Overview
The Sunx PM-K53 is a discontinued micro photoelectric sensor designed for precision sensing in industrial automation and assembly applications. This U-shaped slot sensor features a 5mm sensing range with built-in amplifier, making it well-suited for detecting small, opaque objects in high-speed production environments. Although no longer in production, the PM-K53 remains available through authorized surplus distributors for retrofit and maintenance applications.
Key Features
- Compact K-style mount with 3-pin solder terminal connection
- 5mm slot width—optimized for detecting thin, flat objects
- NPN output with light-on operation mode
- Wide supply voltage range: 5–24 VDC
- Built-in amplifier for stand-alone operation without external controllers
- LED operation indicator for visual feedback
- Infrared LED light source (non-modulated)
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: PM-K53
- Manufacturer: Panasonic (Sunx/Matsushita Electric)
- Supply Voltage: 5–24 VDC
- Current Consumption: <30 mA
- Output Type: NPN
- Output Mode: Light-on
- Sensing Range: 5 mm
- Minimum Detectable Object: 0.8 × 1.8 mm opaque object
- Repeatability: <0.03 mm
- Hysteresis: <0.05 mm
- Operating Temperature: –25 to +60 °C
- Enclosure Material: PBT
- Connection Method: CN-13 series connector or solder terminal
- Light Source: Infrared LED (non-modulated)
Typical Applications
- Pick-and-place machine part detection
- Label and film edge sensing in web-handling systems
- Assembly line object presence verification
- Bottling and packaging automation
- Precision slot-based component alignment
- Retrofit and replacement in legacy automation systems
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- 24 VDC industrial control systems and PLCs
- Standard 5–24 VDC PLC input modules
- Legacy Sunx/Panasonic sensor networks
- NPN output-compatible controllers and logic circuits
- Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Omron, Mitsubishi PLC inputs
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Sunx PM-K53 (direct equivalent)
- Verify compatibility with your system integrator before ordering, as K-style mount geometry and pin configuration may require mechanical or electrical adaptation in some installations.
Works With
- 24 VDC industrial power supplies
- Standard PLC digital input cards (24 VDC NPN logic)
- Industrial relay and contactor circuits
- CN-13 series connector assemblies
- Legacy Panasonic/Sunx sensor integration systems



