The laser fork sensor works on the same through-beam principle as the standard fork type, but replaces the LED emitter with a laser diode. The result is a much smaller, sharply defined beam spot — and with it, the ability to resolve targets that a diffuse LED beam would smear over.
When the beam spot size decides the job
An LED emitter produces a relatively broad beam. If the feature you need to detect is smaller than that spot, the sensor sees only a partial reduction in light and the switching edge becomes mushy and inconsistent. A laser concentrates the same energy into a spot a fraction of the size, so a small target blocks essentially all of it and the output switches cleanly.
That matters for narrow registration marks, fine perforations, thin wires and small electronic components — anywhere the detection feature is measured in tenths of a millimetre.
Key features
- Laser emitter — small, precisely defined beam spot for fine features.
- Pre-aligned U-shaped housing — no alignment work at installation.
- Sharp switching edge giving excellent repeatability at speed.
- Compact body for tight spaces on packaging and printing machines.
- Visible beam makes setup and verification straightforward.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensor type | Laser fork — U-shaped through-beam |
| Emitter | Laser diode |
| Output | PNP, normally open |
| Operating voltage | 30 V DC |
| Maximum load current | 300 mA |
| Frequency | 50 Hz |
| Housing material | Mild steel |
| Corrosion resistance | Yes |
| Cable length | 4 m |
Typical applications
- Label detection where registration marks are narrow or low contrast.
- Perforated disc scanning — counting fine holes and slots.
- Small part detection in electronics assembly.
- High-speed printing and converting lines needing a crisp trigger edge.
How to order
Tell us the sensing gap, the target material, your supply voltage and the output type your controller needs. If you are replacing an existing sensor, a photograph of the body markings is usually enough for us to identify an equivalent. We will confirm the specification and quote — normally the same day.
Related products
Frequently asked questions
Is the laser safe to work around?
Sensor lasers of this type are low-power devices, but as with any laser you should avoid staring directly into the beam and should not view it through magnifying optics. Ask us for the laser class of the specific model before installing it in an area where operators work close by.
When should I pay for a laser fork instead of a standard fork?
When your target feature is small relative to a standard LED beam spot, when you need a very sharply defined trigger point, or when line speed means the switching edge must be crisp. For ordinary label and small-part detection, the standard fork sensor is usually sufficient and more economical.
Need a quote for the Laser Fork Sensor?
Send us your application — target material, sensing distance, supply voltage and housing constraint. We will recommend a part, quote it, and ship from Mumbai.