See farther. Protect more - A world first!

Datalogic’s Sensor & Safety and Machine Vision business unit, Datasensing, has launched the SLS10 Safety Laser Scanner. Offering the largest safety coverage currently available on the market, the new SLS10 also delivers ultra-fast response times, and best-in-class angular resolution to help manufacturers boost protection. All while reducing total cost of ownership (TCO).

As the world’s first 10 m safety laser scanner, the SLS10 enables customers to see farther and protect more. With a maximum safety range of 10 m (32.8 ft) across a 275° scanning angle for 70 mm detection capability, the device provides up to 240 m² of safety coverage from a single scanner. This impressive capability supports the protection of larger workspaces, longer production lines, and bigger industrial machinery with fewer devices. Instead of deploying multiple scanners to achieve full coverage, users can rely on a single SLS10, lowering hardware investment and shortening commissioning times, as well as reducing maintenance requirements.

“Safety should never be a compromise between protection, productivity, and cost,” said Andrea Donadel, Industrial Automation Products and Solutions Executive Vice President at Datasensing. “With our new SLS10, we are advancing safety laser scanning for the benefit of both end users and system integrators. Its market-leading 10 m range, rapid response time, and advanced configuration tools not only mean protecting wider areas with fewer devices, but also better operational efficiency and flexibility”

Greater safety coverage costing less.
The new SLS10 provides multiple detection capabilities for different applications. Alongside its 10 m safety range for 70 mm detection capability, it also offers 5 m safety range for 30 mm, 5.5 m for 40 mm, 7.5 m for 50 mm, and 8.75 m for 60 mm. This flexibility makes the scanner ideal for palletizing systems, robotic cells, laser cutting machines, woodworking machinery, warehouse AGVs/AMRs, and much more. Customers gain peace of mind that every risk has been safely addressed while lowering total system costs.

Value beyond safety.
Beyond safeguarding, the SLS10 delivers powerful performance in navigation applications thanks to its best-in-class angular resolution of up to 0.059°. Angular resolution defines the minimum distance between consecutive laser measurement points. The outcome for users is higher accuracy in support of improved navigational capabilities, making the SLS10 particularly valuable for high-payload AGVs/AMRs and automated forklifts. This potential for further applications adds value beyond traditional safety tasks.

The SLS10 delivers an ultra-fast 84 ms response time, the best in its class for safety distances above 9 m, allowing installation closer to hazardous areas while maintaining compliance. The result is a smaller machine footprint, greater design flexibility, and improved productivity.

Smarter configuration and easier commissioning.
Datasensing has also introduced a redesigned DL Sentinel user interface through its new ONEGUI platform, improving setup and day-to-day management. Users can configure safety zones more easily, monitor Master and Remote devices simultaneously, and use the new OptimaTune technology to automatically select the best balance between safety distance, response time, and environmental conditions. Benefits include reduced commissioning time and improved stock flexibility by replacing previous scanners without any compromise in performance.

Selected models also include positional zone set switching by encoder, a patent-pending feature that enables automatic zone changes without additional sensors.

Complying with SIL-2 and PLd safety standards, SLS10 delivers the reliability required for mission-critical industrial environments. Notably, strong immunity to dust helps reduce false triggering, preventing unnecessary and costly machine shutdowns.

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@DatalogicGroup @mepaxIntPR #Datasensing #PAuto #Laser

Handheld barcode scanner.

Sustainable features span everything from low power consumption to the use of recycled and recyclable materials.

The Gryphon™ 4600 series is Datalogic's new-generation and world’s first premium line handheld scanners that combine AI-powered performance, versatile design and sustainable innovation. Engineered for superior scanning precision and efficiency, the Gryphon 4600 enables users to work faster, smarter and more sustainably – setting a new benchmark in versatility and performance for every industry.

Designed to eliminate the bottlenecks that slow down any workflow, the Gryphon 4600 delivers instant, first-pass reading on all major 1D and 2D codes, including GS1 Digital Link, digital watermark, and dense high-resolution variants, even in the most demanding environments.

The scanner’s powerful combination of high-speed dual-core processor and pioneering AI-driven neural decoding technology delivers unrivaled speed and precision.

A new dual sensor optics system (1.5MP + VGA) powering HP models, expands scanning capabilities from near to far distances to deliver superior scanning and depth-of-field when reading high-density to low-density codes.

Operators benefit from intuitive targeting with a new bright green LED crosshair aimer (high visible and safe) and a dual-color LED illumination technology that adapts instantly to any task without pre-selecting specific scanner models. New power options with smart battery management allow users to benefit from a high-capacity LI-Ion battery pack or a Super Capacitor (battery-free) pack to minimize downtime and maintenance, while Datalogic’ signature Green Spot good-read feedback and wireless charging remain hallmark of the Gryphon family.

The new Datalogic Connect software platform adds another layer of intelligence — enabling remote configuration, real-time monitoring, and performance analytics for every device in the field. Businesses can instantly gather data and apply insights to boost uptime, streamline maintenance, and make smarter operational decisions. To further protect productivity, customers can pair the Gryphon 4600 with Ease of Care service plans, ensuring continuous performance and minimal downtime.

Compatibility with existing Gryphon accessories — including cables, power supplies, bases, and chargers — reduces investment costs and simplifies upgrades for existing users, reinforcing Datalogic’s commitment to protecting customer value.

The Gryphon 4600 is the market’s first series of premium-grade handheld scanners to embrace an eco-design strategy¸ providing that sustainability and high performance can coexist.

The new devices achieve up to 25% lower power consumption, are made with over 70% recycled materials, and feature a lighter, optimized design for reduced environmental impact.

Datalogic’s Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) ensures transparency in every step of the design, with independent verification underway and Carbon Footprint Certification in progress.

Available in High Performance (HP), High Density (HD), and Healthcare (HC) models, the Gryphon 4600 meets the unique needs of each environment. The HC models include disinfectant-ready enclosures and antimicrobial silver-ion additives, ensuring safe, hygienic use in patient care, laboratories, and pharmacies.

Distributors and system integrators can standardize on one product line for diverse applications — reducing complexity, simplifying inventory, and delivering consistent, premium scanning experiences across the board.

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@DatalogicGroup @digimarc @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Automation

Scanners at airport.

Rohde & Schwarz has been chosen to supply the R&S QPS201 Quick Personnel Security (QPS) scanners to Heathrow Airport (GB), reducing wait times for passengers and enhancing security checkpoints.

R&S QPS201 scanners will be rolled out across the airport, ensuring that all passengers, staff and contractors accessing airside locations are scanned on entry. The installation enables the airport to achieve its vision of a secure and safe environment whilst at the same time providing a positive passenger experience by making their journey through the airport as fast and efficient as possible.

“Heathrow Airport is the latest leading international airport to adopt the R&S QPS201, reinforcing our position as the go-to solution for airports around the world,” said Frank Mackel, Vice President Sales Europe, Rohde & Schwarz. “This scanner addresses the three key airport requirements: high accuracy of threat detection, low frequency of false alarms to minimize time consuming manual pat-downs, and fast throughput to reduce passenger wait times even at busy periods.”

Heathrow Airport sought a solution that fully addressed current security and throughput requirements but is also being continuously developed and improved to meet future security needs. It was impressed with Rohde & Schwarz commitment to upgrade its scanners with new algorithms after they have entered service. It allows an easy, hands-down posture for scanning, which is comfortable while at the same time ensuring effective screening for safety and security. A full body scan is completed in seconds, and any suspect objects are indicated on an image to preserve passenger privacy.

The R&S QPS201 security scanner from Rohde & Schwarz features technology which increases sensitivity to further boost threat detection, while reducing false alarms and processing time. In addition to strengthening security, these performance gains reduce post-alarm manual checks and so help avoid physical contact to ensure social distancing. The security scanner restores parity to baggage- and personnel-scanning times, helping security staff manage throughput at checkpoints and avoid excessive queueing. Leveraging Rohde & Schwarz expertise in technology, and utilizing machine-trained software algorithms, R&S QPS201 detects all types of potentially dangerous objects.

@RohdeSchwarz @HeathrowAirport @NeeshamPR #Safety #Security #Travel

Security at Farrenfore.

Rohde & Schwarz has installed Ireland’s first Quick Personnel Security (QPS) scanner at Kerry Airport, Farranfore, (IRL), delivering state-of-the-art technology that enables a high throughput, enhanced security, and increased safety for airport customers and staff. The airport has chosen the latest model, the latest generation R&S QPS201 launched earlier in 2020, becoming the first Rohde & Schwarz security scanner installation in Ireland. 

The R&S QPS201 security scanner by Rohde & Schwarz features enhanced second-generation algorithms that increase sensitivity to further boost threat detection while minimizing false alarms and reducing processing time. In addition to strengthening security, these performance gains reduce post-alarm manual checks and so help avoid physical contact to ensure social distancing.

Moreover, a more efficient scanning time with R&S QPS201 balances the effects of incoming new X-ray inspection systems, which scan items inside baggage that previously had to be removed, such as laptops. The security scanner restores parity to baggage- and personnel-scanning times, helping security staff manage throughput at checkpoints and avoid excessive queueing.

“The Rohde & Schwarz QPS scanners are highly regarded by the air travel industry worldwide and the latest technology takes performance to an even higher level,” said Gary Walker of Rohde & Schwarz. “I am confident that Kerry Airport and its customers will appreciate the enhancements to service, security, and safety, and that others in Ireland will follow their lead.”

Tom O’Driscoll, Chief Security Officer of Kerry Airport, commented: “Now is the right time for this investment in the future of Kerry Airport, to meet the heightened expectations for safety and security within our industry. Having recently installed explosives detection systems for cabin baggage (EDS CB), we are proud to now also adopt this state-of-the-art technology in Ireland, which will set new standards for service and wellbeing.”

R&S QPS201 was installed and setup at Kerry Airport with minimal disruption to daily activities. The system is designed to be easy to use, with intuitive graphical displays that require minimal training and let operators quickly achieve full proficiency.

Leveraging Rohde & Schwarz expertise in millimeter-wave technology, and utilizing machine-trained software algorithms, R&S QPS201 detects all types of potentially dangerous objects whether metal, ceramic, plastic, or liquid. The harmless low-energy millimeter-waves enable personal privacy to be maintained while capturing high-resolution data that enhances threat detection. The system allows an easy, hands-down posture for scanning, which is comfortable while at the same time ensuring effective screening for safety and security. 

@RohdeSchwarz @KerryAirport @NeeshamPR #Ireland #Security

Scan ring wins!

Advantech's LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring was honored with a 2020 Taiwan Excellence award. This prestigious award is considered one of the highest honors in Taiwan’s industry. Advantech’s LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring was selected by the jury for “impressively demonstrating superior innovation”.

Universal Design with Optimized Scan Button Enables Hands-Free Scanning
The LEO-W wearable barcode scanner ring is an ultra-compact Bluetooth barcode scanner that is worn on a finger for hands-free scanning. Designed to streamline workflows for warehouse, logistics, retail, and inventory management applications, LEO-W is capable of scanning barcodes printed on paper labels or displayed digitally. Unlike traditional barcode scanners with a capacitive touch pad, LEO-W features an optimized physical scan button for superior control and power savings. The LEO-W barcode scanner is available with five ring strap sizes and can be worn on either the left or right hand for maximum flexibility and comfort. Moreover, LEO-W features a magnetic connector for easy battery recharging, thereby eliminating issues related to cable bending.

Key Features + Wearable ergonomic design with optimized scan button enables hands-free scanning + Universal design for the left/right hand with flexible ring sizes + Bluetooth connectivity ensures easy integration and reduced power consumption + Compact, lightweight (33g) design for convenient deployment + IP54 rating and 1-m drop protection ensures reliability for industrial applications + Magnetic connector enables easy battery recharging

Compact Yet Durable Solution Ensures Reliability for Industrial Applications
To ensure reliable operation in harsh industrial environments, LEO-W features a wide operating temperature range (-20 ~ 50 °C/-4 ~ 122 °F), IP54 rating for protection from water and dust, and can withstand drops of up to 1 meter. The compact, lightweight (33 g) design allows LEO-W to be deployed for a wide range of applications. For long-duration use typical of shift work, the built-in battery supports up to 8 hours operation and can be recharged within 1.5 hours. Overall, LEO-W provides a great-value mobile data collection solution with the durability to withstand rough handling in industrial environments.

Built-In Bluetooth Connectivity Facilitates Easy Integration
Equipped with Bluetooth communication technology, the LEO-W barcode scanner ring can be easily paired with a wide range of devices for real-time data collection. Moreover, the scanner can operate at distances of up to 10 m (33 ft) from the host system, increasing worker mobility and overall efficiency.

By reducing workflow interruptions and data-entry errors, the LEO-W barcode scanner ring allows managers to streamline operations and increase productivity.

#PAuto @iAutomation_EU @mepaxIntPR

Compact high-dynamics scan head for labeling applications.

Scanlab GmbH is expanding its lineup of entry-level scan heads with the new basiCube 14. This compact-class scan system features excellent price/performance and a 14-mm aperture for high-precision marking using small spots. That makes it ideal in electronics labeling applications.

The consumer goods and electronics sectors are governed by high volume production and unrelenting price pressure. In manufacturing, every core component is subject to demanding expectations regarding throughput, reliability and low cost.

It has extended its product portfolio via the ultra-compact basiCube 14 scan head, a price-effective variant that features a larger 14-mm aperture and mechanical compatibility with the well-established SCANcube series. This new model assures 600-cps writing speeds, additional productivity can be realized through its automated on-the-fly functionality. It will be manufactured in Germany under strict quality standards.

#Scanlab #Manufacturing

Scanner for laser micromachining.

Aerotech is introducing a new high-performance Galvo Scanner. The AGV-SPO offers a larger field of view than conventional 2D scanners, reduces laser spot distortion, and is flexible enough to accommodate a wide range of laser wavelengths thanks to a large variety of mirror surfaces. As a result, the laser scanner is suitable for a wide range of applications, from additive manufacturing to medical devices.

With just one pivot point for X and Y deflection, Aerotech's AGV-SPO Galvo Scanner significantly increases the field of view, reducing laser spot distortion in critical laser micromachining applications. Due to the special optical design, the entrance pupil of the laser beam coincides with the X and Y deflecting mirrors, increasing the effective numerical aperture of the scanner system. The design immediately increases the field of view for a given focal length and reduces laser spot distortion throughout the working area. With the new Galvo Scanner, even larger parts can now be processed faster and with improved uniformity.

The AGV SPO scanner provides a range of mirror coatings and focusing optics to support a variety of commonly used laser wavelengths and focal lengths. Also, customer-specific optics and optical mounting options can be adapted as a special solution. Optional air-cooled mirrors and/or water-cooled motors ensure constant temperature conditions and continuously good work results even with high laser power or highly dynamic motion profiles.

The laser scanner benefits from the high performance of the Aerotech’s controllers with their advanced motion control and position synchronised output (PSO). In addition, path control functions such as acceleration limitation offer the ability to automatically reduce scanning speed in tight bends or small radii to minimise overshoot. In addition, the laser can also be triggered based on the position feedback of the mirrors via the PSO. This ensures a consistent laser spot overlap when the scanner changes speed. Aerotech's Infinite Field of View (IFOV) feature seamlessly combines servo drive and scanner motion to extend laser marking across the entire servo axis travel range. This avoids stitching errors that can occur during the move expose repeat process.

 @aerotechmotion #Manufacturing

High speed laser scanners for precision linear measurement.

With eight measurement ranges from 10 to 250 mm, a choice of red, blue or IR source versions and linearity to better than 0.05% FS, Riftek’s new 2D laser scanner combines with a comprehensive software development kit and service protocol to facilitate integration into high precision linear measurement tasks that include surface profile, displacement, dimensions, object recognition, flatness, volume, 3D model construction and more.

This is available with full support from  Ixthus Instrumentation, the smart RF627 series ARM-based laser scanner offers selectable sampling rates up to 6800 profiles/sec with fast inputs and outputs for event and multiple scanner synchronisation.

The RF627 series employs the optical triangulation principle to provide a base distance and a generous measurement range with a wide field of view. The new design has allowed a marked increase of twice the accuracy and four times the speed over previous Riftek 2D scanners for improved measurement precision and throughput. Optional red, blue and IR laser sources allow measurement on reflective materials, high temperature objects, organic materials and more. Multiple scanners with different wavelengths can also be supplied, offering the possibility to combine various materials in one measurement system.

The new laser scanner is designed for use in harsh environments. A durable aluminium housing and a novel high resolution glass lens system offers IP67 protection with shock and vibration resistance suitable for the most demanding tasks. Two compact housing styles cover the scanner geometry requirements for the smaller and the other measurement range models. Volume dimensions for the 250 mm maximum measurement range housing is 44 x 63 x 93 mm (w x d x h). Both have separate power/signal and Ethernet circular connectors rated for IP67. Working temperature is 0 to +40 °С as standard whilst an integrated heater option is available for -20 to +40 °С. A built-in heater and water/air cooled housing option offers a -30 to +120 °С ambient range. Supply voltage is 9 to 30 VDC

Ethernet connection and a web-browser interface facilitates set-up and programming whilst an integral reset button and LED status on the housing makes installation and troubleshooting straightforward. Synchronisation over RS422 covers three inputs and one output with a single hardware input for laser on/off. The laser scanner is supported with a comprehensive user manual and along with the free-of-charge software development kit, including examples for Windows, Linux, .NET, MatLab, and LabView®, is available from Ixthus Instrumentation.

The RF627 series has been designed as a new modular platform for rapid application development and updating of 2D scanners and 3D snapshot scanners. Over the coming months variants will be offered with longer working ranges, higher scan rates and video camera/encoder integration. Furthermore, customised models for weld seam inspection, 3D model measurement, tunnel scanning and more will be offered with compatible ready-to-run software for fast integration in the customer’s application.

Scanning accessory for spot pyrometers.

Fluke® Process Instruments has introduced the SpotScan™ line scanning accessory for its family of best-in-class spot pyrometers. Compatible with the Endurance™, Marathon, and Modline® 5 and Modline 7 Series of infrared (IR) noncontact temperature measurement sensors, the accessory features an innovative scanning mechanism that enables users to gather temperature data over a larger area on the target.

The SpotScan line scanning accessory helps optimize the performance of IR thermometers in applications ranging from metals processing and induction heating, to carbon graphite production. It is especially well-suited for web and conveyor hot spot or cold spot monitoring.

With the SpotScan accessory, industrial facilities can continue to utilize the advanced optics of their Fluke Process Instruments IR temperature sensors to achieve small spot sizes on the measurement target, but also "spot sweep" over the target to see a larger area–thus obtaining additional information on critical production processes. Users can see a hot spot over a larger area and continuously monitor the analog output for temperature variations that exceed defined limits.

The SpotScan accessory allows plant operators to employ signal conditioning sensor capabilities to obtain temperature information in a variety of different ways. For example, use of the "peak picker" function helps identify hot spots over a larger area. The averaging/response time functions provide average temperature over an extended range. In either case, operators benefit from an expanded view and increased awareness of process conditions.

The SpotScan accessory is available with options for sighting the IR instrument and periodically checking sighting accuracy. Onboard controls make it easy to manipulate the end or center positions of the scan, as well as its frequency. For a sensor equipped with a laser, the user can simply turn the unit on to see exactly where the sensor is aimed. For units equipped with through-the-lens sighting, scanning at the end points can be stopped to make necessary aiming adjustments.

The SpotScan line scanning accessory utilises the existing sensor DC power supply. Its durable IP65 enclosure is designed to withstand ambient temperatures up to 60°C (140°F), and an air purge option is available for use in dusty or dirty environments.

Multi-purpose safe area modbus scanners.

The Vantageview PD6730X Modbus Scanner, from Precision Digital Corporation, is a rugged, NEMA 4X/IP65 Modbus master, slave, or snooper (sniffer). The multi-purpose PD6730X is designed for accurate display of and quick access to information, locally or remotely, in wet or dirty environments. It can accept up to 16 individually programmed process variables (PVs) from multiple devices; four math channels allow for calculations on multiple PVs. The unique SafeTouch® through-window buttons allow operation without removing the cover. The pulse input accepts a wide range of flow transmitter signals, including mV input from a magnetic flowmeter, as well as high frequency signals.

The instrument includes backlighting, two open collector outputs, and an analog output as standard. The scanner has been manufactured to Precision Digital’s exacting standards and is housed in a durable, injection-molded thermal plastic enclosure.

"The versatile Vantageview PD6730X is loaded with features that plant operators can appreciate," said Jeffrey Peters, President, Precision Digital Corporation. "It is simple to program using our free ScanView EX software, displays critical information about the process, and can be seen from wide angles and a distance. The PD6730X is designed for readability and ease of use, from large character and Feet & Inches displays to automatic rate conversions and data logging. Plus, it integrates easily into existing Modbus networks."

The Decimal Display models feature an upper display that is 0.7 inches high and shows five digits of information; the Feet & Inches models feature a level display that reads up to 399 feet, 11 and 15/16 inches and contains a 20-segment tank level indicator. The lower display for both models is 0.4 inches high, with seven alphanumeric characters, for Process Variables, Custom Units, or Tags. The bright LCD display is easily read under varying lighting conditions and from viewing angles of up to +/- 40 degrees (twice that of competitive models); it can also be rotated in 90 degree increments for increased readability.

Four sensors in the unit operate as through-window buttons for programming and operation without removing the cover in wet or dirty areas. These SafeTouch buttons include an energy saving mode to save power, extend battery life, and prevent unintended triggers.

The PD6730X provides flexible power options, including battery, DC with battery backup, DC only, output-loop, or output loop with battery backup. Its element-resistant enclosure provides three threaded conduit holes and integrated pipe or wall mounting holes. Operating temperatures range from -40 to 75 degrees C.

• Precision Digital products are marketed in Ireland by P J Bonner & Co.

Explosion-proof modbus scanners!

The ProtEx® PD6830X Modbus Scanner has just been announced by Precision Digital Corporation. The PD6830X is a rugged, explosion-proof, NEMA 4X / IP68 Modbus master, slave, or snooper (sniffer). A multi-purpose meter, it is designed for accurate display and quick access of information, locally or remotely, in hazardous areas or in the harshest safe area applications.

It can accept up to 16 individually programmed process variables (PVs) from multiple devices; four math channels allow for calculations on multiple PVs. The unique SafeTouch® through-glass buttons allow operation without removing the cover. The pulse input accepts a wide range of flow transmitter signals, including mV input from a magnetic flowmeter, as well as high frequency signals. The PD6830X includes backlighting, two open collector outputs, and an analog output as standard. The scanner has FM, ATEX, CSA, IECEx, and CE approvals, enabling it to be installed almost anywhere. The PD6830X is housed in a durable, epoxy coated, cast aluminum enclosure.

"The versatile ProtEX PD6830X is loaded with features plant operators can appreciate," said Jeffrey Peters, President, Precision Digital Corporation. "The meter is simple to program using our FREE ScanView EX software, displays critical information about their process, and can be seen from wide angles and a distance. Other meter manufacturers have lost sight of the fact that users need to be able to see the data, even in hazardous areas."

The PD6830X is designed for readability and ease of use, from large character and Feet & Inches displays to automatic rate conversions and data logging. In addition, it integrates easily into existing Modbus networks.

The PD6830X Decimal Display models feature an upper display that is 0.7 inches high and shows five digits of information; the Feet & Inches models feature a level display that reads up to 399 feet, 11 and 15/16 inches and contains a 20-segment tank level indicator. The lower display for both models is 0.4 inches high, with seven alphanumeric characters for Process Variables, Custom Units, or Tags. The bright LCD display is easily read under various lighting conditions and from viewing angles of up to +/- 40 degrees (twice that of competitive models); it can also be rotated in 90 degree increments for increased readability.

Four sensors in the PD6830X operate as through-glass buttons for programming and operation without removing the cover in hazardous areas. These SafeTouch® buttons include an energy saving mode to save power, extend battery life, and prevent unintended triggers.

The PD6830X provides flexible power options, including battery, DC with battery backup, DC only, output-loop, or output loop with battery backup. Its element-resistant enclosure provides three threaded conduit holes and integrated pipe or wall mounting holes. Operating temperatures range from -40 to 75 degrees C.

• Precision Digital products are marketed in Ireland by P J Bonner & Co.

Cold store scanner with intelligent heating!

Difficult ambient conditions sometimes exist during the processing, transportation, and identification of products, such as large below-zero temperatures. However, normal automation components such as barcode scanners are generally not suitable for operation in cold storage warehouses. Instead, special device designs are needed for this in which frequently reduced performance values must be taken into account. Systems that are not subject to restrictions are of more interest here.

Can be used universally from chilled

to warm conditions

The compact cold store scanner VB14N-T from Pepperl+Fuchs operates at temperatures from -35 °C to +45 °C and delivers its full performance potential over this exceptionally large operating temperature range. With a scan rate of up to 1000 scans/s and resolutions of 0.2 mm, the device offers the same performance as the VB14N type counterpart available for standard temperatures. The special feature of the low-temperature version lies in the integrated heater, which is monitored by microprocessor-controlled temperature control. Depending on the internal and external temperatures of the barcode scanner and environment, the device constantly determines the optimal heating power. The developers have therefore succeeded in combining counter-acting properties such as the low power consumption of a maximum 10 W with a very short warm-up period of a maximum of 20 minutes.

Other highlights in this device class include master-slave operation in which up to 32 scanners work together in a network, configuration via the convenient PC software Genius, and the innovative direct-operation concept with mode button. With the help of intelligent code reconstruction, the model can even decode poor-quality code readings such as those with low contrast, damage, or in-motion blurring. With identical dimensions, the standard scanner can easily be replaced by the new cold store version if required. Cabling effort is also low, as the device and heating are supplied via the same cable. The possibility of using the VB14N-T in the positive range in normal temperatures makes the device—which is accommodated in a robust housing to IP 65 degree of protection—a universally usable all-rounder with a wide field of application.

Read 1D and 2D codes in to PCs, smartphones and tablets!

For part detection and goods allocation, handheld scanners for 1D and 2D codes are an indispensable tool in day-to-day industrial operations. Crucial in terms of their efficiency are a high reading performance, ease of use, and additional functions that make the user's job easier. These include flexible options for adapting the handheld scanner to the respective application and connection to smartphones and tablet PCs.

The new OHV100 and OHV200 handheld scanners from Pepperl+Fuchs are characterised by excellent scanning features and numerous functional features. Whether it is the secure reading of codes on reflective surfaces such as metals and plastics and under foil packaging, or the optical sighting mechanism with which the codes are sighted quickly and with pinpoint accuracy, the handhelds can perform almost anything asked of them by the user.

With their high resolution of 1.2 megapixels and the wide operating range of 50 - 310 mm, they not only afford staff greater freedom at work, they also allow the capture of small and large codes with the same device. This comes courtesy of a patented dual lens with separate near and long ranges. With the facilities provided by the Vision Configurator parameterisation software, the user is able to realise perfect integration of devices into the application. For example, all available parameters can be adapted, sets of parameters managed, output strings formatted, and application-specific control codes created. The handheld scanners in the OHV series contain a Java Script license via which even intelligent user-specific functions can be implemented. Housed in a robust housing with the high degree of protection IP 65 or IP 54, the handheld scanners are optimally equipped for harsh industrial conditions.


To transfer the data to the computer system, either a USB or an RS232 interface is used with the OHV100, while the OHV200 features wireless connection via Bluetooth to a detection range of 30 m. Working outside the radio range is possible thanks to the large integrated data memory. The captured data can be transferred later via the charging tray. Bluetooth further enables the data to be sent conveniently to IOS-based smartphones as well as tablets, and transferred directly to open applications; this requires no additional hardware or software whatsoever. Conversely, the handheld scanners also support readings from the smartphone displays. Other special features include code capture during movement and user feedback via either an optical, acoustic, or vibration signal. Frequently used functions can simply be set on one of the freely programmable keys. The OHV200 is available in two versions—with and without a handle; the latter is ideally suited to being carried in a pocket, and for mobile use.

Cold store scanner with intelligent heating.

Can be used universally from chilled to warm conditions

Difficult ambient conditions sometimes exist during the processing, transportation, and identification of products, such as large below-zero temperatures. However, normal automation components such as barcode scanners are generally not suitable for operation in cold storage warehouses. Instead, special device designs are needed for this in which frequently reduced performance values must be taken into account. Systems that are not subject to restrictions are of more interest here.

Cold store scanner VB14N-T
operates from -35 °C to +45 °C

The compact cold store scanner VB14N-T from Pepperl+Fuchs operates at temperatures from -35 °C to +45 °C and delivers its full performance potential over this exceptionally large operating temperature range. With a scan rate of up to 1000 scans/s and resolutions of 0.2 mm, the device offers the same performance as the VB14N type counterpart available for standard temperatures. The special feature of the low-temperature version lies in the integrated heater, which is monitored by microprocessor-controlled temperature control. Depending on the internal and external temperatures of the barcode scanner and environment, the device constantly determines the optimal heating power. The developers have therefore succeeded in combining counter-acting properties such as the low power consumption of a maximum 10 W with a very short warm-up period of a maximum of 20 minutes.

Other highlights in this device class include master-slave operation in which up to 32 scanners work together in a network, configuration via the convenient PC software Genius, and the innovative direct-operation concept with mode button. With the help of intelligent code reconstruction, the model can even decode poor-quality code readings such as those with low contrast, damage, or in-motion blurring. With identical dimensions, the standard scanner can easily be replaced by the new cold store version if required. Cabling effort is also low, as the device and heating are supplied via the same cable. The possibility of using the VB14N-T in the positive range in normal temperatures makes the device—which is accommodated in a robust housing to IP 65 degree of protection—a universally usable all-rounder with a wide field of application.

Modbus scanners

Precision Digital has announced the Super Snooper line of Modbus® scanners, including the ProVu® PD6080 Series of 1/8 DIN digital panel meters and the ProtEX®-MAX PD8-6080 Series of explosion-proof scanners. The Super Snooper scanners can be set up as Modbus RTU Masters, Slaves, or Snoopers, monitoring multiple Modbus devices for up to 16 process variables, including level, interface level, density, and temperature. The meters also provide two independently programmed analog inputs and an array of math functions for sum, difference, average, and ratio calculations.

PD6080 & PD6081

The ProVu PD6080 Series Super Snoopers are NEMA 4X 1/8 DIN panel indicators with bright, easy to read digits. The PD6080 and PD6081 include dual analog inputs and an RS-485 serial communications module, allowing integration of existing 4-20 mA transmitters and Modbus devices on the same display. The PD6088 and PD6089 include on-board RS-485 serial communications and no analog inputs. The PD6081 and PD6089 have a unique feet and inches display, ideal for level applications.

PD8-6080

The ProtEX-MAX PD8-6080 Super Snooper scanners are housed in explosion-proof enclosures for use in hazardous areas. SafeTouch®, through-glass buttons provide accessibility to the front buttons without removing the enclosure cover. The entire product carries FM, CSA, ATEX, and IECEX approvals for use in hazardous area applications.
PD8-6080

"Most Modbus scanners are dated technology in the form of low-level software packages or DIN rail devices with no display," said Jeffrey Peters, President of Precision Digital Corp. "The Super Snooper scanners integrate sophisticated packet sniffing capabilities with industry standard packaging -- 1/8 DIN housing that meets NEMA 4X specifications or explosion-proof enclosures for hazardous areas. With the ability to poll up to 16 process variables, a single Super Snooper can replace an entire control panel’s worth of instruments."

The Super Snooper scanners can be easily integrated into an existing Modbus network. Remote displays can be added without making changes to other Modbus devices. In Master mode, the Super Snoopers are Modbus masters, polling slave devices for the process variables. In Snooper mode, the devices display any process variable being polled on the bus. All the process variables are clearly labeled with a custom tag and unit.

Each scanner is provided with RS-485 Modbus RTU serial communications standard. Options include up to four (4) relays, a 4-20 mA analog output, and dual 24 VDC power supplies.  Expansion modules for the 1/8 DIN models add an additional four (4) relays, two (2) 4-20 mA outputs, and eight (8) digital I/O.

Precision Digital products are marketed in Ireland by PJ Boner & Co.