Sensors Frequently Asked Questions
Question
Can proximity sensors be connected in series?
Answer
Yes.The number of proximity sensors connected in series is dependent on the available voltage to energize the PLC input or load. This voltage is calculated as the sum of voltage drops across each sensor subtracted from the available power supply voltage.
Let's use as an example three of the AutomationDirect APS24 series 3-wire NPN sensors,
- Brown wire is positive (+DC)
Blue wire is the negative (-DC)
Black wire is the output
The load will be a PLC input. By connecting the sensors in series, all of the sensors must be activated in order for the PLC to receive an input signal.
- Start by connecting the brown wire of each sensor to the positive terminal (+) of a 24 VDC power supply.
Connect the first sensors blue wire to negative terminal (-) on the 24VDC power supply
Connect the first sensor's black wire to the second sensor's blue wire
Connect the second sensor's black wire to the third sensor's blue wire
For the final termination, connect the third sensor's black wire to the PLC input terminal.
You will need +24VDC on the input modules common terminal, for the input to work correctly.
You can continue this patterns as many times as needed, staying within the voltage restrictions previously mentioned.
FAQ Subcategory: None
This item was last updated on 2021-02-10
Document ID: 303
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