---
title: What are the different types of discrete outputs available in object detection sensors ?
description: Different types of discrete outputs available in Balluff sensors
---

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# What are the different types of discrete outputs available in object detection sensors ?

## Different types of discrete outputs available in Balluff sensors

Most sensors use a solid-state device for the switching function.

Different options available are:

PNP, 3-wire              ![](https://kb.innovatingautomation.asia/hubfs/image-png-Nov-24-2020-09-24-56-86-AM.png)

                                  

 NPN, 3-wire              ![](https://kb.innovatingautomation.asia/hubfs/image-png-Nov-24-2020-09-25-54-43-AM.png)

 

 AC/DC, 2-wire        ![](https://kb.innovatingautomation.asia/hubfs/image-png-Nov-24-2020-09-26-05-51-AM.png)

 

NPN and PNP are technical terms for the type of transistor used to switch the output.   
The type of transistor determines the direction of current flow.

PNP sensors are sometimes called “sourcing sensors” because they source positive power to the output. NPN sensors are sometime called “sinking sensors” because they sink ground to the output.

 

**PNP, 3-wire**

![](https://kb.innovatingautomation.asia/hubfs/image-png-Nov-24-2020-09-27-42-22-AM.png)

 

**NPN, 3-wire**

**![](https://kb.innovatingautomation.asia/hubfs/image-png-Nov-24-2020-09-28-59-04-AM.png)**

 

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