The PC-3 is a simple, cost-effective thru-beam photoeye with no calibration requirements, built for indoor applications or sheltered outdoor locations. Ideal for garage doors and rolling doors where basic, reliable safety detection is sufficient.
Model: PC-3
Type: Thru-beam infrared photoeye, modulated
Range: up to 9 m (30 ft)
Detection angle: 24 degrees
Power supply: 12-24V AC or DC
Relay contacts: 1A @ 24VDC or 120VAC
Housing: black PVC, not watertight
Dimensions: 102 x 51 x 38 mm
Cable length: 46 cm
Calibration: not required
UL325 compliant: no, not suitable for monitored or personnel protection applications
Not every garage door or rolling door installation needs an extensive, weatherproof photoeye with adjustable sensitivity and multiple monitoring protocols. For simple, indoor or sheltered applications, a direct, cost-effective solution is often exactly what's needed. The PC-3 is that entry-level model: a straightforward thru-beam photoeye without extras, focused on the basic need for safe door detection.
Unlike many other photoeyes in the range, the PC-3 requires no sensitivity adjustment or calibration after installation. Once the transmitter and receiver are correctly aligned (confirmed via the LED indicator), the sensor is immediately operational. That makes installation fast and predictable, with no risk of incorrectly configured sensitivity.
The supervised relay output automatically provides an "open" signal on power failure, meaning the system defaults to a safe state rather than exhibiting unpredictable behaviour when power is lost.
The non-reflective thru-beam setup isn't affected by shiny surfaces, and the modulated infrared signal stays reliable in sunlight, rain, dust, and dirt. With a wide 24-degree detection angle, alignment during installation is easier than with narrower-beam alternatives.
The PC-3 comes in a black PVC housing that isn't watertight, making the sensor suitable for indoor applications or outdoor locations with sufficient protection from direct weather exposure, but not for fully exposed outdoor mounting. For that latter situation, a photoeye with an IP65 or NEMA-rated housing from the range is the better choice.
The PC-3 works with any control board that accepts a dry contact as the safety input, making the sensor broadly deployable without compatibility concerns.
The PC-3 isn't UL325 compliant and therefore isn't suitable for applications requiring monitored, certified protection. The sensor is also not intended for personnel protection applications; it lacks the self-checking, redundant circuitry required for that purpose.
The PC-3 is mainly used at garage doors and rolling doors indoors or at sheltered locations, where simple, cost-effective safety detection is sufficient without needing monitoring or full weather resistance.
Secumatic supplies the PC-3 as part of the complete vehicle detection and safety sensor range, with support on specification and project advice for installers and technical service providers. Get in touch for advice on the right photoeye for your project.
