04/25/2005 • Sensor Technology

Connect 3 – the third generation of photoelectric switch technology

The new W 4-3 miniature photoelectric switches and new W 27-3 family of all-rounders, together with the W 18-3, are the technological trend-setters in sensor and automation technology. Under the motto "Connect 3", SICK is introducing the new series of photoelectric switches at the Hanover Industrial Trade Fair.

While the flat miniature housings of the W 4-3 sensors guarantee a high level of integration capability in machine environments with limited space, the W 27-3 family of all-rounders exploit their robustness, and their great variety of functions, to cover a wide range of applications: fulfilling special requirements such as universal voltage supply, laser technology or Category 3D/3G for the Ex-zone (ATEX).

Connect 3 in the field

With the third generation, the immunity of the W 4-3 and W 27-3 to environmental influences has been considerably enhanced. Mirroring and reflections have just as little effect on reliable function of the devices as dampness, electromagnetic sources of interference, flash lamps or vibrations. The sensors' increased chemical resistance and operating temperature range (now -40°C to +60°C) contribute towards considerably improved device availability.

Connect 3 in use

According to the application required, particularly small, transparent or reflective objects can be detected by the new series of photoelectric switches with a high level of reliability and regardless of the colour or surface properties. Objects or pulses located directly behind the target object do not impair reliable function as the new ASIC in the devices, developed by SICK, allows a hitherto impossible background suppression accuracy. At the same time, blind zones in close-range detection are a thing of the past thanks to the devices' autocollimation principle. Moreover, the W 4-3 and W 27-3 are now considerably quicker: increased switching frequencies also permit their use in machines with high throughput rates.

Connect 3 in seconds

Standardised connector technology, rapid electronic scanning distance adjustment (optionally by teach-in button or by potentiometer), a user-friendly interface, and 360° indicator LEDs contribute towards speedy commissioning and easy checking of functions. But machine constructors really save a lot of time through the possibility of adjusting the photoelectric switches via data transfer either directly from the machine controller in situ or via remote monitoring, and thus regardless of the distance. The new Sensor Hub interface offers the unique advantages of remote diagnosis and remote adjustment. This enormously reduces costly machine downtimes.
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SICK AG - Düsseldorf

Willstätterstraße 30
40549 Düsseldorf

Phone: +49 (0) 211/ 5301- 0
Fax: +49 (0) 211/ 5301- 100