The IFM PN2298 is a compact electronic pressure sensor with an integrated digital display, designed specifically for precise monitoring of very low pressures and vacuum in industrial systems. With a measuring range in the mbar/low-psi region, switchable analogue outputs, and IO-Link communication, it is a strong choice for OEM machine builders and end users who need reliable, fine-resolution pressure measurement rather than high-pressure hydraulics.

1. Technical Overview

2. Measuring Range and Accuracy at Low Pressure

Unlike many pressure switches focused on tens or hundreds of bar, the IFM PN2298 is targeted at very low pressure and vacuum applications. Its measuring range of -0.0125 to 0.25 bar (-12.5…250 mbar), equivalent to approximately -0.2 to 3.6 psi, allows it to resolve small pressure changes in air, inert gases and compatible liquids. 

This range is ideal where small differential pressures matter more than raw force—for example, monitoring slight vacuum levels in suction systems, ensuring gentle overpressure in air-supported conveying, or measuring low static pressure across filters and orifices. The high resolution in this narrow band allows the PN2298 to be used as a process sensor, not just a simple on/off switch.

The sensor’s design offers good repeatability and long-term stability. Manufacturer data indicates tight control of switching behaviour and analogue scaling across the specified temperature range, with integrated diagnostics and watchdog functions to improve reliability over time. 

3. Process Connection and Mechanical Design

The PN2298 uses a 1/4" NPT female process port, a common thread standard in North American and international machinery for pneumatic lines, low-pressure manifolds, and small process connections. This makes it straightforward to integrate into existing piping or to mount directly on equipment such as filter housings, small vessels, and vacuum generators.

The measuring principle is a relative pressure cell designed for low overpressure and vacuum operation. The wetted parts and body are built to withstand the specified pressure rating and environmental conditions, while the overall housing is robust enough for industrial environments with vibration, occasional shocks, and routine cleaning. Protection ratings of IP65 and IP67 ensure dust-tight construction and resistance to water jets and brief immersion, which is particularly helpful in systems that are washed down or located in humid areas. 

4. Electrical Design, Outputs and IO-Link

Electrically, the IFM PN2298 is a 4-wire DC sensor operating from 18 to 30 V DC, with current consumption below 35 mA.  This allows it to be powered from standard 24 V DC control supplies.

The device provides a flexible combination of outputs:

• Two switching outputs, programmable as PNP or NPN, with normally open or normally closed behaviour.

• One analogue output that can be configured as 4–20 mA current or 0–10 V voltage, with a 1:5 scalable measuring span, so narrower process ranges can be mapped onto the full analogue signal. 

• IO-Link communication via OUT1 or OUT2 (depending on configuration), enabling digital transfer of the measured value, status information and configuration parameters. 

This configuration means a single PN2298 can act as:

• A simple electronic pressure switch (replacing mechanical vacuum switches),

• A combined switch and analogue transmitter for PLC monitoring,

• Or a fully integrated IO-Link field device inside a modern digital architecture.

With IO-Link, parameters such as measuring units, switching points, hysteresis, damping and analogue scaling can be set remotely and cloned to multiple sensors, drastically simplifying commissioning and replacement.

5. Display and Local Operation

The PN2298 has a 4-digit alphanumeric display that alternates between measured values and diagnostic information. The display can show the pressure value and can switch between red and green colours to indicate acceptable or alarm ranges. 

Additional LEDs indicate the status of the switching outputs and the active unit (mbar, kPa, inH2O, etc.). The sensor uses a standard M12 connector with gold-plated contacts, which helps ensure reliable electrical connection and resistance to corrosion in damp or vibration-exposed locations. 

Parameter setting is done using pushbuttons on the head of the device, following a structured menu system. Users can configure:

• Pressure units,

• Switching mode (hysteresis or window),

• On/off thresholds,

• Output functions (NO/NC, PNP/NPN),

• Analogue output range and scaling,

• Damping and response times.

For technicians in the field, this local configuration ability, combined with a clear numeric display, makes fault-finding and fine-tuning much faster than with analogue transmitters that have no display.

6. Typical Applications

Because of its low measuring range and fine resolution, the IFM PN2298 fits a specific but important set of applications:

• Vacuum handling systems: Monitoring and controlling vacuum level in pick-and-place grippers, suction cups, packaging lines, and robotic material handling where small losses in vacuum can lead to dropped parts.

• Filter and strainer monitoring: Measuring low differential pressure across filters in air, gas or low-pressure liquid systems. Rising pressure drop can trigger cleaning or cartridge replacement.

• Low-pressure air supply: Supervising slight overpressure in air-knife drying, environmental air systems, or gentle aeration processes that operate far below typical compressor outlet pressures.

• Level measurement using hydrostatic pressure: In small tanks or open vessels with low filling heights, differential pressure in the mbar range can correspond to level changes; PN2298 can be used where the medium and mounting position allow.

• Leak testing and laboratory setups: Fine pressure control and monitoring in test rigs, calibration benches, and laboratory installations where tiny pressure variations must be detected reliably.

In all these cases, the precise analogue signal and clear digital switching outputs simplify integration into PLCs, DCSs and safety systems.

7. Benefits for OEMs and Plant Operators

For machine builders, choosing the PN2298 can reduce the number of sensor variants in a design. One device covers vacuum and low overpressure, offers dual switch outputs, analogue output, and IO-Link. This simplifies procurement, wiring and documentation across multiple machine models.

For plant operators and maintenance teams, several practical advantages stand out:

• Quick visual checks: The red/green display and numeric readout make it easy to see whether a system is within its correct low-pressure window.

• Reduced troubleshooting time: Integrated display, status LEDs and IO-Link diagnostics help locate problems quickly (blocked filters, leaks, pump faults).

• Long-term reliability: Rated IP65/IP67 sealing, wide temperature range and robust electronics with reverse-polarity protection and watchdog functions are designed for real-world industrial conditions. 

8. Summary

The IFM PN2298 electronic pressure sensor with display is a specialised device for low pressure and vacuum monitoring, combining:

• Fine measuring range from -0.0125 to 0.25 bar,

• Flexible switching and analogue outputs plus IO-Link,

• A clear red/green digital display and robust industrial housing,

• Standard 1/4" NPT process connection and M12 electrical interface.

These features make it a strong choice wherever low-pressure accuracy, reliable switching and easy integration into modern automation systems are important.