T18 Sensors — DC-Voltage Series

Self-Contained DC-Operated Sensors

Features
• Featuring EZ-BEAM® technology to provide reliable sensing without the need for adjustments
(most models)
• “T” style plastic housing with 18 mm threaded lens mount
• Models available in opposed, retroreflective, diffuse, and fixed-field modes
• Completely epoxy-encapsulated to provide superior durability, even in harsh sensing
environments rated to IP69K
• Innovative dual-indicator system takes the guesswork out of sensor performance monitoring
• Advanced diagnostics to warn of marginal sensing conditions or output overload
• 10 to 30V dc; choose SPDT (complementary) NPN or PNP outputs (150 mA max. ea.)

Models
Sensing Mode Model* Range LED Output
T186E –
Opposed T18SN6R 20 m (66') NPN

OPPOSED T18SP6R Infrared PNP

950 nm
T18SN6L NPN
Retroreflective
with Gain control
T18SP6L PNP
RETRO
2 m (79")**
T18SN6LP NPN
Polarized Visible Red
P Retroreflective 680 nm
T18SP6LP PNP
POLAR RETRO

Diffuse T18SN6D NPN

500 mm (20")
with Gain control
T18SP6D PNP
DIFFUSE
T18SN6FF25 NPN
25 mm (1") cutoff Infrared
T18SP6FF25 PNP
880 nm
T18SN6FF50 NPN
Fixed-Field 50 mm (2") cutoff
T18SP6FF50 PNP
FIXED-FIELD
T18SN6FF100 NPN
100 mm (4") cutoff
T18SP6FF100 PNP
* Standard 2 m (6.5') cable models are listed.
• 9 m (30') cable: add suffix “W/30” (e.g., T186E W/30).
• 4-pin Euro-style QD models: add suffix “Q” (e.g., T186EQ). A model with a QD connector requires a mating cable. (See page 7.)

** Use polarized models when shiny objects will be sensed.

WARNING . . . Not To Be Used for Personnel Protection

Never use these products as sensing devices for personnel protection. Doing so could lead to serious injury or death.
These sensors do NOT include the self-checking redundant circuitry necessary to allow their use in personnel safety applications. A
sensor failure or malfunction can cause either an energized or de-energized sensor output condition. Consult your current Banner
Safety Products catalog for safety products which meet OSHA, ANSI and IEC standards for personnel protection.

Printed in USA 02/08 P/N 121526 rev. A

 T18 Sensors — dc-Voltage Series

Fixed-Field Mode Overview

T18 Series self-contained fixed-field sensors are small, powerful, infrared diffuse mode
sensors with far-limit cutoff (a type of background suppression). Their high excess gain and
fixed-field technology allow them to detect objects of low reflectivity, while ignoring background
surfaces. Cutoff
Distance
Object B
The cutoff distance is fixed. Backgrounds and background objects must always be placed Receiver
Elements
Object
A
or
Background
beyond the cutoff distance. Near R1 Lenses
Detector
Fixed-Field Sensing – Theory of Operation
The T18FF compares the reflections of its emitted light beam (E) from an object back to Far
Detector
R2
the sensor’s two differently aimed detectors, R1 and R2 (see Figure 1). If the near detector
(R1) light signal is stronger than the far detector (R2) light signal (see object A, closer than
the cutoff distance), the sensor responds to the object. If the far detector (R2) light signal is
Emitter E
stronger than the near detector (R1) light signal (see object B, beyond the cutoff distance), the
sensor ignores the object. Sensing
Range
The cutoff distance for model T18FF sensors is fixed at 25, 50 or 100 millimeters (1", 2",
or 4"). Objects lying beyond the cutoff distance usually are ignored, even if they are highly Object is sensed if amount of light at R1
is greater than the amount of light at R2
reflective. However, it is possible to falsely detect a background object, under certain
conditions (see Background Reflectivity and Placement). Figure 1. Fixed-field concept
In the drawings and discussion on these pages, the letters E, R1, and R2 identify how the
sensor’s three optical elements (Emitter “E”, Near Detector “R1”, and Far Detector “R2”) line
up across the face of the sensor. The location of these elements defines the sensing axis (see
Figure 2). The sensing axis becomes important in certain situations, such as those illustrated
in Figures 5 and 6.

Sensor Setup
Sensing Reliability
For highest sensitivity, position the target object for sensing at or near the point of maximum
excess gain. Excess gain curves for these products are shown on page 5. They show excess
gain vs. sensing distance for sensors with 25 mm, 50 mm, and 100 mm (1", 2", and 4")
cutoffs. Maximum excess gain for the 25 mm models occurs at a lens-to-object distance of Sensing
Axis
about 7 mm; for the 50 mm models, at about 10 mm; and for the 100 mm models, at about
20 mm. Sensing at or near this distance will make maximum use of each sensor’s available R1
R2
sensing power. The background must be placed beyond the cutoff distance. (Note that the E
reflectivity of the background surface also may affect the cutoff distance.) Following these two
guidelines will improve sensing reliability.
Background Reflectivity and Placement
Avoid mirror-like backgrounds that produce specular reflections. False sensor response will
occur if a background surface reflects the sensor’s light more strongly to the near detector, or As a general rule, the most reliable sensing
“sensing” detector (R1), than to the far detector, or “cutoff” detector (R2). The result is a false of an object approaching from the side
ON condition (Figure 3). To cure this problem, use a diffusely reflective (matte) background, occurs when the line of approach is parallel
to the sensing axis.
or angle either the sensor or the background (in any plane) so the background does not reflect
light back to the sensor (see Figure 4). Position the background as far beyond the cutoff
distance as possible. Figure 2. Fixed-field sensing axis

An object beyond the cutoff distance, either stationary (and when positioned as shown in
Figure 5), or moving past the face of the sensor in a direction perpendicular to the sensing
axis, can cause unwanted sensor triggering if more light is reflected to the near detector than
to the far detector. The problem is easily remedied by rotating the sensor 90° (Figure 6).
Banner Engineering Corp. • Minneapolis, MN U.S.A
    P/N 121526 rev. A www.bannerengineering.com • Tel: 763.544.3164
 T18 Sensors — dc-Voltage Series
The object then reflects the R1 and R2 fields equally, resulting in no false triggering. A better
solution, if possible, may be to reposition the object or the sensor.
Color Sensitivity
The effects of object reflectivity on cutoff distance, though small, may be important for some
applications. It is expected that at any given cutoff setting, the actual cutoff distance for lower
reflectance targets will be slightly shorter than for higher reflectance targets (see Figure-of-
Merit information on page 5). This behavior is known as color sensitivity.
For example, an excess gain of 1 (see page 5) for an object that reflects 1/10 as much light as
the 90% white card is represented by the horizontal graph line at excess gain = 10. An object
of this reflectivity results in a far limit cutoff of approximately 20 mm (0.8"), for the 25 mm (1")
cutoff model for example; thus 20 mm represents the cutoff for this sensor and target.
These excess gain curves were generated using a white test card of 90% reflectance.
Objects with reflectivity of less than 90% reflect less light back to the sensor, and thus
require proportionately more excess gain in order to be sensed with the same reliability as
more reflective objects. When sensing an object of very low reflectivity, it may be especially
important to sense it at or near the distance of maximum excess gain.

Cutoff
Distance
R1 = Near Detector
R2 = Far Detector Cutoff
E = Emitter Distance Fixed Sensing
Reflective Field Reflective
Background Background
T18FF T18FF
Strong
Direct
R1 Reflection R1
to R1
R2 R2 Core of
E Core of E Emitted
Emitted Beam
Beam
Strong
Direct
Reflection
Fixed Away
Sensing From Sensor
Field
R1 = Near Detector
R2 = Far Detector
E = Emitter

Figure 3. Reflective background – problem Figure 4. Reflective background – solution

T18FF Cutoff Cutoff

Distance T18FF Distance

R1
R2 R1, R2, E
E

Fixed Fixed
Sensing R1 = Near Detector Sensing
Field Reflective Field Reflective
R2 = Far Detector
Surface Surface
E = Emitter
or or
R1 = Near Detector Moving Object Moving Object
R2 = Far Detector
E = Emitter

A reflective background object in this position or A reflective background object in this position or
moving across the sensor face in this axis and moving across the sensor face in this axis will be
direction may cause false sensor response. ignored.

Figure 5. Object beyond cutoff – problem Figure 6. Object beyond cutoff – solution

Banner Engineering Corp. • Minneapolis, MN U.S.A

 www.bannerengineering.com • Tel: 763.544.3164     P/N 121526 rev. A    
 T18 Sensors — dc-Voltage Series

Specifications
Supply Voltage and 10 to 30V dc (10% max. ripple); supply current (exclusive of load current):
Current Emitters, Non-Polarized Retro, Diffuse: 25 mA
Receivers: 20 mA
Polarized Retroreflective: 30 mA
Fixed-Field: 35 mA
Supply Protection Protected against reverse polarity and transient voltages
Circuitry
Output Configuration  PDT solid-state dc switch; NPN (current sinking) or PNP (current sourcing), depending on model
S
Light Operate: N.O. output conducts when sensor sees its own (or the emitter’s) modulated light
Dark Operate: N.C. output conducts when the sensor sees dark; the N.C. (normally closed) output may be wired as a
normally open marginal signal alarm output, depending upon hookup to power supply
Output Rating 1 50 mA maximum (each) in standard hookup. When wired for alarm output, the total load may not exceed 150 mA.
OFF-state leakage current: < 1 microamp @ 30V dc
ON-state saturation voltage: < 1V @ 10 mA dc; < 1.5V @ 150 mA dc
Output Protection Protected against false pulse on power-up and continuous overload or short circuit of outputs
Circuitry
Output Response Time Opposed mode: 3 ms ON, 1.5 ms OFF
Retro, Fixed-Field and Diffuse: 3 ms ON and OFF
NOTE: 100 ms delay on power-up; outputs do not conduct during this time.
Repeatability Opposed mode: 375 µs
Retro, Fixed-Field and Diffuse: 750 µs
Repeatability and response are independent of signal strength.
Adjustments Non-polarized retro and diffuse models (only) have a single-turn rear-panel Sensitivity control (turn clockwise to increase
gain).
Indicators Two LEDs (Green and Yellow)
Green ON steady: power to sensor is ON
Green flashing: output is overloaded
Yellow ON steady: N.O. output is conducting
Yellow flashing: excess gain marginal (1 to 1.5x) in light condition
Construction PBT polyester housing; polycarbonate (opposed-mode) or acrylic lens
Environmental Rating Leakproof design rated NEMA 6P, DIN 40050 (IP69K)
Connections 2 m (6.5') or 9 m (30') attached cable or 4-pin Euro-style quick-disconnect fitting
Operating Conditions Temperature: −40° to +70° C (−40° to +158° F)
Maximum relative humidity: 90% at 50° C (non-condensing)
Vibration and Mechanical All models meet Mil. Std. 202F requirements. Method 201A (Vibration; frequency 10 to 60 Hz, max., double amplitude
Shock 0.06" acceleration 10G). Method 213B conditions H&I (Shock: 75G with unit operating; 100G for
non-operation)
Certifications

Banner Engineering Corp. • Minneapolis, MN U.S.A

    P/N 121526 rev. A www.bannerengineering.com • Tel: 763.544.3164
 T18 Sensors — dc-Voltage Series

Performance Curves
Excess Gain Beam Pattern Excess Gain
Performance based on use of a 90% reflectance white test card.†
1000 1000
T18 Series T18 Series
E T18 Series E

Fixed-Field – 25 mm
1500 mm 60"
X Opposed Mode X Fixed-field mode
C Opposed Mode 1000 mm 40" C with 25 mm far Ø 10 mm spot size @ 8 mm focus
100 100 limit cutoff
E 500 mm 20" E Ø 10 mm spot size @ 25 mm cutoff
Opposed

S 0 0
S
S S
500 mm 20"
G 10 1000 mm 40" G 10 †Using 18% gray test card: Cutoff
A
1500 mm 60"
A distance will be 95% of value shown.
I I
N N †Using 6% black test card: Cutoff
0 5m 10 m 15 m 20 m 25 m
1
(16') (32') (49') (66') (82')
1 distance will be 90% of value shown.
0.1 m 1m 10 m 100 m 0.1 mm 1 mm 10 mm 100 mm
(0.33') (3.3') (33') (330') DISTANCE (0.004") (0.04") (0.4") (4")
DISTANCE DISTANCE

1000 1000
T18 Series T18 Series T18 Series
E 120 mm 4.7" E

Fixed-Field – 50 mm
Non-Polarized Retro Fixed-field mode
X X
††

80 mm 3.2"
Ø 10 mm spot size @ 10 mm focus
Retroreflective

with 50 mm far
C Non-Polarized Retro C limit cutoff
100 40 mm 1.6" 100
E E Ø 10 mm spot size @ 50 mm cutoff
S 0 with BRT-3 Reflector 0 S
with BRT-3 Reflector
S 40 mm 1.6" S

G 10 80 mm 3.2" G 10 †Using 18% gray test card: Cutoff

A 120 mm 4.7" A distance will be 90% of value shown.
I I
N 0 0.5 m 1.0 m 1.5 m 2.0 m 2.5 m N †Using 6% black test card: Cutoff
1 (1.6') (3.2') (4.8') (6.4') (8.0') 1 distance will be 85% of value shown.
0.01 m 0.1 m 1m 10 m DISTANCE 0.1 mm 1 mm 10 mm 100 mm
(0.033') (0.33') (3.3') (33') (0.004") (0.04") (0.4") (4")
DISTANCE DISTANCE
1000 1000
T18 Series T18 Series
T18 Series
Fixed-Field – 100 mm

E 150 mm 6" E
X Polarized Retro
††

X Fixed-field mode
Ø 10 mm spot size @ 20 mm focus
Polarized Retro

100 mm 4" with 100 mm far

C Polarized Retro C
100 limit cutoff
E 50 mm 2" E 100
S
Ø 10 mm spot size @ 100 mm cutoff
0 with BRT-3 Reflector 0 S
S S
with BRT-3 Reflector 50 mm 2"
G 10 100 mm 4" G 10 †Using 18% gray test card: Cutoff
A 150 mm 6" A distance will be 85% of value shown.
I I
N
0 0.5 m 1.0 m 1.5 m 2.0 m 2.5 m N †Using 6% black test card: Cutoff
1
0.01 m 0.1 m 1m 10 m
(1.6') (3.2') (4.8') (6.4') (8.0') 1 distance will be 75% of value shown.
0.1 mm 1 mm 10 mm 100 mm
(0.033') (0.33') (3.3') (33') DISTANCE (0.004") (0.04") (0.4") (4")
DISTANCE DISTANCE

Performance based on use of a 90% reflectance white test card. Focus and spot sizes are typical.
1000
T18 Series
Diffuse – 500 mm

E DC Diffuse mode
T18 Series
X 60 mm 2.4"
DC Diffuse Mode
C 40 mm 1.6"
100
E
S 20 mm 0.8"
S 0 0
20 mm 0.8"
G 10
A 40 mm 1.6"
I 60 mm 2.4"
N
1 0 125 mm 250 mm 375 mm 500 mm 625 mm
1 mm 10 mm 100 mm 1000 mm (5") (10") (15") (20") (25")
(0.04") (0.4") (4") (40")
DISTANCE DISTANCE

† † Performance based on use of a model BRT-3 retroreflector (3" diameter). Actual

sensing range may be more or less than specified, depending on the efficiency and
reflective area of the retroreflector used.

Banner Engineering Corp. • Minneapolis, MN U.S.A

 www.bannerengineering.com • Tel: 763.544.3164     P/N 121526 rev. A    
 T18 Sensors — dc-Voltage Series

Dimensions
Cabled Models QD Models
Jam Nut
(Supplied)
M18 x 1
Thread
ø 30.0 mm
(1.18")
30.0 mm
(1.18") ø 30.0 mm
(1.18")
ø 15 mm
(0.59")
Green LED
Power Indicator Single-turn 66.5 mm
Yellow LED Sensitivity (Gain) Control (2.62")
Output Indicator 41.5 mm (D and L Models)
(1.64")

11.5 mm
(0.45")

Hookups
Cabled Emitters NPN (Sinking) Outputs - Standard Hookup PNP (Sourcing) Outputs - Standard Hookup
3 1
– +
3 10-30V dc
– 1 10-30V dc 3
+ –
10-30V dc 4 4
1 Load Load
+
2 2
Load Load

QD and cabled emitter hookups are functionally

identical; black and white wires have no connection.
Alarm Hookup Alarm Hookup
1 3
– +
3 10-30V dc 10-30V dc
Wire Key +
1
–
1 = Brown 4 4
2 = White Load Load
3 = Blue 2 2
Alarm Alarm
4 = Black
NOTE: QD hookups are functionally identical.

Quick-Disconnect (QD) Cordsets

Style Model Length Dimensions Pinout
4-pin MQDC-406 2 m (6.5') ø 15 mm
(0.6")
Euro-style MQDC-415 5 m (15')
M12 x 1 2
Straight MQDC-430 9 m (30') 44 mm max.
(1.7")
1
38 mm max. 3
(1.5") 4

4-pin MQDC-406RA 2 m (6.5') 38 mm max.

Euro-style MQDC-415RA 5 m (15') (1.5")

Right-angle MQDC-430RA 9 m (30')

M12 x 1
ø 15 mm
(0.6")

4-Pin Euro
WARRANTY:  Banner Engineering Corp. warrants its products to be free from defects for one year. Banner Engineering
Corp. will repair or replace, free of charge, any product of its manufacture found to be defective at the time it is returned
to the factory during the warranty period. This warranty does not cover damage or liability for the improper application of
Banner products. This warranty is in lieu of any other warranty either expressed or implied.
P/N 121526 rev. A
Banner Engineering Corp., 9714 Tenth Ave. No., Minneapolis, MN USA 55441 • Phone: 763.544.3164 • www.bannerengineering.com • Email: sensors@bannerengineering.com