The **MLG-1F-R/Q** refers to a specific configuration of the **MLG-1 series** (Standard Automation Light Grids) manufactured by **SICK Sensor Intelligence**. These devices are used for non-contact object detection, measurement, and monitoring in industrial automation. --- ### 1. Component Identification (R/Q) The suffix codes indicate the specific electronic interface and functional role: | Suffix | Meaning | Description | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **R** | **Receiver** | The unit containing the photosensitive elements and processing electronics. | | **Q** | **Standard/Switching Output** | Indicates the output type (usually PNP or NPN switching signals). | --- ### 2. Key Electronic Specifications The MLG-1 system operates on an infrared light curtain principle. Below are the primary electronic characteristics: * **Supply Voltage ($V_s$):** DC 18 V ... 30 V. * **Power Consumption:** The receiver typically requires more power than the sender due to signal processing (approx. 180 mA - 200 mA + output load). * **Output Signal:** Digital switching outputs (PNP/NPN). It often includes a "Quality of Run" output to indicate if the lenses are dirty. * **Response Time:** Dependent on the number of beams (optical axes). * **Synchronization:** Optical synchronization (no physical cable required between sender and receiver). --- ### 3. Internal Parts & Architecture ### A. Optical Axis Array The "F" in the model name often denotes the **Focal/Beam Separation**. Inside the housing, there are multiple Infrared (IR) LEDs (Sender) or Phototransistors (Receiver) spaced at specific intervals (e.g., 10mm, 20mm, 30mm, or 50mm). ### B. Signal Processing Unit (ASIC) The receiver contains a proprietary SICK ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) that performs: * **Evaluation:** Determining which beams are interrupted. * **Blanking:** Ignoring specific zones if programmed. * **Thresholding:** Adjusting sensitivity based on ambient light or dust. ### C. Interface (M12 Connector) The electronic connection is typically via an M12, 5-pin or 8-pin circular connector. * **Pin 1:** L+ (24V) * **Pin 2:** Output 2 / Teach-in * **Pin 3:** M (Ground) * **Pin 4:** Q1 (Switching Output) * **Pin 5:** Functional Earth/Sync --- ### 4. Technical Summary Table | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Technology** | Infrared (880 nm) | | **Circuit Protection** | Reverse polarity, Output short-circuit, Interference suppression | | **Protection Class** | III (EN 50178) | | **Enclosure Rating** | IP65 (Dust tight, water jet resistant) | | **EMC Compliance** | EN 60947-5-2 | --- ### 5. Common Use Cases * **Object Height Measurement:** Detecting the highest broken beam. * **Web Width Control:** Monitoring the edges of material on a conveyor. * **Counting:** Detecting multiple objects passing through the grid simultaneously. ---