VCSEL-based reflective optical sensor saves space
The VCNT2030 reflective optical sensor by Vishay Semiconductors, is offered in a compact surface mount package measuring just 1.85 x 1.2 x 0.6mm.
The sensor is suitable for industrial, computer, consumer, and mobility applications. They save space, compared to previous generation sensor and deliver a higher current transfer ratio (CTR), increased sensing distance and lower power consumption, said the company.
The Vishay Semiconductors VCNT2030 features a VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser) and a silicon phototransistor in the miniature package. It is compact in construction with the emitting light source and detector arranged in the same plane. It also offers excellent internal crosstalk suppression due to the VCSEL’s narrow ±17 degree emission angle, which also enables improved proximity performance behind cover glass. The VCNT2030’s analogue output signal at the phototransistor is dependent on the amount of light emitted by the VCSEL and reflected off an object in the sensor’s field of view. The device offers a sensing distance of 15mm, which is three times higher than the closest competing device on the market, claimed Vishay.
The compact footprint saves at least 40 per cent of PCB space compared to previous generation devices, said Vishay. As a result, the sensor saves space in optical switching applications in industrial infrastructure, home and building controls, notebook and desktop computers, home appliances, consumer electronics and metering applications. It can also be used in optical encoding for motor control in e-bikes, golf carts, tractors, and harvesters, as well as detecting paper presence in printers and scanners. In these applications the low 8mA driving current of the device’s VCSEL is sufficient to achieve the same performance as solutions using 20mA infrared emitters, which lowers power consumption.
The sensor offers a detection range of 0.3 to 6.0mm, an emitter wavelength of 940nm and a typical output current of 2.5mA, which represents a typical CTR of 31 per cent under test conditions. This value is more than 100 per cent higher than previous generation solutions and the closest competing sensor, said Vishay.
The VCNT2030 features a Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) of 3 for reflow soldering according to J-STD-020. It is RoHS-compliant and halogen-free.
Samples and production quantities of the VCNT2030 are available now, with lead times of eight to 16 weeks.
