Omron EE-SX772A — 5 mm through-beam sensor, NPN dark-ON output
The Omron EE-SX772A is a through-beam photoelectric sensor with a 5 mm sensing gap, delivering an NPN open-collector output that switches to ground when the beam is interrupted — dark-ON logic. It runs on a 5 V supply and switches up to 35 mA, sized for direct connection to a PLC digital input or a small relay coil. The housing is chassis-mounted using M3 screws, and the wire lead exits the body for panel wiring.
5 mm gap — what it means for your fixture
The 0.197 inch (5 mm) sensing distance is the maximum unobstructed gap between the emitter and receiver. That is a short range — think part-present detection on a small conveyor, edge sensing on a PCB handling fixture, or flag detection inside a pick-and-place head. It will not work across a belt gap or through a window; the emitter and receiver must face each other with nothing in between beyond the 5 mm span.
NPN dark-ON — wiring and load
The output is NPN open-collector, dark-ON: the transistor turns on (pulls low) when the light path is blocked. That means the load — a PLC input, counter, or relay — connects between the collector and the positive supply rail. The 35 mA switching current handles most standard 5 V logic inputs directly; for a larger load, add an interface relay. This is the common sinking-output configuration for Japanese-origin PLC families.
Temperature and environment
Rated for -25°C to 55°C ambient, the EE-SX772A is suited for indoor industrial cabinets, assembly machines, and packaging equipment. It is not specified for freezing storage or hot enclosures above 55°C — keep it out of ovens, dryers, and unheated warehouses in northern climates. No IP rating is listed, so the sensor should be mounted inside a panel or protected from dust and splash.
Mounting and wiring
Chassis mount with M3 screws through the sensor body. No DIN-rail adapter, so plan for a drilled bracket or panel. The wire lead exits the housing; allow strain relief and route away from high-voltage cables. The 5 V supply must be clean — share the same rail as the PLC input card, not a motor-drive auxiliary.
Lifecycle and sourcing
The EE-SX772A is an active product. It is sourced through independent distribution and quoted to order against an RFQ — availability and current pricing are confirmed at quote time.