What is a Photoelectric Sensor?
A photoelectric sensor is a device used to detect the presence or absence of an object and detects various objects present at large distances by using a light transmitter and a receiver. Simply, we can say that, it detects the change in light intensity. These sensors are commonly known as photo eyes. It uses visible and infrared light as a light source for transmitting and receiving. The output signal of the photoelectric sensor can be in analog or digital mode. It mainly consists of an emitter for emitting light and a receiver for receiving light.
These are widely used in industrial automation, robotics and security systems, medical, food and beverage, detecting vehicles in racing events, and many others. These sensors are usually made up of phototransistors (i.e. used as a receiver) , a light source, a signal converter, and an amplifier (i.e. for amplifying the signals). This sensor responds in microseconds. It uses light to detect an object without physical contact. These sensors have ability to detect very small objects. These are influenced by their color while detecting the object. These are also well known for their compact size and their ability to detect even invisible markings on the products.
A photoelectric sensor converts optical signals to electrical signals based on the photoelectric effect, where light of a specific frequency causes electrons to be emitted from a material’s surface . This absorption of photo energy induces an electrical effect .
Photoelectric Sensor
A photoelectric sensor is a type of sensor used to detect the presence or absence of objects, as well as to measure distance, based on the principle of light reflection or interruption. It typically consists of a light transmitter and a receiver, which are positioned opposite each other with a gap between them.
Here in this article, we will discuss the definition of photoelectric sensors, the construction and working, various types, and the characteristics briefly. There are many advantages and applications of photoelectric sensors in day-to-day life. Let us discuss all those in this article.
Table of Content
- Photoelectric Sensor
- Components and Construction
- Types
- Characteristics
- Advantages
- Disadvantages
- Applications
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