E3T-CT24S 2M m12 photoelectric sensor
- time:2025-10-11 08:42:51
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E3T-CT24S 2M: Solving Reliable Detection in Compact Spaces with Omron Precision
That moment when a critical sensor fails unexpectedly, halting your line over a missed detection… frustrating and costly. In the relentless world of industrial automation, downtime is the enemy. Finding rugged, reliable sensors that fit constrained spaces and deliver unwavering performance isn’t just convenient – it’s essential for maintaining throughput and profitability. Enter the Omron E3T-CT24S 2M M12 Photoelectric Sensor, a potent solution engineered specifically for challenging detection tasks where precision, durability, and space-saving design are non-negotiable.
Understanding the Core: Photoelectric Sensing
Before diving into the specifics of the E3T-CT24S, let’s clarify its core technology. Photoelectric sensors work by emitting a light beam (visible red LED or infrared in many cases) towards a target. Detection occurs based on how this light beam interacts with the object:
- Diffuse-Reflective Mode (Common for E3T Series): The sensor houses both emitter and receiver. Light travels to the target, reflects off it, and returns to the receiver within the sensor. Detection occurs when sufficient reflected light is received. This mode simplifies installation as only one device needs mounting.
Decoding the E3T-CT24S 2M M12: A Specification Breakdown

The model name itself reveals crucial features of this workhorse sensor:
- E3T: This identifies the sensor series within Omron’s extensive lineup. The E3T series is renowned for its compact size, high reliability, and excellent cost-performance ratio, making it ideal for high-volume applications.
- CT24S: This refers to the specific variant.
CT
: Often indicates a background suppression (BGS) or fixed-field distance-set type diffuse sensor. Background suppression technology is key here. Unlike standard diffuse sensors whose sensing range can be affected by the reflectivity or color of the background, BGS types use triangulation to precisely determine the distance of the object reflecting the light. This allows them to reliably detect an object at a preset distance while ignoring objects (background) beyond that point, even if the background is highly reflective or closer than the target. This significantly enhances detection stability in complex environments.
24
: Typically denotes the sensing distance (in mm). For the E3T-CT24S, this is a 240mm (0.24m) sensing range. This fixed-field distance is stable and unaffected by target color or surface, a major benefit of BGS.
S
: Often indicates a specific output configuration (like NPN output). It confirms the sensor delivers a solid-state switching signal compatible with standard PLC inputs and control systems.
- 2M: This clearly specifies the integrated cable length is 2 meters. This pre-attached cable eliminates the need for separate cable assembly, saving installation time and reducing potential points of failure. It provides ample reach for routing in machinery while maintaining a manageable length.
- M12: This refers to the connector type on the end of the cable. The M12 connector is an extremely robust, industry-standard circular connector, prized for its:
- Durability: Resistant to vibration, shock, and industrial environments.
- Quick Disconnect: Allows for fast sensor replacement or system reconfiguration.
- Water/Dust Resistance: Often achieving ratings like IP67 or IP69K when properly mated, protecting connection integrity.
- Reliability: Provides a secure, consistent electrical connection.
Why the E3T-CT24S 2M M12 Stands Out: Key Advantages
Combining these specifications translates into tangible benefits for engineers and maintenance teams:
- Unmatched Detection Stability: The background suppression (BGS) technology is the cornerstone. It prevents false triggers from objects beyond the precise 240mm sensing point and ensures reliable detection regardless of target color (black, white, shiny, matte) or background conditions. This is invaluable for sorting applications, detecting objects on conveyors with varying backgrounds, or ensuring parts are correctly seated in fixtures.
- Compact Form Factor: Omron’s E3T series is celebrated for its minimal footprint. The E3T-CT24S fits effortlessly into tight spaces on machinery, robots, or assembly lines where larger sensors simply wouldn’t work. This enables design flexibility and solves installation challenges.
- Simplified Installation & Maintenance: The integrated 2-meter cable with the readily available M12 connector streamlines setup. No fiddling with separate cables or terminations. The M12 connector’s quick-disconnect feature also means sensor swaps during maintenance are fast and hassle-free, minimizing downtime.
- Industrial Toughness: Built to endure factory environments, this sensor features a robust housing offering excellent resistance to impacts and environmental factors. Paired with the rugged M12 connector, it achieves a high degree of dust-tightness and water resistance (IP67 rating standard), suitable for demanding washdown or dusty applications.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offering premium features like BGS in a compact, reliable package with an integrated cable, the E3T-CT24S delivers exceptional value, reducing cost-per-point in automated systems where many sensors are deployed.
Typical Applications: Where the E3T-CT24S 2M M12 Excels
This sensor’s unique blend of features makes it a top choice across numerous industries:
- Material Handling & Packaging: Detecting presence/absence of boxes, cartons, bottles, or cans on conveyors; verifying proper case sealing; counting items reliably regardless of color or label variations thanks to BGS.
- Automotive Manufacturing: Ensuring components like pistons, rods, or gears are present and correctly positioned in fixtures or on assembly lines before welding or assembly steps. Its small size fits within tooling.
- Electronics Assembly: Verifying component placement on PCBs, detecting tiny parts in feeders or trays. Background suppression helps ignore the conveyor belts.
- Food & Beverage Processing: Monitoring packaged goods on lines; detecting fill levels (transparent bottles/containers); ensuring caps or lids are present. The IP67 rating allows use in washdown zones (though confirm specific compliance). The 2M cable aids routing around equipment.
- Machinery Automation: General object detection on machinery; confirming part ejection; detecting end-of-stroke positions; safeguarding access points. The M12 connector integrates perfectly with modern control cabinets.
Choosing the Right Tool: Why Model Specificity Matters
While photoelectric sensors are common, the specific features of the E3T-CT24S 2M M12 directly address common pain points:
- Struggling with unreliable detection on dark or shiny objects? BGS solves this.
- Need to ignore items on a conveyor beyond a specific point? Fixed-field BGS excels here.
- Cramped for space? The compact E3T housing fits.
- Tired of unreliable field wiring? The factory-integrated 2M cable with M12 connector ensures consistent connections.
- Requiring quick sensor changes? The M12 quick-disconnect is invaluable.
Conclusion: A Precision Solution for Demanding Detection
The Omron E3T-CT24S 2M M12 Photoelectric Sensor is far more than just a part number; it’s a targeted solution engineered for reliability in challenging conditions. By combining the stability of background suppression technology, the convenience and durability of an integrated 2-meter cable with an M12 connector, and the proven **