Overview
The Allen-Bradley 42EF-B1RCBE-G4 is a RightSight photoelectric sensor engineered for reliable object detection in industrial automation and motion control systems. This background suppression model uses 880 nm infrared LED technology with a 3–100 mm sensing range and light-operate N-MOSFET output, making it suitable for applications requiring precise detection without interference from background objects. Rated for 21.6–264V AC/DC operation with 100 mA maximum output and integrated short-circuit protection (SCP), this sensor delivers industrial-grade durability and safety.
Key Features
- Background suppression technology: Infrared sensing with automatic rejection of objects beyond the detection zone
- Light-operate output: N-MOSFET (Power MOSFET) with 100 mA sink capability and SCP to 100 mA
- Wide voltage compatibility: 21.6–264V AC/DC rated input with reverse polarity and overvoltage protection
- M18 threaded base: Compact 18 mm form factor with integrated mounting nut for standard industrial enclosures
- Dual-function LED status indicators: Output and margin indicators for setup alignment and operational feedback
- Robust housing: IP67/IP69K rated Mindel/Udel polymeric construction for washdown and harsh environments
Technical Specifications
- Sensing Technology: Background suppression, 880 nm infrared
- Sensing Range: 3–100 mm (0.1–3.9 in.)
- Input Voltage: 21.6–264V AC/DC
- Power Consumption: 35 mA DC max, 15 mA AC max
- Output Type: Light operate, N-MOSFET sink (NPN)
- Output Rating: 264V AC/DC @ 100 mA maximum (SCP protected)
- Output Leakage Current: AC: 0.4 mA, DC: 0.1 mA
- Response Time: 8.3 ms
- Connection: 4-pin AC Micro quick-disconnect on 152 mm (6 in.) pigtail cable
- Operating Temperature: −25 to +70°C
- Housing: Mindel/Udel polymer, IP67 IEC 529 / IP69K NEMA 4X 6P
- Environmental: 5–95% relative humidity, 10–55 Hz vibration (1 mm amplitude)
- Dimensions: 1.06 in. (L) × 1.36 in. (W) × 2.72 in. (H)
- Certifications: Meets or exceeds IEC 60947-5-2
Typical Applications
- Package detection and sorting on conveyor systems
- Object presence/absence verification in assembly lines
- Background suppression for detection through translucent materials
- Material handling and palletizing operations
- Industrial automation equipment integration with AC/DC supply networks
- Machine vision and precision alignment feedback systems
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix programmed controllers via discrete I/O or EtherNet/IP networks
- Siemens S7-1200, S7-1500 PLCs as standard digital input
- Mitsubishi FX and iQ-R series controllers
- Omron CP/CJ/NJ series automation platforms
- Schneider Electric Modicon M221/M241 controllers
- Standard 24V DC and 120/240V AC industrial control systems
- Rockwell Automation IO-Link networks (with compatible IO-Link master module)
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- 42EF-B1RCBC-G4 (previous AC/DC light-operate variant with different connector style)
- Earlier Allen-Bradley 42EF series infrared sensors requiring AC/DC 100 mm background suppression capability
- Verify exact model compatibility with your system integrator before ordering, as output connector type (-G4 quick-disconnect vs. -A2 cable) must match your application wiring
Works With
- Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer and CompactLogix programming environments
- EtherNet/IP networks via IO-Link adapters (Rockwell Automation 889D cordsets and approved masters)
- PROFINET and other industrial networks through gateway modules
- Direct discrete 24V AC/DC digital input cards and relay modules
- Third-party PLC and motion control systems accepting standard NPN sink outputs








