Sick
Sick VTE18-3N8640 Photoelectric Proximity Sensor NPN
Detects objects at 10 mm to 700 mm using infrared light with an NPN dark-switching output and IP67-rated cylindrical housing
- Detects objects up to 800 mm away with infrared LED
- Precise 2.8° beam angle reduces false triggers
- NPN dark-switching output integrates directly into PLC logic
- IP67-rated plastic housing withstands dust and water jets
- Operates reliably from –25 °C to +70 °C
Sick VTE18-3N8640 Photoelectric Proximity Sensor NPN
The Sick VTE18-3N8640 is a cylindrical photoelectric proximity sensor designed for industrial automation and object detection tasks. It operates on a 10 V DC to 30 V DC supply and provides an NPN dark-switching output. The infrared LED source gives a sensing range of 10 mm to 700 mm with a 2.8° angle of dispersion. An IP67 enclosure rating and operating temperature span of –25 °C to +70 °C suit harsh environments.
M12 4-pin connector installation
Connection uses a male M12 4-pin plug for quick wiring into standard sensor cables. A potentiometer on the housing allows manual adjustment of the sensing threshold without software tools. The 2 ms response time supports high-speed counting or positioning. Common issues include misalignment beyond the 2.8° dispersion angle and contamination of the PMMA optics, which reduces the effective range.
Verify supply voltage wiring
Confirm that the control system provides 10 V DC to 30 V DC with ripple below 10 % and can accept an NPN sinking output. The cylindrical housing measures 78 mm in overall dimension; ensure the mounting location accommodates this length and the M12 connector clearance. Dark-switching logic means the output activates when the beam is interrupted, so verify the PLC programme expects that behaviour. Buyers who require a PNP sourcing output or a longer sensing distance should look for a different sensor model.
Highlights
- Detects objects up to 800 mm away with infrared LED
- Precise 2.8° beam angle reduces false triggers
- NPN dark-switching output integrates directly into PLC logic
- IP67-rated plastic housing withstands dust and water jets
- Operates reliably from –25 °C to +70 °C
Specifications
| Brand | SICK |
|---|---|
| Model | SICK VTE18-3N8640 |
Questions about this item
How can I verify the VTE18-3N8640 is detecting objects correctly after wiring it?
The sensor has a dark-switching NPN output that pulls the signal low when an object enters the 10 mm to 700 mm sensing range; you can confirm operation by measuring the output voltage change with a multimeter or watching the PLC input LED toggle as a target moves through the beam.
What comes with the VTE18-3N8640 and what must I source separately?
The unit includes the cylindrical sensor with a built-in M12 4-pin male connector; you will need to purchase a compatible M12 4-pin cable or cordset and a 10 V DC to 30 V DC power supply separately.
Which sensing distance version of the VTE18-3N8640 should I choose for my application?
This model provides a sensing range of 10 mm to 700 mm with a maximum of 800 mm, so select it when your detection distance falls within that window; the potentiometer lets you fine-tune the switching point inside the range.
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