Banner engineering’s PresencePLUS P4 BCR vision sensor, which is available in the UK from Turck Banner, is able to read and grade (ie, determine the quality of) 2D and 1D bar codes, including Data Matrix ECC200 and PDF 417, as well as the numerous linear code standards. 2D codes are superior to linear codes as they carry more data within the same space. They also have built-in data correction, which allows up to 25% of the code to be damaged whilst still remaining readable.
The readability of a code depends on many factors: the distance between the code and the reader, the surface the code is applied to and the method used to apply the code. As these are often decided upon long before the method of code reading is considered, the facility of selectable lenses and lighting is critical to achieve reliability. Banner can supply a variety of lenses and lights for the P4 BCR, which allows each installation to be easily optimised.
The P4 BCR can reliably read codes printed, engraved, laser-etched and even dot-peened on virtually any surface. Remote Teach enables the sensor to be set up for various inspection tasks, without connecting to a PC or shutting down the production line, while a built-in live video output allows users to view the sensor’s inspections in real time and to view failed inspection images - also without a PC.
The P4 BCR vision sensor interfaces to machinery or factory networks through a built-in 10/100 Ethernet connection, RS-232 serial and programmable input/outputs.