Counters and Hour Meters

Choosing Counters and Hour Meters components

Counter and hour meter selection comes down to the input signal type, the panel cutout that constrains the form factor, and whether a reset (or preset output) is needed. The wrong input type makes a counter unable to register pulses; the wrong panel size means re-machining the cabinet.

Specs to confirm before ordering:

Function: totalizing counter, preset counter (relay output at target count), up/down counter, hour meter (elapsed time), or batch counter with reset
Input signal: dry contact, PNP/NPN solid-state, voltage pulse (24 V, 120 V), encoder quadrature, or AC line frequency (for synchronous hour meters)
Maximum count frequency — important for high-speed pulse counting
Number of display digits (4, 6, 7, 8 digits typical)
Display type: electromechanical wheel (no power needed to retain count), LCD (low power), LED (visible from distance)
Memory retention on power loss — electromechanical is inherent; electronic uses EEPROM or battery backup
Reset method: front button, external input, both, or none
Output for preset counters: NO/NC relay, transistor, or both
Panel cutout: standard DIN 48×48, 48×96, 72×72, 96×96, or specific OEM sizes
Supply voltage: 24 VDC, 120 VAC, 240 VAC, or self-powered from input signal

Common gotchas: electromechanical counters retain count without power, which is essential when the counter is on a portable or intermittently-powered machine. Electronic counters without battery backup or EEPROM lose count on power failure. Self-powered hour meters drawing from AC line use line frequency for timing — they do not work on DC or on generators with varying frequency. High-speed pulse counting (above 1–2 kHz) requires electronic counters; electromechanical units cannot keep up. Panel cutout standards exist but OEM-specific sizes do not always match standard DIN; verify dimensions before ordering.

Typical applications: production count on packaging and assembly machines, batch count with preset cutoff on filling and cutting machines, equipment runtime for preventive maintenance scheduling, and elapsed-time billing on rental equipment. On legacy machines, exact-OEM replacement preserves panel cutout and wiring.

For obsolete counters and hour meters, send the OEM part number for a sourcing quote.

Do you stock obsolete counters and hour meters?

Yes. Discontinued Trumeter electromechanical, retired Veeder-Root and ENM hour meters, end-of-life Omron H7CN, and earlier Hengstler tico are sourced through our supplier network.

Electromechanical vs. electronic — which lasts longer?

Electromechanical counters are mechanically simpler and retain count without power, but have moving parts that wear at high cycle rates. Electronic counters last indefinitely electrically but need power or EEPROM to retain count.

Will the counter work with my PLC output?

Depends on the input type. Dry-contact and solid-state inputs accept most PLC output types. Verify voltage rating (24 V vs. 120 V) and source/sink polarity for solid-state inputs.

How fast can a counter run?

Electromechanical typically up to 50 Hz. Electronic counters range from a few hundred Hz to 10 kHz or higher. Match the maximum input frequency to your pulse rate, with margin.

Do hour meters work on DC supply?

Some do — typically the digital electronic variants. Synchronous-motor hour meters drive from AC line frequency and do not work on DC. Verify before ordering.

What is the warranty?

12-month functional warranty. Wear from extended high-frequency cycling beyond the rated speed is not covered.

Counters and Hour Meters

Autonics CT4S-1P2 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT4S-1P4 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT4S-1P4T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT4S-2P2 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT4S-2P2T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT4S-2P4 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6M-1P4 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6M-1P4T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6M-2P2 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6M-2P4 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6M-2P4T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6S-1P2 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6S-1P2T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6S-1P4 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6S-1P4T Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Autonics CT6S-2P2 Programmable Digital Counter/Timers

Can't Find The Part You Need?