Wondering if anyone knows how to build the cable that powers the phototach from a CSI analyzer or 408 battery pack? I can buy all the pieces parts for about $100.00 but not sure how to put it all together (I'm electrically handicapped). Can't beleive CSI wants over $750.00 for something they pay $100.00 for. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Grono,
We had a boss that thought the same thing. He could do it a lot cheaper and he was an electrical engineer. After 3 months he finally gave up. It may be possible..and I agree with you..they charge way too much. We have a pile of parts here is you're interested in some cheap phototach equipment. It may be possible..and I'll be interested in watching replys and see if anyone can give you an answer. JimB

Monarch makes a laser tach with a ttl output for about $200. I think the part# is PT99. Works great with our CSI equipment.

Sean

I also use the Manarch with my CSI equipment. The PLT200 with the ROS-P photo sensor works better in my opinion then the CSI tach. (no unstable) Takes 2 AA batteries (which I have not yet had to replace). You will need to buy the cable from CSI if your using the 2130. This converts BNC to whatever that funny one is on the 2130. You can make the cable that converts BNC to mono earphone jack. CSI also has a tech note on how to measure output voltage to set up the tach. I think I spent $300.00 total.

Have you talked to your CTC rep? I'm not trying to push anybody's product and you may have another vendor with equal services, but I have talked with them in the past about cables and adapters that aren't in their catalog. They also make the BNC-to-Eurofast cable that Frotopulper mentioned.

They may or may not be able to help, but it won't cost anything to talk to them and find out.

David Eason

I will this answer this tomorrow when I have the documentation on hand.

Grono,

I have been using the Monarch optical sensors for over 20 years with CSI analyzers. They perform very well and have resonable prices. Take Froto's recommendation and get one.

Walt

If you really want to make your own take note of this info:
CSi Tach is a Banner Mini-Beam. Banner is the Maker.
Model: SM312LVMHS
Mode: Non-Polarized Retroflective
High Speed
Response: 300 microsec
Range: up to 3 feet
Wiring: 1 - White Sink 150mA
2 - Blue DC Common
3 - Black Source 150mA
4 - Brown +10-to-30Vdc (Not used)
You can find this at www.newarkinone.ca under Photoelectric sensors. The price is CD$118 for SM312LV.
Check whether it comes with connector for 408. You can specify other SM312LV for higher range but off course the response would be slower. You may also consider and I think the one you are doing right now is selecting a sensor that would much for 408 Battery pack/signal conditioner. Consider as well the one recommended by Froto and Bill as they have long experience with Monarch and I remember Bill is saying "go for Monarch to make our life easier".

We use the monarch laser tach also and I have a question for those who are familiar with it. Is there any way to make the tach trigger off of a specific frequency from the CSI analyzer. We use to have a CSI strobe and you could mark a specific frequency and the strobe would fire at that frequency. We have been unable to make the monarch do this.

Thanks,
Ronnie