Signals & Electrical
NPN
A transistor output that switches the load or PLC input towards 0 V.
IN ONE SENTENCE
When active, an NPN sensor normally provides a path to the negative/0 V side.
In normal English
NPN remains common in many machines and regions. It must be matched with a compatible input circuit.
Why would I use it?
Use it when your control system expects NPN/sinking sensor outputs.
THINK OF IT LIKE…
The sensor pulls the signal down to zero volts when it says 'yes'.
Related terms
PNP, sourcing, sinking, digital input
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