Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Proximity Sensor be used in high temperatures?
The sensing distance will become larger than the specified value if Proximity Sensors are used in high temperatures. The difference between operating point and reset point will also increase, and proximity sensors have the tendency to not reset even if it is operational.
How far apart do I need to install two parallel proximity sensors?
You should always leave a minimum distance equal to the diameter of the two proximity sensors.
Will I damage a proximity sensor if it is wired wrong?
It is possible to damage a proximity sensor if it is wired wrong. Most proximity sensors have polarity reversal, short circuit and transient noise protectors. Transient protection is only effective under 30 VDC. If these limits are exceeded you will likely damage the sensor.
Does the number of operations matter with proximity sensors?
The number of operations does matter with proximity switches and sensors. There is a maximum number of operations per second with proximity switches and sensors. You must make sure that the number of operations does not exceed the maximum switching frequency. If the phase of the output signal is important, check the turn on and turn off time.
Can dust or metal shavings near proximity sensors effect its performance?
Dust or metal shavings can become a major problem with proximity switches and sensors. You must be careful to keep the proximity sensor clean and clear of debris. Metallic chips or dust must not accumulate on the sensing face. The distance between the proximity sensor and the item being sensed must stay clear and unobstructed in order to have a clear and timely reading.
Is there a minimum distance that proximity sensors can be mounted from one another?
There is a minimum distance to mounting proximity sensors near each other to avoid interference. Proximity sensors and switches must not be mutually influenced. In other words, if two proximity sensors are placed too close together, they will interfere with one another. For this reason, a minimum distance between them (referred to as alignment) must be provided. See specs for the individual product to find its alignment tolerances.
Do proximity sensors have any short circuit protection?
Most Proximity sensors do not require circuit protection measures. All DC sensors have have integrated short circuit protection. AC sensors should be protected externally by such devices as fuses or surge protectors.
What is the proximity sensors temperature range?
The temperature range of proximity sensors is typically between -13 to +158 F (-25 to +70C) unless otherwise specified
What is the rated insulation voltage of proximity sensors?
The rated insulation voltage of most sensors with a supply voltage of of up to 50 VAC and 75 VDC are tested at 500 VAC.
How is the rated insulation voltage (Ui) of Proximity sensors tested?
Sensors with a supply voltage of up to 250 VAC are tested as follows: Class 1 (with earth terminal) at 1500 VAC. Class 2 (with double insulation, without earth terminal) at 3000 VAC.
How are proximity sensors protected against inductive loads?
Unless otherwise specified, DC proximity sensors are protected against inductive over voltage by use of a surge diode or a zener diode. AC proximity sensors require an external load protector.
What is the indication or switch status on a proximity sensor?
Most proximity sensors have one or more color indicators. The meaning of the colors will vary slightly between the different models, see individual part specifications for the meanings.
What is off stage leakage current in proximity sensors?
Off stage leakage is the current that flows through the load circuit of the proximity switch in the OFF state at the maximum supply voltage.
Is it possible to use a proximity sensor near a magnetic field?
It is possible to use many proximity sensors and switches in and around magnetic fields. Some sensors such as capacitive proximity sensors are able to work properly in a magnetic field due to the core not being hindered by the field. However, high frequency oscillating proximity sensors cannot operate properly within a magnetic field above 200G or more. This will not allow them to oscillate properly and will cause it to fault.
What is response time for proximity sensors?
Response time for proximity sensors and switches is the time that the switch takes to sense that there is an object in the sensing field.
Why is there a difference in the effect of metal between the shielded proximity sensors and unshielded proximity sensors?
There is a difference between shielded and unshielded proximity sensors in the sensing area. With shielded proximity sensors, the surface of the detection coil is covered with metal, making the flux concentrated at the front of the sensors which reduces the influence of the surrounding metals. With unshielded proximity sensors, the surface of the sensing coil is not covered with metal so flux is generated from the surface and surrounding coil, making sensing area wider making the sensors easily influenced by surrounding metals.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png){kind=spacer}
Electric capacitive type proximity sensor CR Series is able to detect a wide variety of materials including iron, metal, plastic, water, stone and wood having permittivity. Moreover, built-in sensitivity volume allows the series can be applied in various fields to increase user convenience. 
General type proximity sensor realizes world-best class superior noise resistance characteristics with dedicated IC; in addition, the series is the wide use proximity sensors having various line-ups in terms of size and sensing distance. 
Photo/proximity sensor type connector connection wire line-up with various models with a length max of 5m. The series provides various selections for users depending on each work environment. Also, it is easy to maintain wires by socket-plug and plug-plug type. Moreover, it realizes high reliability in the oily environment by oil resistance reinforced type with IEC standard. 
General type proximity sensor realizes world-best class superior noise resistance characteristics with dedicated IC; in addition, the series is the wide use proximity sensors having various line-ups in terms of size and sensing distance. 
Transmission coupler PET18-5 is loop powered type models transmitting the signal by magnetic coupling of coils so that no external power supply is necessary. This model is superior with environmental resistance because it does not cause any malfunction even if its transmitting part is disclosed to contaminants. Also, it can be used in a wide variety of applications including drilling, machine table and various revolution axis.