Instruction Manual for Schmersal BNS 260-11/01Z-ST-R Magnetic Safety Sensor
Quick guide for the Schmersal BNS 260-11/01Z-ST-R magnetic safety sensor, covering installation, electrical connection, axial misalignment, and maintenance procedures.
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The Schmersal BNS 260 series is a magnetic safety sensor designed to monitor the position of movable safety guards. It is classified as a type 4 interlocking device according to EN ISO 14119. This document provides essential information for mounting, electrical connection, and maintenance. All operations must be performed by authorized, qualified personnel.
Product description
The BNS 260 sensor must be used with BPS 260-1 or BPS 260-2 actuators. The system is designed for safety circuits where hazardous situations are terminated immediately upon opening the safety guard. The sensor is housed in a glass-fiber reinforced thermoplastic enclosure with an IP67 protection rating.
Mounting
Ensure the sensor is mounted on a flat surface and not subjected to extreme vibrations or shocks. Avoid mounting on ferromagnetic material; if necessary, use a non-magnetic spacer of at least 5 mm. Keep the sensor away from metal chips and strong magnetic fields. The mounting distance between two sensors must be at least 50 mm. The actuator must be permanently fixed to the guard to prevent tampering.




Axial misalignment
The sensor tolerates horizontal and vertical misalignment. The assured switching distance (Sao) is 5 mm (or 8 mm for specific versions), and the assured switch-off distance (Sar) is 15 mm (or 18 mm for specific versions). For optimal adjustment, align the sensor and actuator at a distance of 0.5 x Sao, ensuring central markings are aligned.

Electrical connection
Electrical connections must be made in a de-energized state. Multiple sensors can be connected to a single safety-monitoring module (SRB) by wiring NO contacts in parallel and NC contacts in series. Sensors with LEDs should not be wired in series unless using an input expander module (e.g., PROTECT-IE or PROTECT-PE), as this may cause voltage drops and reduced LED luminosity.

Set-up and maintenance
Regular visual inspection and functional testing are recommended. Ensure the sensor and actuator are securely fixed, cable connections are intact, and the system is free of dirt, especially metal chips. Damaged or defective components must be replaced immediately.
Disassembly and disposal
Disassembly must only be performed in a de-energized condition. Dispose of the device in accordance with national regulations and legislation.
Manufacturer information
Schmersal
Practical help
Common problems
Do not wire sensors with LEDs in series without using a compatible input expander module.
Ensure the sensor is not mounted on ferromagnetic material without a 5 mm non-magnetic spacer and keep away from metal chips.
Verify that the safety chain is designed according to relevant standards and that the actuator is permanently fixed to the guard.
Before use
- Ensure installation is performed by authorized, qualified personnel.
- Verify the system is in a de-energized state before mounting or wiring.
- Check that the sensor is mounted on a flat surface.
- Confirm the use of a non-magnetic spacer if mounting on ferromagnetic material.
- Ensure the mounting distance between two sensors is at least 50 mm.
- Validate the entire control system concept against relevant safety standards.
Images and diagrams
- The manual provides wiring diagrams for BNS 260-11Z(G) and BNS 260-02Z(G) versions.
- Y-adapter diagrams (BNS-Y-11 and BNS-Y-02) illustrate how to connect sensors to an SRB safety-monitoring module.
- Dimensional drawings show the sensor and actuator profiles in mm.
Model compatibility
- Only use BPS 260-1 or BPS 260-2 actuators.
- Compatible with SRB safety-monitoring modules.
- For series connection of sensors with LEDs, use PROTECT-IE or PROTECT-PE input expander modules.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor
Reviews PDF manuals for structure, safety notes, and practical product details so readers can find the right information quickly.