Overview of Timers

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Timers

What is a Timer?

A timer, upon receiving an input signal, emits a signal at a predetermined time, functioning as a control device.

Settings and Indications of Timers

Example for the H3CR-A

(1) Time setting knob
(2) Time unit selector
(3) Time range selector
(4)Operating mode selector

(5) Run/Power Indicator (Green)

The Run indicator shows if time measurement is ongoing or completed. The Power indicator signifies power supply. Normally, both illuminate; during timing, they flash.

(6) Output Indicator (Orange)

Used to see the status of the output. Lit when a signal is output.

Operating Modes of Timers

The set time’s completion triggers the output method, determined by the operating mode.

On-Relay Operation 

In ON-delay operation, the Timer processes input, then outputs a signal after a specified delay. This mode is common in automated machines.

Application: Pushbutton Signals

When a pedestrian presses the pushbutton for a traffic signal, there’s a delay before the signal light changes from red to green.

OFF-delay Operation

In OFF-delay operation, the output activates simultaneously with the input, then deactivates after a set time following the input turning OFF. This term derives from the delay between input and output OFF.

Application: Car Ceiling Lights

Upon entering your car and opening the door, the ceiling light activates. It stays illuminated for a few seconds after the door is closed.

Flicker Operation 

Flicker operation involves cyclically switching the output ON and OFF at a predefined time after receiving an input.

Application: Automatic Control of Fountains

The water is repeatedly released and stopped at intervals of two minutes.

Interval Operation 

In interval operation, the output activates simultaneously with the input and deactivates after a predetermined time.

Application: Amusement Park Rides

The ride operates for five minutes when 100 yen is inserted.

Timer Starting Methods

Two starting methods exist for operating modes: Signal ON-delay activates upon input with voltage applied, while Power ON-delay triggers when voltage is supplied to the Timer power source.

Differences between Signal ON-delay Operation and Power ON-delay Operation

To achieve stable Timer operation, a brief delay after power ON is essential. Simultaneous start with power can cause initial operation time deviation.

However, signal start, where voltage is applied before Timer initiation, typically offers better accuracy, except for certain models like the H3CR, which maintain consistent precision.

(2) Terminal Arrangement

Signal start models necessitate three external inputs, leading to multiple terminals. In contrast, power supply start models, like H3CR-A8, are commonly used in automated machinery.

What Is a Time Switch?

A Time Switch is a control device that turns a load ON and OFF at the set times.

However, the majority of Time Switch models lack an input section. In cases where an input section is present, it isn’t utilized to transmit signals to the timing section but instead to manage certain Time Switch functions, like time adjustment.

Settings and Indications of Time Switches

Example for the H5F

Operating Modes of Time Switches

The operating mode determines the ON/OFF output method that is used for the set times.

Timer Operation (ON/OFF Operation)

The Time Switch regulates output based on user-defined ON and OFF times during timer operation.

Application 1: Warm-up Operation for Packing Machine

The packing machine can be warmed up before the employees come to work so that work can begin immediately.

Application 2: School Chimes

The chimes can be sounded at the start of classes, at the lunch break, and at the end of classes.

Pulse-output Operation

In pulse-output operation, the Time Switch generates a pulse with a designated time width at the configured ON time.

Forced ON/OFF Operation

Forced ON/OFF Operation is used to force the output ON or OFF by using the output ON/OFF switch regardless of the control output setting.

Override and Automatic Return Operation

You can employ the output ON/OFF switch and the Write Key for override and automatic return operation, sustaining the control output ON until the subsequent OFF time.

Partial Operation on Specified Day

You can select days on which to execute only part of the set operations.

Holiday Setting

You can designate a day in the current week as a holiday, causing the output to turn OFF despite settings. Once that day passes, regular programming resumes, and normal operation resumes on the same day in the following week.

Time Switch Starting Methods

With a Time Switch, the progression of time starts when a voltage is applied to the power supply section.

Terminal Arrangement

Example for the H5F-A/B

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