Waldkirch, November 2007 – The new W4S-3 miniature series is the measure of all things wherever an object requires detection under the most difficult of conditions and the sensor must be as small as possible. Comparative tests have proved that no other sensor of this type has a better detection capability, even on the blackest of objects, nor better background suppression as a scanner; no other device is as immune to ambient light, as well adjustable nor as easily alignable as the W4S-3 series from SICK.

Initial pilot users in the beverages and packaging industry, in conveyor and warehousing systems, in the handling and robotics sectors, or in the electronics and pharmaceutical industries believe that the W4S-3 series is on its way to the top – not least because both the sensor technology and the mounting concept are right. The W4S-3 has a robust plastic housing, whose metal threaded sleeve allows solid mounting.

Photoelectric switches with precise light spot and tracking switching threshold

The highly visible, small, precise light spot of the series’ autocollimation photoelectric switches is impressive. It allows rapid and simple alignment of the device on the reflector and the reliable detection of even small objects. Moreover, this feature allows the sensor to “see” through screens and gaps between conveyor belts during operation. The tracking switching threshold of the W4S-3 permits the reliable detection of transparent objects such as PET bottles or transparent ampoules. Conditions such as temperature fluctuations or dust have no effect on detection reliability. During operation, the sensor signals when the reflector needs cleaning, after which it can immediately resume work without re-adjustment – unlike many other devices.

Photoelectric proximity switch offers high precision and IO Link

The combination of a laser-like light spot and electronically adjustable background suppression allows the scanner of the series to precisely detect the smallest of objects – even in front of very close backgrounds. In addition to the monitoring of contamination, the device permits more detailed adjustment and diagnosis thanks to the IO Link option, i.e. the expansion of the sensor switching output to create a communication interface.