Here’s a simple way remember how to wire up a 3-wire DC PNP or NPN sensor:
PNP = Switched Positive
NPN = Switched Negative
“Switched” refers to which side of the controlled load (relay, small indicator, PLC input) is being switched electrically. Either the load is connected to Negative and the Positive is switched (PNP), or the load is connected to Positive and the Negative is switched (NPN). These diagrams illustrate the differences between the two connections.
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Henry Menke
I have an electrical engineering background that provides me with a solid technical foundation for my current role as Product Marketing Director.
Can you also add “sinking” and “sourcing” to this diagram? It’s also a common question that comes up.
Thanks for that helpful suggestion, Ben. We’ve updated the diagram accordingly.
Very well done. I can show this to my craft class who never saw a transistor but need to know how to connect different sensors. Thank you very very much!