conveyor as well as the hot tyre material, the measured temperature will be lower than the true temperature of the tyre material, however the reading is sufficiently accurate that the sensor may be used to detect whether or not it is present.

The PPT245 DIN rail-mounted controller will indicate the measured temperature and the setpoint temperature, and can also be configured to retransmit the measured temperature as a linear 0-10 V DC or 4-20 mA signal for connection to a data logger or instrumentation. It has another relay output that can be configured for control or alarm.

Infrared pyrometer

The all new PyroUSB 2.2 non-contact temperature sensors  from Calex, detect infrared radiation at wavelengths between 2.0 and 2.4 microns. This short-wavelength method of measurement allows much greater accuracy, and improved tolerance of optical obstructions or errors in emissivity setting, than longerwavelength sensors.

Model PU151LT2.2 is designed specifically for measuring low-temperature targets from 45ºC to 300ºC. PyroUSB 2.2 sensors connect directly to a PC via a USB cable (included) and operate without the need for any additional hardware interface or power supply.

In addition to the USB interface, the sensor is equipped with a selectable 0 to 20 mA or 4 to 20 mA output, which is linear with temperature. This output can be connected at the same time as the USB interface or independently. Models are available with temperature ranges of 45 to 300ºC, 250 to 1000ºC or 450 to 2000ºC. If a smaller range is required, this can be set using the included CalexSoft software.

The CalexSoft software is simple to install and requires no specialist knowledge to set up and use. It displays temperature in numerical format and on a simulated scrolling chart. Users can set the temperature range and emissivity, compensate for reflected energy, apply filtering to fluctuating temperatures and use peak or

valley-hold processing to measure hot or cold objects on conveyors. The software may also be used to record measurements at any interval from 1 second to 1 week and preprogrammed to start and finish at any time or date. Audible and visual alarms can be set to warn users that the temperature is either too high or too low. The

built-in OPC Server interface allows communication between the sensor and any other equipment with OPC Client capabilities, making systems integration simple and affordable.

The sensor itself is just 106 mm long by 18 mm diameter and made of stainless steel, sealed to IP65. It is held in place by a mounting nut (included). Fixed and adjustable brackets are offered to simplify mounting and a laser-sighting tool is available to assist in the sighting of the sensor.

The high-quality lenses used by Calex produce very well-defined optical paths. There are four optics to choose from. Medium and high-temperature models are available with 25:1 or 75:1 distance-to-spot size ratios, or close-focus optics, which focus on a 7.5 mm diameter spot at 500 mm distance. Lowtemperature models are available with a distance-to-spot size ratio of 15:1.

If the sensor is required to operate in a very high or low ambient temperature (less than 0°C or more than 70°C) it can be ordered with a water/air-cooled jacket built around it. The temperature inside the sensor can also be monitored from the PC to make sure it doesn’t exceed the ambient limits. For dusty environments, an air-purge collar can be fitted to keep the lens clean.

PyroUSB sensors are RoHS compliant and conform to EN 61326-1:2006 for EMC. They are designed and built by Calex Electronics in the UK, a company with more than 30 years' experience of non-contact infra-red temperature measurement.

Chassis mounting kit for DC/DC converters

Calex has launched the MS22 Mounting Kit for half-brick DC/DC converters.

The MS22 provides an off-the-shelf solution for prototyping or mounting a DC/DC converter in an enclosure. It is a cost-effective solution that eliminates the need for a printed circuit board for the converter.

It accommodates Calex half-brick DC/DC converters including the 150 watt HEW Series, which offers a 9 to 36 V DC input range, making the units suitable for battery powered 12 V sytems, 24 V industrial and 28 V military applications. It is available on a stand-alone basis or with a customer-specified half-brick DC/DC converter mounted on the board.

This mounting kit includes an input fuse for protection, as well as input capacitors for lower input impedance to the DC/DC converter. It also includes on-board barrier strips allowing screw terminal connections for all the converter's input and output functions. The converter is mounted on the opposite side of the barrier strips to facilitate heatsinking.

The dimensions of the MS22 are 129.5 mm (5.1") L x 76.2 mm (3") W. The total height of the board, with a half-brick converter mounted, is 34.8 mm (1.37").

Triple output DC/DC converters

The HE triple output series from Calex, offers a primary output of either 3.3 V DC or 5 V DC and auxiliary outputs of either +/-12 V DC or +/-15 V DC. The 5 V output is rated 15 A max and the 3.3 V output is rated 20 A max. The auxiliary outputs are rated +/-2 A max.

All models provide up to 75 watts of output power, giving the designer a great deal of flexibility when loading the three outputs. The HE series is isolated input to output providing a cost effective, compact solution for powering logic and analogue circuitry.

The HE series is housed in an industry standard half-brick case. All models are fully encapsulated for rugged durability in harsh industrial and military commercial off-the-shelf applications. The operating temperature range for the HE series is -40 to +100ºC, and a variety of heatsinks are available for extended temperature operation. The HE series can be ordered with an optional mounting kit that provides screw terminal connections.

The MTBF is over one million hours. UL approvals are pending.

The HE triple provides output voltage trim and logic ON/OFF. In the OFF state the idle current is only 2 mA DC. Positive and negative logic is available.

The HE series has several protection features including:

Volt-seconds clamp and over voltage protection

Thermal shutdown

Pulse by pulse current limiting

Short circuit frequency foldback

All models feature a 2:1 input range of either 18 to 36 V DC or 36 to 75 V DC, and all provide input reverse polarity protection. Output line and load regulation is typically 0.01% and 0.05% respectively, and output voltage setpoint accuracy is +/-1%.

DC/DC converters

Calex has announced the HCM Series of high power density chassis mount DC/DC Converters. These 150 watt rugged, encapsulated DC/DC converters are ideal for harsh industrial and commercial off-the-shelf military applications.

All 10 models in the series offer a wide 4:1 input range, from 9 to 36 V DC and 18 to 75 V DC, making them ideal for 24 V industrial, 12 and 24 V battery applications and 48 V power sources. The output voltages available are 3.3, 5, 12, 15 and 24 V DC. All models are isolated input to output. The MTBF for all models is over one million hours.

The versatile enclosure of the HCM Series provides a "clamp" style recessed barrier strip which secures wire without twisting. The enclosure can be mounted with the barrier strip facing up or down depending on what is preferred for the application. The excellent thermal characteristics of the enclosure provide 3ºC per watt dissipated thermal impedance. The enclosure also has threaded inserts for securing a heatsink if needed for extended temperature applications. The case operating temperature range for the HCM is -40ºC to +100ºC.

The case dimensions are 110 x 82 x 26 mm and the weight is 325 g. RoHS and non-RoHS construction is available.

In addition to the mechanical advantages of the enclosure, the HCM offers a number of electrical features not often found in chassis-mount units:

• Volt-seconds clamp and fast over voltage protection
  
• Pulse by pulse current limiting
  
• Short circuit frequency foldback
  
• Dead short shut-down
  
• Over-temperature protection
  
• Auto-softstart
  
• Remote sensing
  
• Output voltage trim capability

DC/DC filter

Compact filter for DC/DC converters

Calex Electronics Ltd announces the availability of the EFIL-100-10 filter module. The EFIL-100-10 is a compact 1" x 2" x 0.45" (2.54 x 5.08 x 1.14 cm) input differential and common mode filter for Calex DC/DC Converters. The board mount unit is housed in a water washable non-conductive case and is available with either RoHS or non-RoHS construction. The EFIL-100-10 is designed to be used in series with the input to the DC/DC Converter, between the source and the converter. A single EFIL-100-10 can be used as the front end for multiple DC/DC converters as long as the total
input current does not exceed 10 Amps DC.

The maximum input voltage for the EFIL-100-10 is 100 Volts DC. The maximum input frequency is 100Hz. The EFIL-100-10 is isolated input to output at 1000 Volts DC. The differential mode insertion loss is typically 31 dB. The common mode insertion loss is typically 28 dB. The operating temperature range is -40ºC to +60ºC. The storage range is -40ºC to +105ºC.

The EFIL-100-10 is available from approximately four to six weeks after receipt of order.