Product details
IFS205 Inductive Sensor by ifm – Extended Range M12 Proximity Switch
IFS205 is a high-frequency inductive proximity switch from the ifm IF series. It delivers reliable non-contact detection in harsh industrial environments. The brass nickel-plated M12 housing and 7 mm extended sensing range make it ideal for space-limited automation setups. With a 700 Hz switching frequency and PNP normally open output, this sensor ensures fast, stable response for position and presence monitoring. The IP 67 protection rating supports use in wet, dusty, and vibration-prone areas. This product is part of the current ifm product line and remains active as of October 2026.
Technical Data
- Brand: ifm
- Model: IFS205
- Series: IF inductive sensor
- Order Code: IFB3007-BPKG/US-104
Core Sensing Performance
- Measurement Range
- Nominal sensing range: 7 mm
- Real sensing range Sr: 7 mm ± 10 %
- Operating distance: 0…5.67 mm
- Frequency Response
- Switching frequency: 700 Hz
- Sensitivity and Correction Factors
- Steel: 1
- Stainless steel: 0.7
- Brass: 0.5
- Aluminium: 0.4
- Copper: 0.3
- Linearity and Repeatability
- Hysteresis: 3…15 % of Sr
- Switch point drift: -10…10 % of Sr
- Resolution
- Reliable detection at 700 Hz for fast moving targets
Temperature Range and Environmental Resistance
- Operating Temperature
- -25…70 °C
- Storage Temperature
- Not published by manufacturer in the IFS205 data table
- Relative Humidity
- Not published by manufacturer in the IFS205 data table
- Protection Rating
- IP 67
- EMC and Noise Immunity
- EN 61000-4-2, -4-3, -4-4, -4-6
- EN 55011 class B
Electrical and Output Characteristics
- Supply Voltage
- 10…30 V DC nominal
- Current Consumption
- < 10 mA typical
- Output Type
- 1 x PNP normally open
- Output Ratings
- Max. voltage drop: 2.5 V DC
- Permanent current rating: 100 mA
- Protection Functions
- Reverse polarity protection: yes
- Short-circuit protection: yes
- Overload protection: yes
- MTTF
- 1134 years
Housing and Physical Data
- Housing Type
- Threaded cylindrical M12 x 1
- Length L = 50 mm
- Mounting
- Non-flush mountable
- Housing Materials
- Brass, white bronze coated
- Sensing face: PBT orange
- LED window: PEI
- Lock nuts: brass, white bronze coated
- Display
- 4 x yellow LED switching status
- Weight
- 25.2 g
- Electrical Connection
- 1 x M12 connector, A-coded
- 3 gold-plated contacts
Installation Guide
- Mounting Style
- Use non-flush mounting to keep full sensing range
- Keep a free zone around the sensing face
- Threaded Installation
- Secure the M12 x 1 body with the two supplied lock nuts
- Do not over-tighten the lock nuts on the plastic sensing face
- Target Material Adjustment
- Reduce sensing distance for non-steel targets
- Use the correction factors above for brass, aluminium, and copper
- Electrical Hookup
- Connect the A-coded M12 connector to a 10…30 V DC supply
- Verify PNP output wiring before power-on
Setup and Maintenance Convenience
- Visual Status Check
- Four yellow LEDs show switching state at a glance
- Electrical Protection
- Reverse polarity, short-circuit, and overload protection reduce wiring risk
- Long Service Life
- MTTF of 1134 years supports low-maintenance operation
- Routine Care
- Wipe the PBT sensing face with a soft cloth
- Check lock nuts after high-vibration operation
Compatibility Notes
- Connector Compatibility
- Standard A-coded M12 3-pin cables fit directly
- Control System Compatibility
- Works with PNP input PLCs and industrial controllers
- Mounting Compatibility
- M12 x 1 threaded brackets and clamps are suitable
- Supply Compatibility
- 10…30 V DC nominal supply covers common automation voltages
Certification Information
- UL Approval
- UL no. A001, file E174191
- Ta 0…40 °C, Type 1, limited voltage/current
- Protection Class
- Class II
- EMC Standards
- EN 61000-4-2, -4-3, -4-4, -4-6
- EN 55011 class B
- Product Status
- Current ifm product line, active as of 2026-10
Package Contents
- Sensor Unit
- 1 x IFS205 inductive sensor
- Mounting Hardware
- 2 lock nuts
- Documentation
- Product documentation as supplied by ifm
FAQ
Can this sensor detect non-ferrous metals?
Yes. It detects brass, aluminium, and copper at reduced distances. Use the correction factors to set the right gap.
What is the maximum switching frequency?
The IFS205 reaches 700 Hz. This suits fast counting and position tasks.
Does it work in wet areas?
Yes. The IP 67 rating protects the housing against dust and water jets.
Is flush mounting possible?
No. It is a non-flush mountable sensor. Keep free space around the sensing face for full range.
What output signal does it provide?
It provides 1 x PNP normally open output. Most PNP input PLCs accept this signal directly.
How do I know the sensor is active?
Four yellow LEDs show the switching status. This makes setup checks quick and simple.
Can I use a standard M12 cable?
Yes. The A-coded M12 connector with 3 gold-plated contacts accepts common industrial cables.
What is the usual failure risk?
The MTTF is 1134 years. This indicates very low expected failure rates in normal use.
Does it need a special power supply?
No. A 10…30 V DC nominal supply is sufficient. Reverse polarity protection adds wiring safety.
How should I clean the sensing face?
Wipe the orange PBT face with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive tools that can scratch the surface.
What if the target is stainless steel?
Apply the 0.7 correction factor. Reduce the mounting distance to keep reliable switching.
Is the sensor suitable for high-vibration machines?
Yes, with proper mounting. Tighten the supplied lock nuts and recheck them during maintenance.
There are no reviews yet.