Description
Product Overview
Pepperl+Fuchs WCS3B-LS221 is a non-contact read head from the WCS series. It works with code rails for position tracking. This unit has an RS 485 interface and runs on 10-30V DC. Use it for linear positioning in factories and warehouses.
Key Benefits
- Non-contact design means no wear and tear
- High speed tracking up to 12.5 m/s
- Very long measuring range – up to 314.5 meters
- ±0.4 mm resolution (1,250 positions per meter)
- IP54 rated for factory floor use
- MTTFd of 236 years – very reliable
Technical Specifications
- Brand: Pepperl+Fuchs
- Model Number: WCS3B-LS221
- Series: WCS3B
- Product Type: Read Head (Non-contact positioning)
- Interface: RS 485
- Operating voltage: 10 to 30 V DC
- Power consumption: 2 VA
- Protection class: IP54
- Weight: 500 g
Order Code – Tree Structure
- WCS = Positioning system family
- 3B = Series generation
- LS = Read head type (linear sensor)
- 221 = Specific model with RS485
Measuring & Positioning Data
- Max passage speed: 12.5 m/s
- Max measuring range: 314.5 meters
- Resolution: ±0.4 mm (1,250 positions/meter)
- Horizontal tolerance to code rail: 31 mm (±15.5 mm)
- Vertical tolerance to code rail: 28 mm (±14 mm)
Electrical & Interface
- Interface type: RS 485
- Data output code: Binary code
- Protocol: 1 or 2
- Transfer rate: 62.5 kBit/s
- Address: 0 (default)
- Termination: Requires RS 485 termination resistor
LED Indicators – Quick Status Check
- Green LED: Power is on
- Yellow LED: Data communication active
- Red LED flashing: Read head is outside code rail
- Red LED solid: Internal diagnostic test failed
Environmental & Housing
- Operating temperature: 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F)
- Storage temperature: -40 to 85°C (-40 to 185°F)
- Relative humidity: 90% non-condensing
- Housing material: ABS and PC (Polycarbonate)
- Connection: 5-pin M12 x 1 connector
Reliability & Safety Data
- MTTFd: 236 years
- Mission Time (TM): 20 years
- Diagnostic Coverage (DC): 0% (basic device)
Shock & Vibration Resistance
- Shock resistance: 30 g half sine, 18 ms (DIN EN 60068-2-27)
- Vibration resistance: 5 g sine, 10-2000 Hz, 10 cycles (DIN EN 60068-2-6)
Standards & Approvals
- Emitted interference: DIN EN 61000-6-4, DIN EN 12015
- Noise immunity: DIN EN 61000-6-2, DIN EN 12016
- CSA approval: cCSAus Certified, General Purpose, Class 2 power source
- CCC approval: Not required (product ≤36 V)
Installation Guide
- Mount read head near code rail
- Keep within 31 mm horizontal and 28 mm vertical tolerance
- Use M12 5-pin connector for power and data
- Add RS 485 termination resistor at line ends
- Mounting plate is included in the box
- Avoid direct water spray – IP54 is splash-proof only
Setup & Commissioning
- Connect 10-30V DC power (Class 2 source recommended)
- Set RS 485 address (default is 0)
- Green LED confirms power
- Move read head along code rail
- Yellow LED flashes when reading data
- Red LED means alignment error
Diagnostics & Maintenance
- Red LED helps spot misalignment quickly
- No moving parts – zero mechanical wear
- No calibration needed after install
- Check M12 connector for corrosion every year
- Keep code rail clean for best accuracy
Compatibility
- Works with any RS 485 master (PLC, PC, controller)
- Use with Pepperl+Fuchs WCS code rails only
- Protocols 1 and 2 are selectable
- Compatible with most industrial automation systems
Packing List
- 1x Pepperl+Fuchs WCS3B-LS221 read head
- 1x mounting plate
- Quick start guide
- Original factory box
Warranty & Shipping
- 12-month factory warranty
- Fast delivery: FedEx, UPS, DHL
- Tracking number for all orders
Typical Applications
- Automated warehouse crane positioning
- Monorail and conveyor tracking
- Elevator and lift position control
- Packaging machine linear motion
- Assembly line pallet tracking
5 Professional FAQs
- What happens if the read head moves outside the code rail?
- The red LED flashes. Position data becomes invalid. Move back within tolerance to restore reading.
- Can I use this read head with a 24V PLC system?
- Yes. Operating voltage is 10-30V DC. 24V works perfectly.
- How long can the RS 485 cable be?
- At 62.5 kBit/s, max cable length is about 1200 meters. Use termination resistors at both ends.
- Do I need to buy the code rail separately?
- Yes. This product is read head only. Code rail and mounting hardware sold separately.
- Why is diagnostic coverage 0% on this device?
- This is a standard positioning sensor, not a safety-rated device. For safety applications, add external monitoring.
Selection Guide – Pick the Right WCS Read Head
- Step 1 – Choose interface: WCS3B-LS221 has RS485. For SSI or parallel output, pick other models.
- Step 2 – Check your speed: This unit handles up to 12.5 m/s. For faster travel, consider WCS3B-LS231.
- Step 3 – Cable length needed: RS485 works for long runs (km). For short runs under 50m, other interfaces may be simpler.
- Step 4 – Environmental protection: IP54 is splash-proof. For washdown areas, choose IP67 version.
- Pro tip: For very long measuring ranges over 100m, use high-quality RS485 cable with proper grounding to avoid signal loss.
Contact Information
Need help with RS485 wiring or integration? Talk to us on WhatsApp: +86 158 8020 0923. We reply fast.
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