Overview
The Allen-Bradley 42SRU-6205 is a Series 6000 photoswitch from Rockwell Automation’s PHOTOSWITCH product line. This compact polarized retroreflective sensor is engineered for industrial automation, motion control, and object detection applications. The unit combines solid-state reliability with practical cable termination for straightforward field installation. Designed for users seeking a dependable detection solution for conveyor systems, material handling, and automated assembly lines.
Key Features
- Polarized Retroreflective Detection: Senses polarized light reflected from retroreflective targets, eliminating false triggers from ambient reflective surfaces.
- Compact Form Factor: Cuboid design with minimal footprint for tight spaces and system integration.
- Wide Operating Voltage Range: 20–132V AC/DC input for compatibility with diverse control architectures.
- Visible Red LED: 550 nm wavelength for reliable alignment and troubleshooting in the field.
- Dark Operate Mode: Sensor output energizes when the retroreflective target is absent, enabling fail-safe detection logic.
- Cable Connection: 2-meter (6.5 ft) 300V-rated cable with industry-standard termination for quick assembly.
Technical Specifications
- Sensing Distance: Up to 3 meters (9.8 feet)
- Input Voltage: 20–132V AC/DC
- Output Current: 35–100 mA typical
- LED Wavelength: Visible Red, 550 nm
- Operating Mode: Dark Operate (output active when target absent)
- Response Time: Approximately 1 millisecond
- Connection Type: Cable (2 m, 300V rated)
- Type: Cuboid, Compact, Reflection System
- Certifications: CE, CSA, CUL, KC, UL
- Series: Series 6000 PHOTOSWITCH
Typical Applications
The 42SRU-6205 excels in applications requiring reliable object detection without contact:
- Conveyor line presence detection and flow monitoring
- Automated packaging and filling machinery
- Material handling and sorting systems
- Assembly line workpiece positioning
- Robotic cell perimeter guarding
- Door and gate control logic (open/close confirmation)
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Rockwell Automation CompactLogix and MicroLogix controllers
- Allen-Bradley SLC 500, ControlLogix, and PLC-5 systems
- Any 20–132V AC/DC industrial control circuit
- Standard DIN-rail mounted automation enclosures
- Discrete 24V DC and 120V AC sensor networks
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Allen-Bradley 42SRU-6203 (DC-only variant)
- Older PHOTOSWITCH Series 42SRU models with identical cable termination
- Verify exact part number compatibility with your system integrator before ordering
Works With
- Studio 5000 Logix Designer (program development and I/O configuration)
- RSLogix 500 (legacy SLC 500 integration)
- EtherNet/IP networks via external gateway modules
- Discrete hard-wired control circuits and relay logic panels
- Any 3-pin or 4-pin connector-based sensor interface
