What type of sensing principle does this sensor use?
It is a photoelectric retro-reflective sensor (reflex sensor) with a dual-lens optical design. It detects objects by receiving light returned from a reflector, and the output changes state when the beam is interrupted.
Does it require a reflector to operate?
Yes. As a retro-reflective sensor, it is designed to be used with a suitable reflector (or reflective tape) positioned opposite the sensor so the emitted light is returned to the receiver.
What is the typical sensing range and maximum sensing range?
The sensing range is specified as 0.06 m to 6 m (typical operating range), with a maximum sensing range up to 7.2 m when used with an appropriate reflector and correct alignment.
What light source and colour does it use?
It uses a PinPoint LED light source with visible red light at a wavelength of 650 nm.
What output type does it have, and what does that mean for wiring to a PLC input?
It has a PNP transistor switching output, suitable for sourcing current into a PLC input. The PLC input common is typically connected to 0 V (M), and the sensor output provides the positive signal when active.
Can the switching logic be set to light switching or dark switching?
The device supports light/dark switching behaviour. In practice, this means the output can be used to signal either when light is received (beam made) or when light is interrupted (beam broken), depending on how the output is used in the control circuit.
What is the supply voltage and current consumption?
The supply voltage range is 10 V DC to 30 V DC, and typical current consumption is 30 mA.
What are the output current limits?
The maximum output current is up to 100 mA. Note that at supply voltages above 24 V DC or at ambient temperatures above 49 °C, the allowable output current is reduced to 50 mA.
What is the response time and switching frequency?
Response time is under 500 µs, and switching frequency is up to 1,000 Hz (at a light/dark ratio of 1:1).
What connection does it use, and what is the pin assignment?
It uses an M12 4-pin male connector. Typical pin assignment is: Pin 1 (BN) = L+; Pin 3 (BU) = M (0 V); Pins 2 (WH) and 4 (BK) = switching outputs (Q).
What do the LED indicators mean?
The green LED indicates power on. The yellow LED indicates the status of received light: it is on when the object is not present (light is received from the reflector) and off when an object is present (beam is interrupted).
Is there any manual adjustment for sensitivity or teach-in?
No. This model has no manual adjustment; it is designed for straightforward setup via correct mounting and alignment to the reflector.
What are the mechanical dimensions and mounting thread?
The housing is cylindrical with an M18 x 1 mounting thread. Overall body dimensions are approximately 18 mm x 18 mm x 38.1 mm.
What is the enclosure rating and suitable environment?
It is rated IP67, which supports use in typical industrial environments where protection against dust and temporary immersion is required.
What ambient temperature range can it operate in?
Ambient operating temperature is -25 °C to +55 °C. Storage temperature range is -40 °C to +70 °C.
How far apart should multiple sensors be installed to avoid interference?
When installing multiple retro-reflective sensors in close proximity, maintain adequate spacing and consider angling sensors/reflectors slightly to reduce the chance of one sensor receiving reflected light from another. The allowable parallel operating range depends on distance and reflector size.
What is the purpose of the polarisation filter on this sensor?
The built-in polarisation filter helps the sensor distinguish the intended reflector return from direct reflections off shiny objects, improving reliability in applications with reflective surfaces.
What accessories are commonly used with this sensor?
Common accessories include compatible reflectors (for example, rectangular screw-mount styles), mounting brackets for M18 sensors, universal reflector brackets, and an M12 A-coded female sensor cable/connector to suit the 4-pin M12 male connection on the sensor.
What protective features are included in the electronics?
It includes reverse-polarity protection and output protection against overcurrent and short-circuit conditions, supporting robust operation in typical 24 V DC control panels.
What is the expected service life of the light source?
The PinPoint LED light source is specified with an average service life of approximately 100,000 hours at 25 °C.
Where is the optical axis and how does that affect installation?
The optical axis is radial (side-looking). This means the light is emitted and received from the side of the cylindrical body, which can help when mounting space is limited along the axis of the thread.