Need Help!- Choice of Component for Optical Home Switch

[jaybee101]

Hi All,

Was thinking of using the Omron EE-SX672 Photo-Interrupter (Slotted Head) Proximity Switch

http://uk.rs-online.com/web/search/s...uct&R=219-2296

As a home switch for the mill I'm converting. Its a nice easy package to use and the price is reasonable.

But thought I'd ask if anyone could suggest a more accurate alternative, or a component that is better for some other reason.

I mounted one to my mill to test (a rather basic mounting...more sticky tape than engineering!) and appeared to get repeatability within a range of 0.0005" (0.015mm), which probably suggests that my tests were flawed! Will repeat them tomorrow (It was also a fairly short series)

Many Thanks for any ideas

John

[jaybee101]

To follow up my original post...

Finally had some time with this machine & did a proper test of the Optical Switch.

Using a 0.01mm graduation DTI my best estimate is that repeatability is on the good side of 0.005mm (0.0002"), so I'm a happy bunny!

Guess I don't need to look for a better switch

Couple of pictures of my temporary mounting attached in case anyone's interested.

Have a good one

John

[vtxstar]

Looks like a solution to me! Other than a Hall effect, opticals are tough to beat though you may consider some form of protection to prevent swarf or chips from providing a false positive while running.

If it works and works well, it is a good solution.

[veteq]

very nice setup you got over there, precise to!

Can you tell me some more about how the system works.

The computer (Mach) needs to get a signal of 5 volt for the home switch.

If i buy some switches like you, what more do i need.

Is it easy, since i`m a noob on that subject.
Cann you tell me some more?

Regards,

roy b.

[keebler303]

I have used these same switches before. They are easy to hook up, only three pins to wire. Power,ground and the signal to your breakout board. You do not need to hook up the "L" terminal. The datasheet will show you how to hook it up. I think you can buy switches with wire leads attached already to make it easier if you aren't into soldering.

Matt