The through-beam sensor works with a fine laser beam as well as a transmitter and a receiver. The collimated laser beam of laser class 1 detects objects, for instance, when conducting installation, feed or presence controls, starting at a size of just 0,6 millimeters. The transmitter can be deactivated using test input in order to test the functionality of the through-beam sensor. The IO-Link interface can be used to configure the sensor (PNP/NPN, NC/NO, switching distance), as well as for reading out switching statuses and signal values.