Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor GL6-N1212 SICK 6 m NPN IP67
Overview
The GL6-N1212 is a retro-reflective photoelectric sensor from SICK’s G6 series, offering a sensing range of up to 6 m, NPN output, and selectable Light/Dark switching. Delivered as a complete ready-to-install kit including the P250 reflector and stainless steel mounting bracket BEF-W100-A, it significantly reduces installation time and accessory costs.
With its compact design, PinPoint red LED, and polarization filter, the GL6-N1212 delivers reliable performance in demanding industrial environments.
Product Overview – GL6-N1212
The GL6-N1212 belongs to SICK’s compact G6 miniature sensor family (Germany). It features a dual-lens optical system combined with a 650 nm PinPoint red LED and polarization filter, producing a highly focused light spot (Ø 8 mm at 350 mm). This enables stable and precise object detection even on challenging surfaces.
The rectangular housing measures just 12 × 31.5 × 21 mm. Sensitivity is adjusted via a 270° potentiometer, and status is clearly indicated by integrated LEDs. The standout advantage of the GL6-N1212 variant is the complete accessory kit (P250 reflector + BEF-W100-A stainless steel bracket) included in the box, making it the ideal choice for fast project deployment or direct replacement.
Key Features
- Sensing range: 0.03 … 6 m (with PL80A reflector); typical 0.07 … 5 m
- Output: NPN
- Supply voltage: 10–30 V DC
- Current consumption: 30 mA (no load)
- Protection rating: IP67
- Complete set includes: Reflector P250 + Stainless steel bracket BEF-W100-A (1.4301/304)
Technical Specifications – GL6-N1212
| Parameter |
Value |
| Model |
GL6-N1212 |
| Part No. |
1060814 |
| Functional principle |
Retro-reflective (dual lens system) |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) |
12 × 31.5 × 21 mm |
| Sensing range max. |
0.03–6 m (with PL80A reflector) |
| Sensing range (typical) |
0.07–5 m (with PL80A reflector) |
| Light source |
PinPoint LED, visible red, 650 nm |
| Light spot size |
Ø 8 mm at 350 mm |
| Polarization filter |
Yes |
| Adjustment |
Potentiometer, 270° |
| Supply voltage (UB) |
10–30 V DC |
| Current consumption |
30 mA (no load) |
| Output type |
NPN |
| Switching mode |
Light/Dark switching (selectable via rotary switch) |
| Output current max. |
≤ 100 mA (≤ 50 mA when UB > 24 V) |
| Response time |
< 625 µs (resistive load) |
| Switching frequency |
1,000 Hz (light/dark ratio 1:1) |
| Circuit protection |
A, B, D |
| Connection |
3-wire cable, 2 m (PVC) |
| Housing material |
ABS/PC |
| Optical window material |
PMMA |
| Weight |
60 g |
| Enclosure rating |
IP67 |
| Ambient operating temperature |
–25°C … +55°C |
| Ambient storage temperature |
–40°C … +70°C |
| Items supplied |
Sensor + Reflector P250 (51×61 mm) + BEF-W100-A stainless steel bracket |
| Certifications |
EU/UK/ACMA/Morocco CoC, China RoHS, cULus, DIN EN 62471 |
Circuit Protection Notes:
A = Reverse-polarity protection for supply voltage (VS)
B = Reverse-polarity protection for inputs and output
D = Outputs overcurrent and short-circuit protected
Source: SICK Official Datasheet. Download datasheet link
Applications in Industry – GL6-N1212
- Packaging & Food Industry: High switching frequency (1,000 Hz) and fast response time enable reliable detection on high-speed production lines. The rectangular P250 reflector is optimal for tight mounting spaces on conveyors.
- Logistics & Automated Warehousing: 6 m sensing range is ideal for door control, pallet detection, and long conveyor systems. The included stainless steel bracket ensures secure and adjustable reflector mounting.
- Machinery & Component Manufacturing: Polarization filter combined with PinPoint LED eliminates interference from shiny or metallic surfaces. The 270° potentiometer allows precise sensitivity tuning.
- Pharmaceutical & Chemical Industry: IP67 rating guarantees reliable operation in wash-down environments. ABS/PC housing and PMMA lens resist common cleaning agents.
- Access Control & Security Systems: Suitable for automatic gates, parking systems, and entrance monitoring.
Comparison: GL6-N1212 vs GL6-N1211S27
Both models in the G6 series share identical core technical specifications. The only difference is in the included accessories:
| Parameter |
GL6-N1212 |
GL6-N1211S27 |
| Part No. |
1060814 |
1062937 |
| Sensing range max. |
6 m (PL80A) |
6 m (PL80A) |
| Output |
NPN |
NPN |
| Switching mode |
Light/Dark switching |
Light/Dark switching |
| Connection |
3-wire cable, 2 m |
3-wire cable, 2 m |
| Items supplied |
Sensor + P250 reflector + BEF-W100-A |
Sensor only |
| Recommended for |
Complete ready-to-install solution |
Cost optimization (when accessories already available) |
- Choose GL6-N1212 when you need a full plug-and-play kit.
- Choose GL6-N1211S27 when you already have a suitable reflector and bracket.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can the GL6-N1212 reliably detect dark, glossy, or transparent objects?
Yes. The combination of PinPoint red LED (650 nm), polarization filter, and dual-lens system ensures stable detection across a wide variety of surfaces, including dark, shiny metallic, and some transparent objects.
Q2. Which reflector should be used to achieve the maximum 6 m sensing range?
SICK recommends the PL80A reflector for maximum range. The included P250 reflector delivers excellent performance for most applications and is particularly suitable for space-constrained installations.
Q3. What is the difference between GL6-N1212 and GL6-N1211S27?
Both models have identical technical specifications. The GL6-N1212 includes the P250 reflector and stainless steel bracket BEF-W100-A (complete set). The GL6-N1211S27 contains the sensor only.
Q4. Is the sensor suitable for dusty, wet, or wash-down environments?
Yes. With an IP67 protection rating, the sensor is fully dust-tight and resistant to powerful water jets, making it ideal for food processing, packaging, logistics, and wash-down applications.
Q5. How do you set Light ON / Dark ON mode and adjust sensitivity?
Use the rotary switch on the sensor housing to select Light ON or Dark ON mode. Sensitivity is adjusted using the 270° potentiometer. The sensor also features clear LED status indicators.
Contact AUMI to Purchase GL6-N1212
AUMI – Official Distributor of SICK in Vietnam. Full manufacturer warranty, complete CO/CQ documentation, and 24/7 technical support.
Hotline: 0917 991 589 (Hanoi) | 0932 226 100 (Ho Chi Minh City)
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://aumi.com.vn/
Addresses:
- Hanoi: B44, Viet Hung Urban Area, Viet Hung Ward
- Ho Chi Minh City: 2nd Floor, HS Building, 260/11 Nguyen Thai Binh, Bay Hien Ward
- Da Nang: 9th Floor, PV Bank Building, 2 Road 30-4, Hoa Cuong Ward