Two-Channel Confocal Controllers for High Precision

[Cengiz Özemli]

## Two-Channel Confocal Controllers for High Precision

Micro-Epsilon has expanded precision measurement capabilities in industrial production by introducing the IFC2412 and IFC2417 two-channel controllers and the Ethernet-enabled IFD2410 and IFD2415 systems in the field of high-resolution confocal chromatic measurement.

### Thickness and Layer Analysis with Two-Channel Controllers

The new IFC2412 and IFC2417 controllers are two-channel versions of the IFC2411 and IFC2416 models. With integrated calculation functions, double-sided thickness measurements can be performed via a single controller, thereby reducing hardware requirements in in-line production systems. This feature is particularly ideal for semiconductor manufacturing, battery cell production, and optical inspection applications.

The IFC2412 offers an adjustable measurement rate of 8 kHz and a resolution down to 2 nm. The IFC2417, on the other hand, increases the measurement rate to 25 kHz and is suitable for multi-peak measurements of up to five layers, enabling the detection and analysis of multi-layer materials such as transparent coatings or laminated structures.

Both controllers ensure stable measurements on reflective or optically challenging surfaces through active exposure control of the CCD array. They feature an IP40-rated aluminum housing and are suitable for DIN rail mounting in control cabinets, which facilitates their integration into OEM platforms and series production environments.

### Ethernet-Enabled Integrated Sensor Systems

Micro-Epsilon has also added Ethernet connectivity to its IFD2410 and IFD2415 confocal sensor systems. These compact all-in-one systems combine the controller and sensor in a single unit, allowing for easy installation in confined spaces without the need for fiber optics.

The Ethernet interface enables direct transfer of measurement data with 32-bit resolution, providing high-precision digital signal processing support in automated production lines. It also supports common industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP, simplifying integration into existing automation infrastructures.

Thanks to the MEDAQLib software and driver library, users can integrate the sensors into their own software environments for parameter setting, data acquisition, and synchronization with higher-level machine control systems.

### Industrial Measurement Applications

Confocal chromatic measurement is widely used for non-contact distance and thickness measurements of transparent, reflective, and multi-layer materials. It offers high-speed in-line inspection capabilities without requiring mechanical contact. The IFC2417 model's sampling rates of up to 25 kHz provide advantages in dynamic processes such as roll-to-roll coating or semiconductor wafer processing.

The expanded product range, offering nanometer-level resolution, multi-layer measurement, and standard industrial interfaces, addresses the need for precise optical metrology in automated production lines and digital quality control systems.