
Suitable for space-confined cleanroom environments, the E2R-AO1 microinductive proximity sensor detects ferrous metals 5 mm from its sensing face. The noncontacting sensor, which has a profile of 6 mm, provides a response time of 0.2 msec (5 kHz), an output current of 100 mA, and a supply voltage range of 12 to 24V dc, +15%, -10%. The E2R-AO1 costs $18.50. Omron Electronics Inc, Schaumburg, IL. (708) 843-7900.

Two Isotron piezoelectric accelerometers measure vibration in three orthogonal axes on small structures. Each axis is factory- replaceable, should it become damaged. The Model 2258AM2-10 has an output sensitivity of 10 mV/g, and the Model 2258AM2-100 is rated for 100 mV/g. The series operates over a bandwidth of 1 Hz to 20 kHz and uses a single four-conductor cable for quick installation. Prices <$1000, based on quantity. Endevco Corp, San Juan Capistrano, CA. (714) 493-8181.
Able to withstand severe electrical and physical environments, the DDS90-10 encoder calculates the absolute difference between two rotating shafts, accurate to within ±1 part in 3600. Units, which offer a scalable output and an adjustable setpoint, are supplied with size 11 or 15 transducers. Data outputs are TTL-compatible. Package dimensions are 5.4×7×1.75 in. The DDS90-10 costs $595 per axis in unit quantities. Computer Conversions Corp, East Northport, NY. (516) 261-3300.

Two current sensors designed for pc-board mounting offer capacities as high as 24 and 36A at 5 and 50 kHz, respectively. The devices, which are encapsulated in a housing made of 94 VO material and comply with Class B requirements, are high-potential-tested at 3000V rms secondary. Sensors cost <$1 (OEM). Bicron Electronics Co, Canaan, CT. (860) 824-5125.

The XTEH-4N-190 series of transducers measures pressures from 0 to 50 through 0 to 500 psi in nonconductive, noncorrosive fluids at temperatures as high as 400°C (750°F). The devices, which are fabricated with a proprietary silicon-on-insulator-on-silicon technology, come in standard thread sizes of 10 to 32 UNF-2A or M5x.8 (metric). The XTEH-4N-190 costs $1422. Kulite Semiconductor Products Inc, Leonia, NJ. (201) 461-0900.

With a full-scale accuracy of ±5%, the MPM series sensor measures differential pressure ranges as low as 0.02 in. of water column. The devices have overpressures of 280k Pa. Units offer an input tolerance of 9 to 18V (12V version) and 4.5 to 12V (5V version). A variety of outputs is available, including 0 to 5V, PWM, RS-232C, 4 to 20 mA, and LONworks. Typical initial cost is $59 (1000). Cambridge Accusense Inc, Shirley, MA. (508) 425-2090.
When directly connected to a programmable controller, the Model PCA25 analog capacitive sensor continuously monitors changes in material density, moisture content, or composition; the level of liquids, dry or wet feeds, and plastics; or the distance to metals or nonmetals. The device operates from a supply of 10 to 30V dc and produces 0 to 5V dc for a 1-pF change in capacitance. It costs $110. Gorden Products Inc, Brookfield, CT. (203) 775-4501.

The platinum resistance-temperature detector (RTD) is a 100V DIN sensor that is refractory sealed for ±0.5°C stability. Standard operating temperature range is -200 to +250°C. Clamped sensors withstand 340°C. Immersibility is provided by Kapton fluorocarbon lamination that completely encapsulates the assembly and lead entrance. RdF Corp, Hudson, NH. (603) 882-5195.
Operating over a frequency range from dc to 150 kHz, the LT 505-S closed-loop Hall-effect current transducer measures 500A- rms nominal dc, ac, and pulsed-ac currents. The device, which comes with a 40.5-mm through-hole to accommodate a bus bar, has a response time of <1 µsec, linearity of at least 0.1%, and a di/dt following capability of better than 50 A/µsec. It measures currents in a range from 0 to ±1200A with an overall accuracy of ±0.6% of the nominal current at 25°C. The LT 505-S costs $108.90. LEM USA Inc, Milwaukee, WI. (414) 353-0711.
The Model 852 accelerometer incorporates three individual piezoelectric sensors with three individual constant-current-mode thick-film electronic assemblies. The triaxial accelerometer comes with either 28 AWG integral pigtail lead wires or detachable miniature 10:32 coaxial-cable assemblies. Power is carried across a 3-mA constant-current diode from standard 15 to 30V- dc power supplies. The Model 852 costs $3025. Columbia Research Laboratories Inc, Woodlyn, PA. (610) 872-3900.

Models in the 8-mm-diameter Short series of inductive proximity sensors detect metal targets 1.5 or 3 mm away and operate from a 5 to 30V-dc supply. The sensor's sealed stainless-steel cylindrical housing withstands harsh environments, and its 33-mm length allows it to fit into hard-to-reach areas. Operating temperature range is -25 to +75°C. Standard features include npn or pnp, NO or NC outputs, reverse polarity and short-circuit protection, and an LED function indicator. The device, which comes in prewired and quick-disconnect versions, costs $60. Fargo Controls Inc, Eatontown, NJ. (908) 389-3376.