Keyence FS-N42P Digital Fiber Sensor Expansion

Keyence FS-N42P PNP Expansion Fiber Sensor Amplifier

The Keyence FS-N42P extends an existing FS-N40 amplifier group with one PNP control output. As an expansion unit, it draws power and communication from a main amplifier. This approach keeps wiring short while adding detection channels. Moreover, the PNP output matches positive-switching PLC input cards used in many European and North American panels.

Technical Specifications

A red four-element LED at 660 nm provides the light source. The optical design holds stable emission across long fiber runs. FS-N42P offers eight response modes, from 23 µs (S-HSPD) to 64 ms (TERA). Therefore, one unit covers high-speed registration and slow, dusty detection tasks.

• Response time: 23 µs (S-HSPD) / 50 µs (HSPD) / 250 µs (FINE) / 500 µs (TURBO) / 1 ms (SUPER) / 4 ms (ULTRA) / 16 ms (MEGA) / 64 ms (TERA)

• Control outputs: 1 (PNP open-collector)

• Output rating: 30 V max, 100 mA max per output

• Residual voltage: 1.6 V at 10 mA; 2.2 V at 10–100 mA

• External input: none on this expansion unit

• Unit expansion: up to 16 units (17 total including main; dual-output counts as 2)

Electrical and I/O Details

The amplifier operates on 10 to 30 VDC with 10% ripple P-P or less. It requires a Class 2 or LPS power source. Power draw stays at 910 mW or less, equal to 36 mA at 24 V. ECO ON reduces this to 840 mW, while ECO FULL reaches 750 mW. In addition, the open-collector output sinks 100 mA, which covers most PLC input modules and small interface relays.

Mechanical and Environmental Parameters

The expansion unit weighs approximately 48 g. Operating temperature spans -20 to +55 °C with no freezing. Thermal derating applies as more units join the group. Besides, the slim housing mounts on standard DIN rail and fits dense control cabinets.

Installation Guide

First, slide the expansion unit onto the DIN rail to the right of the main amplifier. Next, join it to the previous unit with the expansion connector so power and data flow through. After that, wire the PNP output to the PLC input. Finally, set thresholds and response modes through the OLED display, then verify detection with the real workpiece.

Route fiber cables away from high-voltage lines and respect the minimum bend radius. For long output runs, confirm the voltage drop stays within load tolerance.

Packaging List

• 1 × Keyence FS-N42P expansion amplifier unit

• 1 × Expansion connection cable

• 1 × Mounting bracket

• 1 × Instruction sheet

FAQ

Q1: Can the FS-N42P operate on its own?
A: No. It is an expansion unit and needs a main amplifier such as the FS-N41P for power and control.

Q2: How many units can one amplifier group hold?
A: A group supports up to 16 expansion units, for 17 total including the main unit. A dual-output model counts as two.

Q3: Why pick the PNP version over NPN?
A: PNP outputs switch the positive supply and suit PLC cards wired for positive logic. The panel wiring standard usually decides the choice.

Q4: Which response mode fits fast production lines?
A: Use 23 µs for high-speed detection. Choose 4 ms or slower modes when targets move slowly or when dust and vibration affect stability.

Q5: What shipping methods do you use?
A: We ship by Fedex, UPS, or DHL. Most orders dispatch within 1–3 business days after payment confirmation.