Overview
The Sick HTE18-V4A1BB photoelectric sensor is part of the H18 Sure Sense series, engineered for high-performance diffuse (energetic) object detection in automated manufacturing and material handling systems. This sensor operates on 10-30VDC supply voltage (nominal 12/24VDC) and combines infrared LED technology with adjustable sensitivity via potentiometer control, making it ideal for detecting objects of varying reflectivity.
Key Features
- Energetic (diffuse) detection principle for flexible object sensing without retroreflectors
- Signal strength lightbar provides real-time feedback of object reflectivity
- PNP/NPN digital output switchable to 100mA, selectable light/dark switching
- M18 hybrid cylindrical housing with integrated M12 4-pin male connector (A-coding)
- Infrared LED (850nm wavelength) with potentiometer sensitivity adjustment
- IP67/IP69K protection rating suitable for washdown and harsh environments
- Operating temperature range -40°C to +70°C with plastic VISTAL housing
- 1kHz switching frequency for responsive control loop integration
Technical Specifications
| Sensor Type | Energetic (Diffuse) Photoelectric Proximity Sensor |
| Supply Voltage | 10–30VDC (12VDC / 24VDC nominal) |
| Output | PNP/NPN, 100mA switching output |
| Sensing Range | 5 mm – 1000 mm (variable by object reflectivity and adjustment) |
| Detection Principle | Diffuse reflection (energetic mode) |
| Light Source | Infrared LED, 850nm wavelength |
| Switching Frequency | 1 kHz / 1000 Hz |
| Connection | M12 male connector, 4-pin, A-coding |
| Housing | M18 hybrid cylindrical, plastic VISTAL / PMMA optics |
| Protection Rating | IP67 / IP69K |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +70°C (–40°F to +158°F) |
| Certifications | EN 60947-5-2, CE marked, cULus (UL file E189383) |
| Adjustment | Potentiometer sensitivity control |
| Series | H18 Sure Sense |
Typical Applications
- Packaging line object detection and part verification
- Material handling conveyor presence sensing
- Automated assembly position confirmation
- Fill-level detection in containers and hoppers
- Document and label presence detection
- Workpiece alignment and edge detection
- Industrial washdown environments requiring IP67/IP69K protection
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Allen-Bradley CompactLogix, ControlLogix, and MicroLogix controllers
- Siemens S7-1200, S7-1500, and SIMATIC systems
- Mitsubishi Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
- Omron industrial automation platforms
- Any controller or I/O module accepting 24VDC 100mA PNP/NPN digital input
- EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, PROFINET, and CANopen fieldbus networks (via adapter modules)
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
The Sick HTE18-V4A1BB is compatible with other HTE18-series sensors sharing the M18 housing and M12 connector form factor, including HTE18-B4A1BB, HTE18-P4A1BB, and HTE18-N4A1BB variants. Verify compatibility with your system integrator before ordering to confirm output type (PNP/NPN) and switching logic (light/dark) match your application.
Works With
- Studio 5000 (Allen-Bradley) — configure as discrete digital input
- TIA Portal (Siemens) — S7-1200/1500 digital input modules
- GX Works (Mitsubishi) — input card configuration
- M12 connector assemblies and extension cables (A-coded 4-pin)
- 24VDC industrial control power supplies
