# How do I select the right sensor size for center guiding?

> Calculate the sensor field of view needed: (1) Find total width change (max width - min width), (2) Divide by 2 (change per side), (3) Add wander delta (typically ±10-25mm safety margin), (4) Select the next larger sensor. For example, if running webs from 400-500mm with ±15mm wander: Total chang...

**Last updated:** 2026-01-31

**Source:** https://live-roll2roll.pantheonsite.io/resources/faq/how-do-i-select-right-sensor-size-center-guiding

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## Question

How do I select the right sensor size for center guiding?

## Short Answer

Calculate: (max width - min width) ÷ 2 + wander margin. Select next larger sensor size.

## Detailed Answer

Calculate the sensor field of view needed: (1) Find total width change (max width - min width), (2) Divide by 2 (change per side), (3) Add wander delta (typically ±10-25mm safety margin), (4) Select the next larger sensor. For example, if running webs from 400-500mm with ±15mm wander: Total change = 100mm ÷ 2 = 50mm per side, plus 15mm wander = 65mm needed. Choose the [ODC 96](https://r2r.tech/products/sensors/odc-96) (96mm window) as the [ODC 48](https://r2r.tech/products/sensors/odc-48) would be too small.

**Category:** Technical

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## About Roll-2-Roll Technologies

Roll-2-Roll Technologies designs and manufactures patented fiber-optic web position sensors and advanced web guiding controllers — the precision measurement and control core of modern roll-to-roll manufacturing. Spun out of Oklahoma State University's Web Handling Research Center and trusted by Fortune 500 medical, battery, and nonwovens manufacturers, our patented sensors work without recalibration at ±0.1mm accuracy up to 760 mpm — typical customer outcomes are 50%+ less downtime and payback under six months. Headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, our team of PhDs, controls engineers, and industry veterans extends the sensor + controller core into complete web guide systems including stepper-motor-based linear actuators (RLA, BLA, LHS).

- Website: https://r2r.tech
- Phone: +1 (888) 290-3215
- Email: sales@r2r.tech