Datalogic TL80 Contrast Sensor: Fast Registration Mark Sensor Guide

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Datalogic TL80 contrast sensor guide – VXT Sensor

The Datalogic TL80 is a fast contrast sensor (also called a registration mark or eye-mark sensor) in a strong metal housing. It reads printed marks on film, paper and labels on packaging and printing machines, and stands out for its 10 kHz switching speed, interchangeable lenses and analogue output for checking contrast.

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TL80 key specifications

SpecificationValue
Light emissionGreen (526 nm) or red (630 nm) LED, selected by a switch
Lens / reading distance9 mm ±2, 18 mm ±2 or 28 mm ±3
Light spot1.5 × 5 mm at 9 mm; 2 × 7 mm at 18 mm; 3 × 10 mm at 28 mm
Response time / switching frequency50 µs / 10 kHz (9 and 18 mm versions); 166 µs / 3 kHz (28 mm)
OutputNPN or PNP (selected by a jumper), 200 mA max
Analogue output0–5 Vdc proportional to reflected light (cable models)
Supply10–30 Vdc
HousingZAMA metal, IP67
Connection3 m cable, cable with Amphenol connector, or M12 connector

Values are from the Datalogic TL80 manual. The 9 mm and 18 mm lenses fit the same body, while the 28 mm lens needs its own body. Check the datasheet for your exact order code, such as the TL80-015.

How the TL80 works

The TL80 lights the material with a small spot and measures how much light comes back. A dark mark reflects less light than the background, so the output switches as each mark passes. Choosing green or red light lets you get the best contrast: green light usually works best for red, orange and yellow marks, and red light for blue, green and black marks.

The analogue output gives a voltage that rises with the amount of reflected light. Measure it on the mark and on the background to see which light colour gives the bigger difference.

Installation and set-up

  1. Mount the head at the focus distance of the lens (9, 18 or 28 mm) from the material.
  2. Tilt it 5–20° on shiny materials such as plastic film or metal foil, to avoid direct reflections.
  3. Select the light colour (green or red) with the switch, using the analogue output to compare if needed.
  4. Set the output type (PNP or NPN) and, if required, the output delay with the internal jumpers. Refit the cover and gasket carefully afterwards.
  5. Adjust the switching point so the output changes cleanly between mark and background, then test at full machine speed.

Typical applications

  • Cutting and sealing registration on flow-wrap and pouch machines
  • Print registration on printing and laminating machines
  • Label and sleeve positioning
  • High-speed lines where a 10 kHz sensor is needed

TL80 compared with other Datalogic contrast sensors

Choose the TL80 when you want manual control of light colour, interchangeable lenses and very fast switching. For automatic RGB colour choice, the TL50 or TL46 is easier to set up. Read how to choose a Datalogic contrast sensor or see all contrast and colour mark sensors.

Frequently asked questions

What is the switching speed of the Datalogic TL80?

Up to 10 kHz (50 µs response) on the 9 mm and 18 mm versions, and 3 kHz on the 28 mm version.

Can I change the lens on a TL80?

Yes. The 9 mm and 18 mm lenses are interchangeable on the same body. The 28 mm lens needs its own body.

Should I use green or red light?

Use the colour that gives the biggest difference between mark and background. Green usually suits red, orange and yellow marks; red usually suits blue, green and black marks. The analogue output helps you compare.

Is the TL80 PNP or NPN?

Both. The output type is selected with an internal jumper.

What is the TL80 housing made of?

ZAMA metal, rated IP67.

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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