E18-D80NK Adjustable Infrared Sensor Switch

E18-D80NK Adjustable Infrared Sensor Switch is a highly versatile and cost-effective photoelectric sensor designed for non-contact object detection in industrial and hobbyist applications. This integrated infrared transmitter and receiver module detects objects within a range of 3 cm to 80 cm, which you can easily modify using the multi-turn potentiometer located at the rear of the housing. Consequently, this sensor excels in environments where physical contact is impossible or undesirable. The E18-D80NK provides a digital NPN normally open output, allowing it to interface directly with microcontrollers, PLCs, or relay modules. Furthermore, its robust threaded cylindrical design simplifies mounting through panels or brackets. Therefore, you should consider this sensor a primary choice for obstacle avoidance, production line counting, and automated proximity sensing.

Key Features:

• Adjustable Sensing Range: Users can fine-tune the detection distance between 3 cm and 80 cm to suit specific application requirements.
• Integrated Design: The module houses both the IR light source and the processing circuitry in a single compact unit, reducing wiring complexity.
• NPN Digital Output: Provides a low-level signal (GND) upon detection, ensuring seamless compatibility with Arduino, ESP32, and industrial controllers.
• Ambient Light Immunity: The sensor utilizes modulated infrared light; consequently, it minimizes interference from surrounding visible light sources.
• Status Indicator: An on-board LED provides immediate visual confirmation when the sensor detects an object within its set range.

Technical Specifications:

• Input Voltage: 5 VDC
• Current Consumption: < 25 mA (Typical), 100 mA (Maximum)
• Detection Distance: 3 cm to 80 cm (Adjustable)
• Output Type: NPN Normally Open (NO)
• Response Time: < 2 ms
• Pointing Angle: ≤ 15°
• Operating Temperature: −25°C to +55°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• Housing Material: High-strength ABS Plastic
• Sensor Shape: Threaded Cylindrical (M18 size)
• Cable Type: 3-wire PVC Jacket
• Ingress Protection: Designed to resist dust and minor splashes in indoor environments.

Dimensions:

• Diameter: 18 mm
• Sensor Length: 45 mm
• Lead Wire Length: ≈ 45 cm to 50 cm
• Mounting Hole Size: 18 mm

Pinout and Wiring:

• Brown Wire (VCC): Connect to +5 VDC power source.
• Blue Wire (GND): Connect to the common ground of your system.
• Black Wire (Signal): Digital NPN Output. Connect to a digital input pin with an internal or external pull-up resistor.
• Adjustment Note: Turn the rear screw clockwise to increase the sensing distance and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download E18-D80NK Infrared Sensor Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Robotic Obstacle Avoidance: Serves as the primary “eyes” for autonomous mobile robots to prevent collisions.
• Conveyor Systems: Detecting and counting items as they pass through a specific point on a production line.
• Automated Hand Sanitizers: Triggering pumps or dispensers when a hand enters the detection field.

Applications:

• Security Alarms: Monitoring doorways or restricted passages for unauthorized movement.
• Interactive Installations: Activating lights or displays when a person approaches the sensor.
• Lab Automation: Verifying the presence of test tubes or containers in automated machinery.

Equivalent Models:

• Sharp GP2Y0A21YK0F: An analog distance sensor; however, it requires more complex code than the digital E18-D80NK.
• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor: A common alternative for distance measurement, though it uses sound waves instead of infrared light.
• E3F-DS30C4: An industrial-grade proximity sensor with similar NPN characteristics and a smaller 30 cm range.

Package Includes:

• 1 x E18-D80NK Adjustable Infrared Sensor Switch (with mounting nuts)