Sensors

Proximity, Photoelectric, and Ultrasonic

Sensors, Limit Switches, Pressure
Sensors, Machine Safety, Encoders,
RFID, and Machine Cabling
New in this Catalog…
Safety Products
Photoelectric Sensors

XUM8
XUY Integrated FGS (foreground
Conveyor Roller Sensor suppression) or BGS (background
Preventa™ XCSLE and XCSLF suppression) functionality.
Page 5/60
Unique photoelectric sensors for roller
XCSLE/F solenoid safety interlock: plastic and conveyors: plug and play, impact resistant,
metal, rotatable head, up to 6 contacts, 3 cable dust proof, and fast cost savings. Installation,
entries, back emergency release. Page 6/281 IP50 or IP65. Page 5/102

XUZASM001+ XUM XUMT

Inductive 18 mm hole mounting adapter
for XUM photoelectric sensors:
Sensing for transparent glass
or plastic objects in a miniature
snap-in accessory to create a sensor. Page 5/62
Proximity Sensors popular body style, easy
mounting. Page5/56

XUK•S XUK8 AC/DC

Stainless steel 316L, IP69K First AC/DC diffuse photoelectric
photoelectric sensors are easy sensor with adjustable background
to mount and adjust, ECOLAB suppression (BGS) and relay
approved. Page 5/80 output in a small, compact housing.
Page 5/74

XS7/8 C2/C4 XUE•AA

Cubic style inductive proximity sensors,
4 LEDs for excellent visibility, fast head Precise photoelectric
orientation for easy positioning, and 40x40 laser sensor for distance
body with a 270° movable connector for measurement applications,
designed with user friendly
easy position of right angle pre-wired
visible light spot & accurate XUVE
connector. Page 2/82, 2/102
repeatability. Page 5/100
Optical fork sensor for labeling
applications, fast integration with small
heel, very precise, one step teach for
simple set-up. Page 5/153

Rotary Encoders and

Ultrasonic Sensors
Pressure Sensors
XCC Optical Encoders
(Stainless Steel)
Incremental absolute encoders Ø58 mm,
316 stainless steel, IP69K, hygienic design,
cable output, solid shaft 10 mm. Page 9/2

XMLP
XXV18 Ultrasonic Sensors Hydraulic HVAC and general purpose pressure
transmitter with 10 pressure ranges 10 to 8700 psi.
Provide similar proximity sensing capabilities as 3 types of pressure connection: 1/4” male pressure
most inductive sensors, but deliver greater port. Electrical connection: M12 and DIN. Outputs:
sensing capabilities with respect to target color, 4–20 mA, 0–10 V, 0.5–4.5 V. Page 8/78
shape, or composition. Page 4/17
General contents 0
OsiSense™
Sensors, Limit Switches, and
Machine Cabling

1
1 Technical Information

2 Inductive proximity sensors

OsiSense XS 2

3 Capacitive proximity sensors

OsiSense XT
3
4 Ultrasonic sensors
OsiSense XX

4
5 Photoelectric sensors
OsiSense XU

6 Limit switches 5
OsiSense XC

7 Light curtains and cable pull switches

Preventa™ machine safety products 6
8 Sensors for pressure control
OsiSense XM
7
9 Rotary encoders
OsiSense XCC

10 Radio frequency identification 13.56 MHz 8

OsiSense XG

11 Machine cabling accessories

OsiSense XZ 9

12 Index
10

1
1

10
Contents 1—Technical Information

Degrees of protection provided by enclosures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 1/2

Wire size chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 1/6

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 1/7

1

1/1
 Technical Information Degrees of protection
provided by enclosures
IP code

Degrees of protection against the penetration of solid The European standard EN 60529 dated October 1991 (IEC publication 529, 2nd
bodies, the penetration of water, and the access of edition—November 1989), defines a coding system (IP code) for indicating the
personnel to live parts degree of protection provided by electrical equipment enclosures against accidental

1|
direct contact with live parts and against the ingress of solid foreign objects or water.
This standard does not apply to protection against the risk of explosion or conditions
such as humidity, corrosive gases, fungi, or vermin.
Certain equipment is designed to be mounted on an enclosure that contribute toward
achieving the required degree of protection (for example, control devices mounted
on an enclosure).
Different parts of the equipment can have different degrees of protection (for
example, an enclosure with an opening in the base).
Standard NF C 15-100 (May 1991 edition), section 512, table 51 A, provides a
cross-reference between the various degrees of protection and the classification of
environmental conditions, relating to the selection of equipment according to
external factors.
Practical guide UTE C 15-103 contains tables showing the specifications required for
electrical equipment (including minimum degrees of protection), according to the
locations in which they are installed.

IPppp code
The IP code contains 2 characteristic numerals (for example, IP55) and may include an additional letter when the actual protection of
personnel against direct contact with live parts is better than that indicated by the first numeral (for example, IP20C).
Any characteristic numeral which is unspecified is replaced by an X (e.g. IPXXB).
1st characteristic numeral: 2nd characteristic numeral: Additional letter:
corresponds to protection of the equipment against corresponds to protection of the equipment corresponds to protection of
penetration of solid objects and protection of personnel against penetration of water with harmful effects. personnel against direct contact
against direct contact with live parts. with live parts.
Protection of the equipment Protection of
personnel
0 Non-protected Non-protected 0 Non-protected A With the back of the hand.

1 Protected against Protected against 1 Protected against B With the finger.

the penetration of direct contact with vertical dripping water,
solid objects the back of the (condensation).
having a diameter hand (accidental
greater than or contacts).
equal to 50 mm
2 Protected against Protected against 2 15˚
Protected against C With a Ø 2.5 mm tool.
the penetration of direct finger dripping water at an
solid objects contact. angle of up to 15°.
having a diameter
greater than or
equal to 12.5 mm.
3 Protected against Protected against 3 ˚ Protected against rain at D With a Ø 1 mm wire.
the penetration of direct contact with 60 an angle of up to 60°.
solid objects a Ø 2.5 mm tool.
having a diameter
greater than or
equal to 2.5 mm.
4 Protected against Protected against 4 Protected against
the penetration of direct contact with splashing water in all
solid objects a Ø 1 mm wire. directions.
having a diameter
greater than or
equal to 1 mm.
5 Dust protected Protected against 5 Protected against water
(no harmful direct contact with jets in all directions.
deposits). a Ø 1 mm wire.

6 Dust tight. Protected against 6 Protected against

direct contact with powerful jets of water
a Ø 1 mm wire. and waves.

7 15 cm Protected against the

1m
min effects of temporary
immersion.

8 Protected against the

m effects of prolonged
immersion under
specified conditions.

1/2
Technical Information Degrees of protection
provided by enclosures
IP69K code

IP69K code
Degrees of protection against the ingress of water Requirements: Water directed at a high pressure against the enclosure from any
with high pressure/steam jet cleaning. direction shall have no harmful effects.

The DIN 40-050 was at the origin of this standard, but DIN is a German reference. 1
The DIN standard has generated an ISO standard which is the worldwide reference
for IP69K. The number of this standard is ISO 20653.

The German standard DIN 40-050 dated October 1991, IEC publication 529
(2nd edition - November 1989), defines a coding system (IP code) for indicating the
degree of protection provided.

Fan jet and jet distribution for test device to verify protection against high
pressure/steam jet cleaning.

Spread

Measuring surface
Fan jet

(3)
Main jet
(2)
(1)
Jet distribution

(1) mm (in.) (2) mm (in.) (3)

100 (4) 8 ± 2 (0.3 ± 0.08) 30° ± 5°
150 (6) 10 ± 2 (0.4 ± 0.08)

Test device to verify protection against high pressure/steam jet cleaning.

90°

60°

Sp
ra
y
in
30
°s
te
ps

30°

Test
specimen

0°

100 to 150 mm
4 to 6 in.
Support

Axis of rotation

1/3
 Technical Information 8
Degrees of protection
provided by enclosures
IK code

Degrees of protection against mechanical impact The European standard EN 50102 dated March 1995 defines a coding system
(IK code) for indicating the degree of protection provided by electrical equipment
enclosures against external mechanical impact.

1|
Standard NF C 15-100 (May 1991 edition), section 512, table 51 A, shows how the
different degrees of protection correspond to the classification of environmental
conditions, for selecting equipment based on external factors.
Practical guide UTE C 15-103 contains tables showing the required specifications for
electrical equipment (including minimum degrees of protection), according to the
locations where they are installed.

IKpp code
The IK code consists of 2 characteristic numerals (e.g. IK05).

2 characteristic numerals:
corresponding to a value of impact energy.

h (cm) Energy (J)

00 Non-protected

01 0,2 kg
7.5 0.15

02 h
10 0.2

03 17.5 0.35

04 25 0.5

05 35 0.7

06 0,5 kg
20 1

07 h
40 2

08 1,7 kg 30 5

09 5 kg 20 10

10 h
40 20

1/4
Technical Information Degrees of protection
provided by enclosures
NEMA and UL classification

The enclosures provide protection for the equipment against environmental

conditions and help protect personnel against the risk of incidental contact with
the equipment. The following classifications (Types) are required according to the
required uses and descriptions:
1
Type Use Description

1 Indoor use. The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt.
2 Indoor use. The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, drips and gentle splashes of non-corrosive liquids.
3 Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust and resists the
formation of ice on the outside.
3R Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow and resists the formation of ice on the
outside.
3S Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow and windblown dust. The external
mechanism must continue to work even when layers of ice are
formed.
4 Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashes and hose-
directed water and resists the formation of frost on the outside.
4x Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashes, hose-
directed water and resists corrosion and the formation of ice on the
outside.
5 Indoor use. The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, settling airborne dust, lint, fibers, flyings, drips and
gentle splashes of non-corrosive liquids.
6 Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, hose-directed water, the entry of
water during occasional temporary submersion to a limited depth
and resists the formation of ice on the outside.
6P Indoor and The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
outdoor use. contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, rain, sleet, snow, hose-directed water, the entry of
water during prolonged submersion to a limited depth and resists
corrosion and the formation of ice on the outside.
12 Indoor use The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
(without contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
knockouts). against dirt, dust, fluff, fibers, particles in suspension, drips and
gentle splashes of non-corrosive liquids as well as gentle splashes
or leaks of oil and non-corrosive coolants.
12K Indoor use The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
(enclosures with contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
pre-routing). against dirt, dust, lint, fibers, flyings, drips and gentle splashes of
non-corrosive liquids as well as gentle splashes or leaks of oil and
non-corrosive coolants.
13 Indoor use. The enclosure provides protection for personnel against incidental
contact with the internal equipment and protects said equipment
against dirt, dust, lint, fibers flyings and the spraying, splashing, and
seepage leaks of water, oil or non-corrosive coolants.
Note: The above recommendations aim to explain the NEMA and UL classifications, but are not the official texts
of NEMA or UL.
The exact definitions provided by the organizations are those in standards NEMA 250 and
UL 50E.

1/5
 Technical Information Wire size chart
AWG to metric

Comparison of AWG and Metric Wire Sizes

Conduit Resistance at Conduit Resistance at 20 °C

1| AWG Dia., Area, Dia.,

20 °C
W/ft W/m AWG Dia., Area, Dia., W/ft W/m
Size mm mm2 in. Size mm mm2 in.
29 .01126 .08180 .2684 13 1.900 2.8353 .07480 .001863 .006081
28 .316 .0779 .01240 .06743 .2212 12 2.000 3.1416 .07874 .001673 .005488
.01264 .06491 .2130 .08081 .001588 .005210
27 .355 .0990 .01398 .05309 .1742 11 2.120 3.5299 .08346 .001489 .004884
.01420 .05143 .1687 2.340 3.9408 .08819 .001333 .004375
26 .400 .01257 .01575 .04182 .1372 .09074 .001260 .004132
.01594 .04082 .1339 10 2.360 4.3744 .09291 .001201 .003941
25 .450 .1590 .01772 .03304 .1084 2.500 4.9087 .09843 .001071 .003512
.01790 .03237 .1062 .1019 .0009988 .003277
24 .500 .1963 .01969 .02676 .08781 9 2.650 5.5155 .1043 .0009528 .003125
.02010 .02567 .08781 2.800 5.1575 .1102 .0008534 .002800
23 .560 .2463 .02205 .02134 .07000 .1144 .0007924 .002500
.02257 .02036 .06679 8 3.000 7.0686 .1181 .0007343 .002439
22 .630 .3117 .02480 .01686 .05531 3.150 7.7931 .1240 .0006743 .002212
.02535 .01614 .05531 .1285 .0006281 .002061
21 .710 .3969 .02795 .01280 .04201 7 3.350 8.8141 .1319 .0005662 .001956
.02846 .01280 .04201 3.550 9.8980 .1398 .0005309 .001742
20 .750 .4418 .02953 .01190 .03903 .1443 .0004981 .001634
.800 .5027 .03150 .01045 .03430 6 3.750 11.0447 .1476 .0004758 .001561
.03196 .01015 .03331 4.000 12.5664 .1575 .0004182 .001372
19 .850 .5675 .03346 .009261 .05038 .1620 .0003952 .001296
.900 .6362 .03543 .008260 .02642 5 4.250 14.1863 .1673 .0003704 .001215
.03589 .008051 .02642 4.500 15.9043 .1772 .0003304 .001084
18 .950 .7088 .03740 .007414 .02432 .1819 .0003134 .001028
1.000 .7854 .03937 .006991 .02195 4 4.750 17.7205 .1870 .0002966 .0009729
.04030 .006386 .02096 5.000 19.6350 .1968 .0002676 .0008781
17 1.060 .8825 .04173 .005955 .01954 .2043 .0002485 .0008152
1.120 .9862 .04409 .005334 .01750 3 5.600 24.6301 .2205 .0002134 .0007000
.04526 .005063 .01661 .2294 .0001971 .0006466
16 1.180 1.0936 .04646 .004805 .01577 2 6.300 31.1725 .2480 .0001686 .0005531
1.250 1.2272 .04921 .004282 .01405 .2576 .0001563 .0006128
.05082 .004016 .01317 1 7.100 39.5919 .2795 .0001327 .0004355
15 1.320 1.3685 .05197 .003840 .01260 .2893 .0001239 .0004065
1.400 1.5394 .05512 .004016 .01317 1/0 8.000 50.2655 .3150 .0001045 .0003430
.05707 .003414 .01045 .3249 .00009285 .0003223
14 1.500 1.7671 .05906 .002974 .009756 2/0 9.000 63.6173 .3543 .00008260 .0002710
1.600 2.0106 .06299 .002526 .008286 .3648 .00007793 .0002557
.06408 .002315 .007596 3/0 10.000 78.5398 .3937 .00006691 .0002196
13 1.700 2.2698 .06693 .002315 .007596 .4096 .00006182 .0002195
1.800 2.5447 .07087 .002065 .006775 4/0 .4600 .00004901 .0001608
.07196 .002003 .006571 11.800 109.3588 .4646 .00004805 .0001577

1/6
Glossary Technical Information

A
Actuator An actuator is the mechanism of the switch or enclosure which, when
moved as intended, will operate the contacts (for example, a lever arm or
plunger). 1
Adjustable Length Used where the length of arm required is not known when devices are
ordered or where length requirements vary.

Adjustable Sensitivity The ability of the sensor to discriminate between different levels of light
2
incidence on the receiver. Used primarily to black out background
objects, to discriminate between materials, or with transparent objects.

Alignment Relation of the emitter and receiver. Proper alignment is needed to

achieve the maximum sensitivity to the objects being sensed.
3
Ambient Light Light that is present in a given area—for example, indoor, outdoor,
incandescent, or fluorescent. In some cases, ambient light may set off
incandescent photoelectric controls.

Ambient Light Rejection There are basically 3 different ways for the receiver to differentiate the 4
emitter’s signal from the ambient light. As a practical consideration in
setting up a system, direct the receiver away from strong external light
sources, such as the sun or industrial lighting.
1. Modulation - Pulsed light is different from continuous ambient light.
2. Filters - Filters block most of the visible light spectrum so that a
modulated signal is more easily detected.
5
3. Focal Arrangement - Lenses are used at the emitter and receiver to
focus the beam for optimum signal transmission. This lens
arrangement actually makes the image of the emitter focus on the
receiver just like a camera would focus an image on a sheet of film.
6
Amplifier A device that enables an input signal to control an output signal of
that device.

Analog Sensors The output current or voltage is proportional to the target distance
or surface.
7
Angular Adjustable Allows for the fine adjustment of the lever arm angle after the lever arm
has been tightened on the lever arm shaft. Used where lever arm
adjustment is critical.

Application Selector Allows you to select a sensor by identifying application criteria. 8

Axial Approach When a target to be detected approaches the sensing face head-on.

B 9
Background Suppression Proximity (diffuse/technology) sensing mode that eliminates the
influence of a background behind the target to be sensed. Also results
in practical elimination of the influence of texture and color on the
sensing distance.

Ball Bearing Roller Used where abrasive dusts, such as in cement mills, would cause undue
wear of standard rollers. Also used with high-speed cams.
10

1/7
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Barrier Device An intrinsically safe barrier inherently limits the current and voltage that
can be transmitted into the hazardous location and has redundant
circuitry in case of component failure.

1| Beam Pattern In the operation of thru-beam and retroreflective sensors, a degree of

deviation from absolute alignment of the emitter and receiver (within
which the beam intensity is sufficient to activate the receiver) determines
the beam pattern.

2 Break-Before-Make The normally closed contact opens before the normally open
contact closes.

C
3 Cable Operated Used as an emergency stop around conveyors and large machines. A
cable is attached to the lever arm and is strung around the conveyor or
machine so that anyone can shut the machine off by pulling the cable that
operates the switch. Slack cable types use a forked lever arm for
maintained contact switches and straight arm for spring return
(momentary) switches. Taut cable types use a special mechanism which
4 applies a tension on the cable, keeping the cable tight, and gives an
indication of when the cable is pulled or is loose or cut.

Cam Machine part or component that applies force to a switch actuator,

causing the actuator to move as intended. Also called dog.

5 Cam Track The cam track is the distance from the switch mounting surface to a
specified point on the actuator.

Capacitive Coupling Capacitance is the ability of a dielectric material (non-conductor of

electricity) to store energy when a difference of potential exists between
two conductors.
6
Cat Whisker These position switches are suitable for use on conveyors to detect or
count parts. Wobble stick and cat whisker position switches can be
operated from any direction. A non-metallic wobble stick such as Delrin
or Nylon should be used where a wire extension might scratch the part
being detected. Cat whisker switches are used to detect very light weight
7 parts.

CCW Counterclockwise only (for lever type limit switches).

Coil Spring Used where the object to be detected may not be in a straight line with a

8 standard arm, allowing the switch to be actuated without damaging

the arm.

Color Mark Detector A sensor designed to differentiate between different colored marks, or
between a color mark and the background color it appears on. The
contrast between the two marks, not the true color of the mark, is used
9 for this detection. The color mark detector is available with either Red or
Green LED emitters for this purpose.

Color Registration/ Proximity (diffuse) sensing mode that detects the contrast between two
colors on a surface.
Mark Detection
10

1/8
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Color Registration Sensor The color registration sensor is a highly specialized diffuse proximity
sensor that has the ability to detect fine changes in contrast on a surface.
But unlike the standard diffuse proximity sensor, this type of unit uses a
powerful lens system and must be positioned at a specific focal distance
from the target. 1
Complementary Outputs Sensors with both N.O. and N.C. outputs that change state
simultaneously.

Conducting Path Includes all terminals, inserts, stationary contact material resistance, 2
movable contact material resistance, movable blade assembly, and any
other parts in the conducting circuit.

Constant Current Source Source which provides constant current to the output of a switching
transistor, and allows the voltage at the output to vary from zero up to the
supply voltage. 3
Continuous Rating Indicates the load that the contacts can carry continuously (thermal
rating) without making or breaking the circuit.

Conveyor Side Guide Conveyor belts which move heavy materials may have undesirable
lateral movements which, if significant enough, may damage the belt,
4
equipment or product on the conveyor. These conveyors may use one or
more limit switches to detect this lateral movement of the belt and stop
the belt or sound an alarm. Two types of devices are available for this
application: a wobble stick with a special roller, and an arm with a similar
roller for use with lever type switches.
5
Current Consumption Maximum amount of current required to properly operate a sensor.

Current Sinking NPN output—when the output is on, current flow is from the load into the
device’s output, then to ground. Output is normally high. The sensor
“sinks” current from the load through the sensor to ground. The load is 6
connected between the positive lead of the supply and the output lead of
the sensor.

Sourcing
+
7
E
PNP
Brings the
Load B
positive to
the load
E C
NPN

8
Connects
the load to B Load
the negative
C
–
Sinking

10

1/9
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Current Sourcing PNP output—when the output is on, current flow is from the device into
the load. Output is normally low. The sensor “sources” current to the load.
The load is connected between the output lead and the negative ground
lead of the supply. Considered safer than NPN outputs due to the way
1| current flows when wired.
Sourcing
+
E
PNP

2 Load B
Brings the
positive to
the load
E C
NPN
Connects
the load to B Load

3 the negative
C
–
Sinking

CW Clockwise only (for lever type limit switches).

4
D
Dark Operation (Mode) A dark mode output is energized when the target is present (a proximity
output is energized when the target is not detected).

5 Output mode that will result in an output from a device when light from
the emitter is not being received upon the receiver. The beam is being
interrupted, thus creating an output.

Detectable Object Refers to the requirements of an object’s size, reflection qualities, and
light transmission properties, in order for that object to be detected by the

6 photoelectric sensor.

Differential The distance between the operating point and the release point as the
target is moving away. It is expressed as either a linear dimension or in
number of degrees. The distance between the operating point where the
target enters the sensing field (sensor energizes) to the release point
7 (sensor de-energizes).
All discrete sensing technologies must have a differential. In some
technologies, differential occurs as a by-product of the basic laws of
physics; however, in other technologies it must be manufactured through
additional circuitry.

8 Photoelectric sensors—The differential is the distinctive property of the

sensor that results in the operation point differing from the release point.
This distance is expressed as a % of the total sensing distance of the
photoelectric sensor. It is the distance difference between the operating
point when approaching the sensor and the release point when moving
away from the sensor.

9 Diffuse Where the unit senses the light directly from the target. The emitter and
receiver are in the same housing, the same as with a retroreflective
sensor; however, the receiver is more sensitive to the weaker light that is
diffused by the surface of the target.

10 DIN Stands for Deutsches Institute fur Normung. A German agency which is
responsible for the standardization of industrial parts.

1/10
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Direct Acting Contacts Normally closed contacts that are physically forced open when the
actuator is operated. Also see Direct (Positive) Opening Contacts.

Direct (Positive) Opening Also known as positive opening contacts in Europe. A normally closed
Contact (N.C.) contact element coupled with the switch actuator via a nonresilient 1
(non-elastic) member so that full contact opening is obtained when the
actuator is moved through the direct opening travel by applying a direct
opening force against the N.C. moveable contact assembly. The contact
element will shear open in the event of sticking contacts or broken
springs. Available on both snap action contacts and slow make and break 2
contacts. Proper fusing of the control circuit is required. Most direct
opening contacts offered meet IEC 947-5-1 requirements for positive
opening contacts.

Directional Angle The angular range within which an emitter, receiver, emitter/receiver pair
or reflector can be rotated or shifted about on the optical axis without 3
preventing the photoelectric sensor from operating properly.

Dog Also called cam. A machine part or component that applies force to the
switch actuator, causing the actuator to move as intended.

Double Break Contacts open the circuit at two points. 4

Double Pole Double Throw Switches that make and break two separate circuits. This circuit provides
a normally open and normally closed contact for each pole.
(DPDT)

Dry Circuit A circuit which has a very low power level, where the power is insufficient 5
to break through the oxide layer present on most hard (silver) contacts.

E
Effective Sensing Distance This is the actual sensing distance realized by the actual sensor that you
take out of the box and install in the actual application. The effective
6
sensing distance will be no less than the usable sensing distance, and is
usually closer to the nominal in average circumstances.

Emitter A device that emits light when an electric current is passed through it.
Emitters can give off visible (red) light but the majority used for industrial
applications emit invisible (infrared) electromagnetic waves.
7
Excess Gain Ratio Maximum light available at a given distance, measured as a factor of the
light intensity needed to operate the photoelectric sensor. For instance, an
excess gain of 2 means that twice the needed light intensity is available.
8
F
Fiber Optic Cables The use of transparent glass or plastic fibers to transmit light by internal
reflection.

Film Resistance Silver accumulates a surface resistance due to chemical reaction with its
9
environment. The most common reaction is with sulfur and oxygen that
creates a sulfide and an oxide of silver. Such a surface is known to have
some resistance that can be read with a low voltage instrument such as
an ohmmeter. These surfaces, however, have the characteristic of being
self-cleaning. When current is passed through such a surface, it creates
heat which in turn reduces the compound to pure silver again and 10
restores the contact to a low ohmic value. This is why silver is such a
good contact material.

1/11
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Flat Steel Primarily used where high temperatures could cause standard arms to
soften and therefore not provide a secure grip on the lever arm shaft,
causing arm slippage. These arms are also chosen where the arm needs
to be bent slightly to line up with existing cams.
1|
Flush Mounting Type Flush mounting switches are used where a machine cavity is provided
and the standard position switch box is not required. A gasket on the
flush plate helps prevent the entrance of contaminants. Wiring is brought
in through the machine cavity.
2
Focusable Diffuse A diffuse reflective photoelectric sensor that does one of the following:
allows the optical axis of the emitter and receiver to be adjusted to a
point, or uses an aperture to focus on an area in front of the sensor.

3 Forked Type Used with maintained contact lever arm type switches. With rollers on the
same side, one cam trips and resets the switch. With rollers on opposite
sides, one cam trips the switch and a second cam resets the switch.

Free Position The initial position of the actuator when there is no external force (other
than gravity) applied on the actuator. Also called initial position or normal

4 position.

H
Hazardous Locations Hazardous locations are those areas that may have flammable gases or
combustible dusts or fiber present in quantities sufficient to product an
5 explosive or ignitable mixture. These gases, dusts and fibers may always
be present or may only be present in abnormal situations. The National
Electrical Code (NEC) describes these areas in Articles 500 through 503
and divides them into three types of categories: Class, Group, and
Division.

6 Hermetically Sealed Contacts Contacts sealed in a glass envelope with an inert gas to keep dirt out and
prevent oxidation of the contact tips.

Hysteresis The distance between the operating point and the release point as the
target is moving away in order to make a precise determination of target
presence without factors of the environment intervening to create a noisy
7 output signal. See Differential.

I
Inductive Inductive sensors detect metal and are not affected by the presence of

8 nonmetallic objects. This is a highly accurate type of technology.

Inductive (Pilot Duty) Ratings Indicates the non-motor inductive load, such as the contactors, relays
and other remotely controlled devices that the contacts can make or
break. These ratings are based on a 35% power factor for AC.

9 Inductive Proximity A no-touch sensor which determines if a metal target is present or not
and turns an output on or off. Detects eddy currents induced in the metal
target by the switch.

Initial Position Position of the switch actuator when no external force (other than gravity)
is applied to the actuator (see Free Position).
10
Interface Translates the presence of a target into an electrical signal.

1/12
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Internal Reflection When light travels through one medium and strikes the surface of
another, some or all of the light may reflect back into the medium that the
light was traveling through. Internal reflection occurs whenever a light ray
strikes the surface of a medium whose refractive index is less than that of
the medium in which the light is traveling. An example of this is a light
source in water, where light is internally reflected from the surface of air.
1
The amount of light reflected depends on the angle at which it hits the
surface. The critical angle is 49°. At this angle the ray of light is
completely contained within the medium.
2
Intrinsically Safe Equipment and wiring which is incapable of releasing sufficient energy
under any conditions to cause an ignition of the atmosphere in the
specified hazardous location.

Isolated Contacts Single-pole double throw (SPDT) contacts with four terminals that have
two isolated contact bars mechanically linked. No polarity restrictions 3
apply. Different (isolated) power supplies can also be applied.

L
Lateral Approach When the target to be detected approaches the sensing face from the
side (slide by). 4
Leakage Current The amount of current that flows through, or leaks from, the output of an
energized device when the device is in the off state. The most common
problem involves leakage current when a device is wired as an input to a
programmable logic controller. Leakage current should be less than
1.7mA.
5
LED (Light Emitting Diode) Solid state device that produces visible red, green or yellow light or
invisible infrared light radiation.
An LED on a sensor may produce visible light to indicate operation of the
unit. Infrared types are used for emitters. Red or green types are used 6
also as emitters in special applications (such as polarized units or plastic
fiber optics).

Length of Lever Arm The length of the arm is determined by the distance between the cam
and the position switch shaft. The length of the arm is defined as the
distance from the center of the roller to the center of the shaft. Where 7
permissible, the recommended length of the arm is 1.5”, since a longer
arm is more likely to overshoot if the lever arm is allowed to snap back.

Lever Type A passing cam operates the lever arm, which in turn rotates a shaft and
operates the switch contacts. The switch may be spring return
momentary contact or maintained contact. 8
Lever Type With Arm This arm is not intended as a replaceable component. The lever arm is
attached to the head assembly at the factory. Used where a wide variety
of arms is not required nor desired.

Light Incident The condition met when light from the emitter is reaching, or incident
9
upon, the receiver.

Light Interrupted The condition met when light from the emitter is not reaching, or incident
upon, the receiver.
10

1/13
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Light Operation Torque Type Suitable for uses where the object to be detected is lightweight and the
operating force required for standard switches would prevent proper
actuation. Avoid using lever arms with heavy rollers that must reset
against gravity.
1|
Light Source Type of light used in the emitter portion of the photoelectric sensor. The
most common are, pulse modulated LED or incandescent lamp.

Light Operation (Mode)

2 The output mode that results in an output turning on when light from the
emitter is incident upon the receiver.
The light mode output is energized when the target is not present. (The
proximity output is energized when the target is detected).

Limit Switches A basic snap switch in a protective enclosure and a mechanical actuator.
3 When the actuator is operated past a preset point, the contacts of the
snap switch change state to turn on or turn off devices such as pilot
lights, starters, relays, and PLCs.

Line-Powered Sensor A sensor that draws its operating current directly from the line. Its
operating current does not flow through the load, and a minimum of three
4 (3-wire) connections is required. A 4-wire has complimentary outputs and
requires four connections.

Load-Powered Sensor A sensor that draws its operating current (leakage current) through the
load. The sensor is always in series with the load and only two
connections are required.
5
Loads There are basically two different kinds of loads:
• Resistive - Lamps, heaters, solid state PLC input modules
• Inductive - Relays and solenoid valves

6 Low Differential Suitable for use where the differential (the distance between trip point
and reset point) must be short. In general, these switches should not be
selected to provide shorter trip angles as either the lever arm or cam can
be adjusted on standard 10° pre-travel switches to provide the required
trip point.

7 M
Magnetic Operated (Reed Relay) The magnetic operated sensor (reed relay) senses only magnetic
targets, and magnets are rare in industry.

Maintained Contact A switch that remains in a given condition until actuated to another
8 condition, which is also maintained until further actuation. When
actuated, requires an intentional force or action to reset the contacts.
Designed for applications requiring sustained contact after actuator has
been released, but with provision of resetting.

Make-Before-Break
9 The normally open contact closes before the normally closed
contact opens.

Manifold Mounting Occasionally, it may be more convenient to run wiring into a wiring
trough, panel or raceway and bring the wiring into the switch through the
underside instead of through the standard conduit hole. Manifold

10 mounting switches are provided with a gasket and hole on the backside
and the conduit hole plugged. The gasket prevents leakage into the
manifold hole.

1/14
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Maximum Load The most current that can flow through a device continually without
damaging the device.

Method of Detection Sensing technique used by the photoelectric sensor. The three types are
Thru-Beam, Retroreflective, or Diffuse Reflective. 1
Minimum Load Minimum current that the external load must draw to ensure proper
operation of the photoelectric sensor. Most often associated with
standard AC 2-wire devices.
2
Modulated LED Pulsations of light at a specific frequency reduce interference from
ambient light and increase sensing distance.

Momentary Contact Limit Switch A switch which returns from the operated condition to its normal circuit
condition when the actuating force is removed. Also referred to as a
spring return switch.
3
Multiple Unit Types When several surface mounting position switches are mounted in a row
and actuated by one or more cams, it may be more economical to install
a multiple unit position switch. Only one enclosure need be installed and
only one conduit need be run. Also, any interwiring between switches can
be done internally. Lever arms are available to provide several different
4
cam tracks if required.

Mutual Interference A feature in photoelectric sensors that eliminates false-signaling between

similar protection sensors mounted next to each other or in close
proximity. 5
N
N.C. (Normally Closed) Current flow through the switching device is possible only when the
device is in the Off state (de-energized). Contacts are closed when the
switch is not operated and when there is no external force on the 6
actuator. The sensor opens a circuit to the load when a target is detected
or switch is operated.

N.O. (Normally Open) Current flow through the device is not possible when the device is in the
Off state (de-energized). Contacts are open when the switch is not
operated and when there is not external force on the actuator. The 7
sensor closes a circuit to the load when a target is detected or switch is
operated.

NAMUR A European standard for intrinsically safe.

Neutral Position Lever operated switch with a minimum of two contacts. One contact
8
changes state only when the lever moves CW. The second contact
changes state only when the lever moves CCW. Used when the direction
of a part or cam needs to be identified. This can be used for an indication
of the direction of the cam, such as up-off-down or forward-off-reverse.
9

10

1/15
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Nominal Sensing Distance The rated operating distance for which the switch is designed. This value
should only be taken as a guide, since no manufacturing tolerances or
changes in external operating environment are taken into consideration.

1| Manufacturers arrive at performance standards for their products using

standardized criteria so you can compare “apples to apples” in
determining which product is right for your application. These criteria
reflect, to a reasonable extent, the real performance that can be
expected in an “average” controlled environment.

2 Non-Inductive Ratings This rating indicates only the resistive load that the contacts can make or
break. Resistive ratings are generally based on a 75% power factor for AC.

Non-Overriding Cam THe cam approaches the roller from one direction only and does not
travel beyond the roller.
3
Non-Plug In Wiring is made directly to the snap switch terminals. When the switch
needs replacing, the wiring must be removed and the complete switch
replaced.

Non-Incendive Unable to release sufficient electrical or thermal energy under normal

4 operating conditions to cause ignition of specific hazardous materials.
Non-incendiary equipment can be used without additional precautions in
Division 2 hazardous locations where the hazardous materials can be
present only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of the enclosure
containing them.

5 NPN A transistor having an n-type semiconductor as its emitter and collector

and a p-type semiconductor as its base.

Sourcing
+
E
PNP
6 Load B
Brings the
positive to
the load
E C
NPN
Connects
the load to B Load

7 the negative
C
–
Sinking

8 O
Observable Time Observable time is the real time that the target can be observed by
the sensor.

Off Delay The time required for the interface to trigger a change of state when a
target is removed from the sensing area.
9
Offset Type Used to obtain different cam track dimensions.

On Delay The duration of time required for the interface to trigger an output change
of state when a target is introduced to the sensing area.

10

1/16
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

One Way Horizontal Used where a non-overriding cam is used, or where a non-reversing
overriding cam is used. Cam movement is in the horizontal direction in
relation to the limit switch mounting.

One Way Lever Used with reversible cams where operation in one direction only is 1
required. Easier to set up than a one way roller type, and recommended
for high speed cams where snap-back of the lever arm could present a
problem.

One Way Vertical Used where a non-overriding cam is used, or where a non-reversing 2
overriding cam is used. Cam movement is in the vertical direction in
relation to the limit switch mounting.

One-Shot An output signal produced for a preset time that is independent of the
duration of the input signal. It may begin at the start of the input signal or
be delayed. 3
One-Way Roller Type Used with reversible cams where operation in one direction only is
required. (Used mainly with Type AW, which can be operated in one
direction only.) Type C lever arm types can operate in both directions
without damage to the switch.
4
Opaque Material which neither reflects, emits, nor allows light to pass through it.
Photoelectric controls easily detect opaque objects.

Operating Distance The distance from the sensing face to the plane of the target’s path once
it reaches the operating point. 5
Operating Force Amount of force applied to the actuator to cause contact operation.

Operating Point The point at which a target is sensed as it approaches the sensing field of
the sensor. Also called the trip point.
6
Operating Position Operating position is the position of the actuator at which the contacts
change state (see Trip Position).

Operating Range The range in the x, y, and z plane that will cause the switch to operate
when a detectable object is present.
7
Operating Torque Operating torque (force) is the minimum torque (force) value that must be
applied to the actuator to cause the contacts to change state.

Operating Mode Two possible modes that will cause the switch to operate and produce an
output: Light-On or Dark-On mode. 8
Output Circuit Interfaces with data acquisition systems such as PLCs and dedicated
controllers or other control circuits (such as relays, counters, and timers).

Output Transistor A semiconductor device used to provide On/Off switching of

external loads. 9
Overlapping The normally open contact closes before the normally closed
contact opens.

Overriding Cam, Non-Reversing The cam moves in one direction only, travels past the roller, and allows
the lever arm (or roller plunger) to reset. 10

1/17
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Overriding Cam, Reversing The cam travels in both directions over the roller.

Overtravel The distance or angle through which the actuator moves when traveling
from the operating position to the overtravel limit position. The overtravel
1| limit position is that position of the actuator beyond which further
overtravel would cause damage to the switch or actuator.

2 P
Particle Resistance Contamination in the form of foreign material which can produce
resistance. Carefully controlled production processes are used to
prevent contamination during assembly of a snap switch.

Photoelectric Photoelectric sensors work by emitting a beam of light and then detecting
3 whether or not it is broken. However, the object breaking the beam of
light could be the target, or it might be any other object that happens to
break the beam. For example, if a photoelectric sensor were being used
to control the opening of a door to a business, the idea would be for the
target (you, the customer) to break the beam and the door would open.
However, animals, insects or perhaps even dirt or dust might also break
4 the beam and cause the sensor to open the door.

Photoelectric Sensor A light-sensitive device that converts visible and infrared light waves into
an electrical signal. It is a no-touch sensor consisting of a light emitter
and detector. Its output turns on or off, depending on the absence or
presence of this light at the detector, which in turn is determined by the
5 absence or presence of a target.

Pilot Duty Rating of contacts when making or breaking inductive loads such as coils
and solenoids; based on a .35 power factor.

Plug-In Wiring is made to a plug-in receptacle, which becomes a permanent part

6 of the machine. The plug-in assembly includes the actuator and the
contact mechanism. When the switch needs replacing, only the cover
screws need loosening and the plug-in portion replaced—the wiring is
not disturbed. Plug-in switches reduce user down time and expense.
Also see non-plug-in.

7 Plunger Type Plunger type switches are used where short, controlled machine
movements are present and where space or mounting does not permit a
lever type switch.

PNP A junction type transistor having a p-type semiconductor as its emitter

and collector and an n-type semiconductor as its base.
8 Sourcing
+
E
PNP
Brings the
Load B
positive to

9 E C
the load

NPN
Connects
the load to B Load
the negative
C
10 –
Sinking

1/18
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Polarity Single-pole double throw (SPDT) contact with four terminals require the
supply to be applied with the same polarity (i.e., L1 or +) on the same
side of the contact bar. Two different supplies are not allowed in this
configuration. (The loads would always be on the same side of the
contact bar.) 1
Polarized The visible light from the emitter of a retroreflective photoelectric sensor
is filtered so as to be projected in only one plane. The receiver of a
polarized unit is filtered to accept only light that is reflected perpendicular
to the emitted light. Corner cube reflectors are required to properly rotate 2
the emitted light source.

Polarized Retroreflective A retroreflective system that can detect, in addition to normal opaque
objects, the shiny objects that fool a normal retroreflective sensor. This
includes mirrors, metal straps, foils, metal boxes, cans, shrink-wrap and
Mylar tape. 3
Pole A switching unit that contains a set of moveable contacts. These contacts
may have stationary contacts for a 1 N.O., 1 N.C. or 1 N.O. and 1 N.C.
switching unit. A two-pole device has two sets of movable contacts.

Positive Opening See Direct Opening. 4

Power Consumption Maximum amount of power required to properly operate the device.

Power-Up Delay A target is present in the sensing area when power is applied, and the
output state does not change. For confidence, the delay must last longer 5
than the duration of any start-up transient.

Precision Snap Acting Switch An electromechanical switch having predetermined and accurately
controlled characteristics and having a spring loaded quick make and
break contact action.
6
Pretravel The distance or angle through which the actuator moves from the free
position to the position at which the contacts change state.

Product Selector Allows the user to select a sensor by identifying criteria of a particular
product technology needed.
7
Proximity Diffuse Sensing mode with emitter and receiver in the same housing. Light is
bounced back at the receiver by the target. Also called direct detection.

Pulse Modulated Light sources that are pulsed (on/off) at a high frequency by an oscillator
circuit. The receiver of a pulse modulated photoelectric sensor receives
light only at that frequency, thus minimizing interference from ambient
8
light.

R
Receiver A device that changes its electrical characteristic when light is received. 9
Receivers can be photovoltaic cells, photo-transistors, photodiodes, and
photoresistors.

10

1/19
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Reed Contacts The contact mechanism consists of a set of contacts hermetically sealed
in a glass envelope and actuated by a magnet attached to the operator.
This sealed construction keeps contaminants out of the contact area,
making the reed switch the ideal switch for low voltage, low current
1| circuits such as PLCs.
Note: Because reed switches are operated by a magnet, they should not
be installed in areas where strong magnetic fields may be present. The
devices should always be checked for proper operation after installation.

2 Reed Switch The contact mechanism consists of a set of contacts hermetically sealed
in a glass envelope and actuated by a magnet attached to the operator.
This sealed construction keeps contaminants out of the contact area,
keeping the contacts clean and free from oxidation. It has gained a
reputation over time as the ideal switch for use with “dry” (low power)

3 circuits, solid state circuits, and intrinsically safe systems.

Release Point The point at which a sensor returns to its original state as the target
leaves the sensing field. Also called reset point.

Release Position That position of the actuator at which the contacts snap from the
4 operated contact position to the normal contact position. Also called reset
position.

Release Torque The value to which the torque on the actuator must be reduced to
allow the contacts to snap from the operated position to the normal
contact position.
5
Repeat Accuracy The measure of variation in operating distance between successive
operations under constant operating conditions. This measurement is
often expressed as a maximum percentage of the “operating distance”
(for example, 5%).

6 Note: The target must also remain within the sensing field long enough
to allow the load sufficient time to respond to the output signal of
the sensor.

Repeatability A measure of the maximum variance in the operating distance that can
be experienced in successive operations of a sensor under specified

7 operating conditions.

Reset Position The position of actuator at which contacts return to the normal position.
Also called releasing position.

Resistive Ratings This rating indicates only the resistive load that the contacts can make or
8 break. Resistive ratings are generally based on a 75% power factor for AC.

Response Time The duration of time required for the interface to trigger an output.
Measure of time lapse between receipt of an input signal by a receiver to
the activation of its output.

10

1/20
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Retroreflective Where the target passes between the sensor and a reflector, blocking the
beam to cause the receiver to change states. The emitter and receiver
are in the same housing.

Target
1

E
2
R

Reflector

Reverse Polarity Internal circuitry that protects a device from being ruined if proper polarity
of voltages is not maintained when wiring the device. 3
Rod Type Used generally on conveyor systems or where unusual shapes
are required.

Rollers Diameter and width of the roller is determined by the size and shape of
the cam used. If the cam is free to shift, a larger diameter or width should 4
be used. In general, large heavy rollers are to be avoided to minimize
resetting and snap-back (telegraphing) problems. Recommended roller
material is hardened oil impregnated, sintered iron. Where a metal roller
may scratch the actuating surface or where an explosion-proof switch is
used, nylon rollers are recommended. Recommended roller size is 0.75”
diameter, 0.25” wide where permissible. 5
S
Safety Interlock A safety interlock is defined as a device that ensures the operator’s
protection when intervention is required on a machine or mechanism that
can put the operator’s health or safety at risk. Risk factors can include the 6
following:
1. Stopping a rotating machine
2. Turning off a power supply of an electrical circuit
3. Turning off a valve 7
4. Turning off a heater

SCP Short Circuit Protection without external fusing. In DC it also includes

overload protection.

Sensing Distance The maximum distance at which, under specifications, a photoelectric

8
sensor can detect a target.

Sensing Mode Dark or Light mode condition to the receiver in activating its output.

Sensing Range The maximum operating range at which the sensor will reliably detect a 9
standard target under conditions of nominal voltage and temperature.
The distance between an emitter and a receiver, reflector, or object in the
path of the beam within which nominal operation is achievable.

Short Circuit Protection Internal circuitry that protects the solid state sensor in the event that the
protection load becomes shorted. 10

1/21
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Simultaneous Make and Break The normally closed contact opens at the same time as the normally
open contact closes.

Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) Switches that make or break one circuit. Provides either one normally
1| open or one normally closed contact.

Sinking (NPN) Outputs A device that switches the negative supply voltage to a load wired to the
positive supply voltage.

2 Slow Make and Break The speed of transfer of the movable contacts depends on the speed of
the operator. The amount of travel of the movable contacts also depends
on the amount of travel by the operator. Slow make and break contacts
have the same trip and reset points, and do not have the differential
travel common to snap switches.

3 Snap Action Contacts The speed of transfer of the movable contacts does not depend on the
speed of the operator. The amount of travel of the moveable contacts
also does not depend on the amount of travel by the operator. The
movement of the moveable contacts is determined by a preset travel:
after this point is reached, the contacts trip. Snap action contacts have

4 different trip and reset points. The difference is identified as the

differential.

Solid State A device, circuit or system whose operation is dependent upon any
combination of optical, electrical, or magnetic phenomena within a solid.
Generally referred to as having an infinite life and no moving parts.
5
Sourcing (PNP) Outputs A device that switches a positive voltage to a load wired to the negative
supply voltage.

Specular Reflection A combination of the thru-beam and proximity diffuse

photoelectric device.
6
Spring Rod Type Used on conveyor or similar systems where a jam may occur. Material
backing up against a standard rod arm could move the arm sideways
resulting in damage to the arm or switch. The flexible spring rod allows
movement in any direction and eliminates damage.

7 Stability The output state of the photoelectric sensor is stable on, unstable, or
stable off. Unstable outputs cause the system to perform erratically. An
unstable output occurs when the amount of light incident on the receiver
is near the trigger level of the device.

Standard Pre-Travel Type Suitable for actuation by any cam or component whose motion is
8 perpendicular to the shaft axis about which the lever arm rotates.

Standard Target An object with standardized dimensions or characteristics—common

among manufacturers—used in the product laboratory to determine
benchmark performance characteristics for a sensor.

9 Supply Voltage The nominal voltage, or voltage range, at which the device is designed to
be operated continuously.

T
10 Taut Cable Principle The cable must be tight and have a tension applied on it at all times. This
allows the contacts of the cable pull switch to actuate if the cable is
broken or pulled.

1/22
Glossary (continued) Technical Information

Telegraph A condition that can occur in a lever type switch when the lever arm is
operated to its overtravel condition and then released. This can cause
heavier arms to return past the center point and possibly trip the contacts
again on switches that operate in both the CW and CCW directions. In
severe telegraphing, the arm could return past center again and trip the
original contacts that were tripped, even on switches set to operate in
1
one direction only.

Thru-Beam Where the target passes between an emitting unit and a receiving unit,
blocking the beam and causing the receiver to change states. These are 2
separate, independently covered units.

Target

3
E R

Total Travel Total travel is the sum of the pretravel and overtravel. 4
Timing Links the trigger and the output circuit. The time duration of this link can
be as fast as technology will permit, or controlled for a desired effect.

Translucent Material which permits the passage of light to some extent. 5

Transparent Targets that permit transmission of essentially all incident light.

Trigger or Threshold Level Triggers the output circuit when the signal reaches a predetermined level.
6
Trip Position The position of the actuator at which the contacts move to the
operated position.

Turret Head The actuating mechanism of a position switch which may be removed
from the contact portion of an enclosure and rotated to other positions,
normally four positions 90° apart. 7
Two Stage Position Switch A device with two sets of contacts, one of which operates before the
other. The device can be wired for either overlapping contacts or
sequencing operation.

8
U
Usable Sensing Distance Considering the actual operating conditions, the usable sensing distance
is the maximum reliable operating range for a given system. The most
important factors to consider are atmospheric environment and the
reflective nature of the target.
9
V
Visible Light Measured in wavelength. Wavelengths of visible light range between 400
and 700 nanometers.
10

1/23
 Glossary (continued) Technical Information

W
Weld Field Immune (WFI) The electrical welding process generates a very strong electrical field
near the welding points. This field can interfere with the normal operation
1| of an inductive proximity sensor situated nearby, creating false output
signals. WFI devices are designed to work in this environment.

Weld-On Type Used where a special operator is required and can be welded to a lever

2 arm.

Wobble Stick These position switches are suitable for use on conveyors to detect or
count parts. Wobble stick and cat whisker position switches can be
operated from any direction. A non-metallic wobble stick such as Delrin
or Nylon should be used where wire extension might scratch the part

3 being detected. Cat whisker switches are used to detect very light weight
parts.

10

1/24