Photoelectric Fork Sensor Panasonic PM-Y45-P-C3, fork-type light barrier, 5–24 V DC, light-on/dark-on

The Panasonic PM-Y45-P-C3 is a fork-type photoelectric sensor designed for non-contact detection of small objects and flat materials on conveyors, feeders and assembly lines. Operating on a wide supply range of 5–24 V DC, this fork sensor supports both light-on and dark-on switching modes, allowing flexible integration into industrial control systems. The compact fork shape provides a defined sensing gap for consistent, repeatable detection of paper, labels, components and similar items.

Advantages

This fork-type light barrier offers a compact footprint that simplifies installation in tight machine spaces and minimizes mechanical alignment. The dual switching modes (light-on/dark-on) increase compatibility with different control logics. Its DC supply range provides stable operation with common industrial power supplies. The defined sensing aperture reduces false triggers from ambient light and enables precise detection of thin or small parts without physical contact.

Suitable for

• Detection of small parts on conveyor lines
• Presence sensing of labels, paper and flat materials
• Part counting and positioning in feeders and assembly equipment
• Integration into PLC or relay-based control systems

Key specifications

• Sensor type: fork-type photoelectric sensor (light barrier)
• Supply voltage: 5–24 V DC
• Switching modes: light-on and dark-on selectable
• Sensing principle: optical interruption through a defined fork gap
• Mounting: compact fork housing for inline installation

How to use

Mount the sensor so the moving object passes through the fork gap and aligns with the optical path. Connect the supply voltage and signal output to the control system following the manufacturer’s wiring conventions for the selected switching mode. Adjust mechanical positioning to ensure the target reliably interrupts the beam; no optical tuning is required beyond correct alignment. Verify operation by running sample parts through the gap and observing the output response in both light-on and dark-on configurations.

Recommendations

Install the sensor away from direct strong ambient light and reflective surfaces that might cause erroneous detections. Use secure mounting and strain relief on the cable to prevent misalignment. For applications with very thin or translucent materials, test the detection reliability under actual production conditions and, if necessary, slow the feed speed to improve repeatability.