1D Laser Displacement Sensors

Achieve high-precision, non-contact measurement with our Laser Displacement Sensors -ideal for production lines, component inspection, and quality control. Powered by advanced CMOS technology and auto-gain circuitry, they deliver accurate results on any surface, including dark, shiny, or transparent materials.

With plug-and-play USB or RS-485 connectivity, built-in software, and no external controller required, setup is fast and simple. The Microtrak™ 3 and 4 series laser displacement sensors offer tailored solutions for diffuse and specular surfaces, capturing up to 40,000 samples per second. A full SDK supports LabVIEW, .NET, and DLL for seamless integration.

MICROTRAK 4: 1D Laser Displacement Sensor

The Microtrak™ 4 is the ultimate laser displacement sensor for measuring height, thickness, displacement, vibration, and more, with a sensor frame rate of 40k Samples/sec. and linearity of 0.03% FSO (Full Scale Output) accuracy and repeatability are assured

Microtrak 3 Laser Displacement Sensor

MICROTRAK 3: 1D Laser Displacement Sensor

High resolution, high speed laser displacement sensor (non-contact linear displacement sensor) utilizes the latest CMOS sensor technology that challenges even the most difficult measurement applications. The Microtrak™ 3 is an essential measurement tool for process automation, quality control and tool automation control, for applications such as, thickness measurement, dimensional displacement, part profiling, vibrations testing, build-up measurement, and much more.

Key Features & Benefits:

  • Ultra-Fast Sampling: Capture changes in displacement with speeds up to 40kHz.
  • High Precision: Achieve sub-micron resolution on a wide range of materials.
  • Surface-Independent: Auto-gain adjusts to matte, shiny, or transparent surfaces.
  • No Controller Needed: Built-in indicators and software for quick deployment.
  • Plug-and-Play: USB-powered operation with no external power supply required.
  • Real-Time Feedback: Monitor vibration, thickness, flatness, and structural changes as they happen.
  • Robust Build: Operates reliably in industrial environments with high thermal stability and vibration resistance.
  • Versatile Output: Digital RS-485/USB outputs, with intuitive software and .CSV data export.
  • Modular Options: Available in various ranges and standoff distances for different precision needs.

Laser Displacement Measurement Principles

MTI’s laser displacement sensors operate on the triangulation principle to deliver precise, non-contact measurement of distance and position. A focused laser spot is projected onto the target surface, and the reflected light is captured by a CMOS detector array positioned at a known angle. By analyzing the location of the reflected spot on the sensor, the system calculates the exact displacement between the sensor and the object.

These 1D laser displacement sensors provide high-speed, high-resolution measurements, capable of operating at rates up to 40,000 samples per second. With advanced auto gain control, they dynamically adapt to varying surface conditions including dark, shiny, or textured materials ensuring reliable and repeatable results.

View Technology Principles Article

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FAQs

A laser displacement sensor is a high-precision, non-contact measurement tool that uses laser triangulation to determine an object’s position, displacement, or distance. It emits a laser beam onto a target surface, captures the reflected light, and calculates distance based on the reflection angle and position on the sensor’s detector.

These sensors are ideal for measuring thickness, vibration, runout, alignment, flatness, and surface profiling—critical in quality control, R&D, and high-precision manufacturing.

Yes. They can measure accurately on a wide variety of surfaces, including matte, shiny, dark, and transparent materials like polished metals, ceramics, and glass.

Yes. Specialized models are engineered to handle highly reflective or transparent materials using enhanced optics and exposure control to ensure accurate readings.

Measurement ranges vary by model, typically from a few millimeters up to 200mm, with standoff distances reaching 300mm—ideal for both close-up and extended measurements.

Depending on the model, resolution can reach as low as 38 nanometers, enabling detection of minute changes in displacement.

These sensors support high-speed data acquisition at rates up to 40,000 samples per second, making them perfect for real-time monitoring and dynamic applications.

Absolutely. Their high sampling rates and low-latency performance ensure reliable measurements even in fast-paced production environments.

No. MTI’s Microtrak™ 3 and 4 sensors include built-in position indicators and intuitive software, eliminating the need for an external controller.

Yes. Each sensor includes MTI’s Basic Software and a full SDK, supporting LabVIEW, .NET, and DLL for custom integration.

Yes. With digital (USB, RS-485) and some analog (0–10V) outputs, plus SDK compatibility, integration into new or existing systems is simple.

Yes. Data can be saved in .CSV format, making it easy to analyze and process using standard software tools.

Yes. Depending on the model, outputs include RS-485, USB, and optional analog (0–10V) for flexible connectivity.

They are widely used in semiconductor, automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical device manufacturing, and various industrial automation applications.

  • Quality Control: Measuring displacement, part profiles, and dimensional accuracy.
  • Process Monitoring: Checking web thickness, flatness, and component alignment.
  • Automotive & Aerospace: Tire tread depth, shaft run-out, assembly alignment.
  • Electronics: Detecting micro-movements in ICs and ensuring accurate lead placement.