The V124A-5LOU-Q is a direct-operated 3-port solenoid valve compatible with the SMC V100 series footprint, offering normally open (NO) switching for compressed air circuits up to 0.7 MPa. The rubber-seal poppet design operates lubrication-free with a maximum cycle rate of 20 Hz. The "A" suffix denotes the high-flow variant, delivering Cv 0.024 on the supply-to-outlet path (3→2).

What does the electrical configuration include?

The 5LOU designation specifies 24 VDC coil voltage with an L-type plug connector (connector body not included — order separately). The "U" suffix adds a built-in LED indicator light and a non-polar surge voltage suppressor, protecting upstream PLC outputs or relay contacts from inductive kickback without requiring an external flyback diode. Power consumption is 0.35 W nominal (0.4 W with indicator).

How does normally open operation differ from the standard NC variant?

In the NO configuration, the valve passes air from port 3 (supply) to port 2 (outlet) when de-energized, and exhausts from port 2 to port 1 when energized. This is the inverse of the more common normally closed (NC) logic. NO valves suit applications where flow must continue during power loss — vacuum hold circuits, safety venting, or fail-open purge lines.