Rockwell Automation’s Bulletin 46DFA PHOTOSWITCH® DIN Rail Fiber Optic Amplifier is specifically designed for detecting small objects and offers a dual display model. These sensors are particularly well-suited for applications with limited space or those that require high-speed detection. One notable feature of the 46DFA sensors is the provision of two high-visibility displays. These displays offer valuable feedback that simplifies setup, operation, and maintenance of the sensors, enhancing overall usability. The sensors also include an ECO (economy) display mode, which reduces the amplifier’s power consumption by 25%. This energy-saving feature contributes to efficient operation and reduces overall power usage.
With a teachable LED intensity feature, the sensors provide flexibility for reliable sensing of clear or transparent objects. This functionality ensures accurate detection even in challenging applications. When connected using IO-Link, the sensors offer fast-response output and enable continuous sensor monitoring without impacting performance. This capability allows for real-time data acquisition and enhances overall control and visibility of the sensing process. The 46DFA sensors boast fast response speeds, available in four options: 50 μs, 500 μs, 4 ms, and 32 ms. This range of response times allows for precise and efficient detection, catering to different application requirements.
For counting applications, the sensors come equipped with a built-in totalizer feature, simplifying the counting process and providing accurate results. To ensure stable operation of multiple sensors in close proximity, the 46DFA sensors offer cross-talk protection. This feature minimizes interference and ensures reliable detection even in densely populated sensing environments. The sensors provide selectable PNP and NPN outputs, allowing for compatibility with different control systems. Additionally, the use of a push button simplifies the selection process and reduces the need for maintaining separate inventory for each output type.