Sick
Sick VS/VE18-3P3212 through-beam photoelectric sensor PNP
A through-beam photoelectric sensor with a 14 m sensing range, PNP dark-switching output, 250 Hz switching frequency, IP67-rated nickel-plated brass housing and 2 m PVC cable
- Through-beam sensing reaches up to 20 metres maximum range
- PNP dark-switching output delivers 100 mA load current
- 10–30 V DC supply suits standard industrial power rails
- IP67-rated nickel-plated brass housing withstands harsh environments
- 250 Hz switching frequency enables fast object detection
Through-beam sensor for 20 m range
The Sick VS/VE18-3P3212 is a cylindrical through-beam photoelectric sensor with an M18 x 1 thread and axial optical axis. It uses an infrared LED source and provides a PNP dark-switching output for industrial detection tasks. The metal nickel-plated brass housing is rated IP67 and weighs 240 g.
Supply 10 to 30 V DC with 2 ms response
Operation requires a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply with ripple below 10 %. The sensor draws 30 mA and switches at up to 250 Hz with a 2 ms response time. Output current is limited to 100 mA. Connection is a 2 m PVC cable with three 0.14 mm² conductors and 3.1 mm overall diameter.
14 m sensing range with 700 mm spot
The practical sensing range reaches 14 m, producing a 700 mm diameter light spot at that distance with a 2.8° dispersion angle. Sensitivity is adjustable via a 270° potentiometer. Buyers needing a longer range than 14 m or a diffuse-reflective principle should select a different sensor type.
Highlights
- Through-beam sensing reaches up to 20 metres maximum range
- PNP dark-switching output delivers 100 mA load current
- 10–30 V DC supply suits standard industrial power rails
- IP67-rated nickel-plated brass housing withstands harsh environments
- 250 Hz switching frequency enables fast object detection
Specifications
| Brand | Sick |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VS/VE18-3P3212 |
Questions about this item
Should I plan for the 20 m maximum or the 14 m sensing range?
Use the 14 m sensing range for reliable detection; the 20 m figure is the absolute maximum under ideal conditions.
What does the 250 Hz switching frequency mean on a production line?
The sensor can change state up to 250 times per second, so it will reliably detect objects spaced as little as 4 ms apart.
How does the 10–30 V DC supply and PNP output work with a standard PLC input?
Power the sensor from any 10–30 V DC source; the PNP dark-switching output sources up to 100 mA to the PLC input when the beam is broken.
Also in this aisle
People compared these
Same shelf, same checkout — eight coins and a 30-minute rate lock.



