Understanding sensors and limit switches

Sensors are devices that sense the presence or absence of objects. The sensors gather information and convert it into a signal that can be read and/or seen by an observer or a piece of equipment.

Sensors are used in everyday applications such as cars, machines, manufacturing and robotics, and perform several functions.

A sensor can be thought of as an automatic switch. In a factory, a sensor can be used to detect a problem on the production line and stop the process automatically. No human intervention is necessary. 

Limit switches

Mechanical limit switches are contact sensing devices widely used for detecting the presence or position of objects in industrial applications. 

The term limit switch is derived from the operation of the device it-self. As an object (or target) makes contact with the operator of the switch, it eventually moves the actuator to the "limit" where the elec-trical contacts change state. 

A safety interlock switch is able to reliably monitor and protect protective guards, doors and covers.  Keys or coded actuators make the devices especially tamper-proof. Compliance with various standards makes the devices ideal for integration into machine development processes in line with international machinery safety requirements.

Photoelectric sensors

Photoelectric sensors use light to detect the presence or absence of an object. 

The main advantages of photoelectric sensors are noncontact sensing of objects and greatly extended sensing ranges. Photoelectric sensors come in several product types designed to meet a wide range of different requirements. We have compiled information to help you choose the right photoelectric sensor for your needs.

Proximity sensors

Proximity sensing is the technique of detecting the presence or absence of an object with an electronic non-contact sensor. There are capacitive proximity sensors and inductive proximity sensors.

Capacitive proximity sensors are designed to detect both metallic and nonmetallic targets. They are ideally suited for liquid level control and for sensing powdered or granulated material.

Inductive proximity sensors are sensing devices that detects metal targets using electromagnetic energy. They are immune to dirt and grease which makes them ideal for adverse environmental conditions 

Power sensors

Power sensor measures either current or voltage and provides output on monitored parameter levels to a control system. 

Current sensors are capable of measuring both AC and DC current, in order to monitor power use and provide diagnostics for electrically-powered equipment.  Applicable on nominal circuits of 120V, 240V and 480V, Voltage Sensors provide a fully isolated analog output proportional to rated nominal voltage in both sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal (variable frequency) situations.

Connectivity solutions

A connectivity solution simplifies the connection of a sensor to the control system for which it is an input.