Keyence FS-N41C Fiber Amplifier Main Unit
The FS-N41C from Keyence is a digital fiber optic sensor amplifier main unit in the FS-N40 series. Specifically, it uses an M8 connector type and supports IO-Link V1.1 communication. Unlike expansion units, this model works as the primary controller in a sensing system. It provides two control outputs and one external input, with output 2 and the external input sharing a selectable function. Furthermore, the built-in IO-Link interface allows parameter setting and data exchange with a master device.
Technical Specifications
The FS-N41C offers eight response time settings to cover different detection speeds. At the fastest setting (S-HSPD), response time reaches 23 µs. Users can also choose 50 µs (HSPD), 250 µs (FINE), 500 µs (TURBO), 1 ms (SUPER), 4 ms (ULTRA), 16 ms (MEGA), or 64 ms (TERA). The light source is a red four-element LED with a 660 nm wavelength, which provides stable emission and consistent detection.
For output capability, the unit provides two open-collector control outputs. Each output handles up to 30 V and 100 mA. Output 2 can also serve as an external input instead. The external input accepts an ON time of 2 ms or longer and an OFF time of 20 ms or longer. Additionally, IO-Link V1.1 runs at COM2 speed (38.4 kbps). Cable length can reach 30 m in total, with 20 m available through the IO-Link segment.
Electrical and Communication Parameters
The supply voltage ranges from 10 to 30 VDC with 10% ripple P-P or less. A Class 2 or LPS power source is required. Power consumption stays at 910 mW or less (36 mA at 24 V). With ECO ON, consumption drops to 840 mW, and ECO FULL reduces it further to 750 mW. These modes help limit heat build-up in dense control panels.
The built-in M8 connector carries the IO-Link signal. Moreover, no additional communication expansion is available on this model. Therefore, users should plan the network topology around the single IO-Link port. The FS-N41C works well as a smart sensor node in modern automation systems.
Mechanical and Environmental Data
The unit weighs approximately 25 g, slightly more than the expansion model due to the M8 connector. The operating temperature range is -20 to +55 °C with no freezing. When multiple units are connected, the allowable upper temperature may derate, so check the derating curve for dense installations. Storage temperature, relative humidity, protection rating, and dimensions are not available in the current specification.
Installation Guide
First, mount the FS-N41C onto a 35 mm DIN rail. Next, connect the fiber optic cables to the amplifier head. Then, plug the M8 connector cable into the unit for power and IO-Link communication. After that, configure parameters through the IO-Link master or the front panel buttons. Finally, verify the supply voltage stays within 10 to 30 VDC before starting operation.
Keep the IO-Link cable away from motor drives and high-current lines. Besides, use shielded M8 cables when the cable run exceeds 20 m. For multi-unit setups, connect expansion units to the right side of the FS-N41C. The system supports up to 16 expansion units in total.
Packaging List
Shipping is available via Fedex, UPS, and DHL.
FAQ
Q1: What makes the FS-N41C different from expansion units?
A: The FS-N41C is a main unit with two control outputs and IO-Link V1.1. Expansion units only add channels and have no control outputs.
Q2: How many expansion units can connect to the FS-N41C?
A: You can connect up to 16 expansion units, giving 17 total units including this main amplifier.
Q3: What IO-Link speed does the FS-N41C support?
A: It supports IO-Link V1.1 at COM2 speed, which is 38.4 kbps. Cable length can reach 30 m, with 20 m via IO-Link.
Q4: Can output 2 work as an external input?
A: Yes. Output 2 and the external input are selectable, so you can use that channel for either function.
Q5: What is the maximum output current per channel?
A: Each open-collector output handles up to 100 mA at 30 V maximum.