The Telemecanique XUK9APBNL2 is a polarized retroreflective photoelectric sensor with a 5 m sensing distance, suited for applications needing reliable detection through glass or reflective targets where standard retroreflective might false-trigger. Output is PNP normally-closed, 3-wire, sinking under 100 mA. Response time is 2 ms — fast enough for most conveyor and packaging lines, but if you're counting containers at line speed, note the spec. Runs on 12 to 24 VDC. Housing is plastic, rectangular, rated NEMA 4/4X/12/13 and IP65 — hosed down in a washdown zone? It'll hold. The 2 m cable is molded on, so no connector to lose in the panel. Three LEDs on top: green for power, yellow for output state, red for stability margin. Helps when you're aiming it solo with no alignment tool on the van.
The closest functional peer is the XUKT1KSML2, also polarized retroreflective. It cuts sensing distance to 1.5 m but speeds response to 0.3 ms and offers selectable PNP/NPN output. Same 50x50 block, same mounting hole pattern. If your beam path is short and you need output flexibility or faster cycling, that's the swap. For longer reach or simpler wiring, stick with the XUK9APBNL2.