ASTECH VLM60 User manual

User Manual
VLM60
Version 1

VLM60 User Manual
Contents
page 2
ASTECH GmbH
Remarks
The information provided in the manual have been carefully investigated and processed. Still, we cannot assume
any kind of liability regarding completeness or mistakes. However, we are always grateful to get feedback and
proposals.
Claims for damages are, except in the case of premeditation or negligence, in principle excluded.
As a series of versions of this product is available, deviations from the manual might occur, if applicable.
We reserve ourselves the right to implement technical modification that serves to optimize the product without
related notification. Thus, it cannot be assumed that subsequent product versions show the same properties as
the one on hand.
Registered trademarks are the manufacturer’s property.
VLM60 –User Manual V1
Copyright © ASTECH Angewandte Sensortechnik GmbH, Rostock 2022
VLM60 as of hardware version V2 (07/2021), Firmware Version from V1.01
Date of printing: 12.01.2022
Revision history
Revision
Date
Changes
1
12.01.2022
First release
ASTECH GmbH, Schonenfahrerstr. 5, D-18057 Rostock
Internet: www.astech.de E-Mail: [e-mail]
Telephone: +49 381 / 44073-0 Fax: +49 381 / 44073-20

Contents
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 3
I. Table of contents
1Device description .......................................................................................................................................... 4
2Operating notes.............................................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Installation ................................................................................................................................................ 5
2.2 Connections .............................................................................................................................................. 6
2.3 Signal-LED.................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.4 Maintenance and Cleaning ....................................................................................................................... 9
3Fieldbus interface (Option)........................................................................................................................... 10
4Parameterization .......................................................................................................................................... 11
4.1 Command input and VLMTool ................................................................................................................ 11
4.2 Parameter ............................................................................................................................................... 12
4.3 Additional commands ............................................................................................................................. 20
5Technical data............................................................................................................................................... 26
6Error messages ............................................................................................................................................. 27
7Dimensional and installation drawings......................................................................................................... 28
8Declaration of conformity ............................................................................................................................ 29
II. List of figures
Figure 1: Structure of a VLM60 ............................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 2: Mounting orientation of the VLM60 ........................................................................................................ 5
Figure 3: Working distance of the VLM60............................................................................................................... 5
Figure 4: VLM60 with mounting plate..................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 5: VLM60 with rotating plate ....................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 6: Connections.............................................................................................................................................. 6
Figure 7: Pin arrangement of the connections, seen from device side................................................................... 7
Figure 8: Pulse sequence of the encoder interface................................................................................................. 8
Figure 9: VLMTool ................................................................................................................................................. 11
Figure 10: Housing dimensions ............................................................................................................................. 28
Figure 11: Mounting dimensions .......................................................................................................................... 28
III. List of tables
Table 1: Configuration of connection 1................................................................................................................... 6
Table 2: Configuration of connection 2................................................................................................................... 7
Table 3: Configuration of connection 3................................................................................................................... 7
Table 4: Light conditions of the signal LED.............................................................................................................. 9

VLM60 User Manual
Device description
page 4
ASTECH GmbH
1Device description
The VLM60 is a sensor for detecting the speed of moving objects and measuring the length. It is intended for use
in industrial environments. The measuring principle is based on a correlation method. Even the slightest
movements can be detected in this way. A white light LED with focusing optics illuminates the surface of the
measuring object at an angle. Due to the oblique illumination, the surface structure is reflected into the receiving
optics and received by the primary sensor. The sensor signals are further processed in the evaluation electronics.
The sensor enables 2D
measurement, i.e. the movement
of a target can be measured in
both directions, x and y. The
output of the velocity
components is done via two
independent pulse generators
(encoder emulation) with two
phases each. If required, the
VLM60 can be equipped with an
additional fieldbus interface. A
programming interface is used to
set the behavior of the device by
means of parameters.
Figure 1: Structure of a VLM60
The measuring device is mounted in parallel alignment at the prescribed working distance above or below the
measuring object and automatically detects its movement. The object to be measured must be placed in the
optical axis. Triggered length measurements can also be made by means of an external switching signal. In
addition to the length, the sensor can also output a quality signal "measuring rate R" (0...100%), which allows an
evaluation of the current signal acquisition. Mounting or installation should always be carried out in such a way
that the measuring rate reaches a maximum.
The VLM60 has a white light LED as the illumination source. LEDs are classified with regard to their
photobiological hazard potential; not according to the criteria of laser protection. The standard to be applied for
LEDs is EN/IEC 62471 "Photobiological safety of lamps and lamp systems". The LED illuminant used in the VLM60
is assigned to risk class RG-2 (moderate risk). This means that the illuminant does not pose a risk in use due to
the normal behavior of the user (i.e., turning the head away as the natural reaction when looking into a bright
light source). The following note should nevertheless be observed.
It is recommended not to look directly into the illumination source at any time, when the device is
powered on.
Machine directive 2006/42/EC
In the sense of the EU directive “2006/42/EC” the VLM60 is not a machine. Hence there is no conformity
declaration available for the device. The directive 2006/42/EC regularizes the requirements on machines. Here,
a machine is meant to be the entity of connected parts or mechanisms (see also EN 292-1, section 3.1). The
VLM60 is part of the electrical and sensor equipment of a machine. The machine manufacturer must consider
the VLM60 in its process for the declaration of conformity.

Operating notes
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 5
2Operating notes
2.1 Installation
Correct mounting of the VLM60 decisively improves the measurement quality. Therefore, the following
instructions must be strictly observed. See also Figure 2 and Figure 3.
The device must be mounted with the viewing window parallel to the object surface. Under normal measuring
conditions, the pitch and roll angles are 0°. The maximum permissible tolerance of these two angles is ±2°. Since
the VLM60 can measure velocity in both the X-direction and the Y-direction, the yaw angle is arbitrary. It should
be noted that the velocities are recorded with a sign. It is recommended to mount the device with a yaw angle
of 0° so that the device orientation corresponds to the main forward movement of the target, i.e. from the
bottom of the housing in the direction to the cover. This is the positive Y-direction and speed respectively.
Figure 2: Mounting orientation of the VLM60
Figure 3: Working distance of the VLM60
The nominal working distance WD for the VLM60 is 100 mm. This distance is measured directly from the window
side to the measuring surface. The permissible tolerance (distance variance) is ±10 mm. If the VLM60 is
purchased as a set from the manufacturer, a positioning aid is included in the scope of delivery with which the
working distance can be checked.
The unit is mounted either from the rear panel or the right-hand
side panel. There are four M6 threaded holes on both sides. The
manufacturer offers the MPL5 mounting plate (part no.: 12-1069-
00), which simplifies the mounting process. The correct working
distance can be adjusted with the help of long holes.
If the measuring surface is highly reflective or low-contrast, it may
be necessary to tilt the VLM60 by the roll angle (beta) of a few
degrees. Care must be taken to re-adjust the working distance if
necessary.
Figure 4: VLM60 with mounting plate

VLM60 User Manual
Operating notes
page 6
ASTECH GmbH
By combining the MPL5 mounting plate with the RPL5
swivel plate (available from the manufacturer as set
RMPL5 under part number 12-1071-00), the
inclination can be easily adjusted (Figure 5).
If the VLM60 is tilted, the tilt angle (roll angle beta)
must be set into the device software so that the
velocities continue to be measured correctly. See the
"TILT" command in chapter 4.2 "Parameters".
Figure 5: VLM60 with rotating plate
2.2 Connections
The VLM60 has screwable M12 device connections that are led out on the left side of the housing.
The A-coded, 8-pin flange plug (connection 1) is a combined
supply/signal connection. The assignment (view flange connector) is
shown in the following table.
Pin
Signal
Color
1
pulse output 1, Phase A
White
2
pulse output 1, Phase B
Brown
3
pulse output 2, Phase A
Green
4
pulse output 2, Phase B
Yellow
5
Trigger input
Grey
6
Switching output
Pink
7
GND
Blue
8
US(12…30V)
Red
Table 1: Configuration of connection 1
Figure 6: Connections
The D-coded, 4-pole flange socket (connection 2) is the connection for the optional fieldbus interface. The
connection is led out if the VLM60 is equipped with a fieldbus interface ex works. Otherwise, a blind plug is
located there. The USB programming connector (connector 3) is an A-coded, 5-pin flange socket. The pin
assignment is shown in the following two tables. The contact arrangement (device side view) for all three
connections is shown in Figure 7.
Connectors must not be plugged or unplugged under voltage. All connection work may only be
carried out without voltage!

Operating notes
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 7
Pin
Signal
Color
1
T+
Yellow
2
R+
White
3
T-
Orange
4
R-
Blue
Table 2: Configuration of connection 2
Pin
Signal
Color
1
VBus
Brown
2
D-
White
3
GND
Blue
4
D+
Black
5
n/c
Table 3: Configuration of connection 3
Figure 7: Pin arrangement of the connections, seen from device side
Voltage supply and grounding (Connection 1, Pin 7 and 8)
The electrical connection of the VLM60 may only be carried out by trained specialist personnel.
The VLM60 is supplied with 24 VDC. The power consumption is typically 5 W. If the device is equipped with a
fieldbus interface, the power consumption is typically 7 W. The permissible voltage range is 12 ... 30 V.
The shield of the 8-pin cable at connection 1 must be connected to the device ground on the device side. One
fixing hole each on the rear side of the device and on the right side of the device serves as grounding point.
Before the VLM60 is connected to the power supply, an electrically conductive connection must be established
between at least one grounding point and the device holder. The device holder must also be grounded with low
resistance!
A missing or insufficient grounding of the measuring device can lead to malfunctions or damage of
the electronics in case of overvoltage!
Connection 1 is a combined supply/signal connection. According to the applied EMC test standard it follows that
the DC power supply for the VLM60 must be designed locally. The device must not be connected to a DC
distribution network! It is the user's responsibility to establish the cabling accordingly.
Encoder interface (Connection 1, Pin 1 to 4)
The VLM600 provides a high-resolution 5V TTL pulse output with two phases A and B with 90° phase shift for
each direction of motion (X and Y). The usable frequency range is 0.2 Hz to 1 MHz. The resolution and the
maximum error are 8 ns. The output resistance is 20 Ohms. The maximum output current is ± 50 mA per phase
per channel. No external power supply is required. The outputs are equipped with a shutdown fuse in case of
thermal overload (e.g. due to too high current). Furthermore, the outputs are ESD protected. The pulse
sequences of both channels are independent of each other.
Figure 8 shows a typical pulse train for the case where velocity is detected in both the X and Y directions.

VLM60 User Manual
Operating notes
page 8
ASTECH GmbH
Figure 8: Pulse sequence of the encoder interface
Switching in- and output (Connection 1, Pin 5 and 6)
The switching input (trigger input) can be used to perform accurate internal length measurements
1
. The
permissible voltage range of the externally applied switching signal is 0...7 V (LOW) or 10...30 V (HIGH). The
switching input is opto-isolated and has a maximum current consumption of 3 mA.
The behavior of the switching output can be programmed via a parameter. By default, the output switches when
a serious error is present in the device. Other functions are possible. The output is a transistor output, short-
circuit proof, supplies a maximum of 100 mA and has a HIGH level of US-1 V. A load resistor must be connected
to GND, e.g. 1.2 kOhm for a current of 20 mA at 24 V supply voltage.
Fieldbus interface (Connection 2)
The VLM60 optionally can be equipped with an additional fieldbus interface. This is done ex works. For
subsequent installation, the device must be sent to the manufacturer. An additional board is installed inside the
device and a device flange at connection 2. Three Ethernet-based interfaces are available for selection:
•Ethernet (UDP, TCP),
•Profinet IO,
•Ethernet/IP.
Information such as data structure or update time of the individual interfaces can be found in chapter 3.
Programming interface (Connection 3)
With the help of the USB programming interface, the VLM60 can be parameterized via a computer. Furthermore,
the interface can be used for data recording or for a firmware update.
The signals '5V' (VBus), 'D-', 'D+' and 'GND' are used. The USB interface is an internal RS-232 interface. The VLM60
contains an integrated circuit (FT230X) from Future Technology Devices International (FTDI). This circuit provides
a virtual serial interface (Virtual COM-Port) on the PC. The operation is the same as with a normal RS232 port. To
ensure this functionality, a driver must be installed on a Windows PC. This driver can be found on the USB stick,
1
Within the measurement accuracy specified in the technical data.

Operating notes
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 9
which is part of the delivery. It can also be downloaded from the ASTECH website. The standard baud rate of the
VLM60 is 115200baud (8N1).
For the installation of the driver, Windows must be fully started and the VLM60 must not be connected to the
PC. Now the driver installation (an executable EXE file) can be done. Afterwards the VLM60 can be connected to
the PC. It is recommended to connect the cable end to the VLM60 first and then the other cable end to the PC.
Windows should now recognize the new hardware and use the previously installed FTDI driver. When the
installation is complete, a new COM port will appear in the Ports section of the Windows Device Manager. This
COM port must be selected later when using the VLMTool for communication.
Programming cables can be obtained in various lengths from the manufacturer.
2.3 Signal-LED
There is a two-color LED in the lid of the VLM60. This indicates the current operating state of the device. Table 4
shows the possible states.
Color
Light condition
Event
Red
continuous or
blinking
Very bad measurement condition,
very bad motion detection
Orange
Continuous or
blinking
Moderate measurement condition,
moderate motion detection
Green
Continuous or
blinking
Optimal measurement condition,
optimal motion detection
Table 4: Light conditions of the signal LED
Furthermore, serious internal error faults are represented by a red pulse sequence. In this case, the manufacturer
needs to contacted.
2.4 Maintenance and Cleaning
The VLM60 is maintenance-free. For proper and long-lasting operation, the viewing window should be checked
at regular intervals and, if necessary, cleaned of dirt. If the viewing window is cracked or broken, it must be
replaced. The replacement is carried out exclusively by the manufacturer.
A damp, lint-free cloth should be used to clean the viewing window. If the viewing window is very dusty, it is
recommended to remove the dust particles with compressed air or a brush beforehand to avoid scratches on
the glass. Do not use any aggressive agents for cleaning.
If the VLMTool is installed, the user is automatically offered to install the IUSB driver as well. For this
purpose, it is recommended not to connect the VLM60 to the PC. The VLM60 may only be connected
to the PC after the VLMTool and driver have been completely installed.

VLM60 User Manual
Fieldbus interface (Option)
page 10
ASTECH GmbH
3Fieldbus interface (Option)
The VLM60 can be equipped with an optional fieldbus interface. The following are available
•Ethernet (UDP, TCP),
•Profinet IO,
•Ethernet/IP.
The use of a fieldbus interface enables communication between evaluation units (e.g. PLC) and the measuring
device over long distances using standardized network components. In addition to the transmission of the
measured speed, the recorded lengths can also be transferred. Furthermore, it is possible to trigger
measurements in the VLM60 with the help of a control byte. Furthermore, VLM60 parameters can be set via the
bus.
The interfaces will be available for the customer shortly.

Parameterization
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 11
4Parameterization
4.1 Command input and VLMTool
The parameterization or command input can be done with any terminal program (e.g. HTerm). For
parameterization of the VLM60, connection 3 is connected to a USB interface of a Windows PC via a programming
cable..
In the command line, enter as many characters as necessary until the syntax is unambiguous. In the following
command documentation, the characters that must be entered at least for one command are printed in bold.
Parameters are separated from the command by spaces. The decimal point is used to separate places before and
after the decimal point. When entering commands without parameters, the current value of this parameter is
displayed. In order to save parameter changes permanently, the store command must be used.
The VLMTool is installed under Windows 10/11. The installation data is located on the USB stick included in the
scope of delivery or can be downloaded from the Internet at https://www.astech.de/en/download.html. The
program starts with 9600 baud. The standard baud rate of the VLM60 is 115200 baud. When the software is
started for the first time, the COM port and the baud rate must be set in the VLMTool. If these settings have
been made correctly, the serial number and the firmware version are displayed at the top of the program
window.
Figure 9: VLMTool

VLM60 User Manual
Parameterization
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ASTECH GmbH
4.2 Parameter
The following overview contains all parameters available in the VLM60. The first line describes the parameter in
each case. The second line shows the syntax, the permitted value range and the default setting (ex works). In the
third line, if necessary, remarks to the respective parameter are noted.
The following characters will be used:
n integer
s string
f floating point number
[ ] optional
c character
The following abbreviation will be used for measured variable:
V velocity
R measuring rate
L length
Average
Serves to set the averaging time for the velocity calculation. The internal calculation of the length is
independent of the set averaging time! In the time defined by Average, all accruing signals are condensed to
an average value.
average [n]
n = 1.0 ... 10000 (unit: ms)
default: 30
The value should be selected as large as the process dynamics allow. Usual values are 5 to 50 ms. A value that
is too large leads to a delayed reaction to velocity changes. If Average is too small, the measured velocity value
fluctuates more strongly. As a result, vibrations from the measuring object or the measuring device, for
example, are visible in the signal curve.
Baudrate
Serves to set the transmission speed (baud rate) between the VLM60 and the connected PC.
baudrate [n]
n: 9600; 19200; 38400; 57600; 115200
default: 115200
The parameterized baud rate must match the setting of the terminal program (or the VLMTool) so that
parameterization of the VLM is possible.
Calfactor
Serves to set the calibration factor and the correction factor respectively.
calfactor [f]
f = ±0.750000 ... ±1.250000
default: 1.000000
If the calibration factor is entered with a negative sign, the sign is reversed when the velocity and length are
output. The use of the Calfactor for scaling of an output channel is not allowed, for this the PO1Factor and
PO2Factor commands are used.

Parameterization
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 13
Holdtime
Serves to set a time period in which the last detected velocity value continues to be output on the pulse
output. After that, zero is output.
holdtime [n]
n = 10 ... 65535 (unit: ms)
default: 250
If signal failures occur during a measuring process, this parameter can be used to prevent the pulse output
from being continuously switched on and off. The value for Holdtime should normally be greater than or equal
to Average.
Illumination
Serves to control the intensity of the white light LED. A fixed value or automatic mode can be set.
illumination [n]
n = 0 ... 30 –fest, a –automatic
default: a (automatic)
The parameter should be left at the Automatic setting. If the parameter is set incorrectly, measurement
failures due to over- or under-control are possible.
PO1Factor
Used to set a scaling factor for the first pulse output (see chapter 2.2). With a value of 1, a frequency of 100 Hz
is output at a speed of 0.1 m/s.
po1factor [f]
f = -2500.0 ... 2500.0, <> 0
default: 1.000000
The factor corresponds to the specification pulses per millimeter of object movement.
PO1Hold
Serves to set the hold behavior (freezing) of the first pulse output. A time dependency can be set (in 100 ms
steps) or a dependency on the switching input (TRIGGER). With time dependence, the set time is added to
Holdtime. With the dependence on the switching input, the last velocity value is held regardless of a running
measurement or a signal failure as long as the switching signal is set.
po1hold [n]
n = 0, 3, 4, 10 ... 255
default: 0
0 off (no freezing of the pulse output)
3 HIGH-Level at switching input (TRIGGER)
4 LOW-Level at switching input (TRIGGER)
10 1 s + holdtime
…
255 25,5 s + holdtime
PO1On
Serves to set on or off the first pulse output.
po1on [n]
n = 0 (off), 1 (on)
default: 1
This parameter does not influence the measuring activity, but only the activity of the first pulse output.

VLM60 User Manual
Parameterization
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ASTECH GmbH
PO1Sync
Serves to set output frequency of the first pulse output.
po1sync [n]
n = 0, 1
default: 0
0 average-synchronous. The update is synchronous with the duration of the speed averaging
(Parameter Average).
1 trigger-synchronous. The update is synchronous with the clock at the switching input (TRIGGER).
PO1Value
Serves to set the output value of the first pulse output.
po1value [c]
c = v, v:x, v:y, a, r
default: v
v resulting velocity, vector from x- and y-direction
v:x velocity of x-component
v:y velocity of y-component
a angle between the two velocity components, value range: -180 … +180 · PO1Factor
r Measurement Rate (Quality of velocity measurement)
PO2Factor
Used to set a scaling factor for the second pulse output (see chapter 2.2). With a value of 1, a frequency of
100 Hz is output at a speed of 0.1 m/s.
po2factor [f]
f = -2500.0 ... 2500.0, <> 0
default: 1.000000
The factor corresponds to the specification pulses per millimeter of object movement.
PO2Hold
Serves to set the hold behavior (freezing) of the second pulse output. A time dependency can be set (in 100 ms
steps) or a dependency on the switching input (TRIGGER). With time dependence, the set time is added to
Holdtime. With the dependence on the switching input, the last velocity value is held regardless of a running
measurement or a signal failure as long as the switching signal is set.
po2hold [n]
n = 0, 3, 4, 10 ... 255
default: 0
0 off (no freezing of the pulse output)
3 HIGH-Level at switching input (TRIGGER)
4 LOW-Level at switching input (TRIGGER)
10 1 s + holdtime
…
255 25,5 s + holdtime
PO2On
Serves to set on or off the second pulse output.
po2on [n]
n = 0 (off), 1 (on)
default: 1
This parameter does not influence the measuring activity, but only the activity of the second pulse output.

Parameterization
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 15
PO2Sync
Serves to set output frequency of the second pulse output.
po2sync [n]
n = 0, 1
default: 0
0 average-synchronous. The update is synchronous with the duration of the speed averaging
(Parameter Average).
1 trigger-synchronous. The update is synchronous with the clock at the switching input (TRIGGER).
PO2Value
Serves to set the output value of the second pulse output.
po2value [c]
c = v, v:x, v:y, a, r
default: v
v resulting velocity, vector from x- and y-direction
v:x velocity of x-component
v:y velocity of y-component
a angle between the two velocity components, value range: -180 … +180 · PO2Factor
r Measurement Rate (Quality of velocity measurement)
Resolution
Serves to set the resolution of the primary sensor.
resolution [n]
n = 100, 200, 300, …, 8200
default: 5000
This parameter influences the behavior of the primary sensor. Changes should only be made in consultation
with the manufacturer.
Scantime
Controls the internal temporal resolution of the primary sensor.
scantime [n]
n = 0 … 65535 (unit: ms)
default: 0
This parameter influences the behavior of the primary sensor. Changes should only be made in consultation
with the manufacturer.
Silent
Serves to set the behavior of the VLM60 command line (terminal). It can be set whether the entered command
is sent back to the terminal (echo) or not.
silent [n]
n = 0, 1
default: 0
0echo on
1echo off
When using the VLMTool to parameterize the VLM60, this parameter should be set to 0.

VLM60 User Manual
Parameterization
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ASTECH GmbH
SO1FORMAT
The S1 programming interface can be used not only for parameterization but also for data output. The
transmission format can be specified within wide limits with this parameter. The output takes place as ASCII
characters. The individual switches can be separated by space, comma or point. However, the separators
between the parameters can also be omitted.
so1format [s]
(s –string of switches, max. 42 characters)
default: v*60:6:2’m/min‘
Switch Meaning
'...' string enclosed in quotation marks
0...9 Numbers (0 to 255) that are not enclosed in quotation marks are interpreted as ASCII Code
and output as the corresponding ASCII character
h device temperature °C
i lamp intensity (0 to 30)
l current resulting length (in m) from x- and y- movement
l:x current length (in m) from movement in x direction
l:y current length (in m) from movement in y direction
n status of the object counter (0 to 65535)
r measuring rate (0 to 100)
s fixed: resulting velocity in m/s * 100000 <SPACE> measurement rate * 10 (Hex-coded)
t disables the standard identifier CR LF of the output string
v current resulting velocity (in m/s) from x- and y-direction
v:x current velocity (in m/s) from x-direction
v:y current velocity (in m/s) from y-direction
x last error number
z like “s” with the addition: <SPACE> last error number
Supplementary information on the SO1FORMAT parameter
Each of the above switches can be additionally combined. (‘a’ stands for any switch)
a+x Adds the value a (V, L, F, ...) with the offset x
a*x Multiplies the value a (V, L, F, ...) with x
a:H[:n] Returns the value a (V, L, F, ...) as hexadecimal number with n characters
a:n[:m] Returns the value a (V, L, F, ...) as formatted number with n places and m decimal places
All format specifications can be combined with each other as desired and can only be applied to numerical
parameters (excluding s and z). The principle of dot calculation takes precedence over dash calculation.
If no format is specified, the output is left-justified and leading zeros are suppressed (except for hexadecimal
output). With format specifications, the output is padded with blanks. If the value of a format specification
exceeds the possible number of digits, the output is expanded to the necessary number of digits. The decimal
point and any sign (only for negative numbers) also occupy one place.
If numbers are used in the format string which are not enclosed in quotation marks, these are interpreted as
ASCII code and output as a corresponding ASCII character. Each ASCII code must be separated by a space, comma
or period.
The default end identifier of the output string is CR LF (13 10 or 0x0D 0x0A). With the switch T this can be switched
off and it is possible to define the end identifier at the end of the format string itself. The position of the switch
T in the string for switching off the end identifier is not relevant. However, a self-defined end identifier must
always be at the end of the format string!

Parameterization
VLM60 User Manual
ASTECH GmbH
page 17
Examples
so1format v ' m/s' velocity and String “m/s”, CR LF 2.52 m/s
so1format v:x,' ',r x-velocity, SPACE, measurement rate, CR LF 1.27 94
so1format v 20 r velocity, SPACE, measurement rate, CR LF 2.52 94
so1format v*60,' m/min;',l,' m' velocity, m/min, length, m, CR LF 151.2 m/min;6.7 m
so1format l*10+12.345 length in dm + offset (input in dm) 79.456
so1format s t l:h 10 special format s, length hexadecimal and LF 00013b 05e 0000029f
so11format 72 97 108 108 111 for string in ASCII-input Hallo
so1format v 13 10 velocity and additional CR LF 2.52
SO1Interface
Serves for the configuration of the programming interface S1. The baud rate, protocol type, parity and flow
control are set. The setting can be made for each switch individually or for all switches simultaneously. The
order of the switches does not matter. Switches that are not specified will not be changed. The format is fixed
with eight data bits and one stop bit. When parity is enabled, the eighth data bit is replaced by the parity bit.
so1interface [n] [c] [c] [c]
(n = baud rate, c = protocol, parity, ...)
default: 115200 N D
Switch Meaning
9600 baud rate 9600 (or 19200; 38400; 57600; 115200)
'-' no protocol
'N' no parity
'O' odd parity
'E' even parity
'D' full duplex
SO1On
Serves to switch on and off the data output on the programming interface S1.
so1on [n]
n = 0 (off), 1 (on)
default: 0
During command input and processing the output of the data is interrupted!
SO1Sync
Serves for setting the output update on the programming interface S1. It can be set whether the output should
be synchronous to a selectable time interval (command SO1Time) or at an event at the switching input
(TRIGGER).
so1sync [n]
n = 0, 1
default: 0
0 Time-synchronous. The update is synchronous to the time interval SO1Time.
1 Trigger synchronous. Updating is synchronous to the clocking at the switching input (TRIGGER).

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SO1Time
Used to set the time interval for regular output to the programming interface S1.
so1time [n]
n = 1 ... 65535 (unit: ms)
default: 100
If the time interval is set smaller than the Average parameter, it must be noted that there is no updated speed
value because the time of Average has not yet expired.
SO2FORMAT
For the correct function of the fieldbus interface, the internal communication interface S2 must be
parameterized accordingly. There are predefined switch combinations for this, which are shown in chapter 3.
Nevertheless, the internal communication interface S2 can be parameterized in the same way as the
programming interface S1. Information on this can be found in the SO1Format parameter.
so2format [s]
(s –string of ‚switches‘, max. 42 characters)
default: v:x:h:6 v:y:h:6 r:h:3 x:h:2
See parameter SO1Format.
SO2Interface
For correct function of the fieldbus interface, the internal communication interface S2 must be parameterized
accordingly. Only the baud rate 57600 is permissible.
Nevertheless, the internal communication interface S2 can be parameterized in the same way as the
programming interface S1. Information on this can be found in the SO1Interface parameter.
so2interface [n] [c] [c] [c]
(n = baud rate, c = protocol, parity, ...)
default: 57600 N D
See parameter SO1Interface.
SO2On
Serves to switch on and off the data output on the internal communication interface S2.
so2on [n]
n = 0 (off), 1 (on)
default: 0
For correct operation of the fieldbus interface, this parameter must be set to 1.
SO2Sync
Serves to set the output update on the internal communication interface S2. It can be set whether the output
is to be synchronized to a selectable time interval (SO2Time command) or when an event occurs at the
switching input (TRIGGER).
so2sync [n]
n = 0, 1
default: 0
0 Time-synchronous. The update is synchronous to the time interval SO2Time.
1 Trigger synchronous. Updating is synchronous to the clocking at the switching input (TRIGGER).
Both options are permitted for the use of the fieldbus interface. The respective application decides on the
setting.

Parameterization
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SO2Time
Used to set the time interval for regular output to the internal communication interface S2.
so2time [n]
n = 1 ... 65535 (unit: ms)
default: 30
If the time interval is set smaller than the Average parameter, it must be noted that there is no updated speed
value because the time of Average has not yet expired.
Tilt
Serves to set angle specifications corresponding to the inclination/rotation of the mounting position of the
VLM60. For better reflection of the surface contrasts, a correction of the mounting position may be necessary.
This angle correction only applies to flat measuring surfaces!
tilt [f1] [f2]
f1 = 1.000 ... 45.000 f2= 1.000 … 45.000 (unit: degree)
default: 0.000 0.000
f1 corresponds to the angle of inclination in the x-direction, i.e. the roll angle beta. f2 corresponds to the angle
of inclination in the y-direction, i.e. the pitch angle gamma. For the angle designation, compare Figure 2.
Trigger
Used to configure the switching input (TRIGGER) for internal length measurement.
trigger [n]
n = 0 …3
default: 0
n Event Usage
0 H-Level single part measurement
1 L-Level single part measurement
2 L/H-Transition continuous measurement
3 H/L-Transition continuous measurement
Single part measurement: If the signal goes to the active level, the length measurement is started and stopped
at the next level change.
Continuous measurement: A continuous measurement is performed. A trigger edge stops the measurement
and simultaneously triggers the next measurement.
Simultaneously with a stop of the length measurement, the affected output channel is updated in case of
trigger-synchronous output (see PO1Sync, PO2Sync, SO1Sync and SO2Sync commands).

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Window
Serves to set the size of the ring buffer for the moving average of the velocity. This parameter is intended for
highly dynamic speed measurements in the production process and for control tasks. One ring buffer element
corresponds to the time length of the parameter Average. This means that velocity changes of the measuring
object are completely processed after a time of Window · Average at the output.
averaged value
read sum and
set it to zero
step
1 x per average
adding
current
value
window [n]
n = 1 … 32
default: 8
If the process dynamics are high, the Window parameter should be set small. For the majority of applications,
the default setting can be used.
4.3 Additional commands
Via the command line not only parameters can be changed (see previous section) but also other commands can
be entered. The following overview shows all available commands.
Clear
Resets the measured length value(s) back to zero.
clear
During an ongoing length measurement, this command can be used to set the length value reached up to that
point to zero.
Constant
Outputs the device constant programmed at the factory.
constant
This constant contains various calculation factors for the speed that result from different lenses and imaging
scales. The default setting is made at the factory and cannot be changed.
Error
The command displays the last error code that occurred.
Error
The output 'E00 No error' means that no errors have occurred. The complete error list can be found in
chapter 6.