Keeping registration marks perfectly aligned at high speed is one of the toughest challenges on any packaging or printing line. When marks are missed, everything is affected – from print quality to cut position to label placement. This is where the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner proves its value. Designed specifically for demanding print mark and contrast detection, this compact sensor combines rugged construction, fast response, and intelligent RGB optics to keep modern machines running smoothly and accurately.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into what the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is, how it works, and why so many OEMs and maintenance teams trust it for reliable mark detection. We’ll also explore key technical specifications, mounting options, compatible accessories, alternative models, and real-world applications so you can quickly decide if this sensor is the right fit for your next project.
Whether you work in packaging, printing, converting, labelling, or any other application that depends on precise mark detection, understanding the capabilities of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner can help you improve uptime, reduce waste, and maximise production quality.
What Is the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner and How Does It Work?
At its core, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is a specialised photoelectric sensor designed to detect small contrast changes, such as a printed registration mark on a film, carton, or label. Unlike a simple on/off photoeye, this contrast scanner uses a finely focused light spot and intelligent evaluation electronics to distinguish subtle differences between a mark and its background, even when the material is glossy or moving at high speed.
The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner uses a tri-colour RGB LED light source – red, green, and blue – to illuminate the target area. During setup, the sensor evaluates the reflectivity of the mark and background and automatically selects the LED colour that provides the highest contrast. This auto-colour selection means the same device can reliably detect dark marks on light backgrounds, light marks on dark backgrounds, or challenging colours such as yellow on white, without constant manual fine-tuning.
With a nominal sensing distance of 10 mm (±3 mm), the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner creates a small rectangular light spot of approximately 1.2 × 4.2 mm at the target. The light spot is oriented vertically relative to the long side of the housing, making it ideal for scanning narrow registration marks that pass perpendicular to the material flow. As the material moves under the sensor, the KT5W-2P1113 evaluates the reflected light and switches its PNP output when a mark is detected.
Another important part of how the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner works is its teach-in function. Instead of manually adjusting potentiometers, operators simply run a teach-in procedure while the material is moving or stopped (depending on the version and method). The sensor samples the reflectivity of the mark and background and automatically sets an optimal switching threshold between them. This makes setup fast, repeatable, and less dependent on operator experience.
Key Technical Specifications of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
When evaluating any contrast sensor for your machine, technical details matter. The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner offers a specification set aimed at demanding industrial applications where speed and reliability are critical.
One of the headline figures for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is its switching frequency of up to 10 kHz. With a response time of just 50 microseconds, the sensor can reliably detect marks on very fast-moving webs and conveyors without missing events. This is especially important in high-speed packaging or printing lines where even a single missed registration mark can result in misaligned cuts or misprinted packaging.
Electrically, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner operates from a 10–30 V DC supply with a typical current consumption under 80 mA (without load). The device features a PNP switching output rated up to 100 mA, protected against short circuits and reverse polarity. You can configure the output as either light-on or dark-on, making it easy to integrate the sensor into different control philosophies and PLC input schemes.
From a mechanical perspective, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner uses a compact zinc die-cast housing measuring roughly 30.4 × 53 × 80 mm (W × H × D). The robust metal housing gives the device excellent durability and vibration resistance, while the IP67 protection rating ensures it is dust-tight and resistant to water ingress in typical washdown or harsh industrial environments.
The electrical connection on the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is a 5-pin M12 male connector. Importantly, this connector can be rotated up to 90° to simplify cable routing and accommodate tight mounting spaces. This small detail often makes installation cleaner and reduces the risk of cable damage over the life of the machine.
Together, these specifications show that the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is not just a simple sensor, but a high-speed, industrial-grade device ready for demanding automation tasks.
Core Features That Set the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner Apart
Beyond raw numbers, there are several core features that make the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner stand out from basic mark sensors and generic photoelectric switches. These features directly impact ease of use, reliability, and long-term performance.
The first key feature is the RGB auto-colour selection. The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner shines red, green, and blue light onto the target and automatically chooses the colour that produces the best contrast between the mark and background. Instead of manually experimenting with different light sources or replacing sensors, you can use the same device for a wide variety of mark and film combinations. This is particularly useful when packaging designs change frequently or when your machine is used for contract packaging with many product SKUs.
Another standout capability of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is its gloss adaptation. High-gloss or metallised packaging films can confuse simpler sensors because reflections may be as bright or brighter than the registration mark itself. The KT5W-2P1113 incorporates intelligent signal processing that adapts to changes in reflectivity, suppresses glare, and focuses on the relative contrast of the mark. This means fewer false triggers and more stable operation, even on shiny materials.
The teach-in function is also central to the value of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner. In dynamic teach-in mode, the sensor is taught while the material is moving. The device samples the lowest and second-lowest reflectance values it sees (typically the mark and background) and automatically sets the threshold between them. It also simultaneously selects the best LED colour. The result is a fast, reliable setup process that can be repeated whenever materials change or the machine is retooled.
Finally, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner offers clear visual feedback to assist with alignment and diagnostics. The visible light spot makes it easy to position the sensor so that the spot covers the registration mark. Indicator LEDs confirm correct teaching and output switching, and certain related KT5 models include a 10-segment bar graph display to show signal strength or contrast quality at a glance.
Compliance, Certifications, and Build Quality of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
Industrial users need more than just performance from a contrast sensor – they also need assurance that the device is safe, compliant, and built to last. The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is engineered with these requirements in mind.
The sensor carries an IP67 rating, meaning the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is completely protected against dust and can withstand temporary immersion in water. This makes it suitable for many packaging and processing environments where washdown, humidity, or airborne particles could otherwise threaten sensor performance.
From a safety and compliance perspective, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is tested for shock and vibration according to IEC 60068 and is UL/cUL approved under appropriate photoelectric sensor standards. It also conforms to EN 60947-5-2 and is typically CE-marked and RoHS compliant according to SICK’s product literature. For machine builders and global manufacturers, this means the sensor fits neatly into standardised equipment designs and helps simplify approval and documentation.
The rugged zinc die-cast housing of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is another important part of its long-term reliability. Metal construction offers better resistance to mechanical damage, torsion, and vibration compared to many all-plastic sensors. The housing design includes alignment features such as grooves and mounting faces that work seamlessly with SICK’s standard brackets, making installation sturdy and repeatable.
Altogether, the certifications and build quality of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner give users confidence that the device is not only technically capable but also robust enough for the realities of industrial environments.
Alternative Models to the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
While the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is a popular and versatile model, SICK offers several closely related alternatives that share the same housing but differ in output type, teach method, or additional display features. Understanding these options can help you select the exact model that best fits your control system and operator preferences.
One of the most straightforward alternatives to the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is the KT5W-2N1113. This version is functionally similar but provides an NPN switching output instead of PNP. If your PLC or control system is wired for sinking inputs, the NPN variant may be the better match. The overall optical performance, sensing distance, and RGB auto-colour capability remain similar.
Another related model to the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is the KT5W-2P1116. While still using a PNP output, this sensor often features a static teach-in mode. In static teach, the machine can be stopped while the operator teaches the mark and then the background with two separate button presses. This approach is useful when material speed is too low or too inconsistent for dynamic teaching, or when you want very controlled, step-by-step setup.
For users who want even more visual feedback during setup, the KT5W-2P1116D or KT5W-2N1116D can be appealing complements to the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner. The "D" variants include an integrated LED bar-graph display that shows signal strength or contrast quality. This display helps maintenance staff quickly diagnose marginal applications or misalignment without needing external tools.
Beyond the KT5W series itself, SICK has also introduced newer contrast sensor families such as the KTS and KT5-3 series. These newer devices can offer higher switching frequencies, smaller light spots, or more compact housings compared to the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner. For ultra-high-speed or space-constrained applications, it may be worth comparing specifications across these families while still benefiting from a broadly similar operating principle.
Accessories and Mounting Options for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
Getting the most out of your SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner depends not only on its internal electronics but also on how it is mounted and connected. SICK provides a range of accessories that simplify installation and ensure stable performance over time.
The housing of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner includes two M5 threaded mounting holes (approximately 5.5 mm deep) that allow secure attachment to brackets or machine frames. SICK offers universal mounting plates such as the Plate G (BEF-KHS-G01) and Plate K (BEF-KHS-K01), which clamp around the sensor and provide adjustable tilt and rotation. These brackets give you fine control over angle and position so that the sensor’s light spot passes exactly over the registration mark.
Interchangeable lenses are another useful accessory for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner. While the standard configuration is optimised for a 10 mm sensing distance, SICK offers optional lenses that extend the working range to approximately 20 mm or 40 mm. Swapping lenses makes it possible to adapt one sensor to different machine geometries without changing the overall housing or wiring.
One unique mechanical detail of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is that the lens position can be changed from the front face to the top face of the housing. A removable cover on the opposite side of the sensor allows the optical assembly to be repositioned, with the unused opening closed off using a blind plug. This gives machine designers the flexibility to configure the sensor as a front-looking or top-looking device depending on where the web or product passes.
For electrical connections, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner uses a 5-pin M12 connector. SICK offers both straight and right-angled female M12 cables in various lengths, with industrial-grade PVC jackets designed for flexibility and durability. While any standard 5-pin M12 cable with the correct pinout can be used, choosing SICK-approved cables helps ensure compatibility and robust performance in harsh environments.
By pairing the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner with the right brackets, lenses, and cables, you can create a mounting arrangement that is both easy to install and resilient in day-to-day operation.
Mounting and Setup Tips for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
Even with advanced technology inside the housing, a contrast sensor can only perform as well as it is installed and configured. Fortunately, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is straightforward to mount and set up when you follow a few practical guidelines.
Start by positioning the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner so its lens is approximately 10 mm from the target surface (assuming the standard lens is in use). Align the rectangular light spot so that its long side is parallel to the length of the registration mark and centred on the expected mark position. This alignment ensures that the sensor sees a clear difference when the mark passes through the spot.
Once the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is mechanically secured using M5 screws and a suitable bracket, you can proceed to teach-in. In dynamic teach mode, allow the web or conveyor to run at a stable speed within the recommended range while the sensor views alternating mark and background. Press and hold the teach button (or activate the remote teach input) so the sensor samples reflectivity levels and automatically calculates an optimal threshold and LED colour.
After teaching, verify operation by watching the output indicator LED on the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner while marks move under the sensor. The LED should switch cleanly whenever a mark passes. If signal margin seems low or intermittent, fine-tune the sensor position, ensure the web is stable, or consider switching to a different lens or angle that provides a clearer view of the mark.
In cases where the application requires static teach, or where the machine can easily be stopped, a related KT5 model with static teach may complement the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner. However, for many high-speed lines, dynamic teaching is ideal because it captures real operating conditions, including slight variations in material tension or gloss.
These straightforward mounting and setup steps help ensure that the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner delivers the fast, reliable detection performance it was designed for.
Where the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner Excels in Real Applications
The true value of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner becomes clear when you look at how it performs in real-world applications. Anywhere that precise mark detection is essential, this sensor can play a central role in improving consistency and reducing waste.
One of the most common uses for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is print mark detection on packaging and printing equipment. On a form-fill-seal machine, for example, the sensor may be positioned to detect a small registration square printed along the edge of the film. Each time the mark passes the sensor, it triggers the control system to advance, cut, or seal at precisely the right point. With a switching frequency up to 10 kHz, the KT5W-2P1113 is well suited to fast cycles and short mark spacing.
The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is equally at home on labelling machines, where it detects printed eye-marks on label backing paper to ensure labels are dispensed and applied at the correct position. Because the RGB LED and gloss adaptation can cope with glossy backing papers and transparent labels, the sensor helps prevent misfeeds and misaligned labels.
Beyond traditional packaging lines, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner can be used wherever a small area of contrasting colour needs to be monitored. Examples include sorting products by coloured tags, detecting splices or holes in webs, checking for the presence of printed codes on pharmaceutical blister packs, or verifying coloured components in assembly operations. The compact housing and flexible mounting orientation make it easy to integrate the sensor into existing machines, including retrofit projects.
In each of these scenarios, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner contributes to better process control. By providing accurate, high-speed feedback to the control system, the sensor helps ensure that mechanical actions such as cutting, sealing, or labelling are synchronised to the product or web. This reduces the risk of scrap, rework, and machine downtime tied to registration errors.
Is the SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner the Right Choice for Your Line?
With so many sensing options on the market, it is fair to ask whether the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is the right solution for your specific application. The answer depends on factors such as line speed, material type, available mounting space, and the capabilities of your control system.
You will benefit most from the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner if your application involves fast-moving materials where precise mark detection is essential – such as vertical or horizontal form-fill-seal machines, continuous labellers, or high-speed printing presses. In these environments, the combination of 10 kHz switching frequency, RGB auto-colour selection, and gloss adaptation offers a strong balance of speed, flexibility, and reliability.
If your machine frequently runs different packaging designs or substrates, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner can also simplify changeovers. Its teach-in capability allows operators to quickly recalibrate the sensor for new mark colours or backgrounds without complicated manual adjustments. This reduces setup time and minimises the risk of human error during product changeovers.
On the other hand, if your application requires a different output type (for example NPN rather than PNP), more advanced display features, or an ultra-compact housing, you may want to compare the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner with other KT5 or KTS family members. Because these models often share the same mechanical footprint, switching between them is generally straightforward.
Overall, if you are looking for a proven, industrial-grade contrast sensor that balances performance, configurability, and robustness, the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is a strong candidate.
Explore More SICK Sensors and Contrast Scanners
If you are planning or upgrading a sensing solution around the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner, it often makes sense to explore compatible and complementary products that can support other parts of your line.
- Contrast Scanner Collection → – Browse a dedicated collection of contrast scanners, including the SICK KT5W-2P1113 and other models designed for precise print mark and eye-mark detection across a range of substrates and colours.
- SICK Sensors Collection → – Discover a broader lineup of SICK sensors, from photoelectric and distance sensors to safety and vision devices, ideal for standardising on a trusted brand across your automation projects.
- Photo Sensors Collection → – Find complementary photoelectric sensors for presence detection, object verification, and general sensing tasks that work alongside your contrast scanners to improve overall machine reliability.
Conclusion: Getting the Best from Your SICK KT5W-2P1113 Contrast Scanner
In demanding packaging, printing, and labelling environments, keeping registration marks perfectly under control is critical for product quality and operational efficiency. The SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner was designed to meet this challenge head-on with a precise light spot, high-speed switching, RGB auto-colour selection, and intelligent gloss compensation – all housed in a rugged, IP67-rated metal body.
By understanding the key specifications, features, alternative models, and accessories available for the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner, you can make informed decisions about how to integrate it into your machines. Careful mounting, proper alignment, and a well-executed teach-in procedure will help you unlock the full performance potential of this versatile contrast sensor.
If you are planning a new machine build, upgrading existing equipment, or troubleshooting mark detection issues, taking a closer look at the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner is a smart next step. Reviewing the detailed product page from your trusted industrial automation supplier will give you additional information on pricing, lead times, and compatible accessories so you can confidently specify the right solution for your application.
By combining strong engineering fundamentals with thoughtful application of the SICK KT5W-2P1113 contrast scanner, you can achieve more stable processes, higher throughput, and more consistent product quality across your production line.
