Re: OT, Laser Distance Sensor

[Tim McDonough <tim@mcdonough.net>]

L. V. Lammert wrote:
> I know there are some instrument folks here, .. has anyone seen a small
> laser distance measuring unit (range 3m, ~1mm accuracy)? I found one that
> is a very good fit:
> 
> http://www.ifmefector.com/ifmus/web/pmd_4.htm
> 
> BUT the output is analog only!! (4-20ma); I need digital data to log.

It is fairly typical for many sensor types to have a current loop 
output as you describe or a volatge output where the signal varies 
from 0-5 or 0-10 Volts DC relative to the condition being sensed.

What is your application and is it for a short term experiment or a 
permanent situation?

There are electronic test meters available that have serial, RS-232 
level outputs that send strings of text corresponding to the measured 
value whether it be voltage, current, or resistance. You probably 
would want to go this route for a permanent system but if your just 
testing something for a few hours or days it would be a quick fix.

-- 
Tim

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