Overview
The Eaton 12100RQD07 is a precision thru-beam photoelectric detector from Eaton’s Comet series. This 18 mm tubular sensor delivers reliable object presence detection across a 20 ft (6 m) sensing range using a visible red light beam. The detector operates on 10–30 VDC and features dual NPN/PNP open-collector outputs, making it compatible with a wide range of control systems. Built with solid polyurethane encapsulation, the 12100RQD07 resists shock, vibration, and industrial contaminants, with 4-pin M12 connector interface for quick installation and alignment.
Key Features
- Thru-beam (opposed) sensing mode for maximum reliability across gaps and distances
- Visible red sensing beam enables quick alignment and setup without trial-and-error positioning
- Dual NPN/PNP output configuration for flexible control system integration
- 18 mm tubular design with flattened sides for mounting in 3/4 in hole or against flat surfaces
- Solid polyurethane housing provides high resistance to vibration, shock, and environmental stress
- Adaptable modulation circuit prevents crosstalk between closely mounted sensors
- Light/dark operation switch and adjustable gain control for field optimization
Technical Specifications
- Sensing Method: Thru-beam (opposed mode)
- Sensing Range: 20 ft (6 m)
- Light Source: Visible red LED
- Response Time: 3.5 ms
- Supply Voltage: 10–30 VDC
- Output Type: NPN/PNP open collector
- Output Current: 100 mA (PNP), 250 mA (NPN)
- Connector: 4-pin M12
- Housing Material: Polyurethane
- Enclosure Rating: NEMA 1/3/4/4X/6/12/13; IP69K
- Operating Temperature: −4 to 158 °F (−20 to 70 °C)
- Dimensions: 2.55 in L × 0.47 in W × 0.71 in H
- Weight: ~30 g
- Vibration Rating: 30 g
- Certifications: UL 508, CSA-C22.2 No. 14, IEC 60947-5-2, CE marking
Typical Applications
- Conveyor systems—detecting package presence and sorting
- Assembly line automation—part presence verification and sequencing
- Packaging machinery—lid, cap, and container detection
- Material handling—object position sensing at load/unload stations
- Industrial gates and barriers—presence detection for safety interlocks
- Process control—reliable binary input for PLC and automation controllers
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- All standard 24 VDC / 10–30 VDC industrial control systems
- Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix PLCs (via discrete I/O modules)
- Siemens S7-1200, S7-1500, and legacy S7-300/400 systems
- Mitsubishi and Omron programmable logic controllers
- Schneider Electric Modicon and Twido controllers
- EtherNet/IP and PROFINET networks (through compatible gateway modules)
- Any system accepting NPN or PNP binary sensor inputs
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Eaton 12100AQD07 (wide-angle variant in same Comet series)
- Earlier generation Eaton/Cutler-Hammer thru-beam detectors with M12 interface
- Compatible with legacy Eaton Comet series sensors requiring 20 ft sensing range and visible red beam
Works With
- Studio 5000 Logix Designer (Allen-Bradley) for PLC integration
- TIA Portal (Siemens S7 platform) via standard digital inputs
- Structured text, ladder logic, and function block programming languages
- EtherNet/IP and standard industrial networks (via fieldbus gateways)
- SCADA and HMI platforms supporting 4-pin M12 sensor connectivity


















