DS PC Series User manual

INSTRUCTIONS
FOR
INSTALLATION AND USE
OF
MAGNETOSTRICTIVE TRANSDUCERS
SERIES PC
MODELS: PCS-PCP-PCR-PCM
DS EUROPE
DS EUROPEDS EUROPE
DS EUROPE S.r.l.
Via F. Russoli, 6-20143 MILANO, ITALY
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Internet: www.dseurope.com

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
2
REVISION OF DOCUMENTS AND CORRESPONDENCE
Transducer firmware reference version Manual version
PC 99 V.01.00 V 1.0 Rev 2.
PC 2001 V.01.00 V 1.0 Rev 3.
The information in this manual can be subjected to modifications without prior notice.
DS Europe refuses any responsibility for possible errors contained within, or possible
direct or indirect accidental damages deriving from supplier, from the operation or the use
of this material.
Any reproduction, modifications or translation of this manual, or parts of it, are strictly
forbidden unless prior written consent has been given.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
3
SUMMARY
1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................................5
1.1. RESPONSABILITY REGARDING USE .......................................................................................................5
1.2. INSTALLATION IN DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS..............................................................................5
1.3. QUALITY........................................................................................................................................................5
2. WORKING PRINCIPLE........................................................................................................................................6
2.1. NOT MEASURING DEAD LENGTH............................................................................................................6
3. MANUFACTURING MATERIALS......................................................................................................................6
3.1. TRANSDUCER MANUFACTURING MATERIALS ...................................................................................6
3.2. MANUFACTURING MATERIALS FOR PARTS NEAR TO THE TRANSDUCER...................................6
3.3. INSTALLATION IN CYLINDERS ................................................................................................................7
3.4. EXTERNAL INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................................8
4. MAGNETIC CURSORS.........................................................................................................................................8
4.1. DIFFERENT MODELS...................................................................................................................................8
4.2. POLARITY OF MAGNETIC FIELD..............................................................................................................8
4.3. HOW TO RECOGNISE POLARITY OF A MAGNET..................................................................................8
5. MAGNETIC CURSORS SUPPLIED BY DS EUROPE ......................................................................................9
5.1. WITH RADIAL MAGNETIC FIELD.............................................................................................................9
5.2. WITH AXIAL MAGNETIC FIELD................................................................................................................9
5.3. FREE FLOATING CURSOR..........................................................................................................................9
5.4. MAGNETS CHOSEN BY THE USER .........................................................................................................10
6. FLOATS .................................................................................................................................................................11
6.1. INSTALLATION ADVICES ........................................................................................................................11
6.2. BALLAST......................................................................................................................................................11
7. TRANSDUCER INSTALLATION......................................................................................................................11
7.1. MOD. PCS (S = STANDARD) .........................................................................................................................11
7.2. MOD. PCP (P = FLANGED WELL )..................................................................................................................12
7.3. MOD. PCR (WITH SLIDE) ...............................................................................................................................12
8. PRESSURE ACTION ON THE MEASURING PROBE...................................................................................12
9. ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS. ...................................................................................................................12
9.1. POWER SUPPLY..........................................................................................................................................12
9.2. ABSORBED CURRENT...............................................................................................................................13
9.3. SAMPLING FREQUENCY ..........................................................................................................................13
9.4. RESOLUTION ..............................................................................................................................................14
9.5. NUMBER OF CURSORS .............................................................................................................................14
9.6. ANALOG OUTPUTS....................................................................................................................................15
9.7. RS-485 DIGITAL OUTPUT..........................................................................................................................16
9.8. CURSOR VELOCITY (FOR DISPLCEMENT MEASUREMENTS) .......................................................................16
10. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS ........................................................................................................................17
10.1. CABLE OUTPUT..........................................................................................................................................18
10.2. CONNECTOR OUTPUT ..............................................................................................................................18
10.3. POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION...............................................................................................................18
10.4. CONNECTION OF 0÷10 V ANALOG VOLTAGE OUTPUT ....................................................................19
10.5. CONNECTION OF TWO VOLTAGE ANALOG OUTPUTS: 0÷10V ........................................................20
10.6. CONNECTION OF 4-20MA CURRENT OUTPUT .....................................................................................21
10.6.1. CURRENT CONNECTION: 4÷20 mA WITH VOLTAGE READING: 1÷5 V.......................................21
10.6.2. CURRENT CONNECTION ..................................................................................................................21
10.7. SERIAL PORT CONNECTION....................................................................................................................22
10.7.1. TERMINATION RESISTANCE.............................................................................................................23
10.8. GROUNDING ...............................................................................................................................................23

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
4
11. WARNING LEDS ...........................................................................................................................................24
11.1. GREEN LED .................................................................................................................................................24
11.2. YELLOW LED..............................................................................................................................................24
12. PROTECTION FROM ELECTROMAGNETIC EXTERNAL INTERFERENCE.......................................25
13. CALIBRATION METHODS ...............................................................................................................................25
13.1. MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL MEASURING FIELD COINCIDENCE: ........................................27
13.2. CALIBRATION WITH PUSH BUTTONS:..................................................................................................27
13.2.1. “0” cursor ............................................................................................................................................28
13.2.2. “1” cursor ............................................................................................................................................28
ONE OF THE ADVANTAGES OF USING THE SERIES PC IS THE POSSIBILITY TO BE ABLE TO USE ONLY ONE PART OF THE
NOMINAL STROKE OF THE TRANSDUCER WITHOUT HAVING TO ALTER THE STABILITY AND RESOLUTION OF THE
TRANSDUCER.................................................................................................................................................................30
12.3 REMOTE CALIBRATION ...........................................................................................................................30
14. SERIAL COMMUNICATIONS PROTOCOL...................................................................................................31
14.1. PROTOCOL FORMAT .................................................................................................................................31
14.2. COMMAND MESSAGE STRUCTURE.......................................................................................................31
14.3. ACCEPTED COMMANDS...........................................................................................................................32
14.3.1. COMMAND “A” .................................................................................................................................32
14.3.2. COMMAND “D”.................................................................................................................................32
14.3.3. COMMAND “L” .................................................................................................................................33
14.3.4. COMMAND “R” .................................................................................................................................33
14.3.5. COMMAND “V” .................................................................................................................................33
14.3.6. COMMAND “T” .................................................................................................................................34
14.3.7. COMMAND “X” .................................................................................................................................34
14.4. TRANSDUCER REPLIES ............................................................................................................................36
15. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY................................................................................................................37
16. TESTS FOR APPLICATION OF CE MARK....................................................................................................38
16.1. TEST CENTRE AND LIST OF TESTS........................................................................................................38
16.2. TEST RESULTS AND LAW ON CONFIDENTIALITY.............................................................................38
IMPORTANT: always bench check the transducer operational performance before
installation.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
5
1. INTRODUCTION
NOTE: All series PC have the same measuring head.
The measuring heads contain: a magnetostrictive impulse sensor, an electronics and the
push buttons to set the calibration.
Any reference given with regards to the electronics is valid for all models.
This manual is considered as an integral part of the supply and is delivered with the
material, even if it is not listed in the invoice.
When requested the customer may have a copy sent while purchasing negotiations are
being carried out. In this way the Customer can assess the application which our product
has been destined for.
Even if several transducers have been supplied, only one copy of the manual may be
delivered (unless the customer requests otherwise).
1.1. RESPONSABILITY REGARDING USE
The transducers, even when supplied with external indicators, are only plant or equipment
parts and components: they are sold in great numbers every year for many different types
of use and, likewise, have to satisfy many different regulations, which are often unknown
to the Supplier.
It is clear that under these conditions, DS Europe is forced to refuse any responsibility
regarding use and thus limits itself to listing some fundamental and elementary
precautions to ensure correct use.
In situations where there is a potential risk of damage or injury to people of things, or
machine stops and measuring systems, it is the precise obligation of the User to make
sure that there is adequate insurance cover and to inform the Supplier with regard to such,
so that the Supplier is free to renounce the order or the supply.
1.2. INSTALLATION IN DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS
The PC series cannot be used in the presence of flammable, explosive, corrosive
substances or in the presence of any dangerous materials, liquids or fumes. The
transducer head has IP 65 environmental protection but it is not airtight (hermetic).
If there is any doubt concerning compatibility of transducer manufacturing materials, the
Customer ought to inquire about the chemical-mechanical nature of the materials used.
1.3. QUALITY
Sturdy top quality transducers, designed to give maximum reliability and safety. The
limitations and the precautions listed in the manual were included to help the User
understand the importance of correct use and the need to adhere and indeed put into
action the requirements of the law in order to avoid damages.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
6
2. WORKING PRINCIPLE
An electrical pulse is injected into the waveguide contained in the probe. This pulse
generates a corresponding magnetic pulse, which then links onto the magnetic field of the
magnets contained in the cursor and generates a magnetostrictive mechanical torque
pulse.
This mechanical pulse is generated along the wave guide at the velocity of sound found in
metals (about 2800 m/sec) until reaching the sensor positioned in the head inside the
electronics. The cursor position is caculated by measuring the time lapse between the
electrical pulse and the return mechanical pulse
2.1. NOT MEASURING DEAD LENGTH
The dead length refers to the stretch at the very far end of the measuring probe where
there is either no measurement or the measurement does not satisfy the technical
specifications of the transducer.
Series PC certificates indicate dead length values.
Probe end (A) dead length (see certificate) is generally used for mechanical anchorage of
the probe itself.
Should you require an improvement on standard linearity, you are advised to consider an
adjunctive “dead length”, of about 20 – 25 mm, positioned near the measuring head.
3. MANUFACTURING MATERIALS
3.1. TRANSDUCER MANUFACTURING MATERIALS
The working principle requires that the manufacturing materials of the probe (cylindrical
rod), the hexagonal part and relative fastening nuts of the head and the floats be made of
non-magnetic materials.(=NM=diamagnetic).
For models bearing the suffix (-S), the probe and the union are made of AISI 316 L
stainless steel. The measuring head casing is made of die-cast aluminium alloy.
For models bearing the suffix (-A), we have aluminium alloy instead of steel.
3.2. MANUFACTURING MATERIALS FOR PARTS NEAR TO THE
TRANSDUCER.
In order to have transducer to work correctly, the magnetic field of the cursor must close
across the magnetostrictive guide inside the transducer, even in the end areas of the A
probe and near the head.
Permanent external magnetic fields generated by other magnets or residual magnetic
fields, generated from the cursor coming into occasional contact or proximity of
magnetizable materials (paramagnetic materials), can effect the measurement.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
7
3.3. INSTALLATION IN CYLINDERS
Installation inside cylinders (Fig. 1 - 2). You are advised to use system shown in Figure 1.
The one given in Fig. 2, where the surrounding parts are made of magnetic material (= M:
soft metal, usually steel), should be considered very carefully and possibly avoided if we
want to respect all the aforementioned conditions (section. 3.2).
The recommended distances (= limit) are indicated in Fig. 2 (mm).
A max. = 1/8 of the diameter (outside ) of the cursor

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
8
3.4. EXTERNAL INSTALLATION
Installed with brackets, clamps etc.: all the brackets and the hexagonal head fastening nut
must be made of non -magnetic material (=NM = non-magnetic: aluminium, brass, AISI
300 series stainless steel).
4. MAGNETIC CURSORS
Figures 3, 4 and 5
4.1. DIFFERENT MODELS
They include: magnetic rings, floats, slides (Mod. PCR).
All these models include: built-in magnets whose magnetic field may be radial or axial with
reference to the magnetostrictive waveguide axis.
In order to work, it is essential that their magnetic field is sufficiently high and it is entirely
coupled along the waveguide.
4.2. POLARITY OF MAGNETIC FIELD
Magnetic field polarity is established by the Manufacturer of the Transducers. No other
polarity values are permitted as they might jeopardise performance. For this reason, be
sure to follow indications in Figures 3-4-5.
4.3. HOW TO RECOGNISE POLARITY OF A MAGNET
The needle of a common compass is a magnet. The needle end, attracted by the Earth’s
North Pole is defined as “North”.
According to the laws of physics regarding attraction of opposing poles, the North pole of a
magnet attracts the South pole of a compass.
When necessary the North pole is marked with a coloured dot.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
9
IMPORTANT:
Cursors, magnets or float, not produced by DS Europe and chosen by the Customer must
be sent to DS Europe in order to be checked. DS Europe, if possible, will custom calibrate
the transducer with them.
Customer must tell to DS Europe the application conditions: used materials , pole position,
distance between magnets and probes etc..
For further supplies it is advisable to always have DS Europe keep a sample.
5. MAGNETIC CURSORS SUPPLIED BY DS EUROPE
5.1. WITH RADIAL MAGNETIC FIELD
These are ring models: ARR-1E; ARR-2E; ARR-3E.
They consist of rare earth cylindrical magnets, radial to the probe and contained inside
polyamide plastic or aluminium rings.
Polarities are shown in Fig. 5.
The ring works correctly regardless of which side of the ring is pointed towards the
measuring head.
The cursor can be fixed with glue or non-magnetic screws (AISI 300 series stainless steel,
brass, etc..)
Take care to apply instructions given in figure Fig. 1 – 2. The space “C” in Fig. 2 can be
filled with a non-magnetic material. (e.g. aluminium).
5.2. WITH AXIAL MAGNETIC FIELD
Ring toroids (Fig. 3): They are from ARA-5F models to ARA-10E models.
Toroid Cursors with opposing poles on the two base planes.
Important: in order to work correctly it is necessary that the polarity towards the measuring
heads corresponds to the one indicated in Figure 3.
The material (ferrite (= F) or rare earth (=E) ) is hard and delicate. It cannot be drilled and
must be fixed with glue, preferably inside the relative housing or with an adapter made by
the User.
5.3. FREE FLOATING CURSOR
Mod. AFR-1E –( Figure 4A ):
It contains two parallel magnets arranged in radial fashion on a plate made of non-
magnetic material, supplied with central fixing holes.
The distance from the AFR-1E cursor and the measuring probe must be 5mm with a
±1mm tolerance.
After having clamped the cursor within the above mentioned tolerancy, when moving along
the probe, It must nonetheless mantain a ±0,2 mm maximum fluctuation from the probe.
These distances must be constant along all the measuring stroke onto the mod. PCR
transducers.
Whenever the distance is bigger than 6mm , there is not enough magnetic field magnitude
to recognise the magnetic cursor position.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
10
Figure 4A
Whenever the distance is shorter than 4mm (in any case remaining constant) there would
be a constant measure error that would be easily recovered by recalibrating the transducer
mod. PCR (either by means of the push buttons or the RS485 with an external computer).
When Mod. PCR is used together with AFR-1E floating cursor, It is calibrated in order to
have a measuring stroke in the middle of two death zones A= 30mm and B= 25mm (Figure
4A ).
The mod. AFR-1E can pass over these two “A” and “B” death zones without causing any
damage but It will not generate any signal (analog outputs will be positively or negatively
saturated while the RS485 will give a “9999999” output).
For performance optimisation, the Customer must supply DS Europe with all the
installation conditions
5.4. MAGNETS CHOSEN BY THE USER
It must have a high magnetic field, invariable throughout time and with a high maximum
working temperature. The lobe of the magnetic flow must be wide enough to interest the
magnetostrictive waveguide. Polarity must be as indicated in Fig. 4.
Mark the North Pole with a coloured dot.
You are advised to use permanent rare earth magnets for temperatures up to 120°C, with
diameters of 5÷8 mm and lengths of 10÷20 mm.
The magnetic field is considered to be sufficient when the measurement, controlled in the
factory, occurs near the dead length “A” of the probe end and at all the points along the
measuring stroke.
The magnets must be sent to the factory for performance optimisation, indicating all the
methods of use.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
11
6. FLOATS
6.1. INSTALLATION ADVICES
•The magnet inside the float (usually in the middle or on the top) is placed towards the
measuring head: in order to reduce or cancel (Fig. 3) the dead length (A) of the probe
end.
The top of the float closer to the magnet is marked by a coloured dot.
•When the float is used in the liquid, it must remain upright in order to reduce probe
contact friction and avoid possible measuring errors resulting from different positions
that may be taken up, with respect to the measuring probe.
6.2. BALLAST
For measurement (Fig. 3) of two liquids with different specific gravities, in a tank with two
floats, be sure that the float has been “sunk”.
Drill a tiny hole (1÷1,2 mm max). Introduce as much lead or heavy liquid that is required. Then
weld the hole close.
7. TRANSDUCER INSTALLATION
NOTE 1): Radial movements of the probe with respect to the cursor or vice versa, due to
vibration, shocks or not good axiality of the probe, do not have a great effect on
measuring.
NOTE 2): The PCS and PCP models are supplied in two versions: in one version the parts
which come into contact with liquid are made of stainless steel and welded to one another
(suffix: – S) and in the other version these parts are made of aluminium and glued to one
another (suffix: - A).
In the aluminium version (-A), great attention must be taken to prevent vibration, shocks or
overpressure that could damage the transducer.
7.1. MOD. PCS (S = Standard)
The measuring probe is fitted with a threaded union.
The thread is: M 18 x 1,5. The thread on the fixed side ( on the base of the hydraulic
actuator, on the tank) can have cylindrical or conical sealing.
The sealing must be effected with an O-Ring inserted in the union or in the fixed part.
When the probe is very long (more than one metre), It is advisable to take special
constructive provisions to prevent undesired excessive probe wavering (more than 1-2
mm) or swinging due to vibration and shocks.
It is to be considered the possibility of using a magnetic cursor with a radial slotting system
(Mod. ARR-2E) through which It can pass the probe anchorage.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
12
7.2. MOD. PCP (P = flanged well )
The probe (well) and the threaded union connected to it are previously installed in the
hydraulic cylinder or in the tank so that there is no need to disassemble them should the
transducer need servicing.
The waveguide (together with the measuring head) is inserted in the well and the head is
clamped to the hexagonal flange of the well union.
Assembly of PCP model is similar to PCS model (section. 7.1).
IMPORTANT: the waveguide must be always kept straight and any bending on the axis
exceeding 10 mm per metre will irreversibly damage the wave guide. This kind of damage
can be easily found out by DS Europe and is not covered by the warranty.
NOTE: during installation or removal of a transducer equipped with threaded union (PCS,
PCP, PCM), use only the hexagon for clamping.
NO CLAMPING TORQUE MUST BE APPLIED TO THE CASE CONTAINING THE
ELECTRONICS. USE THE HEXAGON.
7.3. MOD. PCR (with slide)
The transducer is supplied with two fixing bases with plastically insulated suspensions.
Remember to ground measuring head pin.
8. PRESSURE ACTION ON THE MEASURING PROBE
The outside pressure has a radial direction on the external wall of the probe itself and axial
on the tip of the probe (A) (fig. 3).
Radial action tends to reduce (= press) the circular walls of the probe but has no significant
effect on the measurement.
The axial action of the pressure on the tip of the measuring probe (A) tends to reduce its
length. This is also generally negligible.
9. ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS.
9.1. POWER SUPPLY
Serie PC electronics is equipped with built-in voltage regulators that allow transducers to
receive a power supply of 24 VDC, ±15%.
To guarantee correct operation, the supply voltage must be stabilised and filtered at 24
VDC.
Calibration and testing are done in the factory at 24 VDC.
Interconnecting cables must be of size that can support currents at least of 0,8 A.
To reduce external electrical interference, the power supply must satisfy EC standards and
thence be contained within a metal casing with also shielded and grounded supply cables.
Warm-up: after turning on the transducer, it is advisable to wait a few seconds before
starting any measure or calibration. This gives the built-in electronics time to warm up and
to reach the correct operational temperature. The warm-up time, common to all the
electronic equipment, depends on the context of the transducer application.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
13
9.2. ABSORBED CURRENT
The absorbed current is about 70 mA (typical), with two cursors, analog output of 0÷10 V
and active serial connection.
With the two current analog outputs, the absorbed current is about 110 mA.
In the version used for level measuring “L”, the absorbed current is about 30 mA.
9.3. SAMPLING FREQUENCY
The maximum sampling frequency is 1 kHz for transducers with strokes of up to 350 mm.
The sampling frequency is strictly related to:
•Transducer stroke.
•Number of cursors used: if a cursor gives the availability of a sampling frequency
equivalent to 1 kHz, when using two cursors, each cursor will be sampled at a
frequency equivalent to 500 Hz.
•Analog output for cursor velocity.
Version for level measurements “L” have a 7Hz sampling frequency.
To calculate the possible sampling frequencies consult Table 1.
TRANSDUCER STROKES SAMPLING FREQUENCY
Up to 350 mm 1 KHz
from 350 to 1500 mm 500 Hz
from 1500 to 3000 mm 250 Hz
Table 1: maximum sampling frequency with respect to length.
Whenever a remote computer should request, by means of RS 485 connection (57.600
baud), the Cursor 0 position measurement, will have:
Request from remote computer:
@ 0 R 0 <CR>, for a total of 5 characters transmitted
Transducer reply:
0 R 0 1 2 0 5 0 0 <CR>, for a total of 10 characters transmitted
A program that continually questions the transducer, will generate (between questions and
replies) a traffic of 15 characters. To transmit one character we need: 1 start bit, 8 data bits
and 1 stop bit, thus a total of 10 bits per character.
So, considering requests and replies the total required bits amount to 150.
At transmission velocity of 57.600 bit/second, we obtain:
57.600 bit/ second
------------------------------ = 384 measurements/second (maximum)
150 bit
The computer may request two cursors to be measured. In this case the maximum number
of measurement obtainable per second will be halved. Remember that these performance
rates strictly depend on the computer (operating system and hardware) and the program
structure used to interrogate the transducer.
For additional informations about serial communications protocol refer to Chapter 13.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
14
9.4. RESOLUTION
The transducer is digitally measuring the cursor position: It practically divides the
measured lenght into many “steps”.
Every internal step correspond to a real lenght of 0,046mm: the transducer is practically
measuring by doing a “step” counting.
For the internal measured “step” corresponds to 0.046 mm, it cannot measure
displacement variations smaller than 0.046 mm and for this reason it is the measuring
error that the transducer can commit when measuring the cursor position.
Dividing the measuring length, expressed in mm, by 0.046 and keeping only the whole part
of the result we can get a good approximation of the length value expressed in the
measuring unit inside the transducer.
The analog output has a 16 bit resolution. This means that theoretically it can divide its
output interval (0-10V, 4-20mA) by 65535 points, corresponding, for example, to a ∆V
minimum of 152 µV; effectively the real minimum variation (∆V or ∆A) of the analog output
is depending on the distance between the zero point (calibrated with TxZ control, for the
cursor “x”) and the full scale point (calibrated with TxF control) expressed in the measuring
unit inside the transducer, for this value is the number of distinct points that the transducer
can resolve between two positions.
If the transducer was to have a measuring field equivalent to 1000 mm and voltage output
of 0-10V, we would have:
Example 1: Suppose that we calibrate, with reference to the PCS hexagonal head, the
zero position at 0 mm and the full scale at 1000 mm.
∆Vmin = 10V/((1000-0)/0.046) = 0.00046 V
Example 2: Suppose that we calibrate, with reference to the PCS hexagonal head, the
zero position at 25 mm and the full scale at 90 mm.
∆Vmin = 10V/((90-25)/0.046) = 0.007077 V
It means that, the shorter the distance between the zero point and the full scale point, the
greater the analog output ∆Vmin corresponding to a cursor displacement of 0.046 mm.
In the version for measuring level “L”, the measurement has a resolution of ± 0,15 mm.
9.5. NUMBER OF CURSORS
The transducers have a self-detecting function to detect the number of cursors applied to
the measuring probe ( one or two ).
As soon as the transducer is turned on, it detects how many magnets are present on the
probe and automatically sets the analog outputs enabled by the user during the
personalisation procedure.
FS1= 1000 mm FS2= 90 mm Zero2=
25 mm
Zero1=
0 mm

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
15
It is possible to program the transducer to work with both cursors and use one or the other
as needs be.
In case where, during operating, one or two of the cursors are not present on the
measuring probe wee see that:
•analog outputs: the output value goes up to a fixed value of 10 Vcc, until the cursor
magnet is inserted.
•serial output: the absence of the cursors is signalled by the number 9999999 until the
cursor is reinserted in the probe.
The minimum distance between the two cursors, in order not to interfere one with
the other is 52 mm.
Smaller distances can generate interference between magnetic fields and there is even
the possibility to have errors or even to lose the detection of one of the cursors.
9.6. ANALOG OUTPUTS
The analog outputs available in the series PC are maximum two as follows:
•From 0 to + 10 V.
•From 0 to + 5 V
•From 4 to 20 mA.
•From 0 to 20 mA.
It is possible to match to one analog output the cursor displacement (straight or reversed)
or the velocity (OPTION) measures. For various possible configurations see Table 3.
For analog outputs a voltage of 0.00Vcc is not obtainable as the transducer is supplied
with only positive voltage. The minimum voltage is about 50 mV (typical). These values
can be reduced by using the mass dedicated to it as a reference for the analog signal
(yellow wire or 5 pin, refer to chapter 10).
IMPORTANT NOTE: the outputs can only be positive and must be used paired: they can
be either voltage or current, but not mixed; it is not possible to match a current output with
a voltage one.
Number of
cursors
Output: A/D1 Output: A/D 2
1 One displacement -
1 One displacement One velocity
2 One displacement One displacement
2 One velocity One velocity
Table 3: possible analog output configurations
The direction of the cursor displacement signal detected in voltage or in current can be
modified by the User by means of RS485 throught external computer (recommended). In
the case of a voltage output of 0÷10 V It is possible to match the 10 V signal at full scale.
This setting of 0÷10 V can be inverted to 10÷0 V ( It is possible also to do the
personalisation for the current outputs).
For direction settings (if not specified in the order) see chapter 13.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
16
9.7. RS-485 DIGITAL OUTPUT
RS-485 has a maximum resolution of 0,046 mm.
The transducer (slave) consents calibration and total management/configuration of its
functions by remote unit (master).
The RS-485 serial connection allows the possibility to parallel connect up to 32
transducers at the same time. The cable can have a maximum length of 1000 metres
(using 24 AWG twisted cable in accordance to EIA 485 Standard), if mounted with a good
immunity against interference. In practice the defined standard reference limits are to be
considered indicative and the results are depending on the application conditions.
Whenever particularly long signal lines are used there may be signal dampening, which
can be resolved by applying signal repeaters generally found on the commercial market.
Using this (RS 485) connection it is possible to program the outputs in the desired
modality, even during transducer working.
The transmission velocity is fixed at 57600 baud and the serial communications port must
be set in the following way:
•Data bit = 8
•Parity = None
•Stop bit stop = 1
•Flow control = None
Should transducers with RS 485 multi-drop output be connected to a computer not
equipped with suitable interface, but RS 232 serial port (like a computer notebook), it is
possible to interpose converters that pass from the RS232 to the RS485, remembering
that they must support the conversion in transparent way with full RS485 protocol
management.
On today’s market we have passive and intelligent converters. The passive ones, however
are ill-advised as they only provide relative signal level adaptation to two protocols,
whereas the intelligent converters (recommended type) also provide the data flow direction
recognition and self-adapting serial transmission velocity.
For any further details relative to RS485 connection, (specifications and requirement) not
specifically dealt with here, refer to EIA 485 standard.
9.8. CURSOR VELOCITY (for displcement measurements)
In the chart, we correlate the transducer measuring field (=FS) with maximum cursor
translation velocity in relationship to the resolution chosen for the measurement (Step)
In the figure, Y-axis refers to the maximum translation velocity while the measuring field of
transducers (=FS) is represented on the X-axis. The graph scale is logarithmic and the
reference point values reported (Y axis) on the table are expressed in metres per second
(m/sec).
The resolution values refer to a measuring step, where a Step is considered to be the
number of mm required to sample the translation velocity of the cursor having a significant
measurement in relationship with the sampling frequency used for phenomena acquisition.
For example: a transducer with FS=350 mm in the case where cursor moves at a velocity
of 1 m/sec, the significant measuring step is 1mm. If however the displacement value were
0,05 m/sec, we would have a corresponding significant measuring step of 0,05 mm.
When FS= 350 mm there is a corresponding sampling frequency = 1000 samples / sec.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
17
If cursor velocity is = 50 mm / sec.
50 mm / sec
Step =----------------------------- = 0,05 mm / samples
1000 samples/ sec
The overmentioned resolutions depend also on the sampling rate and A/D converter
capability of the electronics that is getting the transducer signal.
10. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
In this chapter you are given information about electrical connections of series PC
transducers.
It has been listed into: power supply, analog output and serial output.
Before feeding transducer check that the connections have been done according to
following instructions:
In the case of interconnections longer than 5 meters, use conductors with diameters
greater than 1 mm. In any case. It is to use only 100% shielded cables.
In the following text, the indications refer to the cable leads (option C, output with cable); in
brackets (…) we have indications about connector pins (option P, connector output).
Example: WHITE (PIN3) means: WHITE output with cable, while (PIN3) refers to output
with connector.
Relationship between cursor translation velocity and FS, for significant measuring step
0,01
0,1
1
10
Step
V
elo
city
m/s
0,05 mm 0,01250,0250,05
0,1 mm 0,0250,050,1
1 mm 0,250,51
2 mm 0,512
5 mm 1,252,55
10 mm 2,5510
FS from 1500 to 3000 mmFS from 350 to 1500 mm
Fs up to 350 mm

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
18
Incorrect connections can be easily found out by DS Europe and can cause serious
damage to the transducer. The warranty does not cover this kind of damage.
10.1. CABLE OUTPUT
Table 1 indicate the color codes of conductors for the output cable.
CONDUCTOR COLOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
RED + POWER SUPPLY
BLACK - POWER SUPPLY
WHITE + ANALOG OUTPUT 1 (A/D1)
GREEN + ANALOG OUTPUT 2 (A/D2)
YELLOW - ANALOG OUTPUT
BLUE DATA – (RS-485)
BROWN DATA + (RS-485)
Table 1: Connection to transducer cable output
10.2. CONNECTOR OUTPUT
Table 2 indicates the code for contacts (= PIN) of output connector.
CONTACT (= PIN)
OF CONNECTOR
ELECTRIC CONNECTION
1 + POWER SUPPLY
2 - POWER SUPPLY
3 + ANALOG OUTPUT 1 (A/D1)
4 + ANALOG OUTPUT 2 (A/D2)
5 - ANALOG OUTPUT
6 DATA– (RS-485)
7 DATA + (RS-485)
Table 2: Connection to transducer connector
10.3. POWER SUPPLY CONNECTION
Figure 6 shows how to connect the transducer to a stabilized and filtered power supply,
which is to supply a voltage of 24 VDC and a current of at least 100 mA (better to choose
power supply with 0,5 A min. current considering the operating pulse rate of the transducer
).
When choosing power supply it is advisable to use linear power supply rather than
switching type, which, if not of the best quality, has a great high frequency ripple which can
noise the output or make It unstable.
Connect the RED wire ( PIN1 ) to the positive terminal ( + ) of power supply and the
BLACK wire ( PIN2 ) to the negative terminal ( - ).
WARNING : The common of the power supply ( “ - “ power supply ) must be grounded in
order to avoid damages due to mains fluctuations.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
19
If several transducers are connected to the same power supply, make sure that the power
supply can distribute sufficient current.
figure 6:Connection to input for all PC series.
The transducer is protected against input polarity inversion and against the overvoltages
within the limits fixed by the manufacturer of electronic components, in particular:
•If the RED wire and BLACK wire connections are inverted, there will be no current
drawn because the protection diode will stop It.
•Series PC has an overvoltages protection system.
For voltages above 30 Vcc this diode comes into action and short circuits the power
supply, thus protecting the transducer from voltage pulses from drives (motors, remote
controls etc). The maximum duration of overvoltage must never exceed 1 msec
because after this period the component will be damaged in an irreversible manner and
will need to be factory replaced.
10.4. CONNECTION OF 0÷10 V ANALOG VOLTAGE OUTPUT
To connect 0÷10 V analog voltage output, connect the YELLOW wire (PIN5) to the
negative input of the multi-meter, or the data acquisition card (GND) and the WHITE wire
(PIN3) to the positive.

Series PC Manual V 1.0 - Rev. 3 – 03/01/01 DS Europe
20
figure 7: Connection for analog voltage output
Note that for the analog signal negative, a separate YELLOW wire is used (PIN5) and not
the BLACK input negative (PIN2); this provision allows us to separate feedback signal
from the input and improve signal stability.
10.5. CONNECTION OF TWO VOLTAGE ANALOG OUTPUTS: 0÷10V
Connect the YELLOW wire (PIN5) to the negative of the multi-meteres or data acquisition
card. Connect the WHITE wire (PIN3) to the positive of the first multi-meter and the
GREEN wire (PIN4) to the positive of the second multi-meter.
figure 8: Electrical connection for two analog
voltage outputs.