SICK, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of sensors, safety systems and automatic identification products for factory and logistics automation, today announced the launch of its third generation of the industry-proven W.4, W.18, and W.27 families of photoelectric sensors. Foremost of these upgrades is the inclusion of the OES3, SICK’s custom ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit), specifically designed and exclusively used in background suppression sensors within these sensor families. The OES3 ASIC extends SICK’s industry leadership in background suppression sensing, providing more reliable sensing and opening up more applications for proximity sensors.

OES3 - the Third Generation Chip for Background Suppression
The OES3 has incorporated several new concepts for background suppression sensors. These sensors utilize a multi-segmented receiver array that allows for better background suppression performance throughout the range of the sensor. Also, the unique Active Area Management feature allows for the elimination of false readings from reflective surfaces or influences in the same environment. Twenty-plus years of custom ASIC design allows SICK to provide the best processing algorithms to eliminate the external influences of high-frequency lighting, EMC, ESD, and other industrial “noise.” All of these sensors have wide operating ranges for voltage (10 – 30 VDC) and temperature (-40 - +70° C).

In addition to the powerful OES 3 advances, SICK continues to increase its leadership in sensor technology by making all of these sensors available in IP 69K-rated versions. This is becoming particularly important in Food & Beverage applications that require a more stringent enclosure rating for high temperature, high pressure wash down environments.

W.4-3 Photoelectric Sensor
The W.4-3 series provides high performance in a miniature housing. This is an ideal sensor for packaging, electronics, and small-part assembly machines.

W.18-3 Photoelectric Sensor
The W18-3 series possibly gives the best mix of price/performance/size in the industry. With more than 50,000 pieces of this latest-generation sensor already installed, this new line of sensors has proven its abilities in demanding applications.

W.27-3 Photoelectric Sensor
The W.27-3 series is the workhorse for long-range, demanding applications, proven in automotive, wood processing, and other high-stress areas. The W.27-3 series also includes several models available for AC-power applications with extended voltage range of 24 – 240 VAC/DC.