SICK GL6-P1212 G6 Retro-Reflective Sensor Set, 2 m Cable

Part number 1060815 identifies the GL6-P1212, a G6 photoelectric sensor that works with a reflector. It needs wiring on one side only and detects anything that breaks the light path between sensor and reflector. The sensing range maximum is 0.03 m … 6 m (sensing range value 0.07 m … 5 m). Output: PNP, light/dark switching; connection: Cable, 3-wire, 2 m.

What the GL6-P1212 does on a line: beam, reflector, interruption

The data sheet describes a dual-lens system with a minimum distance to the reflector. Place the reflector beyond that minimum distance; closer than that the beam geometry no longer works as intended, and the sensing range figures only apply from there outwards. A polarisation filter is fitted: it passes only light that the reflector has rotated, so shiny objects are less likely to be mistaken for the reflector. Align by sweeping the sensor across the reflector until the received-light indicator is steady, then lock the mounting and check again after the first vibration-heavy start-up. Keep the beam path free of film, steam and heavy dust. Contamination eats operating reserve gradually, so cleaning the lens and the reflector belongs in the maintenance plan.

Light source: PinPoint LED, visible red light, light spot Ø 8 mm (350 mm). Adjustment: potentiometer, 270°. Response time < 625 µs.

Technical specifications

Type code GL6-P1212 and part number 1060815

The designation GL6-P1212 sits in the GL6 family. Quote 1060815 on your request; if the old nameplate shows a different last digit or an S-suffix, tell us, because that can mean another electrical version.

Neighbouring versions of this family that SICK lists as active, with their part numbers:

• GL6L-P1212 (part no. 1115572) – Light source: Laser
• GL6G-P1212 (part no. 1060812)
• GL6-N1212P16 (part no. 1105101) – Switching output: NPN
• GL6-P1211 (part no. 1059922)
• GLD6SP-1GE121AEZZZ (part no. 1150892) – Switching output: NPN

Mounting, wiring and alignment notes

Plan for 10 V DC … 30 V DC at the terminals, IP67 enclosure protection and an operating ambient of –25 °C … +55 °C. The body measures 12 mm x 31.5 mm x 21 mm and weighs 60 g. Supplied with it: Stainless steel mounting bracket (1.4301/304) BEF-W100-A, Reflector P250. Check that nothing shiny sits near the beam path, because stray reflections can keep the receiver lit when an object is present.

When a retro-reflective GL6-P1212 is the right choice

A retro-reflective sensor suits applications where the sensor can be mounted on one side of a conveyor, door or transfer point and a reflector can be fixed on the opposite side. Only the sensor needs a cable, so the reflector side stays free of wiring. This makes the GL6-P1212 a practical option for presence detection of cartons, trays, crates and similar objects that reliably interrupt the beam. Because the polarisation filter suppresses direct reflections from glossy surfaces, the sensor is better suited than a simple reflector sensor to packaging with foil or shiny labels, although very transparent objects still deserve a trial on site before the design is frozen.

If the installation does not allow a reflector, or if the object itself must be detected without anything on the far side, a different functional principle is usually the better path. In that case compare the requirement against the neighbouring family versions listed above and against the data sheet before ordering.

Choosing between PNP output and light/dark switching

The digital output is PNP, so it suits controllers and input cards that expect a sourcing signal. Confirm this on the input module before installation; a sinking input will not read the signal correctly. Light/dark switching is selectable, which lets you decide whether the output is active when the beam reaches the reflector or when an object blocks it. Choose the mode that matches the logic in your PLC program and document the setting, so that a replacement sensor can be set the same way during maintenance.

Commissioning checklist for the line

Before handing the sensor over to production, run through a short routine. Check the supply polarity and the three-wire connection against the wiring diagram. Set the potentiometer so the sensor switches reliably with an empty path and with the smallest object you expect. Pass several real products through the beam at normal line speed and watch the PLC input, not only the sensor itself. Recheck alignment after the conveyor has run under load, since vibration can shift the bracket or reflector slightly. Record the final mounting position so the setup can be reproduced.

How to specify the GL6-P1212 in an RFQ

A clear request avoids mix-ups with the many similar G6 versions. State the type code GL6-P1212 together with part number 1060815, the quantity, and the delivery destination. If you are replacing an installed sensor, include a photo of its nameplate and mention the output type and connection used on site. Where the application is new, a short description of the object, the distance between sensor and reflector and the ambient conditions helps us confirm that this version matches your needs.

Documents and quotation

For GL6-P1212 the manufacturer’s data sheet (part no. 1060815) is attached as a PDF copy; read it together with your control drawing before you commit to the order. A quotation needs only the part number, the quantity and the delivery destination; the RFQ form takes all three. Related items are listed under Sensors & Transmitters. We suggest a last check of the output type, plug and ratings against your site documents before the order is placed; the data sheet governs.