The Datalogic (Datasensing) S6 series is a compact, rectangular photoelectric sensor in a tough ABS housing. Its big advantage is choice: the same sensor body is available with DC transistor outputs for PLCs, or with a relay output that runs on 15–264 V AC or DC, which is ideal for simple machines and older panels without a 24 V supply.
The four S6 versions
| Version | Supply | Output | Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| S6-5 | 10–30 Vdc | NPN / PNP transistor, 100 mA | 2 m cable |
| S6T-5 | 10–30 Vdc | PNP transistor, 100 mA | M12 4-pin connector |
| S6R-5 | 10–30 Vdc | NPN or PNP, NO/NC | M12 4-pin connector |
| S6-1 | 15–264 Vac/Vdc | Relay, 1 NO + 1 NC contact, 3 A (250 Vac) | 2 m cable |
Sensing modes and ranges
- A6 – retroreflective, 0.1–6 m on R2 reflector (for example S6-1-A6 and S6-5-A6)
- B5 – polarised retroreflective, 0.1–5 m, for shiny objects
- T1 – retroreflective for transparent objects, 0.1–1 m
- C90 / C200 – diffuse proximity, 1–90 cm or 1–200 cm (for example S6-1-C90)
- M10 / M25 – background suppression, 3–10 cm or 3–25 cm, set with an adjustment screw (for example S6-5-M25)
- F / G – through-beam receiver and emitter pair
Key technical data
| Specification | DC versions | Relay version (S6-1) |
|---|---|---|
| Response time | 1 ms (2 ms through-beam) | 30 ms |
| Switching frequency | 500 Hz (250 Hz through-beam) | 2 Hz |
| Light | Infrared 880 nm; red 660 nm on B, T and M10 models | |
| Housing | ABS UL 94V-0 | |
| Protection | IP65 | |
| Operating temperature | -25 to 55 °C |
Values are from the Datalogic S6 series manual. Check the datasheet for your exact code before ordering.
DC or relay: which one?
- Choose a DC version (S6-5, S6T, S6R) for PLC inputs and fast machines. The response time is 1 ms.
- Choose the relay version (S6-1) when you want to switch a contactor, lamp or motor control directly, or when only 110/230 V AC is available. The relay is slower (2 switchings per second), so use it for slow events such as vehicles, doors, pallets or level checks, not for fast product counting.
Not sure about PNP and NPN? Read PNP vs NPN sensor outputs explained.
Setting up an S6 sensor
- Retroreflective (A, B, T): place the sensor and reflector opposite each other, turn the sensitivity trimmer to maximum, find the points where the red output LED switches on and off in both directions, and fix the sensor in the middle.
- Diffuse (C): start with the trimmer at minimum, place the target in front and turn clockwise until the LED switches on. Remove the target and turn until the background is detected. Set the trimmer half-way between the two positions.
- Background suppression (M): set the adjustment screw so the target is detected and the background behind it is ignored. The green stability LED shows a good signal.
- Relay version: select light or dark mode with the dark/light trimmer.
Note: S6 sensors are not safety devices. For guarding people, use a safety light curtain such as the SG2.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Datalogic S6 work on 230 V AC?
Yes. The S6-1 relay version works on 15–264 V AC or DC and has a relay output with NO and NC contacts.
What is the range of the S6 retroreflective sensor?
The A6 models reach 0.1–6 m on an R2 reflector; the polarised B5 models reach 0.1–5 m.
Which S6 has background suppression?
The M10 and M25 models, with ranges of 3–10 cm and 3–25 cm, adjusted with a screw.
Is the S6 relay version fast enough for counting?
No. The relay switches up to 2 times per second. For fast counting choose a DC version with 1 ms response.
What protection rating does the S6 have?
The S6 series is rated IP65.
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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