The E18-D80NK Adjustable Infrared Sensor Switch with Dupont Head is a robust, industrial-grade photoelectric proximity sensor designed for non-contact object detection across a 3cm to 80cm adjustable range. It uses diffuse reflection infrared technology, where the sensor emits modulated infrared light and detects the reflection from a target object. When an object enters the detection zone, the sensor outputs a clean digital signal that can be read by microcontrollers, PLCs, or relay circuits. The pre-installed Dupont head connector makes it easy to plug directly into breadboards and microcontroller development boards without soldering.
At the heart of the sensor is an infrared emitter and receiver pair housed in a cylindrical M18 threaded barrel, which allows for easy panel mounting with the included nuts. The sensor emits a modulated infrared beam (to reduce interference from ambient light) and measures the intensity of the reflected signal. When sufficient light is reflected back from an object, the sensor’s NPN open-collector output switches state, providing a digital signal indicating object presence.
The adjustable detection range is a key feature of the E18-D80NK. A multi-turn potentiometer on the back of the sensor allows you to set the detection distance anywhere from 3cm to 80cm, making it adaptable to a wide variety of applications. The sensor also includes a visible red LED indicator on the rear that lights up when an object is detected, providing immediate visual feedback during setup and operation.
The Dupont head connector is a significant convenience feature. The three wires (Brown, Blue, Black) are terminated with standard 2.54mm Dupont connectors, allowing you to plug the sensor directly into a breadboard, Arduino, ESP32, or any development board with matching headers. This eliminates the need for soldering or custom wiring harnesses, reducing setup time and making the sensor ideal for prototyping and educational use.
The sensor operates from a 5V to 24V DC supply, making it compatible with both 5V microcontrollers (Arduino, ESP32, STM32) and industrial control systems (PLC, 12V/24V automation equipment). The NPN normally-open output can sink up to 100mA, sufficient to drive relays, optocouplers, or directly connect to microcontroller input pins (with a pull-up resistor). The IP67-rated waterproof and dustproof housing ensures reliable operation in harsh environments, including outdoor installations and industrial settings.
The E18-D80NK is widely used in obstacle avoidance robots, automatic door systems, conveyor belt object detection, production line counting, security systems, liquid level detection, and smart parking systems. It is also popular in educational projects for teaching photoelectric sensing and industrial automation principles.
Important Note: The sensor uses infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. The detection range can be affected by the color, reflectivity, and surface texture of the target object — dark or matte objects may require closer proximity or higher sensitivity adjustment. Avoid mounting the sensor in direct sunlight or near strong infrared sources, as these can cause false triggering. The sensor is IP67 waterproof but should not be submerged for extended periods.
Whether you are building an obstacle-avoidance robot, an industrial counting system, or an automatic door controller, the E18-D80NK Adjustable Infrared Sensor Switch with Dupont Head provides a reliable, industrial-grade solution with the convenience of plug-and-play connectivity. It is suitable for individual makers, students, and businesses purchasing in bulk for product development or industrial applications.
Features
-
Adjustable detection range — 3cm to 80cm via multi-turn potentiometer
-
Diffuse reflection technology — Non-contact object detection with modulated IR
-
Dupont head connector included — Plug directly into breadboards and development boards
-
NPN open-collector output — Sinks up to 100mA, compatible with MCUs and PLCs
-
Wide operating voltage — 5V to 24V DC, suitable for both hobby and industrial systems
-
IP67 waterproof housing — Dustproof and waterproof for harsh environments
-
M18 threaded barrel — Easy panel mounting with included nuts
-
Visible LED indicator — Red LED lights when object is detected
-
Fast response time — Suitable for high-speed counting and detection
-
Wide application range — Obstacle avoidance, automatic doors, counting, security
Technical Specifications
| # | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Model | E18-D80NK |
| 2 | Detection Range | 3cm – 80cm (adjustable) |
| 3 | Operating Voltage | 5V – 24V DC |
| 4 | Output Type | NPN normally-open (open-collector) |
| 5 | Output Current | 100mA maximum |
| 6 | Detection Method | Diffuse reflection (modulated infrared) |
| 7 | Protection Rating | IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) |
| 8 | Connector Type | Dupont head (2.54mm) |








