FC-2100

Product Advantage

Capacitive Label Sensor, FC-2100, High-Precision Detection Advantages:

The FC-2100 Capacitive Label Sensor is engineered to deliver exceptional reliability, precision, and cost-efficiency for modern automated production lines. By combining robust materials with advanced sensing technology, this sensor significantly reduces procurement risks while maximizing operational uptime. Below are the core advantages that make the FC-2100 an ideal choice for engineers and purchasing managers.

1. All-Metal Industrial-Grade Design for Extreme Durability

The FC-2100 features a heavy-duty aluminum alloy housing designed to withstand the harshest manufacturing conditions. With an IP66 protection rating, it offers superior resistance against dust and water ingress, making it highly reliable for demanding environments. Its impact resistance is over three times greater than standard plastic models, preventing physical damage during installation or operation. Furthermore, it has successfully passed rigorous wide-temperature testing, ensuring stable performance from -10°C to 55°C. This frost-resistant design is perfect for cold storage packaging or high-temperature logistics sorting. The metal structure also significantly improves internal heat dissipation, extending the sensor's operational lifespan to up to 8 years—well above the industry average of 5 years. This extended durability directly translates to lower replacement frequencies and reduced total cost of ownership.

2. High-Precision Label Detection for Maximum Throughput

Equipped with a specialized 650nm wavelength red LED detection system, the FC-2100 guarantees stable and highly accurate label identification. It is capable of detecting minute label thickness differences as small as 0.05mm and narrow gaps down to 2mm. This high sensitivity ensures that even the most challenging, closely spaced labels are identified without skipping or double-feeding. With an ultra-fast response time of just 0.3ms, the sensor easily keeps pace with high-speed packaging lines, preventing production bottlenecks. Additionally, a false detection rate below 0.1% means fewer machine stops and significantly less material waste. The sensor supports the detection of both transparent and non-transparent materials, offering excellent compatibility with common label substrates such as PET film and matte paper. This versatility allows procurement teams to standardize on a single sensor model for multiple packaging lines, simplifying inventory management.

3. Flexible Configuration and Seamless PLC Compatibility

To streamline integration and reduce setup time, the FC-2100 offers dual NPN/PNP output modes with a selectable normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC) configuration. This built-in flexibility means engineers do not need to stock separate NPN and PNP models, greatly simplifying spare parts management. Delivering a load current of up to 100mA @ 24V, the sensor can be directly connected to major PLC systems from Siemens, Mitsubishi, and other leading manufacturers without the need for additional signal converters. To accommodate various machine designs and installation scenarios, users can choose between a direct pre-wired cable version (φ4×2m) for fixed setups or an M8 quick-disconnect connector version for modular equipment that requires fast maintenance and easy replacement.

4. Low-Cost, High-Reliability Solution with Extended Warranty

The FC-2100 delivers premium industrial performance while being priced 15% to 20% lower than comparable products on the market, offering exceptional value for procurement budgets. Despite its competitive price, it does not compromise on safety or reliability. The sensor incorporates built-in reverse polarity protection and short-circuit protection, safeguarding the device against common wiring errors during installation. These protective circuits contribute to a remarkably low failure rate that is only one-third of the industry average. To further reduce purchasing risks, the FC-2100 is backed by a comprehensive two-year warranty, exceeding the one-year standard offered by most competing products. This extended coverage and high operational stability can help facilities reduce long-term maintenance costs by over 40%, ensuring a highly reliable and cost-effective investment.

Technical Parameters

The following technical parameters of the FC-2100 label sensor provide detailed electrical, performance, and environmental specifications to assist engineers in accurate model selection and system integration.

Product Uses

The following describes specific application scenarios for the F&C SENSOR FC-2100 opaque label sensor:

Designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern automation, this sensor helps procurement teams and engineers optimize production efficiency, reduce downtime, and ensure precise label detection across various industries.

1. High-Speed Label Positioning for Packaging Production Lines.

In food, beverage, and daily chemical packaging facilities, labeling machines operate at exceptionally high speeds, making precise label placement a significant challenge. The FC-2100 label sensor addresses this by delivering an ultra-fast response time of just 0.3ms. This rapid detection ensures that opaque labels are accurately positioned on bottles, jars, or cartons without slowing down the production line. Furthermore, packaging environments often involve moisture or require frequent cleaning. The sensor features a rugged metal housing with an IP66 rating, providing excellent resistance to impact and humidity. This durability minimizes the risk of sensor failure, thereby reducing maintenance costs and preventing unexpected line stoppages for plant operators.

2. Label Counting and Missing Label Detection in Pharmaceutical Packaging. 

The pharmaceutical industry requires stringent quality control, where a missing label can lead to severe compliance issues and product recalls. During the label rewinding or slitting process, the FC-2100 utilizes advanced photoelectric principles to count labels in real time and reliably detect any missing, broken, or misaligned labels. With a load current capacity of 100mA @ 24V, the sensor can be directly and seamlessly integrated with existing PLC systems to instantly trigger visual or audible alarms when an error is detected. By achieving an exceptionally low false detection rate of less than 0.1%, this sensor provides equipment manufacturers and packaging facilities with the reliability needed for high-standard medical and pharmaceutical applications.

3. Package Label Identification in Logistics Sorting Systems. 

Modern logistics centers and warehouses require robust components that can handle high throughput and varying environmental conditions. The FC-2100 is highly effective when interfaced with conveyor systems to identify standard paper or synthetic labels (with a thickness of 0.05mm or greater) on moving packages. It is engineered to operate reliably across a wide temperature range from -10°C to 50°C, making it perfectly suited for unconditioned warehouse environments or areas adjacent to cold chain facilities. For system integrators, time is money; this sensor features dual NPN/PNP output modes, ensuring broad compatibility with most sorting equipment controllers. Additionally, its user-friendly design allows for a quick installation time of approximately 7 minutes, significantly reducing labor costs during facility upgrades or new conveyor setups.

4. Continuous Label Detection for Industrial Printers. 

Industrial label printers require continuous, jam-free operation to maintain workflow efficiency. The FC-2100 is frequently utilized to detect the arrival signal of printed labels, ensuring that the printer mechanism feeds the media correctly without jamming. To accommodate labels with varying background colors or slight opacity differences, the sensor is equipped with an easily adjustable potentiometer for fine-tuning sensitivity. From a risk management perspective, the sensor incorporates built-in short-circuit protection. This crucial feature prevents potential electrical damage to the expensive printer motherboard in the event of miswiring or operational errors. With a proven annual failure rate of less than 1%, it offers printer manufacturers a highly dependable component that reduces after-sales service requirements.

Note on Alternative Label Materials: The FC-2100 is optimized for standard opaque labels. To ensure the best performance for your specific project requirements, please consider the following selection guidelines: For transparent or clear labels, use the FC-4100 capacitive model. For metallic, foil, or highly reflective labels, the FC-2300 ultrasonic model is recommended.

Product Operate Guide

The following is a comprehensive operating guide for the F&C SENSOR FC-2100 capacitive tag sensor, designed to ensure correct installation, precise calibration, and long-term reliability for field operators and engineers:

1. Installation and Power Supply Wiring

Proper physical installation and electrical wiring are the foundation of stable sensor performance. After securely mounting the sensor in the designated detection area, connect it to a stable 12-24VDC power supply. Wire the connections carefully according to the standard color codes: connect the brown wire to the positive terminal (+) and the blue wire to the negative terminal (-).

A critical step during installation is ensuring the all-metal housing is properly grounded. Industrial environments often generate significant electromagnetic interference; grounding the housing effectively shields the internal capacitive circuitry, preventing false triggers and signal instability. Once the power is correctly applied, verify that the green LED indicator illuminates, which confirms normal power status and operational readiness.

2. Sensitivity Adjustment and Calibration

The FC-2100 requires proper calibration to accurately detect specific tag materials and thicknesses. To calibrate, insert a sample tag into the detection chamber and observe the red LED indicator. If the red light does not illuminate when the object is present, use a small screwdriver to turn the built-in potentiometer counterclockwise until the red light steadily illuminates.

After the initial activation, fine-tune the transmission power by making micro-adjustments left or right. The objective is to achieve a sharp, stable red light exactly when the tag enters the sensing zone, and immediate deactivation when it exits. Proper fine-tuning ensures high-speed detection accuracy and eliminates missed readings during continuous production cycles.

3. Output Mode Switching and PLC Integration

Designed for seamless integration into modern industrial control systems, this sensor supports flexible NPN/PNP dual output configurations. Depending on the specific logic requirements of your equipment, the sensor can be wired for Normally Open (NO) or Normally Closed (NC) operation modes.

With a robust load current capacity of 100mA @ 24V, the FC-2100 can be directly connected to standard PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) input modules without the need for additional intermediate relays. Ensure all signal wires are securely fastened at the terminal block to maintain rapid, uninterrupted signal transmission during high-frequency detection tasks.

4. Routine Maintenance and Care Tips

To maximize the operational lifespan and maintain peak sensing accuracy, regular maintenance is highly recommended. Periodically inspect and clean the detection chamber. The accumulation of industrial dust, debris, or moisture inside the slot can alter the capacitive field and degrade detection precision. Use a soft brush or clean compressed air to clear the sensing area safely.

The sensor features an industrial-grade, all-metal housing with an IP66 protection rating, making it highly impact-resistant and well-suited for harsh environments. Additionally, periodically verify that the mounting screws, wiring connections, and grounding remain secure. The FC-2100 is backed by a comprehensive 2-year warranty, providing reliable assurance for your continuous manufacturing operations.

FAQ

Q: Are you a direct sensor manufacturer?

A: Yes, we are a professional sensor manufacturer with over 30 years of industry history. Our extensive manufacturing experience ensures reliable quality control, and our products are fully CE certified to meet international standards.

Q: Can I get samples for testing before placing a bulk order?

A: Yes, we are pleased to provide free testing samples to help you evaluate the product's suitability for your specific project requirements. Please note that while the sample is free, the shipping cost is to be borne by the buyer. 

Q: What is your typical delivery time for orders?

A: Generally, we maintain a robust inventory of 110 different sensor models, allowing us to be ready to ship at any moment for standard purchasing needs. In case of out-of-stock situations, our standard delivery time is 5 to 7 working days. If your project order is urgent, please let us know, and we will prioritize production to accommodate your schedule. 

Q: What payment terms do you support for purchasing?

A: To facilitate a smooth transaction, we support multiple secure payment methods. You can conveniently make payments via T/T (Telegraphic Transfer), PayPal, or credit card, depending on your company's purchasing preferences.

Q: How do you arrange shipment and logistics?

A: We typically partner with reliable international couriers such as FedEx, UPS, and TNT to ensure safe and prompt delivery of your order. If your procurement process requires specific freight forwarders or other shipping methods, we can flexibly accommodate those arrangements as well.