What Is a Preset Counter?
A preset counter is a counter that counts a specific number and sends out a control output when the preset number is reached. It is used to control the operation of a machine or device.
Preset counters play an important role in the automation of machines and equipment. They automatically execute the next action when a preset value is reached, eliminating the need for operator intervention.
This allows production lines and processes to run smoothly and increase productivity. The device also counts numbers to a very high degree of accuracy. It eliminates human error and mistakes and always tracks accurate numbers. It also improves the quality and consistency of work because it provides consistent control based on preset conditions and values.
Preset counters are one of the most important factors contributing to increased efficiency and productivity of industrial machinery. Therefore, they are widely used in industrial machinery and process control.
Uses for Preset Counters
Preset counters are used in a wide variety of industrial machines and processes. The following are examples of typical applications:
1. Automotive Industry
Preset counters are often used at various stages of a car manufacturing line. In the body welding process, the machine is controlled to proceed to the next process, the painting process, when a specific number of welding points are completed.
Preset counters are also used in assembly plants to control the supply of parts. When the inventory of a particular part falls below a certain number, the counter is increased and the part is automatically ordered.
2. Food Processing Industry
In food processing plants, preset counters are often used for quality control. They measure the weight and size of products and count the number of products that meet certain criteria. Once a certain number is reached, sampling or inspection is performed to verify quality.
This instrument is also widely used in packaging lines. It is controlled to count the number of products on the line and automatically perform packaging and labeling when a specific number is reached.
3. Electronics Manufacturing
In electronics manufacturing lines, preset counters are often used for inspection steps. The counter is incremented as each product passes through, and once a certain number of products have been inspected, an automatic quality check or rejection action is triggered.
Principle of Preset Counters
Preset counters are reproduced using electronic devices such as digital circuits and microprocessors. The basic principles of a typical preset counter include initialization, counting, and resetting.
A preset counter is first initialized with a specific initial value. The initial value is often a number of counts to reach a specific number. It then counts up when an input signal, such as a pulse, is detected.
Each time an input signal is detected, the count is increased and the current count value is compared to a pre-set target value. If the counter has not reached the preset target value, counting continues. When the target value is reached, a specific control command is typically issued.
After the counter has reached the target value, it may be reset if necessary. The reset initializes it again and starts a new counting cycle.
How to Select a Preset Counter
When selecting a preset counter, the following factors should be considered:
1. Number of Steps
Consider the number of steps that the preset counter will operate. The number of steps is the number of target values to be set for counting, and should be selected according to the application. Generally, most preset counters have one or two steps.
2. Voltage
Select the voltage to be used for the preset counter: for AC power supplies, most free power supplies are 100 to 240 VAC, and for DC power supplies, most products are compatible with low voltage for control, ranging from 12 to 48 VDC.
3. Output Method
With preset counters, most of them are digital outputs. Digital outputs include contact outputs and transistor outputs. The two output methods are used according to the application.
Contact output is advantageous for high-current applications or when the installation location is hot. If the number of outputs is large, select transistor outputs.
4. Terminal Structure
Select the wiring terminals for the preset counter. In most cases, selection is made between the pin system and the terminal block system. In the case of the pin method, there are 8-pin and 11-pin types.