Capacitive Displacement Sensor comes in 2 x 2 x 4 in. package.

New Capacitive Displacement Sensor Packs High Precision Into Tiny Spaces

St. Paul, Minn. — The new CPL350 is a small, precision capacitive displacement sensor from Lion Precision. The single-channel sensor brings top-shelf performance into tiny spaces at more affordable prices. Ideal for embedded and OEM applications.

Designing machines that require embedded, high-precision position sensing can be a frustration for engineers and designers. Non-contact sensing with resolutions in the nanometer range often means a large rack-mount or modular bench top style design. Machinery may not have the space available for such a system. Additionally, the sensor electronics may have front panel adjustments which are not easily accessible once installed in a machine. These larger precision systems can also be challenging to the design’s cost controls.

Lion Precision’s new CPL350 now provides a better option. The single-channel system provides measurement performance approaching that of their top-of-the-line Elite Series modular systems. Resolutions as high as 0.0007% at 100 Hz or 0.004% at 15 kHz. It does all this in 2x2x4 inch package (50x50x200 mm). A BNC single-ended output is provided, or for maximum resolution with longer cable runs, a differential output is also available.

With no user adjustments or displays, the CPL350 electronics can be installed in out-of-the-way places. Sensors typically ship with 15 kHz bandwidth. Users can access an internal dip-switch to set the bandwidth to 15 kHz, 10 kHz, 1 kHz, 100 Hz. The bandwidth selection allows users to opt for higher resolutions or higher speeds.

The sensor is easier on designers’ budgets at approximately 35% lower cost than a single-channel Elite Series system.

CPL350 Specifications:

Measurement Ranges: 10µm to 12.5 mm (0.0004 to 0.5 inches)

Maximum Bandwidth: 15 kHz

Typical Linearity: 0.5% F.S.

Thermal Stability: 0.04% F.S./°C

Differential Output: ±10 V

Single Ended Output: ±10 V

Operating Temperature: 4-50°C

Power Requirements: ±15 VDC (External power supply included with device)

Lion Precision introduced capacitive displacement sensors to industry in 1958. The company has expanded its product offering to include eddy-current displacement sensors and some application specific sensors for the machine tool, packaging and PCB industries. The company is built on assisting users with sensor selection and implementation by providing technical knowledge resources, expert guidance and optimized systems including custom designs. Lion Precision is well known for its application expertise and assistance in applying noncontact sensor technology.