How do I properly choose between a basic switch and a sensor?

The typical applications for basic switches and sensors are described below to help select them for detection purposes.

1. Basic switches should be used:
   
   1. As limit switches of a facility or equipment (under an environment susceptible to noise, static electrical charge, light, dust, etc.)
   2. For detection applications with less power consumption
   3. For applications to cut off (interlock) the main power supply
      *Please note that no forced separation mechanism is provided.
   4. To detect an object in contact
   5. For devices that require a click feeling (e.g. computer mouse, joystick)
2. Sensors should be used:
   
   1. To detect an object (workpiece) while not coming into contact with it
   2. To avoid constraints of basic switches such as electrical and mechanical life (in applications with very frequent or very infrequent detection usage)
   3. For applications requiring high-speed response (e.g. high-speed rotating gear detection)
   4. For applications requiring accurate positioning

The following table shows the differences between Photomicrosensors and basic switches as a reference to select a suitable product for your application. Note that the contents of the table are not necessarily shared by every model. Refer to the product’s datasheet for detail specifications.