Acuity AccuRange AR2700 User manual

AccuRange AR2700™ Laser Sensor
User’s Manual
Rev 1.0.2
For use with AR2700™
Acuity
A product line of Schmitt Industries, Inc.
2765 NW Nicolai St.
Portland, OR 97210
www.acuitylaser.com

Limited Use License Agreement
CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE OPENING THE
PACKAGE CONTAINING THE PRODUCT AND THE COMPUTER SOFTWARE LICENSED
HEREUNDER. CONNECTING POWER TO THE MICROPROCESSOR CONTROL UNIT
INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. IF YOU DO NOT
AGREE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, PROMPTLY RETURN THE UNIT WITH
POWER SEAL INTACT TO THE DEALER FROM WHOM YOU PURCHASED THE PRODUCT
WITHIN FIFTEEN DAYS FROM DATE OF PURCHASE AND YOUR PURCHASE PRICE WILL
BE REFUNDED BY THE DEALER. IF THE DEALER FAILS TO REFUND YOUR PURCHASE
PRICE, CONTACT SCHMITT INDUSTRIES, INC. IMMEDIATELY AT THE ADDRESS SET
OUT BELOW CONCERNING RETURN ARRANGEMENTS.
Schmitt Industries, Inc. provides the hardware and computer software program contained in the
microprocessor control unit. Schmitt Industries, Inc. has a valuable proprietary interest in such
software and related documentation ("Software), and licenses the use of the Software to you
pursuant to the following terms and conditions. You assume responsibility for the selection of the
product suited to achieve your intended results, and for the installation, use and results obtained.
License Terms And Conditions
a. You are granted a non-exclusive, perpetual license to use the Software solely on and in
conjunction with the product. You agree that the Software title remains with Schmitt
Industries, Inc. at all times.
b. You and your employees and agents agree to protect the confidentiality of the Software.
You may not distribute, disclose, or otherwise make the Software available to any third
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conditions. In the event of termination or expiration of this license for any reason
whatsoever, the obligation of confidentiality shall survive.
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except only that a copy may be made for archival or back-up purposes as necessary for
use with the product.
d. You agree to maintain all proprietary notices and marks on the Software.
e. You may transfer this license if also transferring the product, provided the transferee agrees
to comply with all terms and conditions of this license. Upon such transfer, your license will
terminate and you agree to destroy all copies of the Software in your possession.

AR2700 User’s Manual i
Procedures for Obtaining Warranty Service
1. Contact your Acuity distributor or call Schmitt Industries, Inc. to obtain a return
merchandise authorization (RMA) number within the applicable warranty period.
Schmitt Industries will not accept any returned product without an RMA number.
2. Ship the product to Schmitt Industries, postage prepaid, together with your bill
of sale or other proof of purchase. your name, address, description of the
problem(s). Print the RMA number you have obtained on the outside of the
package.
This device has been tested for electromagnetic emissions and immunity
and has been found to be in compliance with the following directives for
class A equipment:
EN 62500-6-2:2002
EN 55011:2000
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this device in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his or her own expense.
This manual copyright © 2021, Schmitt Industries, Inc.

ii AR2700 User’s Manual
User’s Manual for the
AR2700™ Series Laser Sensor
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 General Overview....................................................................................................... 2
1.2 Definition of Terms ..................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Quick Start Instructions............................................................................................... 3
1.3.1 Mounting................................................................................................................. 3
1.3.2 Serial Data Wires.................................................................................................... 3
1.3.3 Analog Output Signals............................................................................................ 3
1.3.4 Alarm Signal........................................................................................................... 4
1.4 General Description.................................................................................................... 4
1.5 Principles of Operation ............................................................................................... 4
1.6 Mechanical Dimensions.............................................................................................. 5
1.6.1 AR2700 sensor unit................................................................................................ 5
1.7 Installation.................................................................................................................. 5
1.8 Laser Safety............................................................................................................... 6
1.9 Sensor Maintenance................................................................................................... 6
1.10 Sensor Service........................................................................................................... 6
2. Installation and Checkout................................................................................................... 7
2.1 Mounting..................................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Cabling for sensor unit................................................................................................ 7
2.2.1 Standalone Cabling ................................................................................................ 7
2.2.2 Serial Connection to a Host Computer.................................................................... 7
2.3 Power On ................................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Verifying Operation..................................................................................................... 9
2.5 Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................... 9
2.5.1 Serial Communications Check................................................................................ 9
2.5.2 Sensor Output Check.............................................................................................10
3. Signal and Power Interface ...............................................................................................10

AR2700 User’s Manual iii
3.1 Sensor Unit................................................................................................................10
3.1.1 Sensor Cable, Wire Colors and Functions .............................................................10
3.1.2 Power Supply (Red, Blue)......................................................................................11
3.1.3 RS232 Serial Communications (Green, Gray) .......................................................11
3.1.4 RS422 Serial Communications (Green, Pink, Yellow, Grey) ..................................12
3.1.5 Analog Output (Grey/Pink, Red/Blue) ....................................................................12
3.1.6 Alarm Outputs Q1 and Q2 (Brown, Black)..............................................................13
3.1.7 Trigger Input and Output (Violet)............................................................................13
4. Serial Interface Operation..................................................................................................15
4.1 Serial Hardware Interface..........................................................................................15
4.1.1 Communications Protocol......................................................................................15
4.1.2 Identification (ID)....................................................................................................16
4.1.3 Online Help (ID?)...................................................................................................16
4.1.4 Configuration Parameters Display (PA) .................................................................17
4.1.5 Baud Rate (BRx)....................................................................................................17
4.1.6 Serial Data Format (SDx y)....................................................................................18
4.1.7 Terminator (TEx)....................................................................................................20
4.1.8 Temperature Query (TP)........................................................................................20
4.1.9 Parameter Reset (PR) ...........................................................................................20
4.1.10 Device Reboot (DR)...........................................................................................20
4.1.11 Auto Start (ASx).................................................................................................21
4.2 Error Mode (SEx).......................................................................................................21
5. Analog Output Operation...................................................................................................21
5.1 Setting the range beginning and end points (QAx y)..................................................22
6. Alarm Output(s) Operation (Q1, Q2)..................................................................................22
6.1 Setting the alarms (Q1w x y z or Q2w x y z) .............................................................23
7. Performance Optimization.................................................................................................23
7.1 Measurement Modes.................................................................................................23
7.1.1 Distance Tracking Mode (DT)................................................................................23
7.1.2 Single Distance Measurement (DM) ......................................................................24
7.2 Measurement Frequency (MFx).................................................................................24
7.3Averaging Value (SAx) ..............................................................................................24
7.4 Measurement Window (MWx y z)..............................................................................24
7.5 Distance Offset (OFx)................................................................................................25
7.5.1 Set current measurement to Distance Offset (SO).................................................25

iv AR2700 User’s Manual
7.6 Select Target (STx) ...................................................................................................25
7.7 Trigger Input (TIx y)...................................................................................................25
7.8 Trigger Output (TOx) .................................................................................................26
7.9 Gain (GNx)................................................................................................................26
7.10 Time Calibration (TCx)...............................................................................................26
8. Serial Command Quick Reference ....................................................................................27

AR2700 User’s Manual 1
1. Introduction
This section is a guide to getting started with the AR2700 and this manual. The AR2700 has
a number of configurable parameters, but many applications can use the sensor in its default
factory configuration. This manual contains information for both the AR2700 sensor unit and
the AR2700 module.
The recommended order for reading the manual is:
•General Overview –Gives a brief understanding of the sensor operation.
•Operating Guidelines –Provides a few important safety tips.
•Definition of Terms –An aid for proper communication.
•Quick Start Instructions –This should provide the information necessary to connect
the sensor and verify its operation, either with a serial terminal program at 9600 baud,
or by connecting the current loop or Alarm Output interface.
•General Description –Gives important laser, operation, mechanical, and mounting
information.
•Installation andCheckout –Tailor theapplication. Use the other chaptersfor reference:
Signal and Power Interface –how to hook everything up
Serial Interface Operation –modes, formats, bias
Analog Output Operation –current loop, voltage, scaling
Alarm Output Operation –alarm settings
Performance Optimization –Sample Rate, Background Elimination, Exposure
control
AR2700 Command Set –explains all commands for customizing the application

2 AR2700 User’s Manual
1.1 General Overview
The AR2700 is a time-of-flight rangefinder that measures distance using an infrared
(invisible) laser beam, a photodiode, and a microprocessor. The rangefinder works based
on comparative phase measurement by emitting modulated high-frequency light which is
diffusely reflected back from the target with a certain shift in phase. This return signal is
compared with a reference signal. From the amount of phase shift, a resulting distance is
determined with great accuracy. The maximum range measurement for the device is 885
feet (270 m) using special reflective targets. On normal surfaces with low reflectivity, the
maximum range is 230feet (70m). The Class 1 infrared laser diode makes the rangefinder
eye safe for use in all environments. The model is designed for fast measurement speeds,
up to 40 KHz, making it ideal for tracking the position of moving targets. Speed and
accuracy performances vary depending on target surface reflectance. The AR2700
technical data sheet specifies sensor performance standards.
A variety of configuration settings can be selected via the serial port. The complete list of
settings is found in the AR2700 Command Set chapter and each setting is discussed in
detail in a specific operation chapter.
The Sample Rate can be specified and the sensor has maximum capability of 40,000
samples per second. Sampling may be turned on and off. It can even be triggered using
an input signal wire or a serial command.
Measurement output can be in the form of serial data (RS232 or RS422) or Analog Output
(4-20mA current loop).
Do not attempt to disassemble the sensor or loosen any screws. Improper
disassembly will destroy the optical alignment of the sensor and necessitate factory
repairs.
Do not operate the sensor in areas where the sensor case is exposed to direct
sunlight for extended periods or where the air temperature is more than 60C (140F)
or less than -20°C (-4°F).
Don’t allow fast temperature variations during sensor operation.
Avoid excessive vibration and shocks. The sensor contains securely mounted but
precisely aligned optical components.
Do not operate the sensor if the lens is fogged or dirty.
Do not scratch the lenses on the front face of the sensor. Keep the lenses clean with
expert optical procedures. The lenses are glass with an anti-reflection coating. Avoid the
use of organic cleaning solvents.
Do not touch the lenses with bare fingers. The oils are very difficult to remove.
Operate only with DC supply voltages up to 30 volts.
1.2 Definition of Terms
Sensor –The complete AR2700 measurement device.
Target –The object of measurement. The relative distance from the sensor to the target
is measured by the sensor.
Laser, Laser beam –This bright light is emitted from the sensor, reflected from the target,
and collected by the camera lens. For the AR2700, it is infrared radiation.
<Range> –The maximum relative distance measurable by the sensor.

AR2700 User’s Manual 3
1.3 Quick Start Instructions
This will get the sensor running in its factory default configuration.
Only one output type (Serial or Analog) is needed to transmit measurement data.
1.3.1 Mounting
This section refers to the mechanical fixture of the AR2700 sensor.
Quick suggestion: Lay the sensor on the floor or a table. It may need to be held in
place with a clamp or a weight. Orient the laser so that the laser is not obstructed. Use
a piece of paper such as a business card to insert into the beam to use as a
measurement target. Thelaser should beaimed ata target suchthat thedistance from
the reference point to the target can be measured. The infrared laser spot can be
viewed with a digital (CCD) camera.
Mount the sensor in such a way that the case is not twisted or warped.
Attach the cable’s 12-pin connector to the plug on the rear of the sensor.
Connect the red (Supply +) and blue (Supply Voltage Ground) wires of the sensor
cable to a 10 to 30 volt DC power supply (or use the power supply if the sensor came
with one).
1.3.2 Serial Data Wires
The serial connection is required to set up a unit for operation. If not using the Acuity
Connectivity kit which includes a serial cable, the customer must make their own D-
sub 9 serial connector
1.3.2.1 RS232 serial
Connect the RS232 wires to a 9 pin D-SUB male connector that can be plugged
into a COM port of a PC (RS232): Red / Blue (Signal Ground) to pin 5, Green
(Transmit) to pin 2, and Gray (Receive) to pin 3. See section 2.2.2.
Start a terminal emulator on the PC and set it for that COM port at 115200 baud,
8 bit, 1 stop, parity: none, no flow control.
1.3.2.2 RS422 serial
Connect the RS422 wires to a RS422 adapter connected to a PC COM port. See
section 2.2.2.
Start a terminal emulator on the PC and set it for that COM port at 115200 baud, 8 bit,
1 stop, parity: none, no flow control.
The sensor defaults in distance-tracking mode (DT) with metric units and you should
see distance measurements scroll down the screen.
1.3.3 Analog Output Signals
Quick suggestion: connect a DVM (digital volt meter) to the wires: Blue to Common,
Grey / Pink to mA input. Type QA. The output is a 4-20mA current loop from 0 to 1.00
meters. The meter should read near 4 mA when a target is placed in the laser beam
near 0 meters and 20 mA near 1.0 meters

4 AR2700 User’s Manual
1.3.4 Alarm Signal
Quick suggestion: connect the Alarm 1 signal wire (brown) to a 1K resistor in series
with an LED, anode to the resistor, cathode to ground (blue).
The default action is: Alarm will go active (LED lights) if a target is measured at a
distance greater than 1m.
1.4 General Description
The AR2700 is a laser diode based distance measurement sensor for ranges up to
230 feet (70 m) on regular surfaces with as little as 10% reflectivity and up to 885 feet
(270 m) using a reflective target. Contact Acuity for these targets. The accuracy is
generally specified with an absolute linearity of +/- 2.36 inches (60 mm) and a 1 sigma
repeatability of +/- 0.98 inches (25 mm). Linearity will vary depending on sample
averaging, temperature and surface reflectivity of the target surface. Measurement
noise to a stationary target of 50% reflectivity wasreduced to 3 mm at 100 Hz sampling
speeds. The AR2700 internally compensates for temperature changes, but does not
have an on-board heater for use in cold environments.
1.5 Principles of Operation
The AR2700 uses the time of flight of light to measure distance. The laser beam is
projected from the housing’s aperture and shines on a target surface, where it creates a
small infrared spot. From there the laser light is reflected back to the sensor. A collection
lens is located in the sensor to the side of the laser aperture. It collects a portion of the
reflected light, which is focused on an avalanche photodiode and converted to an electrical
signal. The signal is amplified and symbolizes a shift in phase. This phase is compared to
a reference signal to determine the amount of shift and hence a change in distance.