The new Contrinex color sensors are well suited for color control as well as for use in color sorting processes. The devices feature 3 teachable color channels with independent 200 mA outputs, which allow for three color tones to be programmed. In addition, the teach process offers a choice of 5 different switching tolerance levels. Whereas small tolerances allow for minimal color differences to be recognized without fail, larger tolerances permit a certain color variation.

Due to the unique optics of the Contrinex color sensor, color detection within the operating range of 30 ... 40 mm is virtually independent of target distance. Furthermore, the devices feature a high switching frequency of up to 4 kHz as well as an adjustable pulse delay and stretching.

The sensors are built into compact glass-fiber reinforced PBTP standard housings (40 x 50 x 15 mm) featuring insulation class II, a glass window and a connector adjustable to 0°, 45° and 90°. In addition to conventional methods of fixation by means of mounting brackets, these sensors can also be fixed with the help of a clamp bracket (dovetail groove).

Thanks to ground-breaking ASIC technology, the Swiss sensor manufacturer Contrinex has succeeded in increasing the operating distance of its miniature inductive 4mm diameter and M5 devices to a substantial 2.5 mm.
Constantly increasing levels of automation and, as a result, growing demand for sensors that have to be mounted in ever smaller spaces have made miniature sensors increasingly popular. Unfortunately, the relatively short operating distances of conventional mini sensors, and consequently their proximity to moving parts, frequently lead to mechanical damage and hence an above-average failure rate. The Condist technology, developed by Contrinex and enabling up to 4-times operating distances, could previously only be applied to larger devices (starting from diameter 6.5 mm). Now however, Contrinex has succeeded in incorporating the numerous discrete components into an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), which has not only considerably reduced manufacturing costs, but also the space required by the electronics. The new technology has thus enabled Contrinex to combine its two major fields of expertise, i.e. small sizes and long operating distances, in a single device. The result: fully embeddable MiniDist sensors in sizes diameter 4 mm and M5, each with an operating distance of 2.5 mm, which is more than 3 times greater than the standard, allowing the sensors to be mounted further away from moving parts. In addition, these devices also feature the same electrical properties and protection functions as larger types, and can thus replace the latter wherever space is limited.

These Contrinex fiber-optic amplifiers for DIN-rail mounting (DIN/EN 50022) appeal thanks to their 8-digit, 14-segment LC display and their very small housings (30 x 60 x 10 mm), which permit optimum stacking, even in large numbers, where space is limited. The devices feature distance setting by means of teach-in, with additional manual fine adjustment. They are simple to operate and characterized by outstanding switch-point stability. Featuring a setting range of 20 .. 200 mm, these amplifiers, if necessary, attain switching frequencies of up to 4 kHz. The linearized output signal allows for a clear visualization of the target distance. The dynamic teach function is adjustable (Teach 1 for background, Teach 2 for object and background) and can be triggered externally. Due to increments of < 1mm across the whole sensing range, these devices are moreover extremely precise. They feature adjustable output switching delay and stretching, and are resistant to environmental influences (IP 64).

These new Contrinex photoelectric sensors with considerably improved background suppression are built into a 40 x 50 x 15 mm housing and excel by their long operating distance of 500 mm, with a setting range from 20 to 500 mm. The operating distance is furthermore independent of the target color, shape or surface structure, and is set by means of a 3-turn potentiometer with position indication. The devices feature a switching frequency of 500 Hz and work with red light, which considerably simplifies their alignment. Their outstanding optical characteristics moreover result in a quasi-linear output function with a virtually negligible blind zone (< 1 mm at s = 300 mm).