Contents

how to test a proximity sensor

How To Test A Proximity Sensor?

In this article, we will introduce how to detect a proximity sensor. 

Proximity switch includes inductive proximity switches, capacitive proximity switches, photoelectric switches, safety light curtains, and hall proximity switches.

Their working principle is basically the same, that is, when the measured object is within its detection range, the circuit will be turned on or off. 

Proximity switch is widely used, including liquid level control, product counting, width discrimination, speed detection, hole recognition, automatic door sensing, color mark detection, manipulators, and other safety protection fields that may cause harm to the human body. 

In addition, using the concealment of the infrared rays of the photoelectric switch, it can also be used as an anti-theft warning in banks, warehouses, stores, and other occasions where it is necessary.

Proximity sensor testing

Since the proximity switch is so widely used, how do we judge whether the proximity switch is good or bad in practical applications? 

First of all, the three-wire proximity switch has two outputs, PNP or NPN, working voltage: 3-36V. 

When we install the proximity switch, if we don’t understand the principle, we can’t install and use it.

Use a multimeter to test a proximity sensor

Use a multimeter to test a proximity sensor

Turn the gear of the multi-meter to the DC voltage position, use a switching power supply as the power supply to supply power for the proximity switch, connect the brown wire to the positive pole of the DC power supply, and connect the blue wire to the negative pole of the DC power supply. 

Make the measured object close to the proximity switch to see whether the output of the black line is positive voltage or negative voltage. 

If the output is a positive voltage, the sensor is a PNP, and a negative voltage is an NPN sensor. 

If the black line has no output, the proximity switch is damaged.

Use the intermediate relay to test A proximity sensor

If there is no multi-meter, we can use the intermediate relay to test. 

The black wire enters the relay coil, and then connects a wire from the positive pole to enter the coil. 

If the relay operates, the proximity switch is good. 

If the relay does not operate, the proximity switch is damaged.

Conclusion

In short, testing a proximity switch with power on is the simplest and most effective way to verify its quality.

If you still can’t resolve this issue, you can email shonxu@lorentzzi.com for assistance.

Picture of Shon Xu

Shon Xu

"Hi, I am the author of this article and the owner of Lorentzzi. I have nearly 10 years of experience in selling industrial automation products, specializing in B2B services. If you have quetions, feel free to ask me!"

Contact us now:

Share it to:

Keep learning

Top 13 safety light curtain manufacturer
Top 13 Global Safety Light Curtain Manufacturers and Suppliers by 2026

High-quality safety light curtains provide reliable protection for workers operating heavy machinery, effectively preventing workplace accidents. Therefore, partnering with a professional and reputable safety light curtain manufacturer is crucial. In this blog post, based on our extensive experience, we will recommend 13 trustworthy, top-tier global safety light curtain manufacturers. (We

Read More
Temperature controller application blog cover
Top 10 Typical Industrial Applications of Temperature Controller

As a sales representative and manager at Wenzhou Lorentzzi Electric Co., Ltd. in China, I am frequently asked: What industries are your temperature controllers suitable for? If we become your distributors, what kind of advertising should we do in the market? To which groups or companies should we promote and

Read More
PID temperature controller and SCR power regulator wiring blog cover
How To Use A PID Temperature Controller With A Thyristor Power Regulator?

Want more precise temperature control for your electric heater? A PID temperature controller paired with a closed-loop thyristor power regulator is a better choice. Why? Because, as a closed-loop instrument, a thyristor power regulator can provide a constant current, constant voltage, or constant power to the heater, compared to open-loop

Read More
Shopping Cart
Lorentzzi logo-China temperature controller, SSR, rotary encoder manufacturer

Empowering Industrial Automation!