Banner introduces M12 metal barrel photo sensor

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - August 11, 2007 - Banner Engineering Corp. introduces the M12 photoelectric sensor family, featuring a 12 mm threaded metal barrel. M12 Series sensors are available in opposed, polarized and non-polarized retroreflective, diffuse and fixed-field models. All models feature a visible red sensing beam for easy alignment and two signal indicator LEDs for simple operating status monitoring from any direction. With entirely encapsulated electronics, M12 sensors are rated IP67/NEMA 6 to provide superior durability in difficult sensing applications. The M12 Series offers three fixed-field models - 25, 50 and 75 mm - with outstanding background suppression, making them an excellent alternative to proximity sensors. With their high excess gain and fixed-field technology, these sensors detect objects of low reflectivity that are directly in front of another surface, ignoring the surface in the background. Fixed-field models require little adjustment in the field; the cutoff distance is easily adjusted using the threaded 12 mm barrel. Opposed, retroreflective and diffuse models feature a single-turn gain potentiometer for easy configuration. Pricing for M12 sensors starts as low as $69. “The M12 sensor line provides a rugged, high performance family of products in the world’s most common sensor package,” said Paul Bratton, P.E., Banner's engineering product manager. “The popular 12 mm barrel design allows for easy mounting in confined spaces, with the excellent performance expected of much larger sensors.” Bratton adds, “The longer range of the fixed-field models allows the sensor to be recessed in mounting holes or mounted farther away from the work piece, preventing damage that would occur to traditional range-limited proximity sensors.” Applications. M12 sensors are packaged in a compact rugged metal housing to conveniently fit into tight spaces. This IP67 housing makes these sensors ideal for electronic manufacturing and inspection, automotive part manufacturing, metal stamping inspection, packaging and bottling operations, and many additional industrial automation applications. Plus, several features of the M12 sensors make them particularly easy to set up and operate: