Panasonic LS-401P Amplifier-separated Digital Laser Sensor

Technical Overview

PNP open-collector amplifier with 12-24VDC input, 100mA max output, 80µs response, IP40 protection. Features dual 4-digit display, network connectivity.

Key Features

Amplifier-separated design for flexible sensor head integration
PNP open-collector transistor output type with 100 mA maximum source current
Easy setting and operation via dual 4-digit digital displays and two switches
Quick-connection cables designed to reduce wiring and save space
Network communication capability via SC-GU3 series for PLC/PC integration (with LS-403)
Threshold tracking function for maintaining stability despite environmental changes, reducing maintenance time
Multiple sensing modes: Hysteresis, Window Comparator, 2 Independent Output, and Differential Sensing
M.G.S. function for accurately sensing minute variations in target objects
External input wire for laser emission halt and teaching functions
Automatic interference prevention for cascading up to four sensor heads
MODE NAVI customized function for storing frequently used settings
8-digit D-CODE display for at-a-glance viewing of amplifier settings
Incorporated short-circuit protection for enhanced safety

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Output Type	PNP open-collector transistor
Supply Voltage	12 to 24 V DC ±10% (Ripple P-P 10% or less)
Max Source Current	100 mA (50 mA if 5-8 units cascaded, 25 mA if 9-16 units cascaded)
Applied Output Voltage	30 V DC or less (between output and +V)
Output Residual Voltage	1.5 V or less (at 100 mA source current)
Power Consumption (Normal)	950 mW or less (40 mA or less at 24 V supply)
Power Consumption (ECO Mode)	780 mW or less (33 mA or less at 24 V supply)
Response Time (H-SP)	80 µs or less
Response Time (FAST)	150 µs or less
Response Time (STD)	500 µs or less
Response Time (U-LG)	4 ms or less
External Input (PNP High)	+4 V to +V (sink current 3 mA or less)
External Input (PNP Low)	0 to +0.6 V or open
External Input Impedance	10 kΩ approx.
Operating Temperature	-10 to +55 °C (+14 to +131 °F)
Storage Temperature	-20 to +70 °C (-4 to +158 °F)
Operating Humidity	35 to 85% RH
Storage Humidity	35 to 85% RH
Voltage Withstandability	1,000 V AC for 1 min (between all supply terminals and enclosure)
Insulation Resistance	20 MΩ or more (at 250 V DC between all supply terminals and enclosure)
Vibration Resistance	10 to 500 Hz, 1.5 mm double amplitude or max acceleration 98 m/s² (X, Y, Z directions for 2 hours each)
Shock Resistance	98 m/s² acceleration (10 G approx.) (X, Y, Z directions 3 times each)
Protection Rating	IP40 (IEC)
Enclosure Material	Heat-resistant ABS
Transparent Cover Material	Polycarbonate
Push Button Switch Material	Acrylic
Jog Switch Material	ABS
Cable Extension	Up to 100 m (0.3 mm² or more cable)
Physical Weight (kg)	0.02
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	5.87 x 1.2 x 3.09

Industrial Applications

1. High-Speed Object Detection on Conveyor Belts

Utilizing the LS-401P's fast response time (80 µs in H-SP mode) with a compatible laser sensor head, this amplifier can precisely detect rapidly moving or small objects on automated conveyor systems, such as electronic components or packaged goods on assembly lines.

Problem Solved

Ensures accurate item counts and prevents production line bottlenecks by eliminating missed detections or false triggers, critical for high-throughput manufacturing processes.

High-speed detectionAutomated assemblyMaterial handlingPrecise timingQuality controlManufacturing

2. Precision Edge Detection for Robotic Alignment

The LS-401P's differential sensing mode and fine sensitivity adjustment (M.G.S. function) enable it to process signals from a laser sensor head for highly accurate edge detection of various materials like circuit boards, metal sheets, or glass. This is vital for robotic systems requiring exact positioning before processing.

Problem Solved

Provides critical positional feedback for robotic pick-and-place or machining operations, significantly improving accuracy and reducing material waste due to misalignment in precision manufacturing.

Robotic alignmentEdge sensingPrecision manufacturingAutomated inspectionVision systemsMaterial processing

3. Monitoring Sheet Roll Remaining Amount in Converting Industries

Paired with a suitable coaxial retroreflective sensor head, the LS-401P's amplifier capabilities allow for accurate measurement of the outer diameter of large sheet rolls (e.g., paper, film). Its threshold tracking function compensates for environmental changes like dust accumulation, maintaining measurement reliability over time.

Problem Solved

Prevents unexpected material depletion during continuous production, optimizing material changeover times and reducing costly downtime in converting, printing, and packaging operations.

Roll diameter measurementMaterial inventoryWeb guidingProcess controlConverting machineryIndustrial printing