Panasonic EX-Z thru-beam ultraminiature photoelectric sensors

Control Logic has released the Panasonic EX-Z thru-beam ultra-miniature photoelectric sensors, which are small enough to consider using in applications where, previously, fibre-optic sensors were the only option. These units have the added advantage that the sensor and amplifier are fully self-contained in one extremely small package.

The EX-Z sensors are available in two body styles, front or side sensing and three different models with ranges of 50, 200 and 500 mm. Due to the built-in slit mask, the longest range model has the ability to detect an object as small as 1 mm, while the shortest range unit can detect an item as small as 0.3 mm. The high-brightness 4-element red LED provides strong light emission stability over a long period of time while at the same time making sensor alignment an easy task. All models are rated to IP67 for use in process lines where water is used or splashed and rust-resistant stainless steel sensor mounting brackets and screws are also available.