Not every application needs a large or expensive sensor. Datalogic (Datasensing) offers two popular rectangular photoelectric families for small machines: the miniature S41 and the compact S60. This guide explains the difference and helps you choose.
S41 vs S60 at a glance
| Feature | S41 (miniature) | S60 (compact) |
|---|---|---|
| Main idea | Basic, low-cost sensor in a miniature housing | Compact sensor with longer ranges and special lens options |
| Polarised retroreflective | 0.1–2.5 m on R2 | 0.1–6 m on R2 (B01) |
| Transparent objects | 0.1–0.7 m (T) | T51 model with glass lens |
| Diffuse proximity | 0.2–35 cm (C) | 1–90 cm (C01) |
| Fixed focus | 11 cm ±10% (D) | — |
| Through-beam | 0.1–6 m (G) or 0.1–1.5 m (H) | 0–20 m (F01 / G00) |
| Output | NO + NC, NPN or PNP, 100 mA | NO + NC, NPN or PNP, 100 mA |
| Response time | 1 ms (500 Hz) | 0.5 ms (1 kHz) on B01/B51/T51, 1 ms on C01/C11/F01 |
| Connection | 2 m cable or M8 4-pin connector | Cable or M12 connector (can be turned 180°) |
| Protection | IP67 (IP66 on trimmer models) | See datasheet for your model |
| Housing | ABS, PMMA lens | ABS; PMMA/polycarbonate or glass lens (B51/T51) |
| Supply | 10–30 Vdc | 10–30 Vdc |
Values are from the Datalogic S41 and S60 datasheets. Always confirm with the datasheet for your exact code; we send it with every quotation.
Datalogic S41: small and economical
The S41 is designed for applications where size and cost matter most. Every model has both NO and NC outputs, and the diffuse, retroreflective and transparent-object versions have a sensitivity trimmer. Choose it for small conveyors, packing tables, presence checks and simple machines.
- S41-5-B-P – polarised retroreflective, PNP, M8 connector
- S41-5-C-P – diffuse proximity, PNP, M8 connector
S41 codes are simple: in S41-5-B-P, 5 means M8 connector (2 = 2 m cable), B is the function (B polarised retroreflective, C diffuse, D fixed focus, T transparent objects, P polarised without trimmer, F receiver, G/H emitter) and P means PNP output (N = NPN).
Datalogic S60: more range in a compact body
The S60 reaches up to 6 m in retroreflective mode and 20 m in through-beam mode, with fast 0.5 ms response on the retroreflective models. The B51 and T51 versions use a glass window and lens, useful where the lens must resist scratches or cleaning. The S60-PA-5-T51-PP is a transparent-object model, ideal for clear bottles and PET containers.
Which one should you choose?
- Choose the S41 for short distances, tight spaces and cost-sensitive machines.
- Choose the S60 for longer distances, faster lines, transparent bottles, or when you prefer an M12 connector.
- For an even more robust compact sensor, see the Datalogic S62; for M18 tubular sensors, see the S50 and S5N.
Setting up the sensitivity trimmer
- Retroreflective: turn the trimmer to maximum, align the sensor with the reflector, then mount it in the middle of the points where the output LED switches on and off.
- Diffuse: with the trimmer at minimum, place the object in front and turn clockwise until the LED switches on. Remove the object and turn until the background is detected. Set the trimmer half-way between the two points.
- Transparent objects: follow the datasheet procedure. The trimmer is set close to the switching point so the sensor sees the small loss of light through clear material.
Not sure about the output type? Read PNP vs NPN explained. See all Datalogic photoelectric sensors.
Frequently asked questions
What is the range of the Datalogic S41?
Up to 2.5 m in polarised retroreflective mode, 35 cm in diffuse mode and up to 6 m in through-beam mode.
What connector does the S41 use?
Connector versions (code 5) use an M8 4-pin connector. Code 2 versions have a 2 m cable.
What is the S60 T51 used for?
The T51 detects transparent objects such as clear bottles and film, using a reflector and a glass lens.
Do the S41 and S60 have two outputs?
Yes. Both have NO and NC outputs, in PNP or NPN.
Which is faster, S41 or S60?
The S60 retroreflective models respond in 0.5 ms (1 kHz); the S41 responds in 1 ms (500 Hz).
Buy from VXT Sensor
VXT Sensor, Noida, supplies genuine Datalogic (Datasensing) sensors across India. Send us the model code or describe your application, and we will confirm the right model, datasheet, price and delivery time. Send an enquiry or call +91 99530 39482.
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