The **MLG-2Z-R/Q** is a high-performance automation light grid manufactured by **SICK**. It belongs to the MLG-2 (Measuring Automation Light Grid) family, specifically designed for complex measurement tasks such as object height detection, contour measurement, and volume calculation. --- ### 1. Core Electronic Components & Architecture The system consists of two primary electronic units: a **Sender** and a **Receiver**. | Component | Functionality | | :--- | :--- | | **Infrared LEDs** | Located in the Sender; emits modulated light pulses (typically 850 nm). | | **Photodiodes** | Located in the Receiver; detects the presence or absence of the beam. | | **ASIC (Application-Specific IC)** | Custom chip in the receiver that processes signals at high speeds. | | **Communication Interface** | Integrated electronics for IO-Link, Analog, or Ethernet protocols. | | **Synchronizing Wire** | Electronic synchronization between sender and receiver for precise timing. | --- ### 2. Technical Specifications (Electronic) The "Z" in the model name often refers to a "Zone" or "Pro" version, indicating advanced electronic features like high-speed scanning or high-resolution cross-beams. | Feature | Specification Details | | :--- | :--- | | **Supply Voltage ($U_v$)** | DC 18 V ... 30 V | | **Power Consumption** | Sender: < 60 mA / Receiver: < 140 mA (typical) | | **Output Type** | Push-pull (PNP/NPN) / IO-Link / Analog (depending on sub-model) | | **Response Time** | High-speed processing (down to 3.5 ms depending on beam count) | | **Ripple** | < 5 $V_{pp}$ | | **Circuit Protection** | Reverse polarity, Output short-circuit, Interference suppression | --- ### 3. Electronic Operational Modes The MLG-2Z series utilizes sophisticated electronic logic to interpret beam interruptions: 1. **High-Speed Scan:** Reduces electronic latency for fast-moving production lines. 2. **Cross-Beam:** The electronic logic allows one sender LED to be picked up by multiple receiver diodes, increasing the resolution for thin object detection. 3. **Transparent Mode:** The electronics can distinguish between varying light intensities to detect clear glass or plastic. --- ### 4. Interface and Connectivity The **R/Q** suffix usually denotes the specific output configuration: * **IO-Link:** Digitally transmits the status of every single beam and diagnostic data. * **Q (Switching Output):** Standard digital outputs for "Object Detected" or "Height Reached" signals. ```yaml Pin Configuration (Typical M12 Connector): - Pin 1: L+ (24V DC) - Pin 2: Q2 / In 1 (Digital I/O) - Pin 3: M (0V / Ground) - Pin 4: Q1 / C (IO-Link / Switching) - Pin 5: RS-485 / Analog (Optional variant) ``` ---