Keyence PZ-G41N Photoelectric Sensor Switch - 1PC, New, In Box

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What Is the KEYENCE PZ-G41N Photoelectric Sensor?

The KEYENCE PZ-G41N is a through-beam type photoelectric sensor from KEYENCE's PZ-G series, featuring NPN transistor output and an infrared (IR) sensing beam. In through-beam configuration, the emitter and receiver are housed in separate units aligned on opposite sides of the detection zone — the sensor triggers when an object interrupts the invisible IR beam between them. This topology provides the longest sensing range and most reliable detection of any photoelectric mode, as it is largely immune to target color, surface reflectivity, and background interference. The PZ-G41N is widely deployed on automated assembly lines, packaging machines, and conveyor systems across industries where robust presence/absence detection is critical to process integrity.

In short: If your production line needs a bulletproof through-beam sensor with NPN output for object detection, the KEYENCE PZ-G41N is an industry standard — new in box, ready to ship from koeed.com.

Technical Specifications

NPN output sensors switch the load to ground (sinking). Ensure your PLC input module or relay coil is compatible with NPN (sinking) wiring. For PNP (sourcing) applications, use the PZ-G41P model instead. Always wire through the provided connector and observe supply voltage polarity — reverse connection may damage the internal circuit.

Typical Installation and Detection Tasks

• Conveyor Part Counting: Mount emitter and receiver across a conveyor belt to count products passing through the beam break with high-speed tallying
• Web Edge Guiding: Detect the edge of continuous web material (paper, film, textile) for alignment control in winding and slitting operations
• Overheight Detection: Position the beam slightly above the maximum allowable package height on a conveyor; a beam break triggers an alarm or reject gate for oversized items
• Automated Door/Gate Control: Sense vehicle or pallet approach at loading docks and automated warehouse entry points for hands-free door actuation
• Part Ejection Verification: Confirm that a stamped or molded part has been successfully ejected from the die or mold before the next machine cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I wire the NPN output to my PLC input?

For NPN (sinking) output, the sensor's output terminal connects to the PLC input, and the load (PLC input) is connected to the positive supply rail (+24V DC). When the sensor detects an object, the NPN transistor turns on and pulls the output terminal to ground (0V), completing the circuit. Your PLC input card must be configured for sinking (NPN) input mode. Most Mitsubishi and KEYENCE PLCs default to sinking inputs, but Allen-Bradley controllers typically use sourcing (PNP) inputs — verify your input module specs before wiring.

Can this sensor detect clear or transparent objects?

Standard infrared through-beam sensors can detect clear objects but with reduced reliability because clear materials (glass, PET bottles, transparent film) allow a large portion of the IR beam to pass through rather than blocking it. For critical clear-object detection — such as verifying the presence of a transparent PET bottle on a filling line — KEYENCE offers specialized retro-reflective sensors with polarizing filters and clear-object detection algorithms. Contact us if your application requires clear-object detection and we can recommend the appropriate KEYENCE model.

What distance can I separate the emitter from the receiver?

The PZ-G41N through-beam configuration typically supports sensing distances up to 10 meters in clean environments. However, the effective range decreases if the lenses accumulate dust, oil mist, or condensation. For dusty environments such as wood processing or textile mills, plan for regular lens cleaning and consider de-rating the distance by 30-50% to maintain a reliable signal margin. KEYENCE sensors feature a built-in stability indicator (green LED) that confirms adequate light reception — if it flickers or extinguishes, clean the lenses or reduce the distance.

How do I align the emitter and receiver for reliable operation?

Start with coarse alignment: physically position both units so the emitter lens faces the receiver lens at roughly the same height and angle. Apply power and observe the stability indicator on the receiver. Perform fine alignment by making small angular adjustments to both units while watching the indicator — aim for the brightest/solid stability LED. Once aligned, tighten all mounting hardware fully. For long-range installations (>5 meters), use a laser pointer taped to the emitter housing to project a reference dot onto the receiver face for rapid rough alignment. Test with the smallest target object you expect to detect to confirm reliable switching.

Is the PZ-G41N compatible with the older PZ-41 series?

The PZ-G series is KEYENCE's successor to the PZ-41 series and offers improved optical performance and a more compact housing. While the sensing principle and output logic are similar, the physical mounting dimensions and connector pinout may differ between generations. If you are replacing a legacy PZ-41 sensor with a PZ-G41N, verify mounting bracket compatibility and confirm the wiring diagram before connecting power. Contact our support team if you need cross-reference assistance or a wiring diagram for the PZ-G series.

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