Optical switch

The optical switch operates using an optical proximity sensor, offering a significant technical and infrastructural advantage over traditional optical barriers or two-dimensional infrared fields—as it requires just a single component for functionality.

How the Switching Process Works
The switch operates in three distinct phases:

• Standby – The sensor remains in a ready state.
• Proximity – Detection of an approaching object.
• Activation – The actual switch function is triggered.

A visual signal on the switch surface - customizable in brightness and colour - indicates the current switching state. These settings can be fine-tuned using special configuration software.

Customisable Sensitivity & Distance
The detection threshold can be adjusted up to 150 mm to suit specific requirements.
The actual switching action occurs at a distance of 20 mm from the switch’s surface.
Fast & Reliable Switching
With an activation and switch-off time of 100 ms, the optical switch ensures precise and secure operation, preventing accidental activation, such as from people simply passing by. Need a different timing? Switching times can be customised to fit your needs.

Designed for Easy Integration
The optical switch is a built-in component, making it ideal for seamless system integration.

Compact & Precise Dimensions
Head Diameter: 30 mm
Function Window (Active Area): 5 mm x 7 mm
Surrounding LED Ring: 7 RGB LEDs capable of displaying 16.7 million colours for fully customisable signalling.

Durable Front Panel
Made from acrylic glass with a 24.7 mm diameter.
The rear-printed design ensures durability while keeping the function window clear for optimal performance.

Sensor & Mounting Specifications
The optical distance sensor measures 36.8 mm in length, including the head and mounting thread.
Features an M22x1 thread for secure installation.

Power & Connectivity
Operating Voltage: 9 – 24 V DC

Flat plug with four contact pins:

• Two for power supply
• Two potential-free contacts for NO (normally open) and NC (normally closed) switching

This combination of compact design, high configurability, and durable construction makes the optical switch a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications.

The optical switch and its proximity sensor come with pre-set thresholds in the standard version. However, fine-tuning is easy—users can adjust the settings on a PC using specially developed configuration software. This allows for a fully tailored user experience with options such as:

Custom LED Colours – Choose from 16.7 million colours
Adjustable Brightness – Set the perfect illumination level
Custom Functions – Modify how the switch responds
Switching Distances – Fine-tune detection ranges
Bounce, Signal & Recovery Times – Adapt response timing to suit your needs

Looking for a real standout design? No worries! The shape and appearance of the optical switch can be customised to create a visually striking and unique solution.

Simple Mounting Process
A 22.3 mm diameter hole is required for insertion into a supporting component without any risk of rotation.
The switch is secured with a threaded nut, which is included in the package.
The total installation height is 43 mm.

Seamless Replacement for Mechanical Switches
Thanks to the use of opto- or photoMOS relays, the optical switch functions just like standard mechanical contacts, making it easy to integrate into existing systems without complex modifications.

Behind-Surface Integration
The switch can be installed behind a closed surface, offering a sleek, seamless design.
The covering surface must be transparent to ensure proper sensor functionality.
Comes with double-sided adhesive for secure mounting—only the function window remains uncovered.

Scalability & Customisation
Multiple optical switches can be combined on a PCB, enabling expanded functionality in multi-switch configurations.

Example Use Case: Here’s how this setup could look in practice…