The Datalogic TL46-W-815 is a contrast (colour mark) sensor from the TL46 series, now sold under the Datasensing brand. It reads registration marks on film, labels and cartons using an RGB light source, and it is built in a strong aluminium housing for packaging, printing and labelling machines that run all day.
TL46-W-815 key specifications
| Specification | TL46-W-815 |
|---|---|
| Sensor type | Contrast / colour mark sensor, diffuse |
| Light emission | RGB LED (red 630 nm, green 520 nm, blue 465 nm), chosen automatically |
| Operating distance | 9 mm (working range about 6–12 mm) |
| Spot | Vertical, about 1.5 × 5 mm |
| Switching frequency | 15 kHz |
| Output | PNP or NPN, selectable (PNP default), 100 mA max, plus 0–5 V analogue output |
| Supply voltage | 10–30 Vdc |
| Connection | M12 5-pin connector (rotatable) |
| Housing | Aluminium, PMMA lens, about 81.5 × 31.9 × 60.7 mm |
| Protection | IP67 |
| Operating temperature | -10 to 55 °C |
| Setting | Two push-buttons: MARK and BKGD |
Always confirm the final values against the datasheet for your exact order code; we share it with every quotation.
How the TL46-W-815 works
A contrast sensor does not measure colour as a camera does. It compares how much light the mark and the background reflect. The TL46-W-815 lights the target with red, green and blue light and automatically uses the colour that gives the biggest difference between your mark and the film or label behind it. This is why it can read coloured marks (for example a blue mark on a green pouch) that a simple single-colour sensor may miss.
Setting up the TL46-W-815 in four steps
- Mount the sensor about 9 mm from the material, with the light spot crossing the path of the mark. Tilt it slightly (about 10–15°) on shiny film to avoid direct reflections.
- Teach the mark: place the printed mark in the light spot and press MARK.
- Teach the background: place the plain background in the spot and press BKGD. The sensor sets the switching threshold and dark/light mode automatically.
- Check the READY LED: steady means the set-up worked; slow blinking means there is not enough contrast. In that case check the distance and angle, and teach again.
To change the output between PNP and NPN, press MARK and BKGD together. Check your PLC input type before installation; see our PNP vs NPN guide.
Typical applications
- Registration (eye) marks on form-fill-seal and flow-wrap packaging machines
- Cut-to-register on pouch, sachet and bag making machines
- Print mark detection on flexo, gravure and offset printing lines
- Label and carton mark detection on labelling machines
- Detecting colour differences on moving web material
TL46-W-815 vs TL50-W-815 vs TLu-115
| TL46-W-815 | TL50-W-815 | TLu-115 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | RGB | RGB | Red / green |
| Distance | 9 mm | 9 mm (±3 mm) | 9 mm (±3 mm) |
| Housing | Aluminium | ABS plastic | ZAMA metal |
| Output | PNP/NPN + analogue | PNP + NPN | PNP + analogue |
| Connector | M12 5-pin | M12 4-pin | M12 4-pin |
For a detailed comparison, read TL50 vs TL46 vs TLu: which Datalogic contrast sensor?
Frequently asked questions
Is the TL46-W-815 a fork sensor?
No. It is a diffuse contrast sensor that looks at the material from one side, about 9 mm away. For label gap detection with a fork, see the SR21-IR label sensor.
Can the TL46-W-815 read coloured marks?
Yes. Its RGB light source automatically picks red, green or blue light for the best contrast between mark and background.
Does it give PNP or NPN output?
Both are available; you select PNP or NPN on the sensor (PNP is the default). It also has a 0–5 V analogue output.
Which cable do I need?
The TL46-W-815 has an M12 5-pin connector, so it needs an M12 5-pole cable, ordered separately.
Is the TL46-W-815 available in India?
Yes. VXT Sensor, Noida, supplies the TL46-W-815 with datasheet and delivery across India. Ask us for the current price and stock.
Compare all models in our Datalogic contrast sensor range or read the contrast sensor buying guide.
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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