Dimetix sensors support different types of measurements. Depending on the application, it is possible to choose between the following measurement types:
- Single distance measurement
- Single sensor tracking
- Tracking with buffering
Single distance measurements: (see top picture)
With the command sNg (N represent the ID of the sensor, e.g. ID 0 => s0g) a single distance measurement is triggered. The measurement result is send immediately to all output interfaces.
This process can be repeated as soon as the sensor response is received. The single distance measurement type is often used in monitoring applications.
Single sensor tracking: (see center picture)
A continuous measurement can be triggered with the command sNh. Depending on the application, it makes sense for the sensor to measure at regular intervals.
The desired sampling time can be given with the command sNh+x (x in ms, max. 24h => 85’400’000 ms). This type of measurement is used in various areas (wood industry, steel industry, monitoring, logistics etc.).
Tracking with buffering: (see bottom picture)
If several sensors are connected to a serial interface (e.g. RS-485), the data line should not be permanently occupied. With the measurement type tracking with buffering sNf (sNf+x, x in ms), the sensor can measure independently of other sensors. The measurement result is buffered in the sensor and only with the command sNq from the PLC, the sensor returns the result. This means that the data line is only used for a short time. This type of measurement is mainly used in the monitoring area with several sensors.
Further details can be found in the Technical Reference Manual (see Downloads).