Laser sensor achieves true high resolution and high speed

Although competing sensors in the market claim to offer similar measuring rates and resolutions, Micro-Epsilon says the optoNCDT 2300 is the only sensor that offers a 50kHz measuring speed and an integral controller. Chris Jones, the Managing Director of Micro-Epsilon UK, states: "This really is a step change in laser sensor performance. Whilst there are a few other competing sensor manufacturers who claim to offer laser sensors with similar measuring speeds and resolution, the high resolution is only achieved by applying a high averaging factor, which then reduces the dynamic speed of the laser. The optoNCDT 2300 achieves high resolution and high measuring speeds without any averaging."

The optoNCDT 2300 uses Micro-Epsilon's new A-RTSC (Advanced Real Time Surface Compensation) technology, which enables the sensor to compensate automatically in real time for difficult-to-measure surfaces. A-RTSC is a further development of Micro-Epsilon's patented RTSC feature, which, when combined with high-speed software algorithms, reduces signal noise dramatically at high measurement speeds. When users need to measure against a shiny surface, for example, they ideally require a sensor that is able to adjust the laser pulse duration automatically to give the optimum exposure time on the CCD for that particular surface. This, in turn, provides a higher accuracy measurement due to lower noise levels on the output signal.

Micro-Epsilon is offering the optoNCDT 2300 laser triangulation sensor in five models with measuring ranges from 2mm up to 100mm. Maximum resolution is 0.1um and linearity is down to +/-0.4um. Data output is via Ethernet, RS422 or EtherCAT. The sensor is also extremely compact, measuring just 80 x 75 x 30mm.

Remote configuration

Another notable feature of the optoNCDT 2300 is that the sensor can now be configured remotely by using a web browser interface. This direct connection means the user can store parameters for a particular application, which can then be uploaded to one or multiple sensors to reduce set-up times considerably.

In order to measure the thickness of transparent materials such as plastics, there is now no need for a second sensor unit to be installed - this is because the optoNCDT 2300 records the first and second reflection from the target surface.

Micro-Epsilon will be unveiling the optoNCDT 2300 at the Mtec 2011 exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham (6-7 April 2011, stand 1112).

Follow the link for more information about the Micro-Epsilon range of laser sensors. Alternatively, call the sales department on +44 (0)151 355 6070 or email [email protected].