Inductive Proximity Sensor Targets – Material does matter

Written by: Jeff Himes

From some of the previous blogs, it has been indicated that a number of variables can affect the actual sensing range achieved by an inductive proximity sensor.  One of those variables mentioned was target composition or target material.  Let’s review how various target materials can affect an inductive sensor’s performance.

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Sensor Cables and the National Fire Protection Agency

If you aren’t familiar with the NFPA, here is a brief summary from their website:
“The mission of the international nonprofit NFPA, established in 1896, is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research,training, and education.”  http://www.nfpa.org/

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Understanding “True Analog” Resolution

Many distance measurement sensors – regardless of the front-end sensing technology employed – deliver an analog output such as 0-10V or 4-20mA.   A key parameter to understand for any distance measurement sensor is the output resolution.   In a position measurement system, resolution is defined as:     

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How do I choose the right sensor?

Selecting an industrial sensor can be a daunting task.  With so many different sensing technologies and the endless variety of products in the market, how is it possible to find that one ideal sensor for any given application?

Turns out, it’s not really so much a process of selecting the right sensor…it’s really about eliminating all the wrong choices.  Selecting a sensor is a process of asking a series of questions to eliminate any technology or product that doesn’t fit the application requirements.  For example:

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