PM-F24-R
AI

The **PM-F24-R** is a micro photoelectronic sensor (photointerrupter) manufactured by Panasonic (formerly Sunx). It is designed for high-reliability detection in automation, utilizing an infrared LED and a phototransistor.
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## 1. Core Technical Specifications
The following table summarizes the primary electrical and physical characteristics of the PM-F24-R.
| Feature | Specification |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Sensing Type** | Through-beam (U-shaped) |
| **Sensing Distance** | 5 mm (fixed) |
| **Supply Voltage** | 5 to 24 V DC ±10% |
| **Current Consumption** | 15 mA or less |
| **Output Type** | NPN Open-collector transistor |
| **Output Mode** | Dual: Light-ON / Dark-ON |
| **Response Time** | 20 µs or less (under light received condition) |
| **Cable Type** | Flexible R-type (High-flexibility cable) |
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## 2. Electronic Component Breakdown
### A. The Optical Pair
The unit consists of two main electronic elements housed in the "U" shaped plastic casing:
1. **Emitter (Infrared LED):** Emits a beam of infrared light across the 5mm gap.
2. **Receiver (Phototransistor):** Detects the presence or absence of the IR beam. When an object enters the slot, it blocks the beam, changing the state of the transistor.
### B. The "R" Designation (Flexible Cable)
The **-R** suffix is a critical electronic distinction. It indicates that the sensor is equipped with a **cabling-resistant (flexible)** wire.
* Standard cables may crack under repeated movement.
* The R-type cable uses high-strand count wiring, making it ideal for installation on moving parts like robotic arms or sliding carriages.
### C. Output Circuitry (NPN)
The sensor uses an **NPN Open-Collector** output.
* **Light-ON:** The output is active when the beam is not blocked.
* **Dark-ON:** The output is active when an object is blocking the beam.
* The dual-output design allows for flexible integration into various logic controllers (PLCs) or microcontrollers.
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## 3. Wiring Diagram Logic
The PM-F24-R typically features four wires:
1. **Brown:** Plus (+V) - Connects to 5-24V DC.
2. **Blue:** 0V (GND).
3. **Black:** Output 1 (e.g., Light-ON).
4. **White:** Output 2 (e.g., Dark-ON).
```mermaid
graph LR
A[Power 5-24V] -->|Brown| B(PM-F24-R)
C[GND] -->|Blue| B
B -->|Black| D[Load/PLC Input]
B -->|White| E[Alternative Logic]
```
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## 4. Key Advantages
* **Small Footprint:** Compact "F" shape saves space in tight mechanical assemblies.
* **Immune to Interference:** Internal circuitry is designed to minimize the effects of ambient light.
* **High Speed:** The 20 µs response time allows for accurate counting or positioning in high-speed machinery.
- ⤷
What is the difference between NPN and PNP output in photointerrupters?
- ⤷ Can the PM-F24-R be used with an Arduino or Raspberry Pi?
- ⤷ How does the 'F' shape mounting compare to the 'L' or 'K' shapes in the PM-24 series?