




Photoelectric Sensors
SICK GTB6-N4212 Sensor
SICK GTB6-N4212 photoelectric sensor with background suppression, part 1052443. Fixed switching point, compact G6 housing for assembly and conveyor detection.
Overview
The SICK GTB6-N4212 (part number 1052443) belongs to the G6 family of compact photoelectric sensors with background suppression. The sensor detects objects at a defined switching distance and actively ignores reflectors beyond it, which makes it a dependable choice wherever machine parts or guard panels sit directly behind the detection point.
How It Works
The emitter projects modulated light onto the target, and a position-sensitive receiver judges how far away the reflecting surface is. Only reflections arriving from within the set distance are accepted; reflections from the background are suppressed. The switching result therefore does not depend on how much light the object reflects, only on where the object is.
Key Features
- Reliable detection independent of object color, gloss and surface structure
- Compact rectangular G6 housing suited to densely packed machinery
- Background suppression prevents false switching from rear machine surfaces
- Precise, clearly visible light spot for fast commissioning
- Standard 10 V DC ... 30 V DC operating range for industrial controls
- Threaded sleeve for stable mechanical mounting and alignment
Typical Applications
- Part-in-place verification on automated assembly fixtures
- Carton and package detection on conveyor systems
- Monitoring of components inside compact machine modules
- Position checks in electronics and small-device manufacturing
- End-of-arm tooling checks on robotic pick-and-place cells
Specifications
Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
Model | SICK GTB6-N4212 |
Part number | 1052443 |
Detection principle | Diffuse photoelectric with background suppression |
Housing family | G6 compact rectangular |
Supply voltage | 10 V DC ... 30 V DC |
Installation and Setup Notes
Align the sensor so the light spot sits on the target surface, then set the switching point while the target is in position. Walk the distance boundary: move a test object slightly closer and farther to confirm the output follows the object and not the background. Keep optical surfaces clean in dusty environments to preserve range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between this sensor and a standard diffuse sensor?
A standard energetic diffuse sensor switches on reflected light volume, so background and object color influence it. The GTB6-N4212 suppresses the background by measuring the distance of the reflection, giving a stable switching point.
Can it ignore a bright metal machine frame behind the target?
Yes, provided the frame is farther away than the set switching distance, its reflection is suppressed.
Is the housing suitable for tight mounting spaces?
The G6 format is one of the most compact background-suppression housings available, making it suitable for narrow machine sections.
Related Photoelectric Sensors
See also the SICK GTB6-N1212 for the base G6 background-suppression model, and the SICK GTB2F-N1131 for a miniature G2-family variant.



