Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor GL6L-N4211 SICK – 12 m Range, NPN, M8 4-pin
Overview:
The GL6L-N4211 is a laser retro-reflective photoelectric sensor from SICK’s G6 series. It utilizes a visible red Class 1 laser (680 nm) with a polarization filter, enabling highly accurate object detection over long distances with an extremely small light spot.
With a maximum sensing range of up to 12 m, NPN output, 1,000 Hz switching frequency, and ultra-compact design, the sensor is ideally suited for high-speed automation applications requiring superior precision and reliability.
Product Overview of the Photoelectric retro-reflective sensor GL6L-N4211 SICK
The GL6L-N4211 is a laser retro-reflective sensor from SICK’s G6 series. It uses a visible red laser light source at 680 nm (Class 1, eye-safe) with a very small light spot of Ø 3.5 mm at 1 m, combined with a polarization filter to ensure precise detection and minimize false signals from shiny surfaces.
The sensor supports Light ON / Dark ON switching, features an NPN transistor output with a 1,000 Hz switching frequency, and is suitable for high-speed conveyor applications. The M8 4-pin connector provides greater wiring flexibility and an extra reserve wire compared to the 3-pin version.
It offers IP67 protection, an ABS/PMMA housing, and full international certifications (EU, UK, cULus, ACMA, China RoHS), making it suitable for global deployment. Average service life reaches 100,000 hours at +25 °C.
Key Features:
- Sensing range: 0.08 m – 12 m (with P250F reflector); recommended 0.08 – 10 m
- Light source: Red laser 680 nm, Class 1, Ø 3.5 mm spot
- Protection rating: IP67
- Operating temperature: -20 °C to +50 °C
- Connection: M8 male connector, 4-pin | NPN output
Technical Specifications – GL6L-N4211
| Parameter |
Value |
| Model |
GL6L-N4211 |
| Part Number |
1109724 |
| Operating Principle |
Retro-reflective photoelectric sensor (Laser) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) |
12 x 31.5 x 21 mm |
| Sensing Range Max. |
0.08 m – 12 m (P250F reflector) |
| Recommended Sensing Range |
0.08 m – 10 m (P250F reflector) |
| Light Source |
Visible red laser, 680 nm, Class 1 |
| Light Spot Size |
Ø 3.5 mm (at 1,000 mm) |
| Supply Voltage |
10 – 30 VDC |
| Current Consumption |
≤ 20 mA (no load, at UB = 24 V) |
| Output Type |
NPN |
| Switching Mode |
Light ON / Dark ON selectable |
| Output Current Max. |
≤ 100 mA (At UB > 24 V, I max. = 50 mA) |
| Response Time |
≤ 625 µs |
| Switching Frequency |
1,000 Hz |
| Ripple |
< 5 Vpp |
| MTTFD |
1,005 years |
| Electrical Connection |
M8 male connector, 4-pin |
| Housing Material |
Plastic (ABS / PMMA) |
| Weight |
Approx. 60 g |
| Polarization Filter |
Yes |
| Enclosure Rating |
IP67 (EN 60529) |
| Operating Temperature |
-20 °C to +50 °C |
| Storage Temperature |
-40 °C to +70 °C |
| EMC |
EN 60947-5-2 |
| Certifications |
EU, UK, cULus, ACMA, China RoHS, Moroccan conformity, Laser Safety IEC 60825-1 |
Source: Official SICK Datasheet GL6L-N4211 (Part No. 1109724). Download datasheet link.
Industrial Applications of the GL6L-N4211
- Packaging & Food Industry: Reliable detection of products on high-speed conveyors thanks to 1,000 Hz switching frequency and small laser spot, minimizing misses in automated lines.
- Logistics & Warehousing: Gate control, pallet and forklift detection in automated warehouses with up to 12 m range and immunity to ambient light up to 13,000 lx.
- Automotive Manufacturing: Presence detection of small components on assembly lines; polarization filter prevents false triggers on shiny metal surfaces.
- Pharmaceutical & Electronics: Detection of small objects in cleanrooms; IP67 rating withstands cleaning and water spray. The 4-pin connector simplifies integration into standardized control cabinets.
- Printing & Paper: Edge detection and monitoring of thin materials in high-speed printing machines using the ultra-fine laser spot.
AUMI has supplied numerous G6 series sensors from SICK to manufacturing plants and logistics companies across Vietnam, offering full technical support from model selection to system integration.
Comparison: GL6L-N4211 vs GL6L-N3211 (Same G6 Series)
| Criteria |
GL6L-N4211 |
GL6L-N3211 |
| Part Number |
1109724 |
1117822 |
| Output Type |
NPN |
NPN |
| Electrical Connection |
M8 male connector, 4-pin |
M8 male connector, 3-pin |
| Sensing Range |
0.08 – 12 m |
0.08 – 12 m |
| Light Source |
Red laser Class 1 |
Red laser Class 1 |
| Switching Frequency |
1,000 Hz |
1,000 Hz |
| Protection Rating |
IP67 |
IP67 |
| Recommended For |
Systems using M8 4-pin standard or requiring reserve wiring (complex PLC/control cabinets) |
Simple systems, cost-optimized cabling |
| Advantages |
Flexible wiring, reserve wire |
Lower cable cost, simpler installation |
Conclusion:
- Choose the GL6L-N4211 (M8 4-pin) when the system is standardized on 4-pin connectors or requires extra wiring in high-vibration environments.
- Choose the GL6L-N3211 (M8 3-pin) for simple applications where cabling cost and installation simplicity are priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What output type does the GL6L-N4211 use?
The GL6L-N4211 features an NPN transistor output with selectable Light ON / Dark ON modes, compatible with most industrial PLC systems.
Q2. What is the maximum sensing range of the GL6L-N4211?
The sensor supports a maximum sensing range of 12 m with the P250F reflector. The recommended operating range is 0.08 – 10 m.
Q3. What is the main difference between GL6L-N4211 and GL6L-N3211?
The primary difference is the electrical connection: the GL6L-N4211 uses an M8 4-pin connector, while the GL6L-N3211 uses an M8 3-pin connector.
Q4. Is the GL6L-N4211 suitable for dusty and humid industrial environments?
Yes. The sensor has an IP67 protection rating, providing excellent resistance to dust and water in factory environments.
Q5. What applications is the GL6L-N4211 suitable for?
It is ideal for conveyors, logistics, packaging, automated warehouses, object presence detection, and other high-speed automation systems.
Contact for Purchasing the GL6L-N4211 SICK
AUMI – Official SICK Distributor 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, Villa Area, 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, No. 2 30-4 Street, Hoa Cuong Ward
