0
$\begingroup$

I am looking for the proper piece of hardware to do what I'm looking for on my current prototype machine build.

I want a timer to begin counting upwards in seconds when a switch is activated, and reset back to zero when the switch is deactivated.

I know I can probably make some kind of Arduino based set up for this, and I know for a fact how to do this with a PLC/HMI, but I am having a hard time finding a cost effective, easily solution for this as its only a prototype at this stage. Everything I search keeps pointing me towards what looks like timer relays, but I'm not sure if that's what I need. I don't need to throw any outputs at any set points, basically just a cycle time readout for the operator.

EDIT: I suppose I could also use a 1 second pulse generator wired to the input on a basic counter, but lets see if we can find the right stuff..

Thanks!

$\endgroup$
3
  • $\begingroup$ Supply voltage, maximum elapsed time, resolution, ...? I presume you won't consider a water clock with a scale on a float and a pair of solenoid valves to fill at a controlled rate and drain it rapidly? $\endgroup$
    – Transistor
    Jun 7, 2021 at 14:37
  • $\begingroup$ 120vac or 24vdc, max time would be 999 seconds, resolution should be seconds. Water clock sounds awesome, but a little to involved for this prototype. $\endgroup$
    – Corey
    Jun 7, 2021 at 14:39
  • 2
    $\begingroup$ Look for "resettable timer" or this image search. $\endgroup$
    – Transistor
    Jun 7, 2021 at 14:46

1 Answer 1

2
$\begingroup$

Omron makes a wide variety of industrial timer modules which can count down a preset number of tenths of a second all the way to hundreds of hours and then close or open a set of switch contacts and reset themselves. A new one from one of the on-line industrial supply houses might cost about 150 dollars new, or 20 to 40 dollars for a used one at an industrial surplus house.

They can be configured to actuate a switch when power is first applied, count down for a preprogrammed time, and then reverse the switch action when the internal clock counts down to zero.

They contain multiple sets of switch contacts and can be connected up to perform a number of useful tasks, and it sounds like one of these would be what you want.

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.