The **MLG-20-R** is a receiver unit for the MLG-2 (Measuring Automation Light Grid) series manufactured by **SICK Sensor Intelligence**. These devices are used in high-end industrial automation for detecting object height, width, and position. --- ### 1. Core Electronic Components & Architecture The MLG-20-R functions as the "brain" and sensing unit of the pair. It consists of the following electronic subsystems: | Component | Function | | :--- | :--- | | **Photo-diode Array** | High-speed sensors that capture modulated infrared light from the emitter. | | **Microcontroller (MCU)** | Processes beam interruptions and executes measurement algorithms. | | **Optical Synchronization** | Electronic circuitry that allows the receiver to sync with the sender without a dedicated sync wire. | | **I/O Interface** | Hardware for PNP/NPN switching outputs and analog signals (depending on specific sub-model). | | **Communication Bus** | Typically includes **IO-Link** or fieldbus interfaces (EtherCAT, PROFINET) for data transmission. | ### 2. Technical Specifications The electronics are designed for high-speed industrial environments. Below are the typical electronic parameters for the MLG-2 series: * **Supply Voltage:** 18 V DC ... 30 V DC. * **Power Consumption:** Variable based on the number of beams, but typically < 200 mA. * **Output Current ($I_a$):** Max 100 mA per output. * **Response Time:** Extremely fast, often in the millisecond range, depending on beam count and "High Speed Scan" settings. ### 3. Electronic Features (MLG-2 Platform) The "2.0" (MLG-2) electronics offer significant upgrades over older light grid technology: 1. **Beam Coding:** Electronic modulation prevents interference from other nearby light grids or ambient lighting. 2. **Cross-Beam Technology:** The electronics can process beams diagonally to detect thinner objects or gaps. 3. **Transparent Object Detection:** Sophisticated thresholding electronics allow the sensor to detect clear glass or plastic. 4. **M12 Connection:** Standardized 5-pin or 8-pin M12 circular connectors for electronic integration. ### 4. Wiring Interface The receiver (R) handles the logic and communication. In a standard setup: * **Brown/Blue:** Power (+24V / 0V). * **Black/White:** Digital outputs (Q1, Q2) or IO-Link Communication (C/Q). * **Gray:** Synchronization or input function. ---