Sick
SICK VL12-2N430 Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor NPN
Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor detects objects up to 2.8 m using visible red LED with NPN output and M12 connector
- Detects objects up to 2.8 m with visible red LED
- Compact 66 mm metal housing rated IP67 for harsh environments
- Operates on 10–30 V DC with low 20 mA consumption
- Fast 400 Hz switching frequency and 1.25 ms response time
- NPN light/dark output selectable via control cable
SICK VL12-2N430 retro-reflective sensor
The SICK VL12-2N430 is a cylindrical photoelectric sensor with an M12 × 1 thread. It emits visible red light at 660 nm and detects objects from 0.03 m to 2.3 m. The unit has a metal housing rated IP67 and weighs 18 g. A male M12 4-pin connector provides the electrical interface.
Ideal for presence detection on conveyors
This sensor suits automation tasks that require a compact metal body and a 10 – 30 V DC supply. It switches up to 100 mA at 400 Hz with a 1.25 ms response time. Buyers needing background suppression or analogue output should consider other sensing principles. Applications requiring a larger light spot or longer range will need a different model.
Key specification: sensing range 0.03 m … 2.3 m
The maximum sensing distance of 2.3 m defines whether the sensor reaches the target in your layout. A 2.8 m maximum is only reached under ideal reflector conditions. Verify the working distance against your mechanical design before ordering. The fixed 1.25 ms response time also sets the minimum object speed the sensor can reliably detect.
Highlights
- Detects objects up to 2.8 m with visible red LED
- Compact 66 mm metal housing rated IP67 for harsh environments
- Operates on 10–30 V DC with low 20 mA consumption
- Fast 400 Hz switching frequency and 1.25 ms response time
- NPN light/dark output selectable via control cable
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VL12-2N430 |
Questions about this item
How much power does the VL12-2N430 draw during continuous operation?
The sensor consumes 20 mA at a supply voltage of 10 V DC to 30 V DC, with a ripple of 10 %, making it suitable for all-day use on standard industrial power supplies.
What cable and reflector are required to install this sensor?
A 4-pin M12 female connector cable is needed for the male M12 plug, and a separate retro-reflector must be mounted opposite the sensor to complete the light path.
Will the 660 nm visible red beam and 400 Hz switching frequency work reliably with older PLC input modules?
Yes, the NPN light/dark selectable output delivers up to 100 mA with a 1.25 ms response time, matching typical legacy PLC scan cycles and input specifications.
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