I need to set up a system that can count the number of times that something is passing between it. The application is a part counter on a conveyor belt. Can I somehow use one of the Allen Bradley 24Vdc photoeyes or is there a different way to go about it?
Seems pricey at $320.
I would try a range finder first. You can use these to measure the distance to a known object. If the distance is shorter, then an object is passing buy.
Of course there may be other considerations like how fast the conveyor belt is moving, etc...