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BFS 30M Color Sensor Application Program
BFS 30M Color Sensor Application Program provides a comprehensive approach to sensor set-up, file
management, and real-time sample analysis. The BFS 30M Color Sensor Application Program provides
a familiar Windows™ environment creating an intuitive user interface. All essential sensor information
is presented in one window including, sensor settings, color recognition channel data and real-time
display of color data. Features such as drop and check boxes make selections and settings easy to
change. After completing the installation procedure, double click the BFS 30M Color Sensor icon to
open the application. During initialization, the application software interrogates the BFS 30M Color
Sensor to determine the serial number of the sensor and the specific sensor model. After reading the
sensor model number, the application will reconfigure to the appropriate model by changing the number
of channels indicated in the Recognized Colors section. Also, the general sensor settings and
programmed colors, if any, are read.
Once a sensor is set-up and programmed to recognize various colors, the sensor operates as a stand-
alone device. It is not necessary to maintain a connection to the PC for normal operation.
The display window is segmented into four frames: Sensor Settings, Sensor Communications, Color
Recognition Channels, and Current Reading. Each will be described in detail in the following sections.
Sensor Settings
Sensor settings are parameters that apply to operation of the sensor. When a sensor is connected to the
PC the application program reads these parameters and updates the display. When changes are made to
these settings, the new settings
must
be downloaded to the sensor by selecting the Send BFS 30M Color
Sensor Settings button.
Averaging
Selections: 1,2,4,8,16,32,64
Default = 1
The Averaging drop box allows the user to select the number of measurements that are averaged to
obtain a reading that is checked for a match to programmed channels. The higher the number of
measurements that are averaged, the lower the variation in the reading allowing detection of subtle
differences in color. The lower the number of measurements that are averaged, the faster a match can be
detected. Ideally, the more averaging that can be accommodated within the speed constraints of the
application, the more accurate and reliable the detection of recognized colors.
Triggering
Selections: Free Run, Level, Edge
Default = Free Run
The triggering options include Free Run, Level and Edge. In general applications, Free Run is the most
common. In Free Run mode, the sensor is measuring continuously, updating the discrete outputs
whenever the target meets a programmed color criteria.
Level and Edge triggering require the use of the External Trigger input on the sensor I/O connector.
Applying a voltage, 12-30VDC, not exceeding the sensor supply voltage, activates the External Trigger
input. When Level is selected, and the External Trigger input is active, the sensor will
continuously
