Panasonic FX-501 Digital Fiber Sensor Amplifier NPN

Technical Overview

High-performance digital fiber sensor amplifier with 25µs response, 12-24VDC NPN output, IP40, and dual digital display for precise industrial object detection.

Key Features

Digital fiber sensor amplifier for high-precision detection.
NPN open-collector transistor output (1 point, 100mA maximum sink current).
Wide supply voltage range: 12 to 24 V DC.
Multiple selectable response times, with a minimum of 25µs.
Red LED light source with 643nm wavelength.
Light-ON / Dark-ON operation switchable.
IP40 protection rating.
Designed for DIN rail mounting.
Dual 4-digit red and 3-digit green LED display for intuitive monitoring and programming.
Pushbutton teach and programming with various modes (e.g., 2-point teaching, limit teaching).
Integrated timer function (OFF-delay, ON-delay, One-shot, etc.).
Output short-circuit protection incorporated.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Supply Voltage	12 to 24 V DC ±10-15 % (Ripple P-P 10 % or less)
Power Consumption (Normal)	960 mW or less (40 mA or less at 24 V supply voltage)
Power Consumption (ECO mode)	680 mW or less (28 mA or less at 24 V supply voltage)
Output Type	NPN open-collector transistor
Output Points	1
Maximum Sink Current	100 mA
Applied Voltage (Output)	30 V DC or less (between output and +V)
Residual Voltage (Output)	2 V or less (at maximum sink current)
Output Operation	Light-ON / Dark-ON switchable
Light Source	Red LED (643 nm wavelength)
Response Time (H-SP)	25 µs or less
Response Time (FAST)	60 µs or less
Response Time (STD)	250 µs or less
Response Time (LONG)	2 ms or less
Response Time (ULG)	4 ms or less
Response Time (HYPR)	24 ms or less
Protection Rating	IP40
Operating Temperature	-10 to +55 °C
Material (Case cover)	Polycarbonate
Material (Switch)	TPEE
Mounting Type	DIN rail
Display Type	4-digit red LED display + 3-digit green LED display
Physical Weight (kg)	0.02
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	3.4 x 1 x 7.5

Industrial Applications

1. High-Speed Object Counting on Conveyor Belts

The FX-501 can be integrated into high-speed packaging lines or manufacturing processes to accurately count small products (e.g., pills, electronic components) moving rapidly on conveyor belts. Its rapid response time and digital output ensure precise tallying without missing items.

Problem Solved

Prevents over-packing or under-packing and ensures accurate inventory tracking in high-throughput operations where slower sensors would be inadequate. The 25µs response time (H-SP mode) allows for detection of closely spaced objects at high speeds, while the 12-24V DC NPN output provides direct compatibility with PLCs and control systems for reliable counting.

25µs response time12-24V DCNPN outputHigh-throughputObject counting

2. Detection of Minute Components in Automated Assembly

In automated assembly lines, this fiber sensor amplifier, when combined with suitable fiber optic cables, can reliably detect the presence or absence of tiny components (e.g., screws, pins, small electronic parts) in confined or hard-to-reach spaces, thereby ensuring correct assembly sequencing.

Problem Solved

Minimizes assembly errors and material waste by confirming the presence of critical small parts, especially in areas with limited space where traditional photoelectric sensors might struggle. The red LED (643nm) provides a visible beam for easy alignment, and the compact 1.0 cm width allows for installation in tight locations.

Minute object detectionConfined spacesRed LED (643nm)Compact sizeAssembly verification

3. Precise Edge Detection for Material Positioning

The FX-501 can be utilized with a fork-style or through-beam fiber optic cable to detect the precise edge of materials such as paper, film, or labels for accurate positioning in printing, cutting, or labeling machines. Its fine adjustment capabilities and various teaching modes allow for high-precision alignment and repeatability.

Problem Solved

Achieves precise material alignment, significantly reducing material waste and ensuring consistent product quality in processes requiring critical positioning accuracy. Features like hysteresis setting and emission power adjustment, combined with Light-ON/Dark-ON operation, enable fine-tuning for reliable edge detection of diverse materials.

Edge detectionMaterial alignmentHysteresis settingLight-ON/Dark-ONPrecision positioning