Panasonic CX-481 Retroreflective Photoelectric Sensor

Technical Overview

Compact retroreflective photoelectric sensor for transparent objects, 50-500mm sensing, NPN output, 1ms response, 12-24V DC, IP67.

Key Features

Compact rectangular plastic body with dimensions of H31 x W11 x D20 mm.
Retroreflective sensing mode specifically designed for transparent object detection (Ø50mm target or more).
Adjustable sensing range from 50 mm to 500 mm, suitable for short to medium-range detection tasks.
NPN open-collector transistor output with switchable Light-ON or Dark-ON operation.
High-speed response time of 1 ms or less, enabling rapid detection.
Incorporated short-circuit protection for enhanced operational safety and reliability.
IP67 protection rating, ensuring resistance to dust and water ingress in harsh industrial environments.
Utilizes an Infrared (IR) LED light source with an 870 nm wavelength.
Equipped with a continuously variable sensitivity adjuster for fine-tuning detection.
Includes an automatic interference prevention function, allowing close mounting of two sensors.
Constructed with a durable PBT enclosure and a polycarbonate lens for long-lasting performance.
Features an orange LED operation indicator (output ON) and a green LED stability indicator.
Pre-wired with a 2-meter, 3-core 0.2mm² cabtyre cable.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Part Number	CX-481
Sensing Mode	Retroreflective (for transparent object sensing)
Sensing Range	50 to 500 mm (with RF-230 reflector)
Sensing Object	Ø50 mm or more transparent, translucent or opaque object
Supply Voltage	12 to 24 V DC ±10% (Ripple P-P 10% or less)
Current Consumption	10 mA or less
Output Type	NPN open-collector transistor
Maximum Sink Current	100 mA
Applied Voltage (Output)	30 V DC or less
Residual Voltage (Output)	2 V or less (at 100 mA sink current), 1 V or less (at 16 mA sink current)
Output Operation	Switchable (Light-ON / Dark-ON)
Short-circuit Protection	Incorporated
Response Time	1 ms or less
Operation Indicator	Orange LED (output ON)
Stability Indicator	Green LED (stable light received/dark condition)
Sensitivity Adjuster	Continuously variable adjuster
Automatic Interference Prevention	Incorporated (two units can be mounted close together)
Operating Temperature	-25°C to +55°C
IP Rating	IP67
Light Source	Infrared LED (870 nm wavelength)
Housing Material	PBT
Lens Material	Polycarbonate
Dimensions (H x W x D)	31 x 11 x 20 mm
Cable Length	2 m
Net Weight	50 g approx.
Physical Weight (kg)	0.05
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	2 x 1.1 x 3.1

Industrial Applications

1. Automated Beverage Bottling Lines (Transparent Bottle Detection)

The CX-481 is ideal for detecting the presence and accurate positioning of transparent PET or glass bottles on high-speed conveyor belts in beverage bottling facilities.

Problem Solved

Its retroreflective sensing capability for transparent objects (Ø50mm or more) within a 50-500mm range and 1ms response time ensures reliable and fast detection, preventing production errors like misfills or bottle jams. The IP67 rating provides durability in wet and washdown environments.

Transparent object detectionRetroreflective sensorBottling line automationPET/glass bottle detectionHigh-speed conveyorIP67 environmental protection

2. Packaging and Sorting Systems (Clear Film/Tray Presence)

This sensor excels in packaging and sorting machinery where accurate detection of clear plastic films, transparent trays, or blister packs is critical for sealing, sorting, or robotic pick-and-place operations.

Problem Solved

The CX-481's ability to reliably detect transparent materials, combined with its compact size (H31 x W11 x D20 mm) and automatic interference prevention, allows for precise control in tight spaces common in intricate packaging equipment, improving efficiency and reducing material waste.

Clear packaging detectionTransparent film sensingAutomated sortingRobotic handlingCompact sensor designInterference prevention

3. Material Handling and Logistics (Pallet Overhang/Presence Detection)

In warehouses and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), the CX-481 can confirm the presence of pallets, especially those with clear stretch wrap, or detect pallet overhangs in staging or loading zones.

Problem Solved

With a 50-500mm sensing range and robust PBT housing, the sensor reliably detects stretch-wrapped pallets or verifies correct pallet placement in dusty or occasionally wet warehouse environments. Its 12-24V DC supply voltage ensures seamless integration into industrial control circuits for improved safety and inventory management.

Warehouse automationPallet presence detectionStretch wrap detectionAutomated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)Industrial logistics12-24V DC power