RET Automation Controls has expanded its family of L-GAGE® laser sensors with the new LTF Series. Featuring time-of-flight technology, the laser measurement sensor ensures accurate distance measurements out to 12 meters. By emitting a pulsed light, the LTF measures the amount of time for the light to reflect off the object and return to the sensor to calculate the distance. This enables sensing in long-range applications, including loop control, part presence or absence and fill level.

The LTF offers the best-in-class combination of accuracy, repeatability and range. Designed with a Class 2 laser emitter with small, highly visible spot, the LTF provides easy sensor alignment and high excess gain. The same sensor that provides repeatability of less than 3 millimetres and accuracy of plus or minus 10 millimetres can also reliably detect dark targets past 7 meters and white targets at 12 meters.

In addition to precision distance measurement, the LTF delivers consistent detection of targets regardless of the angle, environmental conditions or ambient light conditions. The dynamically adjusted laser sensor can also sense objects with varying materials and shapes. The laser power increases output for dark targets or objects at steep angles, while reducing power for shiny targets.

“No other sensor on the market is going to give you the same combination of range, repeatability and accuracy as the LTF,” said Brad Ragozzino, Technical Marketing Engineer, Banner Engineering. “With high excess gain, high reliability and durable performance, the LTF ensures accurate sensing for challenging targets.”

With easy, ready-to-use operation, the LTF starts measuring right out of the box. In just three simple steps, the sensor can be quickly mounted, aligned and provide real-time measurement. Users can also select from several TEACH modes, including 2-point teach, mid-point teach, switch point teach and push button adjust, to accommodate diverse applications. Advanced measurement modes, delay timers and cross-talk avoidance capability are also available.

Featuring an intuitive two-line, eight-character display, the LTF makes adjustments and menu navigation simple and easy to read. Additionally, the bright LED indicators provide clear status indication for analogue output, discrete output and power.

To satisfy applications in harsh environmental conditions, the LTF features durable IP67-rated die-cast zinc housing.

For more information on the LTF laser sensor, contact RET Automation Controls.