Autonics BEN5M-MDT 5m Retroreflective Photoelectric Sensor
The Autonics BEN5M-MDT is a 5 meter retroreflective photoelectric sensor designed for reliable object detection in industrial automation applications. It operates on 12 to 24 VDC and provides both NPN and PNP open collector outputs. With selectable Light ON and Dark ON operation, infrared sensing, and a long sensing distance, it is suitable for conveyor systems, packaging machines, material handling equipment, production lines, and automated machinery.
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A. Product Overview
The Autonics BEN5M-MDT is an industrial retroreflective photoelectric sensor from the BEN Series. It is designed to detect the presence or movement of objects without requiring physical contact with the target.
The sensor works together with a reflector positioned opposite the sensor. The emitted infrared light travels toward the reflector and returns to the sensor. When an object interrupts the reflected light path, the sensor detects the change and generates an output signal.
The BEN5M-MDT offers a sensing distance of up to 5 meters, making it suitable for applications where longer detection distances are required.
Key Features
Model: BEN5M-MDT
Sensor type: Retroreflective photoelectric sensor
Sensing distance: Up to 5 meters
Power supply: 12 to 24 VDC
Light source: Infrared LED
Output: NPN and PNP open collector output
Operating mode: Light ON and Dark ON selectable
Non contact object detection
Suitable for industrial automation
Designed for continuous machine operation
Long distance sensing capability
Easy integration with PLC and control systems
B. Working Principle
The BEN5M-MDT works using the retroreflective photoelectric sensing principle.
The sensor contains both a light emitter and receiver in the same housing. A reflector is installed opposite the sensor.
During normal operation:
The sensor emits an infrared light beam toward the reflector.
The reflector returns the light back to the sensor receiver.
When no object is present, the reflected light reaches the receiver normally.
When an object passes between the sensor and reflector, the light beam is interrupted.
The sensor detects this interruption.
The sensor then changes its output state.
The output signal can be sent to a PLC, relay, counter, controller, or other automation equipment.
Depending on the selected operating mode, the sensor can operate in Light ON or Dark ON mode.
Light ON Mode
The output operates according to the presence of received light.
Dark ON Mode
The output operates when the received light is interrupted or reduced.
This selectable operation allows the BEN5M-MDT to be adapted to different machine control requirements.
C. Why Is the BEN5M-MDT Used?
The BEN5M-MDT is used when an industrial machine needs reliable, fast, and non contact detection of objects.
Unlike a mechanical limit switch, the sensor does not need to physically touch the object. This helps reduce mechanical wear and allows higher speed detection.
It can be used for:
Object presence detection
Product counting
Conveyor monitoring
Package detection
Bottle detection
Carton detection
Material positioning
Production line automation
Machine sequencing
Entry and exit detection
Component detection
Material handling systems
Automated manufacturing equipment
Its 5 meter sensing distance makes it particularly useful when the sensor and reflector need to be installed relatively far apart.
The availability of both NPN and PNP outputs also makes it easier to integrate the sensor with different PLCs and industrial control systems.
D. Suitable Buyers
The Autonics BEN5M-MDT is suitable for companies and professionals involved in industrial automation, machine building, manufacturing, and process control.
Typical buyers include:
Industrial automation companies
Machine manufacturers
Original equipment manufacturers
System integrators
Control panel manufacturers
PLC automation companies
Packaging machine manufacturers
Conveyor manufacturers
Material handling companies
Food processing equipment manufacturers
Pharmaceutical machinery manufacturers
Bottling plants
Automobile component manufacturers
Warehouse automation companies
Production plants
Maintenance departments
Electrical engineers
Automation engineers
Machine maintenance engineers
Industrial spare parts buyers
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Autonics BEN5M-MDT?
The BEN5M-MDT is a retroreflective photoelectric sensor designed for non contact object detection in industrial automation applications.
2. What is the sensing distance of BEN5M-MDT?
The BEN5M-MDT has a sensing distance of up to 5 meters when used with an appropriate reflector.
3. What type of sensor is BEN5M-MDT?
It is a retroreflective type photoelectric sensor.
4. What power supply does BEN5M-MDT require?
The sensor operates on a 12 to 24 VDC power supply.
5. Does BEN5M-MDT have NPN or PNP output?
The BEN5M-MDT provides both NPN and PNP open collector outputs, making it suitable for integration with different control systems.
6. What is the difference between a retroreflective sensor and a through beam sensor?
A retroreflective sensor has the emitter and receiver inside the same sensor housing and uses a reflector on the opposite side. A through beam sensor uses separate transmitter and receiver units facing each other.
7. Does BEN5M-MDT require a reflector?
Yes. As a retroreflective photoelectric sensor, it operates using a reflector installed opposite the sensor.
8. Can BEN5M-MDT be connected to a PLC?
Yes. Its output can be connected to suitable PLC digital inputs for object detection and machine automation.
9. Can BEN5M-MDT be used for conveyor applications?
Yes. It can be used for detecting products, boxes, components, bottles, packages, and other objects moving on conveyor systems.
10. Can BEN5M-MDT be used for product counting?
Yes. When connected to a PLC, counter, or controller, the sensor can generate signals as products pass through the sensing area.