1. Product Overview
The Schneider Square Inductor Proximity Switch is a reliable and precise sensor designed for industrial automation applications. It detects the presence of metallic objects without physical contact, offering various configurations including NPN and PNP outputs, and Normally Open (NO) or Normally Closed (NC) contact types. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of your proximity switch.
Figure 1: General view of the Schneider Square Inductor Proximity Switch with included mounting bracket.
Video 1: Product showcase of the Schneider Square Inductor Proximity Switch.
2. Setup and Installation
Before installation, ensure the power supply is disconnected. The sensor is designed for embedded mounting and comes with a mounting bracket for secure positioning.
2.1 Mounting
- Identify a suitable location for the sensor where the target object will pass within the 5mm sensing distance.
- Use the provided mounting bracket and screws to securely fasten the sensor. Ensure the sensing face is clear of obstructions.
- The sensor is a 17x17mm square type, designed for flush mounting.
2.2 Wiring Diagrams
The proximity switch operates on a DC 10-30V power supply (specifically 12-24VDC as shown in diagrams) and features a three-wire connection. Carefully follow the wiring instructions for your specific model (NPN/PNP, Normally Open/Normally Closed).
2.2.1 XS8S173NAL2C (NPN Normally Open)
Figure 2: Wiring for XS8S173NAL2C (NPN NO).
- Brown (BN): Connect to +12V to +24V DC power supply.
- Blue (BU): Connect to 0V (Ground).
- Black (BK): Connect to NPN Normally Open output. This output will switch to 0V when a metallic object is detected.
2.2.2 XS8S173NBL2C (NPN Normally Closed)
Figure 3: Wiring for XS8S173NBL2C (NPN NC).
- Brown (BN): Connect to +12V to +24V DC power supply.
- Blue (BU): Connect to 0V (Ground).
- Black (BK): Connect to NPN Normally Closed output. This output will switch to 0V when no metallic object is detected, and open when detected.
2.2.3 XS8S173PAL2C (PNP Normally Open)
Figure 4: Wiring for XS8S173PAL2C (PNP NO).
- Brown (BN): Connect to +12V to +24V DC power supply.
- Blue (BU): Connect to 0V (Ground).
- Black (BK): Connect to PNP Normally Open output. This output will switch to +V (supply voltage) when a metallic object is detected.
Figure 5: Proximity sensor showing the three-wire cable (Brown, Blue, Black).
3. Operating Instructions
The proximity switch operates by detecting changes in an electromagnetic field when a metallic object enters its sensing range. The output state changes based on whether the object is present and the sensor's configuration (Normally Open or Normally Closed).
- Normally Open (NO): The output is OFF (open circuit for NPN, 0V for PNP) when no object is detected. The output turns ON (0V for NPN, +V for PNP) when a metallic object enters the sensing range.
- Normally Closed (NC): The output is ON (0V for NPN, +V for PNP) when no object is detected. The output turns OFF (open circuit for NPN, 0V for PNP) when a metallic object enters the sensing range.
- Ensure the target object is metallic and passes within 5mm of the sensor's face for reliable detection.
4. Maintenance
The Schneider proximity switch is designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation under normal industrial conditions. However, periodic checks can help ensure optimal performance:
- Keep the sensing face clean and free from excessive dust, debris, or metallic shavings that could interfere with detection.
- Inspect the cable for any signs of damage, cuts, or fraying.
- Verify that the mounting is secure and the sensor has not shifted position.
- Ensure the operating temperature and voltage remain within specified limits.
5. Troubleshooting
If the proximity switch is not functioning as expected, consider the following:
- No detection:
- Check power supply connections (Brown to +, Blue to -).
- Verify the target object is metallic and within the 5mm sensing distance.
- Ensure the sensor face is clean and unobstructed.
- Confirm correct wiring for NPN/PNP and NO/NC configurations.
- False detection or erratic behavior:
- Check for nearby metallic objects or strong electromagnetic interference.
- Ensure the sensor is securely mounted and not vibrating.
- Verify the power supply is stable and within the specified voltage range.
- Output always ON/OFF:
- Re-check the wiring against the specific model's diagram (NO vs. NC).
- Test the sensor with a known metallic object to confirm its basic functionality.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Schneider (Telemecanique Sensors) |
| Model Series | XS8S173 |
| Type | Inductive Proximity Switch |
| Shape | Square (17x17mm) |
| Sensing Distance | 5mm |
| Output Type | NPN (Normally Open / Normally Closed), PNP (Normally Open / Normally Closed) |
| Wiring | 3-wire |
| Operating Voltage | DC 10-30V (typically 12-24VDC) |
| Cable Length | 2 meters |
| Mounting Type | Embedded |
7. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the seller's policies or contact the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase records for any warranty claims.
8. User Tips
No specific user tips were available from reviews or Q&A for this product. General advice for proximity switches includes:
- Always double-check wiring before applying power to prevent damage.
- Consider the material and size of the target object; ferrous metals are typically easier to detect.
- Avoid mounting the sensor too close to other metallic structures that could cause interference.
