TAKEX PB-50FA Quad Photoelectric Beam Detector, 50 m, PB-50FA

Introduction to the TAKEX PB-50FA Quad Photoelectric Beam Detector

The TAKEX PB-50FA Quad Photoelectric Beam Detector (PB-50FA) is a rugged wired perimeter sensor pair—transmitter and receiver—designed to deliver reliable outdoor intruder detection up to 50 m. Marketed as the TAKEX PB-50FA Quad Beam Perimeter Sensor, it combines four synchronised near-infrared beams, double modulation and an auto-gain control (AGC) function to reduce nuisance alarms caused by sunlight, headlights, weather and small animals. Housed in IP55-rated enclosures with audible alignment, LED status indicators and dry-contact outputs, the PB-50FA is targeted at installers and system integrators who need a dependable wired solution for perimeter protection.

Key features at a glance

• Quad beam detection:Four synchronised near-infrared beams for AND-gated detection, raising immunity to small intrusions and animals.
• 50 m protection distance:Designed for outdoor perimeter coverage up to 50 metres between transmitter and receiver.
• Double modulation + AGC:Improves resistance to sunlight, vehicle headlights and changing environmental conditions.
• IP55 weatherproof housing:Durable enclosures for exposed installations.
• Wired integration:Dry-contact alarm and tamper outputs (NO/NC selectable), monitor jack and audible alignment tone for installer convenience.
• Wide adjustment:Horizontal ±90° and vertical ±10° aiming range for flexible mounting.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The PB-50FA's specification sheet lists a range of technical details that matter to installers and security managers. The detector pair uses a near-infrared, four-beam simultaneous interruption detection system and provides a rated outdoor protection distance of 50 m. The unit also lists an impressive "maximum arrival distance" figure in manufacturer materials (up to roughly 500 m under specific conditions), but the practical perimeter protection range for intended applications is the 50 m rating.

Powering the PB-50FA is simple: it accepts 12–30 V DC with non-polarity wiring, which increases compatibility with common alarm panel supplies and auxiliary power sources. Typical current consumption is about 60 mA per unit, peaking to approximately 95 mA. Alarm outputs are provided as dry-contact relays (NO/NC selectable) capable of switching up to 30 V AC/DC at 1 A. A tamper output is presented as an NC dry contact (≤30 V AC/DC, 0.1 A).

Adjustments and user-facing features include an audible alignment tone, alarm memory LED, sensitivity attenuation LED, monitor jack and programmed AGC (auto-gain control). A variable response time setting ranges from 50 ms to 700 ms, with 50 ms as standard, so installers can tune responsiveness to balance detection speed and false alarm suppression. The physical footprint is moderate—approximately 390 × 104 × 145 mm—and weight is roughly 1.2–1.3 kg per unit.

From a benefits perspective, the PB-50FA’s quad-beam AND-gated architecture lowers the chance of false alarms due to single-beam interruptions (e.g., insects or debris). Double modulation combined with AGC helps maintain reliable detection in direct sunlight, headlight glare, rain and dust. The audible alignment tone and LEDs reduce commissioning time, while IP55 ingress protection ensures the units withstand wind-driven rain and dust in many outdoor environments.

Use cases and scenarios where the PB-50FA excels

• Commercial and industrial perimeters:Warehouses, loading yards, storage compounds and manufacturing sites commonly require robust perimeter detection—especially where vehicle and pedestrian traffic can trigger nuisance alarms. The PB-50FA provides the selective detection and weather immunity required for such sites.
• Residential estates and gated communities:For larger properties that use wired alarm systems, the PB-50FA offers a discreet, reliable line-of-defence around driveways, hedges and boundary walls.
• Integration-driven installations:Installers who need dry-contact outputs for wired alarm panels, access control interfaces or monitoring systems will find the PB-50FA’s relay outputs and tamper contact straightforward to integrate.
• Long, linear perimeters:The 50 m rating is suitable for protecting long stretches between posts—e.g., fences and compound edges—where a curtain-type detection is desired rather than area sensors.
• Environments with intermittent lighting:Sites exposed to vehicle headlights, reflective surfaces, or strong sunlight benefit from the unit’s double modulation and AGC to avoid false alarms during challenging lighting changes.

How the PB-50FA compares with similar products

Quad-beam photoelectric detectors are a category with several well-known contenders. When comparing the PB-50FA to other beam detectors (both dual-beam and multi-beam), consider these common evaluation points: number of beams, modulation and signal processing, response time options, weatherproofing, ease of alignment, and integration outputs.

Compared with basic dual-beam models, a quad-beam device like the PB-50FA provides a distinct advantage in false alarm reduction because it requires simultaneous interruption of multiple beams (AND-gating) before signalling alarm. This makes it more resilient to small animals or debris. Compared with some more expensive multi-beam active barriers, the PB-50FA strikes a balance between cost, simplicity and robustness: it is less complex than multi-zone active infra-red barriers but more reliable than single- or dual-beam options for challenging outdoor environments.

Manufacturers vary in modulation schemes and automatic gain features; TAKEX’s combination of double modulation and AGC places the PB-50FA toward the higher end of immunity to sunlight and headlights among standard wired beam sensors. In terms of physical protection, the IP55 rating is industry-standard for exposed outdoor beams, though some premium models offer IP65 or higher for extreme environments.

Finally, with respect to installation convenience, audible alignment and visual LEDs are common but not universal—so the PB-50FA’s inclusion of these features helps reduce commissioning time. Current consumption and power range are compatible with most alarm panels, but integrators should always compare electrical requirements with alternative models to ensure compatibility with system power budgets.

Pricing and procurement notes

Pricing information included with the product data requires a currency clarification. A cost_price of "237.6" was provided but the currency was unspecified; please confirm whether this is GBP, USD, EUR or another currency before using the figure for accounting or procurement. The suggested_price value of 282.86 appears to use a 16% gross margin calculation (selling = cost ÷ (1 − 0.16)). If you prefer a 16% markup on cost instead, the selling price would be different (cost × 1.16). Always confirm final pricing, taxes and shipping with your supplier or distributor.

Customer testimonials and installer feedback

No verified customer reviews were included with the supplied product information. Rather than invent testimonials, here are representative observations commonly reported by professional installers and security managers for quad-beam photoelectric sensors like the PB-50FA:

• "Alignment is straightforward thanks to audible tone and LEDs—commissioning time is reduced compared with older models."
• "AGC and double modulation cut down on false alarms from passing vehicles and reflective surfaces."
• "Wiring and relay outputs integrate cleanly with existing alarm panels; the wide supply voltage is useful for varied site power setups."
• "IP55 is adequate for most sites, but where cameras and beams face extreme weather or salt spray, higher ingress protection might be preferred."

These comments are generalized and reflect common installer experience with multi-beam perimeter detectors. For verified, product-specific reviews, consult distributor feedback or customer review platforms where the TAKEX PB-50FA is sold.

Installation considerations and best practices

To get the most from the PB-50FA, follow standard best practices: mount transmitters and receivers on sturdy posts or walls with stable foundations to avoid movement; keep beam paths clear of foliage and potential obstructions; use the audible alignment and LEDs to fine-tune aim; select response time and sensitivity settings appropriate to the site—slower response for high-traffic areas to reduce nuisance alarms; and ensure all wiring and earthing comply with local regulations. Regular inspection and cleaning of optical surfaces will help maintain reliable operation over time.

Conclusion: why the PB-50FA is a solid choice for perimeter protection

The TAKEX PB-50FA Quad Photoelectric Beam Detector is a practical, installer-friendly wired solution for outdoor perimeter protection up to 50 m. Its quad-beam architecture, double modulation and AGC provide strong resistance to common nuisance triggers such as sunlight, headlights and small animals, while audible alignment and LED indicators simplify commissioning. Dry-contact alarm and tamper outputs ensure seamless integration with wired alarm systems, and the broad supply voltage and modest current consumption make it compatible with most security system power setups.

For commercial, industrial and larger residential perimeters that require reliable wired detection, the PB-50FA delivers a balance of performance, durability and value. Confirm the exact pricing currency and compliance markings with your supplier, and pair the product with correct installation practices for long-term, low-maintenance perimeter security.