When you need reliable short-range distance measurement in tough industrial environments, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is a compact workhorse you can build a process around. This SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor combines precise analog distance measurement with two flexible PNP switching outputs, giving you both continuous feedback and simple on/off control in one rugged metal housing.
Designed for applications where a few millimetres can make the difference between smooth production and costly downtime, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor delivers stable measurements in the 250–350 mm range. At the same time, the sensor withstands dust, moisture and vibration thanks to its IP67 rating, so you can confidently deploy the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor in demanding factory and process automation environments.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore how the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor works, its key technical specifications, how to mount and commission it correctly, and which applications benefit most from this versatile sensor.
Overview of the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
At its core, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is a photoelectric distance sensor that uses a triangulation principle with an infrared LED to measure the distance to a target. The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor focuses on a short measuring range of 250…350 mm, with a capture range of 200…250 mm where it can reliably detect an object and start tracking its distance.
This SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is part of SICK’s WTA24 family, which shares the same compact metal housing and general architecture but offers different ranges for different tasks. What sets the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor apart is its sweet spot in close-range precision sensing: it’s ideal when your target is always relatively near, such as products on a conveyor, coils, rolls or level surfaces in bins and hoppers.
In one device, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor provides:
- A 4–20 mA analog output proportional to distance
- Two programmable PNP switching outputs (Q1 and Q2)
- Fast response time of around 5 ms
- A robust IP67-rated metal housing
- M12, 5-pin connection for easy wiring
These features make the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor a smart choice when you need both measurement and presence detection without adding separate analog and switching sensors.
How the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor Measures Distance
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor uses a tried-and-tested optical triangulation method to measure distance. Inside the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, an infrared LED emits a beam of light toward the target surface. The reflected light returns through a lens system and lands on a position-sensitive detector. As the target moves closer or farther away, the position of the light spot on the detector shifts, and the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor electronics convert this shift into a distance value.
Because the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor measures geometry rather than just intensity, it can deliver more stable readings than simple diffuse sensors that only look at brightness. This makes the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor less sensitive to changes in target colour or reflectivity, especially within its specified range. Accuracy and repeatability are typically within a few millimetres, especially on light or neutral surfaces.
In normal operation, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor updates its outputs with a response time of roughly 5 ms, corresponding to a switching frequency of about 100 Hz. That’s fast enough for many conveyor-based applications, level detection tasks, and positioning jobs where the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is tracking moderate-speed motion.
Key Technical Specifications of the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
To choose and correctly apply the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, it helps to understand its core technical data. Below is a breakdown of the most important specs of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor and what they mean in practice.
Measuring range and capture range
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor offers:
- Measuring (scanning) range: 250…350 mm
- Capture range: 200…250 mm
Within the capture range, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can reliably detect that a target is present and begin distance measurement. Between 250 and 350 mm, the analog output of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is linearised to reflect distance with good resolution. For best performance, you should design your mechanics so that the target remains within this working window whenever you expect valid readings from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor.
Electrical characteristics
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor runs on 12…30 V DC, which fits standard industrial control voltages. Current consumption without load is under 100 mA, meaning the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is easy to power from most PLC or control panel supplies.
The analog output of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is a 4–20 mA current loop. This output is designed to drive a load of 0…500 Ω, making it straightforward to connect the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to PLC analog inputs, process controllers or display units designed for 4–20 mA signals.
Output configuration
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor features two PNP switching outputs, Q1 and Q2, plus the 4–20 mA analog output. Each PNP channel of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can switch up to 100 mA, enough for PLC inputs, small relays or indicator lamps. These outputs are reversible via teach-in, meaning you can configure the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor so that the output turns ON when the distance is greater than a threshold, or ON when the distance is less than that threshold.
Mechanical design and housing
The compact metal body of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor measures roughly 27 × 88 × 65 mm (W × H × D) and weighs around 0.4 kg. The robust housing of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is either stainless steel or nickel-plated brass, giving excellent resistance to mechanical shock and vibration.
With an IP67 rating, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion in water. That means the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can survive washdowns, splashes and dusty environments, as long as the M12 connector and cable are properly sealed.
Environmental ratings
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor operates from –10 °C to +55 °C, with a storage range of –25 °C to +75 °C. These ranges allow the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to be installed in many standard indoor and light outdoor industrial settings. For high-temperature areas, you can pair the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor with cooling plates or shields to keep its housing within rated limits.
Analog and Switching Outputs on the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
A major advantage of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is the combination of one analog output and two digital switching outputs in the same package. This lets you design flexible control schemes around the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor without adding extra sensors.
The 4–20 mA analog output of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor continuously represents the measured distance across the usable range. For example, 4 mA might correspond to 250 mm and 20 mA to 350 mm, with the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor interpolating values in between. Your PLC or controller can use this to calculate actual distance, log measurements over time, or regulate position, level or thickness.
The Q1 and Q2 outputs of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor act as threshold switches. Using teach-in, you assign a switching point for each output, such as “object closer than 320 mm” or “object farther than 270 mm.” The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor then drives each PNP output high or low according to your configuration, allowing simple min/max or in-window monitoring. Because the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor supports reversible switching, it’s straightforward to adapt logic to suit your PLC program conventions.
This blend of continuous and discrete feedback allows the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to serve multiple roles: a precise measuring device, a simple presence sensor, and a watchdog for minimum and maximum levels or positions.
Mounting and Installation Guidelines for the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
Correct mechanical installation is crucial to getting accurate readings from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor. The metal housing of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor includes two M5 threaded holes (6 mm deep) so you can mount it securely on machine frames, brackets or panels.
When installing the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor:
- Use appropriate M5 screws and avoid overtightening, which can stress the housing.
- Mount the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to a rigid surface to minimise vibration.
- Align the optical axis of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor perpendicular to the target surface where possible, reducing angular reflection errors.
- Observe the direction arrows and alignment marks on the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor housing to set the correct beam orientation.
If the environment is especially harsh, consider using brackets with additional support or vibration damping. SICK offers dedicated brackets for the W24 series, and these work well with the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to ensure stable positioning.
Wiring and Electrical Connection of the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor uses a standard 5-pin M12 male connector, making it simple to integrate with existing machine wiring. The pinout of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor typically follows this scheme:
- Brown: +V (12…30 V DC supply)
- Blue: 0 V (ground)
- Black: Q1 (PNP output 1)
- White: Q2 (PNP output 2)
- Grey: 4–20 mA analog output
Use shielded M12 cables compatible with the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor if you are working in electrically noisy environments. Route cables away from high-current conductors and VFD / motor power lines. Ensure connectors used with the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor are rated for IP67 so that the entire connection remains sealed against dust and moisture.
When connecting the analog output of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, make sure the load resistance at your PLC or controller input stays within 0…500 Ω, as specified. For the PNP switching outputs, verify that the digital inputs reading the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor are compatible with 24 V PNP signals and that the total load does not exceed 100 mA per channel.
Teach-In Programming on the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
Teach-in is one of the most powerful features of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, allowing quick setup without needing a laptop or specialist configuration tool. Using the built-in buttons and switches on the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, technicians can define the switching points for Q1 and Q2 directly in the field.
A typical teach-in sequence with the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor looks like this:
- Mount and wire the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor according to the instructions.
- Place the target object at the first desired switching distance.
- Set the Q1/Q2 selector switch on the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to the output you want to program.
- Press and hold the Teach-in button until the LED indicator on the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor confirms the point has been stored.
- Repeat the process for the second threshold or for the other output.
Because the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor supports reversible switching, you can also choose whether the output should be active when the object is closer than the taught distance or when it is farther away. This flexibility allows the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor to support both high-level and low-level alarms, positioning limits, and in-range monitoring.
Accessories and Mounting Hardware for the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
To make installation easier, a variety of accessories are available for the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor and other W24-series devices. Proper accessories help you extract the most value from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor and ensure long-term reliability.
Common accessories for the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor include:
- Mounting brackets – Stainless-steel brackets like BEF-WN-W24 or BEF-WK-W24 provide flexible mounting options, including angled and panel mounting. These brackets let you adjust the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor orientation precisely.
- M12 cables and cordsets – Pre-assembled M12 connector cables simplify wiring the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor and help maintain IP67 protection, especially when paired with suitable cable glands.
- Protective covers and shields – For dusty or wet environments, weather and dust shields help keep the optics of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor clean. This reduces maintenance and preserves measurement quality.
- Cooling plates – In high-temperature areas, cooling plates draw heat away from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, helping it stay within its rated operating range.
Choosing the right accessory set for the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor makes installation simpler and reduces the risk of misalignment, contamination or environmental damage.
Comparing the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor with Other WTA24 Models
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor sits within a broader family of WTA24 distance sensors. All share the same basic principle, outputs and housing, but each model has a different measuring range. When deciding if the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is the right version, it’s helpful to compare it with its siblings.
Key WTA24 variants include:
- WTA24-P5201 (1011504) – 250…350 mm measuring range, 200…250 mm capture range
- WTA24-P5201 S04 (1015804) – 100…500 mm measuring range, 80…100 mm capture range
- WTA24-P5401 (1011505) – 600…1200 mm measuring range, 400…600 mm capture range
- WTA24-P5501 (1011515) – 1000…3000 mm measuring range, 500…1000 mm capture range
Each of these models, including the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, uses 12…30 V DC power, provides two PNP outputs plus a 4–20 mA analog output, and fits into the same IP67 metal housing. The main difference is the optics and geometry that define the working distance range.
If your application keeps targets within roughly 25–35 cm, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is usually a strong choice. For applications like tall roll diameter measurement, large-bin level detection, or long-reach positioning, one of the longer-range variants may be better suited than the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor.
Typical Applications of the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
Because of its short-range precision and robust design, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor finds a home in a wide variety of industries. Anytime you need to know how far away a surface is within a few hundred millimetres, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is worth considering.
Common application areas for the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor include:
- Profile or edge measurement – Monitoring the width of boards, sheets or products on a conveyor. The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can help ensure consistent material position.
- Coil and roll diameter detection – Measuring the diameter of material rolls to control winding and unwinding processes. The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor tracks roll size in real time.
- Level monitoring – Measuring distance to the surface of liquids or bulk solids in small bins. With proper mounting, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can act as a non-contact level sensor.
- Positioning and presence detection – Verifying part presence in assembly stations, or checking that carriers and pallets are correctly positioned for the next process. Here the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor provides both analog distance and PNP presence signals.
Industries using the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor range from automotive and packaging to wood, paper and general factory automation. Any environment that demands short-range accuracy and robustness can leverage the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor.
Compliance, Certifications and Protection of the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
In addition to performance, safety and compliance matter when you select a sensor. The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor carries CE marking, indicating conformity with relevant European EMC and Low Voltage directives. It is also RoHS-compliant, meaning the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is built without restricted hazardous substances.
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is rated for protective extra-low voltage (SELV) conditions in line with VDE protection class V. The IP67 enclosure rating ensures the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor remains dust-tight and resistant to water ingress under standard test conditions.
Many SICK sensors, including the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, are designed to meet UL and cUL requirements for North American markets. Even where specific UL file numbers aren’t highlighted in marketing materials, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor family is built with global industrial safety standards in mind.
Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Best Practices for the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor is engineered for long service life with minimal maintenance. Still, a few simple practices can keep your SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor performing at its best and reduce unplanned downtime.
Good practices include:
- Keep optics clean – Periodically inspect the lens window of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor for dust, oil or splashes. Clean gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Check alignment – Vibrations or accidental impacts may shift the mounting bracket of the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor. Verify that the sensor still points at the intended target.
- Verify wiring and connectors – Inspect M12 connectors and cables for damage, loose locking rings or moisture ingress. Secure all connections to the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor.
- Monitor analog values – If the analog output from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor starts to drift or fluctuate, check for environmental changes, temperature extremes or contamination on the optics.
For troubleshooting, LEDs on the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor typically provide basic status information about power, output activity and teach-in mode. Comparing the actual readings from the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor with expected distances can help isolate whether an issue stems from mounting, target surface, or electrical noise.
Related Sensor Collections to Explore
If you’re exploring the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor, chances are you’re also evaluating other sensing options for your plant or project. These related collections from Industrial Electrical Warehouse make it easy to compare and choose the right technology for each application:
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Conclusion: Is the SICK WTA24-P5201 Distance Sensor Right for Your Application?
The SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor strikes a powerful balance between precision, robustness and flexibility in short-range distance sensing. With its 250–350 mm measuring range, 4–20 mA analog output and dual PNP switching outputs, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor can handle everything from simple presence detection to continuous level and position control.
If your machines or processes depend on accurate measurements within a few dozen centimetres, and you need a sensor that thrives in tough industrial conditions, the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor deserves a closer look. Its IP67 metal housing, fast response time and teach-in-friendly setup make the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor a practical, long-term solution for modern automation.
To explore specifications, drawings and ordering options in more detail, visit the product page for the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor on your preferred industrial supplier’s website. Reviewing the dedicated product page will help you confirm that the SICK WTA24-P5201 distance sensor aligns with your mechanical layout, control system and performance goals before you place it at the heart of your next automation project.
