
THUNDERBIRD INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
P.O. Box 360, Emigrant, MT 59027-0360
406-333-4967 ∙ FAX 406-333-4259
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
XP2 Series, Conduit Style
Active Speed Sensors 85047X
Engineering Approval: Date: 03-18-2019 Revision: 1
PROPRIETARY, COPYRIGHTED INFORMATION DO NOT DUPLICATE OR DISTRIBUTE TO THIRD PARITES UNLESS AUTHORIZED BY SPECTEC
Approval agency controlled document. Do not alter without authorization. Page 3 of 3
Sensor Type Notes
DIGISPEC Hall Effect Sensor
H Type Magnet Actuated
This zero speed sensor is triggered by a magnet or a magnetic
field and offers sensing over larger air gaps. This Sensor Type is
typically used on gear meters or magnet wheels. Dual and
directional output options are also available. It is available in the
following types:
Ho - Omnipolar (north or south pole activation)
Hs - South pole only activation
Hn - North pole only activation
H - Bipolar Latch (requires alternating north and south poles)
HF Type Gear Actuated
This zero speed sensor is triggered by a ferrous metal target (bolt,
keyway, or typically a gear tooth). The HF Sensor Type is usually
used in motor RPM and camshaft timing. Dual and directional
output options are also available. An HFd Type differential sensor
(for high vibration environments) is also available as an option.
DIGISPEC Magnetic VRS Sensor
This Sensor Type also requires a ferrous metal target. A smaller air
gap and a minimum surface speed are required to operate
properly. It is usually used on flowmeters because it can detect
more precisely and with lower magnetic drag than HF Type
sensors.
DIGISPEC RF Sensor
This Sensor Type operates on the Eddy Current principle and
interacts with a ferrous or aluminum target without imposing a
magnetic drag. SPECTEC's RF sensors are specifically designed for
precision Turbine Flowmeters where no magnetic drag can be
tolerated. They are also used for high pressure applications with
the ability to sense through a non-magnetic stainless steel wall.
They also function close to zero speed, but are typically limited to
5kHz maximum frequency.
See the XP2 Bulletin for details on the supply voltage range,
frequency range, and maximum Air Gap for each Sensor Type.
Operation and Usage
Operation
1. Verify that the sensor is properly mounted and all electrical
connections are made (including earthing).
2. Switch on the DC supply voltage and allow the Target to
move. The sensor should now produce an output signal.
3. If a signal is not produced, verify that the Target is moving
faster than the minimum detectable frequency of the Sensor
Type. If a signal is still not produced, follow the steps in the
Adjustment process detailed below.
4. The output signal will switch state when a target enters or
leaves the detection area. For the NPN output options, the
signal will be High (5V, 10V, or the supply voltage) without a
target in the detection area. The output will switch Low when
a target enters the detection area. For the PNP output option,
the output will be inverted from the above.
5. Directional Hall Effect sensors will output a High signal on the
Direction Output when the target is rotating in the Forward
direction. If the correct signal is not produced, follow the
Directional Alignment process detailed below.
Adjustment
1. Stop the rotation or movement of the Target.
2. Loosen the jam nut or other locking device.
3. Decrease the Air Gap by .005 - .010" (0.12 - 0.25mm). Be sure
to account for any eccentricity in the rotation and movement
of the Target. Otherwise the sensor may be damaged.
4. Re-tighten the jam nut or locking device and check again for
an output signal.
Directional Alignment (only applicable to some Sensor Types)
1. The Target should approach the Directional Mark when
moving in the forward direction. However, with smaller targets
the alignment may need adjusted.
2. Loosen the jam nut or other locking device.
3. Rotate the Directional Mark of the sensor slightly away from
the approaching Target until the signal has the correct 90°
electrical phasing (easily viewed on an oscilloscope).
4. Re-tighten the jam nut or locking device and check again for
an output signal.
Removal
Removing or Uninstalling the sensor is the reverse of the Installation
Procedure.
WARNING: Before separating connections, the target must be
stopped and the sensor should be de-energized.
Service and Repair
The sensor cannot be serviced or repaired in the field. Please
contact sales to purchase a replacement.
WARNING: Do not remove plugs, fittings, cable glands, or blanking
elements installed by the manufacturer.
JE
Approved May 9th, 2019