KB038 What do you need to consider when choosing a sensor? [ja]

In order to select the appropriate D-Series sensor for your application from the comparison table, the following questions should be clarified first.

Will the orange Dimetix reflective foil be needed?

  • The orange Dimetix reflective foil must be used for distances greater than 100 m. (Caution: Reflective foils from other manufacturers can damage the Dimetix sensor).
  • If a high measuring speed has to be achieved at distances of less than 100 m, an orange Dimetix reflective foil is highly recommended.
  • Please note: The use of the orange Dimetix reflective foil is not possible – or only possible to a limited extent – with some of the D-Series sensors.
  • For more information about measuring on natural surfaces, click here.
  • For more information about measuring on the orange Dimetix reflective foil, click here.

What is the longest distance to be measured?

  • Please note: In the comparison table the maximum possible measuring distances for the orange Dimetix reflective foil and for natural surfaces are listed separately.

When measuring with the orange Dimetix reflective foil, what is the shortest distance to be measured?

  • If you never measure less than 40 m distance on the orange Dimetix reflective foil, you can often save considerable costs by choosing a DAN-10-150 or DAN-30-150.
  • If distances less than 40 m will be measured with the orange Dimetix reflective foil, then this must be taken into account when selecting a sensor, otherwise there is a risk that the sensor can be damaged.

What accuracy of measurement is required?

  • For maximum precision sensors with a measuring accuracy of ±1 mm @ 2σ are available.
  • For cost optimal results consider whether or not a ±3 mm or even ±5 mm accuracy might be sufficient for your needs.

Which measuring rate is required?

  • Please note: With natural surfaces, the effectively achievable measuring rate depends on both the surface and the distance.
  • For more information, click here.

What is the temperature range at the location where the sensor will be used?

  • For indoor applications, a temperature range of -10…+50°C is usually sufficient.
  • For outdoor applications and production facilities, sensors with an extended temperature range of -40…+60°C are available.
  • At temperatures outside the specified range, the sensor must be protected by suitable measures (e.g. with the air cooling jacket for the Dimetix D-Series sensors).

Will measurements be made on shiny metallic surfaces?

  • Similar to the orange Dimetix reflective foil, shiny metallic surfaces may cause high signal levels – especially at close range.
  • To prevent the sensor form over-amplifying, we recommend a sensor that is in the close range (0.5 m) capable of measuring on the orange Dimetix reflective foil.
  • For more information about shiny surfaces, click here.

Will measurements be made on “difficult” surfaces? (e.g. dark, porous, glowing hot, or shiny surfaces)

  • Difficult surfaces can impair a sensor’s measurement performance (e.g. maximum distance, measuring rates, accuracy) or even make measurement completely impossible.
  • It is therefore recommended that test measurements are carried out under realistic conditions at an early project stage and to seek advice from Dimetix or our local sales partner.