Light grids for gates – quickly find the right solution
Contactless protection for sectional, roller, high-speed, and garage doors. Includes selection guide, installation instructions, and linked products.
What is a light curtain – and when do I need it?
Light grids protect not just a single point like a light barrier, but an entire area with multiple infrared beams. If the field is interrupted, the drive stops.
Good to know: Modern models combine PNP/NPN and OSE in a single device and are IP67 protected. This allows them to be flexibly connected to common controllers and is robust for outdoor use.
Use with sectional, roller, high-speed and garage doors
Sectional door
- Installation in/on the frame or on the side of the passage.
- Recommendation: Protective field above the usable passage height.
roller shutter
- Side mounting with protective field to the floor.
- Continuous field useful for forklift operation.
High-speed door
- Pay attention to the permissible gate speed.
- Resistance to ambient light and diagnostic LEDs facilitate operation.
Garage door
- Retrofitting as area monitoring next to the light barrier.
- Check whether the control system requires OSE or PNP/NPN.
Quick selection: height, interface, accessories
| Decision | option | Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Protective field height | up to 1.96 m · up to 2.50 m | Choose according to passage height and gate type. |
| interface | PNP/NPN or OSE | Both available in one device – check compatibility with the controller. |
| Accesories | Protective covers · Cables · Holders | Covers provide protection but slightly reduce the range. Choose a cable that's appropriate for the route. |
Recommended products (with direct links)
Light grids by height
Marantec GridScan/Pro 1.960 – PNP/NPN/OSE, incl. 10 m sync and 5 m connection cable.
Robust panel for normal passage heights (IP67).
Marantec GridScan/Pro 2.500 – PNP/NPN/OSE, 22-beam, incl. cables.
Suitable for high openings or roller/high-speed doors (IP67).
Protective covers (recommended for dirt/forklift traffic)
Protective cover 1.960 mm – protects lenses, slightly reduces range .
Protective cover 2,500 mm – same advantages as above.
Cable & holder (for clean retrofitting)
Connection cable 10 m – for longer distances.
Sets already come with 10 m sync + 5 m connection.
Wide security field (industry)
Pro‑Line GS‑Pro complete – gate width <10 m / gate height 2.8 m.
Important: Select connection and control cables separately: Control cable 6P‑5 m and CND1 control cable .
You can find all light grids here: “Light Grid” collection .
Assembly & wiring – explained in a practical way
Position & Alignment
- Fix sensor bars parallel and at the same height.
- Select the distance to the gate leaf so that the field completely covers the danger zone.
Connection
- Assign PNP/NPN or OSE on the controller (follow manufacturer's instructions).
- Use the supplied 10 m synchronization cable and 5 m connection cable ; extend if necessary.
Tip: Protective covers keep lenses clean and reduce false shutdowns – for very long distances, take into account the slightly reduced range.
FAQ
What is the difference between a light grid and a light barrier?
Light barriers monitor a line, while light grids monitor an entire field. Ideal for pedestrian/forklift traffic and changing obstacles.
PNP/NPN or OSE – which should I choose?
That depends on your control system. Many light curtains offer both interfaces in one device, making them very flexible.
Is a protective field height of 1.96 m sufficient?
For many garage/sectional doors, yes. For tall industrial or roller doors, 2.50 m is more convenient.
Do protective covers affect the range?
Lightweight, yes. They protect the lens from dirt and impact—often the better choice for everyday use.
Can I retrofit this?
Yes. Pay attention to the interface and cable routing; the sets are mechanically designed for retrofitting.
