Smallest Measuring Sensor Head Sets New Standards in Coating Thickness Measurement

Miniature Sensors Enable High-Precision Measurements on the Smallest Components

As components become increasingly compact and geometrically complex, quality control faces new challenges. Measuring coating thickness on tiny parts or in hard-to-reach locations has long been a limitation for many conventional gauges. Now, a new generation of miniature sensors is changing that.
Designed for use with the MiniTest Series 7X5, the new F0.5M and N0.3M miniature sensors offer exceptionally precise, non-destructive coating thickness measurement on extremely small components while maintaining the performance standards required in modern industrial production.
Precision Meets Miniaturization
What makes these sensors particularly remarkable is their size. Featuring what is claimed to be the world's smallest measuring head, they enable reliable coating thickness measurements in applications where traditional probes simply cannot reach.
Despite their compact dimensions, the sensors deliver an impressive measurement accuracy of:
± 0.5 µm + 0.75% of the measured value
This level of precision makes them ideal for industries such as:
• Automotive manufacturing
• Electronics production
• Medical technology
• Precision engineering
• Coatings and surface treatment
Integrated Intelligence with SIDSP® Technology
A key differentiator of the MiniTest Series is its SIDSP® (Sensor-Integrated Digital Signal Processing) technology.
Unlike conventional systems, the complete measurement process takes place directly inside the sensor. The sensor:
• Digitally generates all required measurement signals
• Performs complete signal conditioning
• Processes measurement data internally
• Converts results directly into coating thickness values
Only the finished digital measurement values are transmitted to the instrument for display, statistical analysis, and data storage.
This approach eliminates one of the most common causes of measurement inaccuracies: signal interference during transmission through the sensor cable. The result is greater stability, improved repeatability, and consistently reliable measurement results.
F0.5M: Magnetic Induction for Ferromagnetic Substrates
The F0.5M sensor operates using the magnetic induction method and offers a measuring range from 0 µm to 0.5 mm.
It is specifically designed for measuring non-magnetic coatings on ferromagnetic base materials, including:
• Paints and lacquers
• Enamel coatings
• Chrome coatings
• Zinc layers
Typical substrates include:
• Steel
• Iron
• Other ferromagnetic materials
This makes the F0.5M particularly suitable for quality assurance applications in metal processing, automotive production, and corrosion protection.
N0.3M: Eddy Current Measurement for Non-Ferrous Metals
The N0.3M miniature sensor uses the eddy current principle and covers a measuring range from 0 µm to 0.3 mm.
It is optimized for measuring insulating coatings on non-ferrous metals, such as:
• Paint coatings
• Anodized layers
• Protective insulating coatings
Supported base materials include:
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Zinc die-cast
• Other non-ferrous metals
The sensor is an excellent solution for manufacturers requiring precise coating control on lightweight metal components and highly finished surfaces.
Designed for Difficult-to-Reach Areas
In industrial environments, measurement accessibility is often as important as measurement accuracy. The miniature sensors have been developed specifically for challenging geometries and confined spaces.
Key features include:
✔ Available in straight, 45° and 90° versions for maximum flexibility
✔ Optional precision tripod for highly repeatable measurements
✔ Requires a measurement area of only 3 mm
These characteristics allow users to measure coatings on intricate parts, narrow recesses, small production components, and other locations that were previously difficult or impossible to inspect.
A New Tool for Modern Quality Assurance
As manufacturers continue to push the boundaries of miniaturization and precision engineering, inspection technology must evolve accordingly. The F0.5M and N0.3M sensors demonstrate how advanced measurement technology can be packaged into an exceptionally compact form factor without sacrificing accuracy or reliability.
For companies looking to improve coating quality control on small components, these miniature sensors provide a practical and highly accurate solution, enabling dependable measurements even in the tightest spaces.
Learn More
Interested in discovering how miniature coating thickness measurement can enhance your production processes? Detailed technical information is available on the product page for the MiniTest Series 7X5. Industry professionals can also submit application-specific questions via the contact form or chatbot to discuss their individual measurement challenges with coating measurement experts.