Keyence PZ-G42N Photoelectric Sensor 300mm

Keyence PZ-G42N Photoelectric Sensor

The PZ-G42N belongs to the Keyence PZ-G series of built-in amplifier photoelectric sensors. This diffuse reflective short-range model uses a rectangular housing that mounts easily on flat surfaces and brackets. Engineers commonly specify it for presence detection, part counting, and positioning tasks on packaging and assembly lines.

Its NPN open collector output matches standard PLC input cards and relay modules. Meanwhile, the pre-wired 2 m cable removes the need for a separate connector purchase. The PZ-G42N also provides a switch-selectable LIGHT-ON or DARK-ON operation mode for flexible logic setup.

Technical Specifications

The PZ-G42N detects 10 × 10 cm white paper at a maximum distance of 300 mm. A red LED serves as the light source. Sensitivity adjustment uses a 1-turn trimmer with 230° travel. Response time stays at 500 µs or less, which suits most high-speed conveyor applications.

Light source: Red LED
Detecting distance: 300 mm maximum (10 × 10 cm white paper)
Sensitivity adjustment: 1-turn trimmer (230°)
Response time: 500 µs maximum
Operation mode: LIGHT-ON/DARK-ON (switch-selectable)
Output type: NPN open collector
Control output: 30 V maximum, 100 mA maximum, residual voltage 1 V maximum
Supply voltage: 10 to 30 VDC nominal, ripple (P-P) 10%
Current consumption: 34 mA or less
Cable connection: Cable (2 m)
Indicators: Output orange LED, stable operation green LED

Protection circuits include reversed polarity, overcurrent protection, and a surge absorber. Interference suppression handles up to 2 units through polarization filters or the automatic different frequency function. Furthermore, the sensor has no built-in ports or protocols, so it works as a standalone device without communication expansion.

Mechanical and Environmental Parameters

The housing uses glass-fiber reinforced PBT for durability, and the lens cover is polyarylate (PAR). Besides, the sensor weighs approximately 60 g including the 2 m cable. The rectangular body mounts through a dedicated hole with 0.5 N·m maximum torque.

Housing material: Glass-fiber reinforced PBT
Lens cover material: Polyarylate (PAR)
Weight: Approx. 60 g
Mounting torque: 0.5 N·m maximum (mounting hole part)

Operating temperature ranges from -20 to +55 °C with no freezing. Relative humidity stays at 35 to 85 % RH without condensation. The protection rating covers IEC IP67, NEMA 4A, 6, 12, and DIN IP69K. Ambient light resistance reaches 5,000 lux for incandescent lamps and 20,000 lux for sunlight.

Vibration resistance handles 10 to 55 Hz with 1.5 mm double amplitude for 2 hours in each X, Y, Z direction. Shock resistance reaches 1,000 m/s², 6 times in each X, Y, Z direction. Therefore, the PZ-G42N performs reliably in vibrating machinery and outdoor installations.

Installation Guide

First, mount the PZ-G42N through the mounting hole and tighten to 0.5 N·m maximum. Over-tightening may crack the glass-fiber reinforced PBT housing. Keep the sensing face clear of obstructions within the detection cone.

Next, wire the 2 m cable to the supply voltage within 10 to 30 VDC and observe the polarity markings. The NPN open collector output connects directly to standard PLC input cards. Confirm the output load stays below 100 mA and 30 V.

Then, adjust the 1-turn trimmer to set sensitivity for the target material. For instance, darker or smaller targets may need a closer mounting distance. Use the green stable operation LED to confirm reliable detection and the orange output LED to monitor switching status.

Finally, keep ambient light below the rated limits. Avoid direct sunlight above 20,000 lux and incandescent light above 5,000 lux. When two units operate side by side, enable the automatic different frequency function or fit polarization filters to prevent interference.

Packaging List

• 1 × Keyence PZ-G42N photoelectric sensor with 2 m cable

• 1 × Mounting bracket set

• 1 × Instruction sheet

Shipping via Fedex, UPS, DHL.

FAQ

Q1: What is the maximum detection distance of the PZ-G42N?
A: The sensor detects 10 × 10 cm white paper at up to 300 mm. Detection range varies with target size, color, and surface finish.

Q2: What output type does the PZ-G42N provide?
A: It provides an NPN open collector output rated at 30 V and 100 mA maximum. This output matches standard PLC input cards without extra interface modules.

Q3: Does the PZ-G42N come with a cable?
A: Yes. The sensor includes a pre-wired 2 m cable, so no separate M12 connector cable is needed. Confirm the cable length suits your installation layout.

Q4: Can the PZ-G42N handle washdown environments?
A: Yes. It carries IEC IP67, NEMA 4A/6/12, and DIN IP69K ratings. The glass-fiber reinforced PBT housing resists water and dust ingress.

Q5: How do I adjust sensitivity on the PZ-G42N?
A: Turn the 1-turn trimmer with 230° travel to set sensitivity. Watch the green stable operation LED and orange output LED during adjustment.