Photoelectric Fork sensors FC7 Series

Datasensing FC7 Series

The FC7 Series provides a dedicated family of photo-electric fork sensors for label detection, engineered for ultra-fast label/web processing, tight slot format, and industrial machine-side integration. With a nominal slot width of 3 mm, minimum detectable object/gap of 2 mm, switching frequency of 10 kHz and response time down to 50 µs, this series delivers exceptional speed, precision repeatability, and compact integration. 

Design & Functionality

• The sensors feature a fork-slot geometry (3 mm width × 42 mm depth) designed for label or web strip detection. 
• Operational and optical highlights include:
  • Infrared emission optimized for reliable detection on low-contrast or transparent substrates. 
  • Teach-in or manual “+ / –” adjustment for fast fine-tuning of sensitivity on the fly. 
  • Selectable Light-On / Dark-On mode and PNP/NPN output logic, enabling flexible integration into diverse control systems. 
  • High switching frequency up to 10 kHz and response time ~50 µs, allowing detection of fast moving labels or parts. 
• Installation & electrical: Operating voltage 12…24 V DC, no-load current ≤ 35 mA, load current ≤ 100 mA, output voltage drop ≤ 2 V at full load, protection and robust design. 
• Mechanical & environment: Housing material thermoplastic (PA), slot depth 42 mm, wide operating temperature –20 °C … +60 °C, protection rating IP65. 

Total Crossed Beams

(Here interpreted as meaning the sensor provides complete, stable detection coverage across its narrow slot rather than literal crossed optical beams.)

• The FC7 ensures a stable detection field even when labels or web material vary in speed, gap or reflectivity — resulting in fewer missed detections, higher repeatability, and better process reliability.
• The narrow 3 mm slot geometry combined with high switching speed makes it particularly well-suited for packaging, label applicators, foil detection, and high-speed web conveyors where precision, speed, and compact design are required.

Beam Pitch Options

(Here interpreted as variant options of slot width/depth/detection performance rather than literal beam spacing.)

• Example variant: Slot width 3 mm, depth 42 mm — detection of labels with minimum 2 mm size or gap at speeds ~200 m/min. 
• Other variants in the FC7 family may include complementary slot depths/housings to fit specific mechanical layouts.
• These variant options allow selection of an FC7 model that matches your label width, conveyor gap, web speed, and installation clearance — providing design flexibility.

Intrinsic Synchronism

• The optics, electronics and configuration interface are integrated within one compact housing — no external synchroniser or add-on module required — this simplifies wiring and reduces installation complexity.
• With built-in teach/trimmer adjustment, status indicator LEDs (output, teach), and compact fork geometry, the FC7 series supports fast commissioning, reliable diagnostics, and low maintenance overhead.

Operational Advantages

• High-speed label/gap detection: With switching frequencies up to 10 kHz and response times around 50 µs, the FC7 keeps pace with fast printing, labelling and web handling applications.
• Precise narrow slot geometry: A 3 mm slot width and minimum detectable gap of 2 mm make the sensor ideal for fine label edge detection or web slit-detection where space is limited and precision is vital.
• Flexible integration and output logic: With selectable PNP/NPN, Light/Dark modes, teach-in or manual adjustment, and M8 connector, the sensor adapts to various automation setups.
• Applications: Ideal for label detection on reels, label applicators, foil or film presence detection, web edge detection, print-mark gap sensing, and any high-speed conveyor or packaging system where compact fork format, high resolution, and reliable detection are required.