Panasonic EX-L261 Ultra-Compact Convergent Laser Sensor

Technical Overview

Ultra-compact convergent laser sensor for precise detection of objects down to Ø0.01mm within 20-50mm range, featuring NPN output and IP67 protection.

Key Features

Ultra-compact and self-contained design with built-in amplifier.
Convergent reflective sensing mode for stable and accurate detection.
Capable of detecting opaque, translucent, and transparent objects.
Features a precise ø1mm laser beam spot size.
High sensitivity, detecting objects as small as Ø0.01 mm gold wire.
NPN open-collector transistor output with a maximum sink current of 50 mA.
Light-ON / Dark-ON output operation selectable by input.
Operates on a supply voltage of 12 to 24 VDC.
Fast response time of 0.5 ms or less.
IP67 protection rating ensures resistance to dust and water.
Wide operating temperature range from -10 to +55 °C.
Equipped with a continuously variable sensitivity adjuster.
Integrated LED indicator for easy status monitoring.
Class 1 red semiconductor laser (655nm wavelength) for safety.
Comes with a 2-meter cabled connection.

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Sensing Mode	Convergent Reflective
Sensing Range	20 to 50 mm (Convergent point: 22 mm)
Emission Spot Size	ø1mm or less (at 50 mm sensing distance)
Minimum Sensing Object	Gold wire of ø0.01 mm
Laser Light Source	Red Semiconductor Laser, Class 1 (IEC/EN/JIS/GB/KS/FDA), 655nm
Laser Output	1 mW max
Supply Voltage	12 to 24 V DC ±10% (Ripple P-P 10% or less)
Current Consumption	15 mA or less
Output Type	NPN Open-collector transistor (Max. sink current: 50 mA)
Output Operation	Light-ON / Dark-ON selectable
Response Time	0.5 ms or less
Protection Rating	IP67
Operating Temperature	-10 to +55 °C
Storage Temperature	-30 to +70 °C
Ambient Humidity	35 to 85% RH (No dew condensation or icing)
Construction Material (Enclosure)	Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)
Construction Material (Front Cover)	Acrylic
Construction Material (Light-emitting lens)	Glass
Connection Type	Cabled (2m, 4-core, 0.15mm² cabtyre cable)
Physical Weight (kg)	0.05
Dimensions L x W x H (cm)	2.99 x 1.35 x 0.82

Industrial Applications

1. High-Precision Component Verification in Electronics Assembly

The EX-L261 is ideally suited for automated inspection in electronics manufacturing, specifically for verifying the presence or precise placement of miniature surface-mount components, delicate bonding wires (down to Ø0.01mm), or solder paste deposits on printed circuit boards. Its compact size allows integration into confined spaces, while its convergent laser ensures accurate detection on various material finishes.

Problem Solved

Ensures stringent quality control and prevents assembly defects in high-density electronic products by providing highly accurate and fast (0.5ms) detection of tiny components, thereby reducing rework and improving product reliability.

SMT assemblyPCB inspectionminiature component detectionsolder joint verificationquality control0.01mm resolution0.5ms response time

2. Small Part Detection and Counting in Pharmaceutical Packaging

In pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing, this sensor can precisely detect and count individual pills, capsules, or small components during packaging and sorting processes. Its ability to sense opaque, translucent, or transparent objects, combined with its compact form factor, makes it versatile for various product types and constrained conveyor line setups.

Problem Solved

Guarantees accurate counting and presence detection of critical, small items, minimizing errors in packaging and ensuring product integrity and compliance. The IP67 rating allows for operation and cleaning in regulated environments.

pharmaceutical packagingmedical device assemblysmall object countingpresence detectiontransparent material sensingIP67 protectionhigh-speed sorting

3. Tool Breakage Detection in Micro-Machining

For CNC micro-machining applications, the EX-L261 can be positioned to monitor the integrity of tiny cutting tools, such as micro-drills or end mills. Its 1mm spot size and capacity to detect minute changes enable rapid identification of tool breakage, even if only a small fragment is missing from the tool tip.

Problem Solved

Prevents costly damage to workpieces and machinery, reduces material waste, and minimizes downtime by initiating an immediate stop signal (NPN output) upon detecting tool breakage. Its IP67 enclosure provides robust protection against coolant and metal swarf.

CNC machiningtool condition monitoringmicro-toolingbreakage detectionprocess automationIP67 ratingNPN output