Optical Sensors?

[zorlack]

My bot has two sensors, one on X and one on Y. I'm not really sure what their purpose is. They look like optical sensors, but when I jog the sensors over the bolts that they line-up with, none of the input lights on SB3 "light up". You can see the Y-axis sensor in this photo (http://flickr.com/photos/zorlack/2614201331/).

What are these two sensors? Can I use them to auto-zero the X and Y axis? And how do I configure SB3 to use them?

Thanks!

-Dave

[srwtlc]

Dave,
Looks like you have a Standard PRT.

There should be a section in the manual on "Proximity Switches". If they are wired properly, they should light up when over the targets. If not, check the wiring and also check the required air gap between them and the target bolts.

After that, check that they are set right in the software with (V)alues (I)nput switch mode. I believe that yours should have input switch #2 set as Normally Open and make sure that "Limits" are set to "On"

If you don't have a manual, look here (http://www.shopbottools.com/documentation.htm)

Yes, you can use them to auto zero. Instructions for setting this up should also be in the manual. Too long to type it all out for you.

[jerry_stanek]

do they light up when you are over the bolts. check to see if they are normally open or closed then set your inputs to that.

[zorlack]

I'm having a little trouble with them. I tested them today, but they don't seem to light up when I move them over the bolts.

Could this be a software configuration issue, or is it most likely wiring? Do I have to do anything in software to activate those inputs?

-Dave

[beacon14]

You can follow the wire from the switches all the way to the control box where they should be attached to the input switch terminals. Typically one lead will go to the +5 volt terminal, the green will go to the ground terminal, and the third lead will go to a terminal corresponding to the input switch number. The light on the control panel that matches that input switch terminal number should light up when the prox switch is over the bolt. You may have to adjust the height of the bolt to make the switch come on. About a dime's thickness between the switch and the bolt head usually does it.

A word of warning: The way the switches are mounted allows them to pivot slightly when you aren't expecting it, making them somewhat unreliable. If you try to tighten the tiny little screw that secures them you run the risk of damaging the switch so that it can give you false readings. I recommend removing the switch, scuffing up all the mating surfaces on the switch, mounting plate, and steel rail with sandpaper, then using a little epoxy when reattaching them to make sure they don't move around on you.