# Detection

ENLYZE detects downtimes automatically based on machine data. The principle: a variable that reliably indicates whether the machine is producing is continuously monitored. When its value drops below a defined threshold, a downtime is detected.

## Lead variable and threshold

The foundation of downtime detection is two configuration parameters:

* **Lead variable**: A variable that clearly indicates whether the machine is producing. Typically a speed, throughput, or cycle rate.
* **Threshold**: The limit below which a downtime is detected.

### Example

An extrusion line uses the winder speed as the lead variable. The threshold is configured at 5 m/min:

* Values **below 5 m/min**: The machine is stopped (downtime).
* Values **at or above 5 m/min**: The machine is producing.

Detection is accurate to the second and fully automatic. No manual input is required.

### Typical lead variables by machine type

| Machine type   | Typical lead variable        |
| -------------- | ---------------------------- |
| Extrusion      | Haul-off speed, winder speed |
| Printing press | Line speed                   |
| Assembly line  | Pieces per minute            |
| Packaging      | Cycle time, piece counter    |

## Minimum duration

To avoid short-term "flickering" (e.g. when speed briefly drops below the threshold and immediately rises again), a minimum duration can be configured. Only downtimes lasting longer than the minimum duration are recorded.

## Boolean variables

In addition to numerical variables, Boolean variables (True/False) can also be used as lead variables. In this case, you configure whether `True` or `False` represents a downtime.

## Advantages of automatic detection

* **Objective**: No subjective assessment by employees.
* **Gap-free**: Every downtime is captured, even at night or on weekends.
* **Second-accurate**: Precise start and end times instead of estimates.
* **Automatic**: No manual effort for basic tracking.

{% hint style="info" %}
How to configure downtime detection in the ENLYZE App is described under [Setting up OEE tracking](https://docs.enlyze.com/en/production-optimization/oee).
{% endhint %}

## Related topics

* [Categories & assignment](https://docs.enlyze.com/en/concepts/downtimes/categories-and-assignment): How detected downtimes are assigned reasons.
* [Availability](https://docs.enlyze.com/en/concepts/understanding-oee/availability): How downtimes affect OEE availability.