WORLD-BEAM® QS30 Series Sensor (DC Voltage)

Introduction

The WORLD-BEAM® QS30 Series Sensor is a compact, self-contained photoelectric sensor housed in a universal-style casing. It features advanced one-piece photoelectric technology offering exceptional long-range optical performance. The sensor boasts mounting versatility through its popular 30 mm threaded barrel or side-mount holes. It operates on 10 V DC to 30 V DC with bipolar discrete outputs (NPN and PNP) and offers selectable Light or Dark Operate modes depending on wiring. The housing is constructed from a tough ABS/polycarbonate blend, rated to IEC IP67 and NEMA 6. Status indicators include two LEDs visible from 360° on the sensor top and an extra-large Output indicator on the back (except emitters), visible from a long distance. Available models include opposed, retroreflective, polarized retroreflective, diffuse, and fixed-field types with various cutoff distances (200 mm, 400 mm, or 600 mm). Retroreflective, polarized retroreflective, and diffuse models feature a potentiometer on the back for easy range adjustment. Models are available with a 2 m integral cable or as M12/Euro-style integral QD (Quick Disconnect) units.

WARNING: Not To Be Used for Personnel Protection

This device is not designed or intended for use as a sensing device for personnel protection. Doing so could lead to serious injury or death. The sensor lacks the self-checking redundant circuitry required for personnel safety applications. A sensor failure or malfunction could result in an energized or de-energized sensor output condition.

Models

¹ Only standard 2 m (6.5 ft) cabled models are listed. To order the 9 m (30 ft) integral cable model, add suffix "W/30" to the model number (e.g., QS30E W/30). To order the 5-pin integral M12/Euro-style quick disconnect (QD), add suffix "Q" (e.g., QS30EQ).

² Polarized Retroreflective and Retroreflective ranges are specified using a model BRT-84 retroreflector.

Fixed-Field Mode Overview

QS30 self-contained fixed-field sensors are compact, powerful, visible red diffuse mode sensors featuring far-limit cutoff for background suppression. Their high excess gain and fixed-field technology enable detection of objects with low reflectivity while ignoring background surfaces. The cutoff distance is fixed, and backgrounds or background objects must always be positioned beyond this distance.

Fixed-Field Sensing – Theory of Operation

The WORLD-BEAM QS30 Series Sensor operates by comparing reflections of its emitted light beam (E) from an object back to the sensor's two differently aimed detectors: R1 (near detector) and R2 (far detector). Sensing occurs when the near detector's (R1) light signal is stronger than the far detector's (R2) light signal, indicating the object is within the sensing range (see Object A in Figure 1). If the far detector's (R2) light signal is stronger than the near detector's (R1) signal (indicating the object is beyond the cutoff distance, like Object B in Figure 1), the sensor ignores the object.

The cutoff distance is fixed at 200 mm, 400 mm, or 600 mm (8 in, 16 in, or 24 in). Objects beyond this distance are typically ignored, even if highly reflective. However, certain conditions can lead to false detection of a background object.

Figure 1. Fixed-Field Concept

Diagram illustrating the fixed-field sensing principle. An emitter (E) projects a light beam. Two detectors, a near detector (R1) and a far detector (R2), are positioned to receive reflections. An object (A) closer than the cutoff distance reflects more light to R1 than R2, triggering the sensor. An object (B) or background further than the cutoff distance reflects more light to R2 than R1, causing the sensor to ignore it. Sensing occurs when the light signal received by R1 is greater than the signal received by R2.

Figure 2. Fixed-Field Sensing Axis

Diagram showing the front of the sensor, identifying the Emitter (E), Near Detector (R1), and Far Detector (R2) elements. The sensing axis is indicated, showing the alignment of these optical components.

Background Reflectivity and Placement

Avoid mirror-like backgrounds that produce specular reflections, as these can cause a false sensor response if more light is reflected to the near detector (R1) than to the far detector (R2), resulting in a false ON condition (Figure 3). To correct this, use a diffusely reflective (matte) background or angle either the sensor or the background so that light is not reflected directly back to the sensor (Figure 4). Position the background as far beyond the cutoff distance as possible.

Objects positioned beyond the cutoff distance, whether stationary or moving across the sensor face perpendicular to the sensing axis, may cause unwanted triggering if more light is reflected to R1 than R2. To resolve this, rotate the sensor 90° (Figure 6), which causes reflections to be received equally by R1 and R2, preventing false triggering. Repositioning the object or sensor is also a recommended solution.

Figure 3. Reflective Background - Problem

Diagram illustrating a problem scenario with a reflective background. The sensor (QS30FF) is positioned such that a reflective background causes a strong, direct reflection of the emitted beam to the near detector (R1). This results in a false ON condition because the light received by R1 is greater than that received by R2.

Figure 4. Reflective Background - Solution

Diagram illustrating a solution for reflective background issues. The sensor (QS30FF) is angled, or the background is angled or made matte, so that any reflection from the background is directed away from the near detector (R1) or is diffuse, preventing a false ON condition.

Figure 5. Object Beyond Cutoff - Problem

Diagram showing an object or reflective background positioned beyond the sensor's fixed cutoff distance. In this configuration, reflections can still be strong enough to cause a false sensor response, particularly if they are directed towards the near detector (R1).

Figure 6. Object Beyond Cutoff - Solution

Diagram illustrating a solution for objects beyond the cutoff distance. By rotating the sensor 90 degrees, the object's reflection is distributed more evenly between the near (R1) and far (R2) detectors, preventing false triggering.

Color Sensitivity

Object reflectivity can slightly affect the cutoff distance, a phenomenon known as color sensitivity. Lower reflectance targets may result in a slightly shorter actual cutoff distance compared to higher reflectance targets at the same setting. For instance, an object reflecting 1/10th the light of a 90% white card might require higher excess gain for reliable sensing. These performance curves are typically generated using a 90% reflectance white test card.

Wiring Diagrams

Wiring diagrams are provided for cabled emitters and other cabled models. Quick disconnect wiring diagrams are functionally identical. The wiring typically involves a 5-pin connection with specific wire colors assigned to functions: Brown (10-30 V DC), White (Output), Blue (DC Common), Black (Sensor Input/LO/DO Select), and Gray (Light/Dark Operate Select).

Specifications

• Supply Voltage: 10 V DC to 30 V DC (10% max. ripple) at less than 40 mA, exclusive of load. Protected against reverse polarity and transient voltages.
• Output Response: Opposed Mode: 5 milliseconds ON and OFF. All other modes: 2 milliseconds. A 100 ms delay occurs on power-up; outputs do not conduct during this time.
• Repeatability: Opposed Mode: Not applicable. All other modes: 500 microseconds.
• Output Configuration: Bipolar: One current sourcing and one current sinking. Rating: 100 mA maximum each output at 25 °C. Off-state leakage current: NPN: < 200 μA, PNP: < 10 μA. ON-state saturation voltage: NPN: < 1.6 V at 100 mA, PNP: < 2.0 V at 100 mA. Protected against false pulse on power-up and continuous overload or short circuit of outputs.
• Cutoff Point Tolerance: Fixed-Field only: ± 5% of nominal cutoff distance.
• Construction and Mounting: ABS housing, rated IEC IP67; NEMA 6; Acrylic lens cover. 3 mm mounting hardware included.
• Connections: 2 m (6.5 ft) unterminated 5-wire PVC cable; 9 m (30 ft) unterminated 5-wire PVC cable; or Integral 5-pin M12/Euro-style male quick disconnect.
• Application Tip for the QS30LV Model: For best sensing reliability, targets should be a minimum of 0.5 m from the sensor.
• Adjustments: Selectable Light/Dark Operate is achieved via the gray wire. For Opposed, Retroreflective, and Polarized Retroreflective models: Light Operate - Low (0 V to 3 V)*, Dark Operate - High (open or 5 V to 30 V)*. For Diffuse and Fixed-Field models: Light Operate - High (open or 5 V to 30 V)*, Dark Operate - Low (0 V to 3 V)*. Diffuse, Retroreflective, and Polarized Retroreflective mode models also feature a single-turn Sensitivity (Gain) adjustment potentiometer. (*Input impedance 10 kΩ)

Indicators

The sensor features two LEDs on the top: Green indicates Power ON or Output Overload (except receivers), and Yellow indicates Light Sensed or Marginal Excess Gain (1-1.5x excess gain). A large oval LED on the sensor back (except emitters) turns Yellow when the output is conducting.

Operating Conditions

Operating temperature range is -20 °C to +70 °C (-4 °F to +158 °F). Maximum relative humidity is 95% at +50 °C (non-condensing).

Vibration and Mechanical Shock

All models comply with MIL-STD-202F, Method 201A for vibration (10 Hz to 60 Hz maximum, 0.06 inch double amplitude, 10G maximum acceleration) and IEC 60947-5-2 for shock (30G, 11 ms duration, half sine wave).

Certifications

Certifications are pending.

Performance Curves

Performance curves for diffuse models are based on using a 90% reflectance white test card. Curves illustrate Excess Gain versus Distance and Beam Pattern for various modes.

Opposed Mode

Graphs show Excess Gain and Beam Pattern for Opposed Mode sensors, indicating performance characteristics over distance.

Diffuse Mode

Graphs show Excess Gain and Beam Pattern for Diffuse Mode sensors (e.g., QS30D), detailing performance relative to distance and cutoff points (200 mm, 400 mm, 600 mm) for fixed-field models. Performance variations with 18% gray and 6% black test cards are also noted.

Polarized Retroreflective

Graphs show Excess Gain and Beam Pattern for Polarized Retroreflective Mode sensors (e.g., QS30LP), referencing specific retroreflectors like BRT-84.

Retroreflective

Graphs show Excess Gain and Beam Pattern for Retroreflective Mode sensors (e.g., QS30LV), referencing specific retroreflectors.

Fixed Field Mode

Graphs detail Excess Gain versus Distance for Fixed-Field models (QS30FF200, QS30FF400, QS30FF600). These graphs specify spot sizes at different focus points and note performance adjustments when using 18% gray or 6% black test cards.

Dimensions

Detailed dimensions are provided for Cabled Models and QD Models in millimeters [inches]. Cabled models typically feature a 35.0 mm (1.38 in) housing length, while QD models have a similar profile with M12 connectors. Mounting details include M30 x 1.5 threaded barrels with specified torque limits.

Accessories

Quick-Disconnect Cables

A range of 5-Pin Threaded M12/Euro-Style Cordsets are available in various lengths (0.5 m to 9 m) and styles (Straight, Right-Angle). Each cordset includes a pinout diagram for the female connector, detailing the wire connections.

Brackets

Various mounting brackets are available to suit different installation needs. These include right-angle brackets (SMBQS30L, SMBQS30LT, SMB30A), heavy-duty die-cast brackets (SMBQS30Y, SMBQS30YL), and brackets with curved slots for versatile orientation (SMB30A, SMB30MM, SMB30SC). Materials typically include 14-ga. or 12-ga. stainless steel, or reinforced thermoplastic polyester, with features like tilt adjustment and clearance for specific hardware sizes.

Apertures

Opposed-mode QS30 sensors can be fitted with apertures to shape the sensor's effective beam, allowing for closer matching to object sizes or profiles, such as sensing thread with line or slot apertures. Note that using apertures reduces the sensing range.

Reduced Range for QS30E and QS30R Pair with Apertures

Example: Using the APQS30-040 circular aperture on only the receiver reduces the range to 4.1 m (13.5 ft). When installed on both the receiver and emitter, the range reduces to 0.5 m (1.5 ft).

Retroreflective Targets

Banner offers a wide selection of high-quality retroreflective targets. Polarized sensors require corner cube type retroreflective targets, while non-polarized sensors can use any retroreflective target. More information is available at www.bannerengineering.com.

Banner Engineering Corp. Limited Warranty

Banner Engineering Corp. warrants its products against defects in material and workmanship for one year from the date of shipment. Banner will repair or replace, free of charge, any defective product returned to the factory within the warranty period. This warranty excludes damage or liability from misuse, abuse, or improper application or installation. This warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Banner Engineering Corp. is not liable for any extra costs, losses, or consequential damages arising from product defects or use. Banner reserves the right to modify product designs and specifications without prior notice. Misuse, abuse, improper application, or use for personal protection applications (if not intended) voids the warranty. Modifications without prior express approval also void warranties. Specifications are subject to change; refer to www.bannerengineering.com for the most recent documentation. For patent information, visit www.bannerengineering.com/patents.