Position Measurement & Control - March 2003 (S050L)

New Product Announcement

Series C Displacement Sensor for OEM/Industrial Control/Factory Automation Uses

Part I - Introduction

Editor's Note: This is the first part of a three-part coverage on the Series C displacement sensors. Part II (Product Details) and Part III (Applications) will be covered in future issues of Position Measurement & Control.

Now you can obtain reliable, accurate measurements at ranges up to 85 inches (2159 mm) with the new Series C displacement sensor family. This product line has the same design features of the Series 160 family that have made it the industry standard for long-life, highly-repeatable displacement measurement.

Firstmark Controls has focused on small-size, moderate-range, rugged-environment displacement measurement requirements for nearly 35 years. Over those years, we have been repeatedly requested to create products that go beyond our 42.5-inch range Series 162 units. With the introduction of the Series C displacement transducer, this extended range is now available.

Product Summary

• Target Applications
• Industrial Control
• Factory Automation
• OEM Uses
• Key Features
• 85-inch (2159-mm) displacement range
• analog (voltage divider) or digital (quadrature) outputs
• NEMA4 / IP66 environmental protection
• AccuTrakTM threaded drum increases repeatability
• FastInstallTM mounting is secure, fast, and low-profile
• ready to operate within 5 minutes
• UniIdlerTM cable exit allows 270° displacement cable flexibility
• DirectConnectTM technology eliminates backlash that results with clutched and geared designs
• flexible mounting: cam locks, flat base, saddle mount, mountable from either end
• MIL-SPEC sealed electrical connector
• affordable for OEM and industrial control applications
• precision-machined, anodized aluminum components give long life, high accuracy
• small size
• customer-changeable displacement cable

For more information on the Series C displacement sensors, see these resources:

• News Release
• Data Sheet for full technical information
• Evaluation Position Transducer Program to test the Series C with no obligation
• Request a Quote for price and delivery

APPLICATION CORNER

Cam Locks Give Multiple Mounting Benefits

A cam lock is a hybrid threaded fastener with a number of unique features and benefits. Firstmark Controls uses cam locks extensively to secure rotary sensors and to mount displacement sensors. The Series C displacement sensor can be mounted using cam locks.

Cam locks differ from ordinary fasteners commonly known as servo cleats. Servo cleats are simple stamped metal pieces that secure grooved components. However, they lack many of the cam lock's design features and benefits.

Cam locks offer the following set of features and benefits:

• electronic nulling
• loosen screws and rotate sensor
• torque is on the the screw and not the cam
• tightening does not cause mechanical rotation (see Figure B1)
• can be installed and adjusted with a single screwdriver (see Figure B2)
• can be installed before the item to be secured is mounted (see Figure B3)
• captive screws: parts are not easily lost
• integral stops give simplicity and fast installation
• self-centering action: instant nulling
• self-locking action
• quick install/quick release: only 1/2 turn to tighten or loosen
• meet military and commercial specifications

In Action

Static and Dynamic Ground Testing

Firstmark Controls position transducers are frequently used in static and dynamic ground testing of aircraft structures including wings, fuselage elements, landing gear, flight control surfaces, and pilot controls. The small size, flexible mounting, repeatable performance, and long life make the sensors ideal for both short- and long-duration test efforts.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

The Sensor Total Cost of Ownership Calculator is now in beta test mode. This calculator allows you to compare the lifetime costs of purchasing and using a sensor. To test the calculator and give feedback, head to calctco.htm.

ISSN 1527-5108