Features
- Accepts low-level differential or single-ended 5V logic level signals from shaft encoders, linear encoders, incremental encoders or optical encoders
- 6-digit scalable display for position, length or rate
- Programmable for position, angle or rate
- Maximum pulse rates of 250 kpulses/sec at X1, 125 kpulses/sec at X2, 62.5 kpulses/sec at X4
- Display update rate up to 25/s
- Zero channel input
- Digital span adjust from 0 to ±999,999, zero adjust from -999,999 to +999,999
- Front panel scalable: to ±999,999 for use with current shunts
- 1/8 DIN size with bright red or green 0.56" (14.2mm), high LED digits
- Transducer excitation output, 5, 10, 12, or 24 Vdc (isolated)
- Power 85-264 Vac / 90-300 Vdc or 10-48 Vdc / 12-32 Vac (isolated)
- Operating temperature from -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)
- Wide choice of Plug-in-Play options:
- 2 or 4 relays, mechanical or solid state, for alarm or control (isolated)
- 1 or 2 Analog output, 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, or -10V to +10V (isolated)
- Communications: Ethernet, WiFi, USB, RS232, RS485 (isolated)
- Extended DPM includes set up for scaled position or rate, but not forsimultaneous position and rate
The Laureate™ 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for bidirectional position, length or angle measurement
with the Standard counter main board accepts the A & B quadrature signals from shaft encoders or linear encoders to provide a highly accurate, scaled display of position, length, or angle in engineering units, such as ft, cm or degrees. The A & B quadrature signals are 90° out of phase, and their phase relationship determines whether up counts (+) or down counts (-) are counted. The panel meter totalizes the counts and then scales the total in software for display and control. A zero index signal, or Z signal, can be added as a third input to the A & B signals.Bidirectional Rate Measurement
The Laureate™ quadrature meter with the Extended counter main board can be set up for scaled position or rate, but not for simultaneous position and rate. For example, it can display the speed of a moving slab in ft/sec. The display and control output update rate for position or rate is normally set to a maximum of 25/sec, as determined by a user-programmable gate time.
Quadrature Meter Capabilities
- One, two or four quadrature transitions may be counted at a maximum combined rate of 250 kHz and be mathematically scaled for display in engineering units from -999,999 to +999,999. Maximum pulse rates are 250 kpulses/sec at X1, 125 kpulses/sec at X2, and 62.5 kpulses/sec at X4.
- Single-ended input signals up to 5V or balanced line driver signals up to 10V are accommodated by the quadrature signal conditioner board. Anti-jitter circuitry eliminates errors due to vibration of the encoder.
- An excitation output from the panel meter can be used to power the encoder, thus avoiding the need for an external powr supply. Jumper selectable levels are 100 mA at 5V or 120 mA at 10V.
- A zero index pulse, if available from the encoder, is interpreted by the panel meter as a zero reference for an integral number of revolutions of a rotary encoder, or as the home position of a linear encoder. It is used by the panel meter for initializing and correcting any cumulative pulse count errors. Special circuitry corrects for width of the zero index pulse.
- In the event of a power failure, the latest total can be stored in non-volatile memory and be used as the starting point for counting when power resumes. Power fail save or zero index capabilities are alternate meter setup choices.
Unidirectional Position and Rate
If the counts are only for one direction, for example for extrusions measured by an encoder wheel, only the encoder's "A" channel can be used and be output to an Extended Laureate totalizer. This model accommodates very high pulse rates up to 1 MHz, and unlike the quadrature meter, it can simultaneously track rate and total. It can also be programmed for batch control, which allows it to simultaneously track rate, batch (or current) total, and grand total or number of batches.
The Laureate Panel Meter is easily programmed with Laurel’s free Instrument Setup Software, downloadable from our website and compatible with Windows PCs, requiring a data interface board for setup.
All signal conditioner board ranges are factory-calibrated, with calibration factors for each range securely stored in an onboard EEPROM. These factors can be scaled via software to accommodate external shunts, enabling field replacement of signal conditioner boards without necessitating recalibration of the associated panel meter. For optimal accuracy, factory recalibration is recommended annually. All Laurel Electronics instruments undergo factory calibration using the industry-leading Fluke calibrators, which are recalibrated yearly and certified traceable to national standards, ensuring the highest level of precision and reliability.
Digital signal filtering modes can be selected to ensure stable readings in electrically noisy environments.
- An unfiltered selection provides true peak and valley readings and aids in control applications.
- A batch average filter selection averages each 16 conversions.
- An adaptive moving average filter selection provides a choice of 8 time constants from 80 ms to 9.6 seconds. When a significant change in signal level occurs, the filter adapts by briefly switching to the shortest time to follow the change, then reverts back to its selected time constant. An Auto setting selects the time constant selection based on signal noise.
Peak and valley values are automatically captured. These may be displayed via a front panel pushbutton command or control signal at the rear connector, or be transmitted as serial data.
Two rear panel control Inputs (CMOS/TTL levels, logic 0 = tied to digital ground, logic 1 = open) or dry contacts that can be set to control / activate 14 meter commands.
An (isolated) 5, 10, 12, or 24 Vdc excitation output is standard to power transducers or two-wire transmitters. Ratiometric operation, which automatically compensates for changes in the applied excitation, is jumper selectable for applications, such as bridges, where the signal to be measured is proportional to the excitation level.
Display | |
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Readout | 6 LED digits, 7-segment, 14.2 mm (.56"), red or green. |
Display Range | -999,999 to +999,999, XXXXEX notation beyond 999,999 |
Zero Adjust | -999,999 to +999,999 |
Span Adjust | 0 to ±999,999 |
Indicators | Four LED lamps |
Inputs | |
Types | Differential or single-ended quadrature |
Transitions Monitored Inputs | X1, X2 or X4 (A,B and Z) |
Max Pulse Rate | 250 kpulses/sec at X1, 125 kpulses/sec X2, 62.5 kpulses/sec at X4 |
Position Error | No error contributed by meter |
Differential High Threshold | +200 mV |
Differential Low Threshold | -200 mV |
Differential Limits | -11V to +14V |
Single-ended High Voltage | 2.5V to 10V |
Single-ended Low Voltage | -1V to +1V |
Input Resistance, Typ. | 17 kOhm |
Recalibration: All ranges are calibrated at the factory. Recalibration is recommended every 12 months. | |
Quadrature Position Mode | |
Zero Adjust | -999,999 to +999,999 |
Span Adjust | 0 to ±999,999 |
Quadrature Rate Mode | |
Freq. Technique | Inverse period |
Conversion Time | Gate time + 30 ms + 0-2 signal periods |
Gate Time | Selectable 10 ms to 199.99 s |
Time Before Zero Out | Selectable 10 ms to 199.99 s |
Output & Display Update | Same as conversion time |
Time Base Accuracy | Calibrated to ±2 ppm |
Power Supply Boards (one required) | |
Voltage, standard | 85-264 Vac or 90-300 Vdc |
Voltage, optional | 12-32 Vac or 10-48 Vdc |
Frequency | DC or 47-63 Hz |
Power Consumption (typical, base meter) | 1.2W @ 120 Vac, 1.5W @ 240 Vac, 1.3W @ 10 Vdc, 1.4W @ 20 Vdc, 1.55W @ 30 Vdc, 1.8W @ 40 Vdc, 2.15W @ 48 Vdc |
Power Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
Excitation Output (standard) | |
5 Vdc | 5 Vdc ± 5%, 100 mA (jumper selectable) |
10 Vdc | 10 Vdc ± 5%, 120 mA (jumper selectable) |
12 Vdc | 12 Vdc ± 5%, 100 mA (jumper selectable) |
24 Vdc | 24 Vdc ± 5%, 50 mA (jumper selectable) |
Output Isolation | 50 Vdc from signal ground |
Analog Output Boards (one optional) | |
Output levels | 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, -10 to +10V (single-output option) |
Current compliance | 2 mA at 10V ( > 5 kΩ load) |
Voltage compliance | 12V at 20 mA (< 600 Ω load) |
Scaling | Zero and full scale adjustable from -99999 to +99999 |
Resolution | 16 bits (0.0015% of full scale) |
Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
(dual analog outputs share the same ground) | |
Relay Output Boards (one optional) | |
Dual magnetic relays | 2 Form C, 10A max, 440Vac or 125Vdc max, 2500VA or 300W |
Quad magnetic relays | 4 Form A (NO), 10A max, 440Vac or 125Vdc max, 2500VA or 300W |
Dual solid state relays | 2 Form A (NO), AC or DC, 0V - 400V, 120Ma, 35Ohms (max at On-State) |
Quad solid state relays | 4 Form A (NO), AC or DC, 0V - 400V, 120Ma, 35Ohms (max at On-State) |
Relay commons | Isolated commons for dual relays or each pair of quad relays |
Relay isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 minute test |
Relay latching modes | Latching or non-latching |
Relay active modes | Active on or off, active high or low |
Hysteresis modes | QA passband mode, split hysteresis, span hysteresis |
Communication Boards (one optional) | |
Board selections | RS232, RS485 with dual RJ11 connectors, RS485 with dual RJ45 connectors, USB, Ethernet, USB-to-RS485 gateway, Ethernet-to-RS485 gateway, WiFi with built-in antenna plus USB & RS485, WiFi with external antenna plus USB & RS485 |
Protocols | Laurel Custom ASCII (serial), Modbus RTU (serial), Modbus TCP (Ethernet or WiFi) |
Digital addresses | 247 (Modbus), 31 (Laurel ASCII), |
Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test |
Environmental | |
Operating temperature | -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) |
Storage temperature. | -40°C to 85°C (-40°F to 185°F) |
Relative humidity | 95% at 40°C, non-condensing |
Protection | NEMA-4X (IP-65) when panel mounted |
Mechanical | |
Enclosure | 1/8 DIN, high impact plastic, UL 94V-0, color: black |
Mounting | 1/8 DIN panel cutout required: 3.622" x 1.772" (92 mm x 45 mm). |
Dimensions | 4.68" x 2.45" x 5.64" (119 mm x 62 mm x 143 mm) (W x H x D) |
Maximum panel thickness | 4.5 mm (0.18") |
Tightening Torque - Connectors | Screw terminal connectors: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm) |
Tightening Torque - Pawls | Digital Panel Meter Case Pawls: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm) |
Weight of base meter | 210 g (7.4 oz) typical (DPM, counter, timer, 6-digit remote display) |
Weight of option boards | 30 g (1.0 oz) typical per board (analog output, relay output, communications) |
General | |
Programming Methods | Four front panel buttons or via Laurel's free Instrument Setup Software, which runs on a PC under MS Windows. |
Security | Lockout options include using the front panel buttons, the free Instrument Setup Software, or a hardware jumper. |
Warranty | 3 years parts & labor |
Recalibration: All ranges are calibrated at the factory. Recalibration is recommended every 12 months. |
Free Instrument Setup Software for Series 2 Laureates
Free Downloadable Windows-based Instrument Setup (IS) software (Data Interface Board Required) for use with our programmable Digital Panel Meters, Scale Meters, Counters, Timers, Remote Displays, and Transmitters, are an easy method to set up Laureate 1/8 DIN digital panel meters, counters, timers, remote displays, and DIN-rail transmitters, as explained in the Instrument Setup Software Manual. Laureate 1/8 DIN instruments can also be set up from the front panel, as explained in their respective Owners Manuals. Instrument Setup software is of benefit whether or not the PC is connected to the instrument.
- When the PC is connected to the instrument, Instrument Setup software can retrieve the setup file from the instrument or open a default setup file or previously saved setup file from disk View Setup, then provides graphical user interface (GUI) screens with pull-down menus applicable to input, display, scaling, filtering, alarms, communications, analog output, and front panel lockouts. Fields that are not applicable to the instrument as configured are either left out or grayed out. Clicking on any item will bring up a detailed Help screen for that item. After editing, the setup file can be downloaded, uploaded to the instrument, or saved to a disk. The same setup file can then be downloaded into multiple instruments.
- When the PC is not connected to the instrument, the above GUI screens can be used to set up a virtual instrument. The setup file can then be saved to disk. Switching toView Menu then brings up a screen with the required front panel programming steps. This view can be printed out for use at the instrument site and to serve as a hard copy record.
Download Free Instrument Setup Software
Installation
Set User Account Control (UAC) of MS Windows to "Never notifiy me" so that Instrument Setup Software can create directories. The UAC change screen can be reached as follows:
- Under Windows 7, click on the Windows Start button in the lower left of the desktop and enter "UAC" in the search field.
- Under Windows 8, navigate to Control Panel, then to the "User Accounts and Family Safety" section, and click on "Change User Account Control Settings."
- Under Windows 10, click on the Windows Start button in the lower left of the desktop, then on "Settings", and enter "UAC" in the search field.
- Reboot your computer for the changed UAC setting to take effect.

RJ11-to-DB9 cable with rear view of DB9 connector to PC

RS232 cable, meter to PC, P/N CBL01
Laureate 1/8 DIN Laureate instruments must be equipped with a serial communications board and be connected to the computer via a serial communications cable. The connection can be via RS232, RS485, USB or Ethernet. Following setup, the serial communications board may be removed from the instrument if desired. The wiring of the RS232 cable is illustrated above with end views of the two connectors.
Laureate LT Series transmitters come standard with a 3-wire serial interface, which can be jumpered for RS232 or RS485.
Laureate LTE Series transmitters come standard with an Ethernet interface.
Meter Setup Screens
Click on any of the reduced screens below for a full-size screen view, then click on the Back button of your browser to return to this page. The screens examples below are for a fully-loaded Series 2 Digital Panel Meter (DPM), which is connected to the PC via RS232. If the meter is a Series 1 meter (pre-2007), this is sensed by the software, and somewhat different screens are brought up. Please see Series 1 setup screens.











Meter Setup Utilities




From the Main Menu, click on Readings if your PC is connected to the meter. A pull-down menu then offers three choices: List, Plot and Graph.
- List presents the latest readings in a 20-row by 10-column table. Press Pause at any time to freeze the display. This is one method to capture peak readings.
- Plot generates a plot of readings vs. time in seconds. It effectively turns the DPM-PC combination into a printing digital oscilloscope.
- Graph generates a histogram where the horizontal axis is the reading and the vertical axis is the number of occurrences of readings. The display continually resizes itself as the number of readings increases.


Laureate™ 1/8 DIN Case For Laureate Digital Panel Meters, Counters, Timers & Remote Displays

Key Features
- Meets 1/8 DIN Standard.
- Installs from front of panel.
- Short depth behind the panel: only 4" (102 mm) plus connectors.
- Understated 0.157" (4 mm) thick bezel.
- Meets NEMA 4X (IP-65) for high-pressure wawshdon when panel mounted.
- Screw clamps connectors meet VDE / IEC / UL / CSA safety standards.
- Rugged GE Lexan® housing material.
- Safety certified per EN 61010-1.
Dimensions

Maximum panel thickness: 4.5 mm (0.18")
Weight of base meter: 210 g (7.4 oz) typical (DPM, counter, timer, 6-digit remote display)
Weight of option boards: 30 g (1.0 oz) typical per board (analog output, relay output, communications)
Tightening Torque - Connectors: Screw terminal connectors: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm)
Tightening Torque - Pawls: Digital Panel Meter Case Pawls: 5 lb-in (0.56 Nm)
Dimensioned CAD assembly drawings in EPRT, STEP, x_t. dwg, pdf file formats: Laureate-meter-case.zip (zipping prevents browser from opening CAD files as text files).
Panel Mounting
Slide the meter into a 45 x 92 mm 1/8 DIN panel cutout. Ensure that the provided gasket is in place between the front of the panel and the back of the meter bezel.
The meter is secured by two pawls, each held by a screw, as illustrated. Turning each screw counterclockwise extends the pawl outward from the case and behind the panel. Turning each screw clockwise further tightens it against the panel to secure the meter.
Turning each screw counterclockwise loosens the pawl and retracts it into its well. This position allows installed meter to be removed from their panel, or new meters to be installed in a panel. Do not remove the screws from their pawls. Doing so would cause the screw and pawl to fall off and likely get lost. Do not overtighten so as not to damage the plastic parts.
Using Quadrature for Cutting to Length | |
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Controlling the repetitive cutting of material to length is an excellent application of the Laureate quadrature meter. The quadrature encoder shares the shaft of a sensing wheel, whose rotation corresponds to lineal displacement of material. The meter compares the displacement reading against setpoint information, and then uses its dual relays to first slow down and then cut the material. |
Using Quadrature for X-Y Positioning | |
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Accurate X-Y position or rate can be obtained from two shaft encoders, which convert linear position to quadrature signals as a shaft turns. In addition to serving as a display, each Laureate can use its optional dual relay setpoint capability for closed loop control. It can also transmit data via RS232, RS485, or a 4-20 mA analog signal. |
Using Quadrature to Monitor a Drilling Operation | |
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Quadrature can be used to track position and vertical drilling speed of the bit in an oil drilling operation. A shaft encoder is rotated by a cable that moves with the drilling shaft. In this application, the same encoder signal is applied to a Laureate quadrature meter for position, and to a second quadrature meter for rate. Both meters can be scaled to read out in appropriate engineering units, such as feet and inches per minute, and can be alarmed. A Laureate 6-digit remote display could be added to read out peak rate. |
IPC
Splashproof Cover
CBL01
RS232 Cable for Meters
CBL02
USB-to-RS232 Adapter Cable
CBL04
RS232 Cable for LT Transmitters
CBL05
USB Data Cable for Meters
CBL06
USB-to-RS485 Adapter Cable
CBL07
USB Programming & Data Cable
CBL08
RS485 Splitter Cable
BKBD
RS485 RJ11 Terminal Block Adapter
Modular Design for Maximum Flexibility at Minimum Cost
All boards are isolated from meter and power grounds. Optional Plug-in-Play boards for communications and control include Ethernet, WiFi, serial communication boards, dual or quad relay boards, and an analog output board. Laureates may be powered from 85-264 Vac or optionally from 12-32 Vac or 10-48 Vdc. The display is available with bright red or green 0.56" (14.2mm) high LED digits. The 1/8 DIN case meets NEMA 4X (IP65) specifications from the front when panel mounted. Any setup functions and front panel keys can be locked out for simplified usage and security. A built-in 5, 10, 12, or 24 Vdc excitation supply can power transducers, eliminating the need for an external power supply. All power and signal connections are via UL / VDE / CSA rated screw clamp plugs.
The Laureate™ Series features modular design with up to 7 isolated plug-in boards, applicable to all Laureate 1/8 DIN Panel Meter.
Modular Hardware
The design of the Laureate™ Series is modular for maximum flexibility at minimum cost. All boards are isolated from meter and power grounds. The base configuration for a panel meter or counter consists of a main module (with computer and plug-in display boards), a power supply board, and a signal conditioner board. Optional plug-in-play boards include an isolated setpoint controller board, an isolated analog output board, and an isolated digital interface board. Modular design and a choice of plug-in options allow the Laureate to be customized for a broad range of applications from simple monitoring to control and computer interface. There can be up to five plug-in boards in a 1/8 DIN Laureate.

Connecting Laureate Panel Meter to a Local Area Network (LAN)
Up to 30 Laureate Panel Meter and/or LT Transmitters can be configured for RS485 and daisy-chained to an LT Transmitter using Laurel’s High Speed Ethernet-to-RS485 converter board for seamless LAN integration. Alternatively, Laurel LTE series Ethernet transmitters can connect directly to a LAN via an Ethernet cable. Setup for both configurations is streamlined using Laurel’s free Instrument Setup Software, which simplifies node discovery and transmitter configuration.
Flexible Communication Options for Panel Meter
The Laureate Panel Meter can be equipped with Laurel communication boards to support various interfaces and protocols. These include serial interfaces with ASCII or Modbus RTU protocols, and Ethernet interfaces with web access, ASCII, or Modbus TCP/IP protocols, ensuring versatile connectivity for your commercial applications.
Understanding the 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for Quadrature Encoder Input and Bidirectional Position or Rate
A 1/8 DIN Panel Meter designed for Quadrature Encoder Input and Bidirectional Position or Rate measurement is a sophisticated instrument tailored for industrial automation and precision control applications. This advanced Panel Meter accurately monitors and displays position, speed, or rate data derived from quadrature encoder signals, enabling precise tracking of rotational or linear motion. Its compact design, high accuracy, and versatile functionality make it a cornerstone in industries requiring reliable motion control and data feedback. This section provides an in-depth exploration of its functionality, features, benefits, and diverse applications.
1. What is a 1/8 DIN Panel Meter?
The term DIN originates from the Deutsches Institut für Normung (German Institute for Standardization), which sets global standards for industrial device dimensions. A 1/8 DIN Panel Meter adheres to a standardized front panel size of approximately 96mm x 48mm (3.78" x 1.89"). This compact footprint ensures seamless integration into control panels, dashboards, or instrumentation setups, making it ideal for environments where space is at a premium but reliable data display is critical.
A Panel Meter is an electronic device that processes and displays input signals in a digital format, monitoring parameters such as voltage, current, temperature, or, in this case, position and rate data from quadrature encoders. The digital readout of this Panel Meter provides clear, precise measurements, enabling operators to make informed decisions in real-time for industrial control and automation processes.
2. Quadrature Encoder Input
A quadrature encoder, also known as an incremental encoder, is a sensor used to measure the position, direction, or speed of a rotating shaft or linear movement. It generates two output signals, labeled A and B, which are 90 degrees out of phase. This phase difference allows the Panel Meter to determine the direction of movement (clockwise or counterclockwise for rotary encoders, or forward/backward for linear encoders) and calculate precise position or speed data.
The Quadrature Encoder Input capability of this Panel Meter enables it to decode these A and B signals, providing accurate tracking of movement. This functionality is essential for applications requiring high-precision motion control, such as CNC machining, robotic systems, or conveyor operations, where even minor deviations can impact performance or product quality.
3. Bidirectional Position or Rate Measurement
The Bidirectional Position feature allows the Panel Meter to track movement in both forward and reverse directions, making it suitable for systems with non-unidirectional motion, such as reciprocating machinery or reversible motors. Similarly, the Bidirectional Rate Measurement capability enables the Panel Meter to monitor speed in both directions, providing critical data for applications like motor drives, conveyors, or variable-speed systems. This dual-direction monitoring ensures comprehensive control and adaptability in dynamic industrial environments.
4. How Does a 1/8 DIN Panel Meter Work?
The operation of a 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for quadrature encoder input involves a series of coordinated steps to process and display motion data:
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Signal Acquisition: The Panel Meter receives A and B pulse signals from a quadrature encoder attached to a rotating shaft or moving component. These signals are typically generated by optical or magnetic sensors within the encoder.
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Signal Processing: Internal electronics analyze the phase relationship between the A and B signals to determine the direction of movement and count pulses to calculate position or rate. Advanced algorithms ensure high accuracy, even at high speeds or with complex motion patterns.
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Digital Conversion: The processed pulse data is converted into digital values, representing position (e.g., distance, angle, or counts) or rate (e.g., revolutions per minute [RPM], meters per second). Scaling options allow users to customize units for specific applications.
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Display and Output: The results are shown on a high-visibility digital display, typically using LED or LCD technology with customizable formats. The Panel Meter also supports outputs like alarms, relays, or communication interfaces (e.g., RS-485, Modbus RTU) for integration with PLCs, SCADA systems, or other control infrastructure.
5. Key Features and Benefits
The 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for quadrature encoder input offers a robust set of features that enhance its utility in industrial settings:
- High Accuracy: Delivers precise position and rate measurements, ensuring reliable control and minimal errors in critical applications.
- Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of quadrature encoders, including optical, magnetic, and incremental types, making it adaptable to diverse systems.
- Bidirectional Measurement: Tracks movement and speed in both directions, providing comprehensive data for dynamic processes.
- Compact Size: The 1/8 DIN standard size ensures easy installation in space-constrained control panels or instrumentation setups.
- Advanced Display Options: Features high-visibility LED or LCD displays with customizable scaling, decimal points, and units for enhanced readability.
- Easy Integration: Supports multiple input types (e.g., NPN, PNP, or voltage pulses) and output options (e.g., analog, digital, or serial communication) for seamless integration with existing systems.
- Robust Design: Built to withstand harsh industrial environments, with rugged enclosures and high IP ratings (e.g., IP65) for protection against dust and moisture.
- Programmable Alarms: Includes configurable alarm and relay outputs to trigger actions when specific position or rate thresholds are reached, enhancing automation capabilities.
6. Technical Specifications
While specifications vary by model, a typical 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for quadrature encoder input includes the following:
- Input Types: Supports quadrature encoder signals (A and B channels), with compatibility for NPN, PNP, or voltage inputs.
- Pulse Frequency: Handles high-frequency pulses, often up to 100 kHz or higher, for high-speed applications.
- Display: 4-6 digit LED or LCD display with customizable scaling and decimal points.
- Power Supply: Supports 12-24V DC or 85-265V AC, accommodating various industrial power systems.
- Communication Options: RS-232, RS-485, Modbus RTU, or analog outputs for integration with control systems.
- Environmental Rating: IP65 or higher for front-panel protection against dust and water.
Applications
The 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for quadrature encoder input is widely used in industries requiring precise motion control and monitoring. Its ability to process bidirectional signals and provide accurate real-time data makes it suitable for a variety of applications, including:
- CNC Machines: Tracks tool or workpiece positioning for precise cutting, drilling, or milling, ensuring high-quality production outcomes.
- Robotics: Monitors the position and speed of robotic arms or end-effectors, enabling accurate and repeatable movements in automated tasks.
- Conveyor Systems: Measures the position and speed of conveyor belts or rollers, ensuring synchronized material handling and preventing bottlenecks.
- Motor Control: Regulates the speed and direction of motors in industrial machinery, supporting precise operation in variable-speed drives.
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): Tracks wheel or path positions to guide AGVs in warehouses or manufacturing facilities.
- Textile Machinery: Monitors spindle or fabric movement to ensure consistent production quality in weaving or knitting processes.
Where Is a 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for Quadrature Encoder Input and Bidirectional Position or Rate Used?
The 1/8 DIN Panel Meter designed for quadrature encoder input and bidirectional position or rate measurement is a critical tool in industries where precise motion control and real-time feedback are paramount. Its compact design, high accuracy, and robust feature set make it indispensable across various sectors. Below is a detailed exploration of its primary applications:
1. Industrial Automation
In industrial automation, the Panel Meter ensures precise monitoring and control of machinery, providing real-time data for operational efficiency. Key applications include:
- CNC Machines: Monitors tool or workpiece positioning to ensure accurate material cutting, shaping, or milling, reducing errors and improving product quality.
- Robotics: Tracks the movement and orientation of robotic arms or grippers, enabling precise and repeatable operations in assembly, welding, or material handling.
- Assembly Lines: Ensures accurate component positioning and speed control, minimizing defects and optimizing production throughput.
2. Motion Control Systems
Motion control systems in manufacturing, automotive, and logistics industries rely on quadrature encoders for accurate feedback. The Panel Meter processes these signals to deliver actionable data for:
- Servo Motors: Controls position and speed for precise machinery operation, ensuring smooth and accurate performance in automated systems.
- Conveyor Systems: Tracks belt or roller position and speed to synchronize material handling, preventing jams or misalignments.
- Packaging Machines: Monitors position and speed for wrapping, labeling, or sealing processes, ensuring consistency in high-speed packaging lines.
3. Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries
In chemical and pharmaceutical process control, precision is critical for product quality and safety. The Panel Meter provides accurate feedback for:
- Dosing Systems: Tracks pump or valve positions to ensure precise delivery of chemicals or ingredients, maintaining consistency in batch production.
- Mixing and Blending: Monitors mixer speed and position to achieve uniform product quality in pharmaceutical or chemical formulations.
- Filling Machines: Ensures accurate positioning for filling containers with precise volumes, reducing waste and ensuring compliance with standards.
4. Renewable Energy Sector
In renewable energy systems, the Panel Meter optimizes component positioning to maximize energy capture and efficiency. Applications include:
- Solar Tracking Systems: Adjusts solar panel positions to track the sun’s movement, optimizing energy collection throughout the day.
- Wind Turbines: Monitors blade pitch angles or rotor speed to maximize energy output under varying wind conditions.
- Hydroelectric Systems: Tracks turbine or gate positions to optimize water flow and energy generation.
5. Test and Measurement
In laboratory and testing environments, the Panel Meter ensures accurate position and speed measurements for reliable results. Applications include:
- Material Testing Machines: Tracks testing head positions during tensile, compression, or fatigue tests, ensuring consistent and repeatable results.
- Environmental Chambers: Controls sample positioning or motion for consistent testing conditions in temperature, humidity, or vibration tests.
- Calibration Systems: Provides precise position or rate data for calibrating sensors or instruments in research and development settings.
6. Transportation and Logistics
In transportation and logistics, the Panel Meter supports precise tracking and control of moving systems. Applications include:
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): Tracks wheel or path positions to guide AGVs in warehouses, ensuring accurate navigation and load handling.
- Elevator Systems: Monitors cable or car position for smooth and precise vertical movement in buildings or industrial facilities.
- Rail Systems: Tracks wheel or carriage positions for precise control in automated rail or monorail systems.
Conclusion
The 1/8 DIN Panel Meter for Quadrature Encoder Input and Bidirectional Position or Rate measurement is a versatile and essential tool for precise motion control and monitoring in modern industrial and automation systems. Its ability to process bidirectional signals, provide accurate real-time data, and integrate seamlessly into control systems makes it invaluable across industries such as manufacturing, robotics, renewable energy, and research. As technology advances and automation demands grow, the role of this Panel Meter will continue to expand, driving efficiency, reliability, and precision in complex motion control applications.
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