New laser profile sensor with integral controller is smaller, smarter and lighter than ever
A range of extremely compact, lightweight 2D/3D laser profile sensors (laser line scanners) is now available from precision sensor manufacturer Micro-Epsilon. The controller and electronics are integrated directly in the sensor, making the devices suitable for high precision profile and dimensional measurements in a variety of applications including automation, systems integration, machine building, robotics and automotive production.
The new scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT series of 2D/3D laser profile sensors from Micro-Epsilon offers a range of technical advantages, flexible installation options and versatile interfaces. As Chris Jones, Managing Director at Micro-Epsilon UK comments: “With their compact design and integral controller, the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 series sensors are ideal for a wide range of machine design and automation systems, particularly where space is restricted or where low sensor weight is critical. Unlike many laser profile sensors on the market that require an external controller, the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT series offers users the most compact design possible. Also, for applications where multiple sensors are required or if the sensor needs to be mounted onto a moving object such as a robot arm or motorised stage, the compactness and price-performance ratio of the sensor is unsurpassed.”
The scanCONTROL 2600 has up to 640 points across the line width and a profile frequency of up to 4,000Hz. The scanCONTROL 2900 has 1,280 points across the line width and is the optimum performance version for automation tasks that require both high resolutions and high profile frequencies due to the scanner’s receiving matrix supporting a high point density along the sensor laser line. The 2900 series offers a profile frequency of up to 2,000Hz.
Both sensor series benefit from the same compact housing dimensions, regardless of their measuring range or measuring rate. Protected in an aluminium housing, the sensors weigh just 380g and are small enough to fit inside a suit jacket pocket!
The scanCONTROL 2600/ 2900 series is available with measuring ranges of 25mm, 50mm and 100mm. Linearity is 0.16% of the measuring rate.
Easy integration & direct connection to PLCs
The sensors are equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet interface for transferring profile data, as well as a multi-purpose connector for RS422, Digital In (HTL/TTL), power supply and synchronisation. The sensors support Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), which reduces the need for an additional power cable. Configuration of the sensor is carried out using a supplied software programme, which enables the device to be configured to a unique IP address. A modbus protocol (supported via Ethernet and the RS422 interface) also enables direct connection between the sensor and any common PLC.
Trigger for precise synchronised measurements
All scanCONTROL series sensors are designed with a high speed external profile trigger input. In this way, the data rate can be optimised and measurements can be triggered at a specific event in time. This is particularly beneficial when several systems are operating synchronously. Together with its compact design and simple wiring, scanCONTROL is ideally suited to multi-scanner applications.
The software development kit (SDK) and function library (LLT.dll) supplied as standard with the sensor provide the user with a communications platform that offers maximum flexibility and performance via direct integration with most common programming languages.
For more information on the scanCONTROL 2600 / 2900 COMPACT series, please call the Micro-Epsilon sales department on 0151 355 6070 or
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Note to Editors:Micro-Epsilon ( is a major global manufacturer of sensors, headquartered in Germany. The company’s range of displacement sensors measure everything from to distance, position, vibration, dimensions and thickness, using both contact and non-contact measurement techniques. These techniques include 1D, 2D and even 3D laser-optical sensors and systems, eddy-current, capacitive, LVDT & inductive, potentiometric and draw-wire principles. In addition, Micro Epsilon has developed its own range of non-contact infrared temperature sensors that can measure virtually any target temperature from -40 to +3,300°C. The company also manufactures a comprehensive range of colour recognition sensors.
With more than 45 years’ experience in the industry, Micro-Epsilon isn’t just a sensor manufacturer. The company is highly innovative and understands the importance of providing complete solutions and support services for its customers. The firm is renowned for its expertise in consulting, development and application of industrial sensors to complex, customer-specific solutions for measurement, inspection and automation. The focus is on selling technical advantage to its customers.
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