What the 8 mm detection range means on an unshielded M12
The Omron E2B-M12LN08-WP-C1 2M is an inductive proximity sensor with an 8 mm sensing distance on mild steel, from an unshielded M12 barrel. Unshielded means the field projects beyond the barrel face, so the 8 mm is the usable range — no derating for flush mounting, but you need standoff from adjacent metal to avoid false triggers. For a panel OEM wiring a pick-and-place gripper or a conveyor diverter, that 8 mm catches parts passing within a finger's width of the face.
NPN output and the 2 m cable
This sensor outputs NPN normally open — it sinks current to ground when a target is present, so the load connects between the output and the positive supply rail. NPN is common in older PLC input cards and Asian-sourced control panels; if your BOM calls for PNP sourcing, this part won't match without a converter. The 2 m PVC cable is pre-wired, which saves a connector purchase but commits you to a fixed lead length — plan the gland entry and cable tray route before the panel is assembled.