Sensors & Transducers


Low-profile miniature sensor with advanced noise suppression

February 2003 Sensors & Transducers Products & Solutions

Banner Engineering is offering its new VS4 series opposed-mode self-contained miniature sensors. Designed for precision sensing in tight confines, the VS4's horizontal mounting capability and small size make it suitable for applications previously only accessible by remote or fibre-optic models. Despite their tiny size, these self-contained sensors use a lens which, through a periscope-like concept, redirects the visible red sensing beam 90° off the internal circuit board, sending light out the narrow side of the sensor. This provides a powerful 1,0 m sensing range and easy alignment for machine mounting.

The VS4's unique overmoulded housing eliminates traditional weld seals, thus completely coating and sealing the inner components and cable entries of the sensor from contamination by dirt or moisture. At the same time, this technique yields a very thin sensor at just 4,75 mm thick by 25,0 mm high and 12,2 mm wide. Inside the tiny housing, the VS4's circuitry delivers powerful, precision sensing performance and the electronic assembly is shielded from noise through a metallised coating process.

Designed for presence sensing inside machinery such as electronic component handling equipment, miniature conveyor transportation mechanisms and document handling equipment, the VS4 may also be used to perform simple inspections for high caps, open box flaps or skewed material. Semiconductor manufacturing applications include inspection of skewed, missing or protruding wafers and wafer mapping.

LED indicators on the sensors provide constant operating status information. The steady green LED indicates Power On; it flashes to indicate output overload. The yellow LED indicates Output On; it flashes to indicate marginal excess gain sensing conditions.

The 10 to 30 V d.c. VS4 series opposed-mode sensors have a maximum output rating of 50 mA. Models are available for light operate (NO) or dare operate (NC), with a choice of NPN (current sinking) or PNP (current sourcing) outputs. The tough and tiny sensors tolerate vibration, mechanical shock, and washdown. Internal circuitry guards against false pulse on power-up, continuous overload, and short circuit of outputs.

Constructed of durable black thermoplastic with polycarbonate mounting holes and lenses, the sensors meet IEC IP67 standards and operate in the temperature range -20 to +55°C. They are available with an integral 2 m cable, or a 3-pin pigtail Pico-style quick-disconnect fitting. All models include M2 stainless steel mounting hardware for easy installation. Optional beam shaping apertures are also available. The VS4 sensor is a high quality, low-cost replacement for remote and fibre-optic devices.



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