M5 / M6 Inductive Proximity Switch — High-Precision Metal Detection Sensor
The M5 / M6 Inductive Proximity Switch is a high-precision metal-detection sensor that uses non-contact inductive technology, primarily for detecting position and proximity of metal objects in industrial automation. The sensor is compact (M5 thread diameter 5 mm, M6 thread diameter 6 mm), with fast response speed, stable detection distance, DC three-wire connection and a built-in LED indicator. It is suitable for automated production lines, mechanical equipment and robotic systems, featuring IP67 protection, corrosion resistance and anti-interference capability, with an operating temperature range of −25 °C to +70 °C.
Product Description
The DAIDISIKE M5 and M6 series inductive proximity switches are high-performance non-contact sensors primarily used for detecting the proximity of metal objects. The product features a cylindrical design with a built-in LED indicator for easy installation and debugging. The sensor housing is made of stainless steel, offering corrosion resistance and strong anti-interference capabilities. It supports DC three-wire connection (power, ground, output). It is widely used in automated production lines, mechanical equipment, robotics and other fields for precise position detection and limit control.
Our proximity switches feature fast response speed, stable detection distance and long lifespan. The M5 series is suitable for compact-space installations, while the M6 series targets slightly larger applications. The DAIDISIKE brand ensures every product undergoes strict quality control and supports customization services.
Product Parameters
- Type
- Inductive proximity sensor
- Detection object
- Metal objects (iron, steel, aluminum, etc.)
- Supply voltage
- DC 10 – 30 V
- Output type
- NPN or PNP (optional) — NO / NC
- Detection distance
- M5 series 1 – 2 mm; M6 series 1 – 3 mm (depending on model)
- Response frequency
- Up to 1000 Hz
- Protection rating
- IP67 (waterproof, dustproof)
- Operating temperature
- −25 °C to +70 °C
- Housing material
- Stainless steel
- Cable length
- Standard 2 m (customizable)
- Indicator light
- Built-in LED — lights up on detection
- Installation method
- Threaded installation (M5 × 0.5 or M6 × 0.75)
Detailed Specifications — All Product Models
Below is the detailed specifications table for DAIDISIKE M5 and M6 series proximity switches, including dimensions and detection parameters. All dimensions are in mm.
| Model | Thread | Total Length | Detection Distance | Diameter (φ) | LED | Output Current | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M5-25 | M5 × 0.5 | 25 mm | 1 – 1.5 mm | 2.5 | Yes | 200 mA | 20 g | Standard type — suitable for small devices |
| M5-30 | M5 × 0.5 | 30 mm | 1 – 2 mm | 6.5 (body), 3 (probe) | Yes | 200 mA | 25 g | Extended type — enhanced detection range |
| M6-30 | M6 × 0.75 | 30 mm | 1 – 3 mm | 2.5 | Yes | 200 mA | 30 g | Flat-head design — industrial-grade application |
Note: the above specifications are based on standard configurations. For custom detection distances or output types, please contact us. All products comply with CE certification.
Application Environment
DAIDISIKE M5 / M6 proximity switches are suitable for various industrial environments, including:
- Automated production lines: detecting part positions, counting and limiting.
- Mechanical equipment: CNC machines, conveyor belts — non-contact sensing of metal objects.
- Robotic systems: assisting robotic arms in grasping and positioning metal components.
- Harsh environments: IP67 ensures stable operation in humid, dusty or vibrating conditions.
- Others: elevator control, access systems, packaging machinery, etc.
The product is resistant to high / low temperatures and electromagnetic interference, suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Installation is simple — the unit can be embedded in equipment.
Working Principle
The working principle of the inductive proximity switch is based on electromagnetic induction. When a metal object enters the sensor's detection area, it changes the inductance of the sensor coil, causing a change in the oscillation circuit. The internal circuit detects this change and outputs a switching signal (high / low level).
Specific steps:
- After power-on, the internal high-frequency oscillator generates an electromagnetic field.
- When a metal object approaches, it absorbs part of the electromagnetic energy, reducing the oscillation amplitude.
- The detection circuit amplifies this signal, triggering the output relay or transistor.
- The LED turns on to indicate detection.
This non-contact design avoids mechanical wear, with a lifespan of millions of operations. DAIDISIKE products optimize anti-interference algorithms for accurate sensing in complex electromagnetic environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sensing distance of the M5 and M6 inductive proximity switches?
The DAIDISIKE M5 series detects standard mild-steel targets at about 1 – 2 mm, while the M6 series reaches 1 – 3 mm depending on model. The rated sensing distance Sn is specified for a standard steel target; non-ferrous metals such as aluminium, brass or stainless steel reduce the range by a known correction factor, so size the gap accordingly.
Should I choose NPN or PNP, NO or NC output?
PNP (sourcing) is the default for most modern PLCs, especially in Europe; NPN (sinking) is still common in some Asian control panels. NO closes the output on metal detection while NC opens it. The DAIDISIKE M5 / M6 is a DC three-wire sensor available in NPN or PNP and NO or NC, so match the output to your PLC input card.
Can the DAIDISIKE M5 / M6 replace an Omron, Balluff or Autonics subminiature proximity sensor?
Usually yes. It shares the M5 × 0.5 or M6 × 0.75 thread, DC three-wire NPN / PNP wiring, IP67 rating and 1 – 3 mm range, so it fits the same bracket and cable. Match the thread size, body length (25 or 30 mm) and output type to the unit being replaced, and confirm the supply is within DC 10 – 30 V.
What ingress protection and temperature range does it offer?
The M5 / M6 is rated IP67 with a stainless-steel housing, making it waterproof and dustproof for humid, oily or dusty machinery. The operating temperature range is −25 °C to +70 °C, which suits CNC machine tools, conveyors, packaging lines and robotic cells running in unheated workshops or outdoor enclosures.
Why use such a small M5 / M6 sensor and does it have a status indicator?
The compact M5 (5 mm) and M6 (6 mm) bodies fit tight fixtures, robotic grippers and small machine slots where an M8 or M12 sensor will not sit. A built-in LED lights up on detection, making alignment and commissioning faster. The non-contact inductive design has no moving parts, giving a long service life of millions of switching cycles.
Specs reviewed by Engineer Cai, Senior Application Engineer. CE compliant — see certificates.
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