Name: Panasonic EX-21B-PN Ultra-compact Thru-Beam Photoelectric Sensor - INOSAKI
SKU: Pananonic-EX-21B-PN
Price: 85.92 USD
Availability: InStock

Technical Overview

Ultra-compact thru-beam photoelectric sensor with 1m sensing range, 0.5ms response, Ø2.6mm object detection, and IP67 rating.

Key Features

Thru-Beam sensing method for reliable and accurate object detection.
PNP open-collector output for versatile integration into control systems.
IP67 protection rating ensures durability in harsh industrial environments.
Wide operating temperature range of -25 to +55 °C for diverse applications.
Red LED light source with 640 nm peak emission wavelength.
Capable of detecting opaque objects with a minimum diameter of 2.6 mm.
Features an orange LED for operation indication and a green LED for stability.
Equipped with a 2-meter pre-wired cable for straightforward installation.
Certified with UL, CE, Korean S Mark, EMC, RoHS, and UKCA markings.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Sensing Method	Thru-Beam (Emitter + Receiver)
Sensing Range	1 m
Output Type	PNP Open-Collector Transistor (Dark-ON)
Supply Voltage	12 to 24 V DC ±10% (Ripple P-P 10% or less)
Current Consumption	Emitter: 10 mA or less, Receiver: 10 mA or less
Response Time	0.5 ms or less
Light Source	Red LED (Modulated)
Peak Emission Wavelength	640 nm
Minimum Detectable Object	Ø2.6 mm opaque object (at 1m setting distance)
Repeatability (perpendicular to sensing axis)	0.05 mm or less
Protection Rating	IP67 (IEC)
Operating Temperature Range	-25 to +55 °C (no dew condensation or icing)
Ambient Humidity	35 to 85 % RH (storage: 35 to 85 % RH)
Enclosure Material	Polyethylene Terephthalate
Lens Material	Polyalylate
Cable Length	2 m
Weight	20 g approx. (each emitter or receiver unit)
Dimensions (Length x Width x Height)	18 mm x 4.5 mm x 16 mm
Certifications	CE Marking (EMC Directive, RoHS Directive), UKCA Marking (EMC Regulations, RoHS Regulations), UL Recognition, Korean S Mark
Physical Weight (kg)	0.02
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	1.8 x 0.45 x 1.6

Industrial Applications

1. High-Speed Part Counting on Conveyor Belts

This sensor can accurately count small parts (minimum Ø2.6mm) moving at high speeds on an assembly line. Its 0.5ms response time ensures no objects are missed, and the 1m thru-beam range is sufficient for typical conveyor widths. The IP67 rating ensures reliable operation in environments with dust or light splashes.

Problem Solved

Prevents miscounts and bottlenecks in fast-paced production lines by providing reliable, high-speed object detection for quality control and inventory management.

PhotoelectricThru-beamHigh-speed countingConveyor systems2.6mm object detection0.5ms responseIP67

2. Small Object Presence/Absence Detection in Robotics

Its ultra-compact size (18 x 4.5 x 16 mm) allows for seamless integration into robotic grippers or end-effectors to verify the presence or absence of small components (e.g., screws, electronic parts) before or after manipulation. The IP67 rating ensures durability and consistent performance in environments with potential light fluid exposure or dust, common in robotic cells.

Problem Solved

Enhances robotic pick-and-place accuracy and process reliability by confirming material handling operations, significantly reducing assembly errors and rework.

RoboticsPick-and-placeSmall object detectionPresence sensingCompact sensorIP67Automation

3. Door/Gate Monitoring in Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)

The EX-21B-PN, with its 1m thru-beam sensing range and robust IP67 rating, is ideal for monitoring the open/closed status of small access doors or safety gates within automated storage and retrieval systems. Its ability to operate across a wide temperature range (-25 to +55 °C) ensures consistent performance in various warehouse conditions.

Problem Solved

Ensures operational safety and precise sequence control in automated systems by reliably detecting the position of protective barriers or access points, preventing collisions and unsafe conditions.

Automated systemsSafety gate monitoringDoor position detectionIP67Thru-beam sensor1m sensing rangeWarehouse automation