Quick verdict
If you need a detection beam to sense objects and trigger automation, the Photoelectric Switch is the one to use. If you need remote temperature readings in an industrial setting, the Monnit sensor is the right choice. If you need both functions in one piece of hardware, neither alone will do it.
At a glance
Here's how the two sensors stack up on the key decisions:
| Decision point | Photoelectric Switch 12mm 636V | Monnit Industrial Wireless Temp Sensor |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | $39.72 | $100.00 |
| Primary function | Object detection via photoelectric laser beam | Temperature monitoring with 3-foot probe |
| Output/signal | NPN normally open | Wireless via 900 MHz SMA antenna |
| Power source | 6-36V supply | 3V industrial battery (pre-installed) |
| Condition | New | New - Open box |
| Typical use | Gates, garage doors, counting, speed measurement | Monnit system remote temperature monitoring |
Where each product wins
For detection-focused automation, the Photoelectric Switch has the weatherproofing and a straightforward on/off signal, making it the better fit when you need to monitor a passage or trigger a control circuit. For temperature-focused monitoring, the Monnit sensor is the better fit when you need to keep an eye on temperature in a location that isn't convenient to reach with wires.
Product notes
Photoelectric Switch 12mm 636V
The Photoelectric Switch 12mm 636V is a straightforward detection component. It uses a 0-20M laser beam and an NPN normally open output to signal when something passes through the beam, with a stainless steel contact and RCA connector. Its 6-36V supply range makes it flexible for many industrial control circuits, and the IP66-rated construction means you can mount it outside on gates or garage doors without worrying about weather exposure. The main reason to choose it is that it gives you a clean on/off signal for counting, speed measurement, limit detection, and personnel-passing automation. The trade-off is that it does not measure temperature or provide a wireless data stream, so it is not useful for remote monitoring.
Monnit Industrial Wireless Temperature Sensor
The Monnit Industrial Wireless Temperature Sensor is a different kind of tool. It measures temperature with a probe on a 3-foot lead and sends the reading wirelessly to a Monnit system using a 900 MHz SMA antenna. The package includes mounting hardware and a pre-installed 3V industrial battery, so you can place it and let it run without wiring a separate power supply. The reason to choose it is that it solves the problem of remote temperature monitoring in industrial spaces, especially if you already use Monnit's wireless network. The limitation is that it only measures temperature-it cannot sense objects or act as a proximity switch. Also, the unit is in new open box condition.
Final choice by use case
- Use the Photoelectric Switch for object detection, limit sensing, and other through-beam jobs where a wired signal is all you need.
- Use the Monnit sensor for industrial temperature monitoring when remote readings are the goal.
- If your project requires both detection and temperature monitoring, you will need both sensors to cover those different jobs.
