Overview
The Allen-Bradley 42KL-G1LB-F4 is a PHOTOSWITCH MiniSight large aperture fiber optic sensor engineered for reliable photoelectric sensing in demanding industrial environments. This compact rectangular sensor delivers infrared glass fiber optic technology, making it ideal for applications requiring stable object detection with fiber optic cables. The Series B unit features selectable light/dark operation, dual output configuration (both NPN sink and PNP source modes), and a robust housing designed to withstand high-pressure washdowns and harsh conditions.
Key Features
- 880 NM infrared LED sensing beam for consistent, long-range fiber optic detection
- Dual output modes — switch selectable between NPN (sink) and PNP (source) configurations
- Light/Dark selectable operation (LO/DO) to match your application logic
- 1 MS response time for fast real-time object detection
- Visible status indicators for power, output state, and 2.5x margin/short circuit protection
- Compact MiniSight housing with proven industrial form factor — no mechanical redesign required for retrofit installations
Technical Specifications
Operating voltage: 10.8–30 V DC
Power consumption: 35 mA maximum
Sensing beam: 880 NM infrared LED
Response time: 1 millisecond
Output configuration: NPN (sink) and PNP (source) selectable
Electrical connector: 4-pin DC Micro QD on 152 mm (6 in) pigtail
Fiber optic cable: Glass fiber, large aperture
Operating modes: Light/Dark selectable (LO/DO)
Housing type: Compact rectangular, MiniSight form factor
Status indicators: Power, output, and margin/short circuit protection
Typical Applications
- Bottle and container detection on filling and packaging lines
- Web material presence detection and edge guidance
- Precision part positioning and gap sensing
- Food and beverage processing with moisture/washdown exposure
- Automotive assembly with contamination tolerance requirements
- Pharmaceutical packaging requiring reliable, repeatable sensing
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix I/O modules with 24 V DC digital input cards
- Siemens S7-1200 and S7-1500 systems with 24 V DC input modules
- Omron industrial controllers and PLC input terminals
- Mitsubishi FX and MELSEC systems with photoelectric input modules
- Any 24 V DC logic controller or industrial automation platform supporting NPN/PNP sensor inputs
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Series A versions of the 42KL-G1LB-F4 (backward compatible housing and pinout)
- Earlier Allen-Bradley photoswitch models in the same form factor
- Verify compatibility with your system integrator before ordering for critical applications
Works With
- Fiber optic cables and connectors rated for 880 NM infrared
- Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer for program development and I/O mapping
- Siemens TIA Portal for indirect integration via generic 24 V DC input modules
- EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and Modbus networks (via gateway or PLC input modules)
- Analog and digital signal conditioning modules for margin adjustment and filtering
