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NEW PRODUCT NEWS—edited by Harv Weiner

Pixel-Counting Sensor

The PresencePLUS Pixel-Counting Sensor is a camera-based sensor that consists of a 512 x 384 CMOS pixel array with a programmable microprocessor, controller, lens, lighting, mounting bracket, and cable. The sensor captures a 256-level grayscale image of a specified area, converts the image to black and white pixels, and compares the designated-color pixel count with user-programmed upper and lower threshold values to render a pass or fail judgment of the target.

The PRC1 hand-held controller, used to program and monitor the PresencePLUS, displays programming options, monitoring options, and captured images on its LCD screen. Threshold values can be programmed, either manually or automatically, using one of the sensor's two TEACH modes. User programming designates which pixel color to count, white or black; the auto-exposure time, indexed or motion; and the light source behavior; off or strobed.

QUICK START is a one-step SETUP, TEACH, and RUN option for applications that do not require defining a specific region of interest, masking, or teaching bad product. In QUICK START, the pass and fail values are automatically set to 15% above maximum count and 15% below minimum count.

The sensor's three SPST solid-state output contacts may be individually programmed for either NPN (sinking) or PNP (sourcing). Integral circuitry protects the sensor against overload, short circuit, reverse polarity, and transient voltages. The device features an anodized aluminum housing with a painted finish and has an environmental rating of IP20, NEMA 1.

The PresencePLUS sells for under $1700. Individual sensors list at $995.

Banner Engineering Corp.
(612) 544-3164
Fax: (612) 544-3213
www.baneng.com

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