When a sensor fails on a machine, the fastest way to get the right replacement is the model code printed on its label. Datalogic codes look complicated, but each part has a clear meaning. This guide shows you how to read them, using the popular M18 sensors as an example, and explains why newer labels and datasheets show the name Datasensing.
The structure of a Datalogic photoelectric code
Take the code S50-PA-5-C01-PP (see the product). It has five parts:
| Part | Example | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Series | S50 | The sensor family, for example S50, S51, S5N, S62, S8, S3N |
| Housing and optic | PA | First letter: P = plastic, M = metal. Second letter: A = axial, R = radial (90°), L or H = laser versions |
| Connection | 5 | 5 = M12 connector, 2 = 2 m cable |
| Optical function | C01 | How the sensor detects: through-beam, retroreflective, diffuse, background suppression and so on |
| Output | PP | PP = PNP, NN = NPN (two outputs, NO + NC). PK / NK = single PNP / NPN output. XG = emitter (no output) |
Common optical function codes
These are the function codes used on the S50 and S5N M18 ranges, based on the Datalogic datasheets:
- A00 – retroreflective (works with a reflector)
- F00 / F01 – through-beam receiver (pair it with a G00 emitter), for example S50-MA-2-F01-NN
- G00 – through-beam emitter, usually with output code XG, for example S50-PA-2-G00-XG
- B01 – polarised retroreflective with sensitivity trimmer (works with a reflector), for example S5N-PA-5-B01-PP
- T01 – retroreflective for transparent objects such as clear bottles and film
- C10, C01, C21 – diffuse proximity (the object reflects the light back). C10 is short range, C01 and C21 are longer range versions
- D00 – fixed focus diffuse
- M01 / M03 – background suppression (M01 with an adjustment trimmer, M03 with a teach-in push-button), for example S5N-PA-5-M03-PP
- W03, U03 – teach-in models with a push-button: W03 uses white light (contrast detection) and U03 uses UV light (luminescence), for example S5N-MA-5-U03-PP
Function codes can differ slightly between series, so always confirm with the datasheet for your exact code.
Light mode or dark mode?
On the two-output (PP / NN) models, diffuse sensors usually switch the NO output in light mode (output ON when the object is present), while through-beam and retroreflective sensors switch it in dark mode (output ON when the beam is blocked). The NC output does the opposite. If your PLC logic looks inverted after a replacement, check which wire (black or white) is connected. Read more in PNP vs NPN outputs explained.
Other Datalogic code styles
- Contrast sensors: in TL46-W-815, TL46 is the series and the rest identifies the light source and version. See the TL46-W-815 and TL50-W-815.
- Inductive sensors: IS-18-G1-S2 = IS series, 18 mm diameter, then the variant and connection. See IS-18-G1-S2.
- Ultrasonic sensors: US18-PA-5-N03-VH = US18 series, plastic axial, M12, then the function and output. See US18-PA-5-N03-VH.
Datalogic or Datasensing: what changed?
At the end of 2021, Datalogic combined its sensor and safety division with M.D. Micro Detectors, an Italian sensor maker it had acquired in 2018. The new company was named Datasensing and is part of the Datalogic group. Since then, many sensors, light curtains and datasheets carry the Datasensing name and logo.
- The products are the same family. Series such as S5N, S62, TL46 and SG2 continue under the Datasensing brand.
- The model codes stay the same, so an older Datalogic label and a newer Datasensing label with the same code are the same product.
- Older Datalogic documents are still valid for those codes, though newer datasheet revisions may add models or update data.
So if you receive a sensor labelled Datasensing when you ordered "Datalogic", that is normal. Read more about the Datalogic / Datasensing range in India.
Tips when ordering a replacement
- Copy the full code from the label, including the last letters (PP, NN, PK, NK).
- If the label is worn, send us a photo of the sensor and the cable or connector.
- Tell us the PLC input type (PNP or NPN) if you are not sure of the output code.
- For connector versions (code 5), remember you also need an M12 cable.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the model code on a Datalogic sensor?
It is printed on the label on the sensor body, and often also on the cable tag or the box.
What does PP mean at the end of a Datalogic code?
PP means PNP output with two outputs (NO and NC). NN is the NPN version. PK and NK are single-output PNP and NPN versions.
What does 5 or 2 mean in the code?
On M18 sensors such as the S50 and S5N, 5 means M12 connector and 2 means a 2 m cable.
Is Datasensing the same as Datalogic?
Datasensing is the sensor and safety company of the Datalogic group, created in late 2021. The same series and model codes continue under the Datasensing name.
Can you identify a sensor from a photo?
Yes. Send a clear photo of the label to VXT Sensor and we will confirm the model, datasheet and replacement.
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.
Looking for the right Datalogic sensor?
Genuine products from VXT Sensor, Noida. Tell us your application and we reply with the right model, price and delivery time.
