New Reflective Optical Sensor in Miniature SMD Package

Published on June 8, 2012 at 8:12 AM

By Kalwinder Kaur

Vishay Intertechnology, a manufacturer of passive electronic components and discrete semiconductors, has launched a new reflective optical sensor, the TCNT2000. It is designed for computer, industrial and consumer applications.

TCNT2000 reflective optical sensor with transistor

The Vishay TCNT2000 sensor has a detection range from 0.2 to 5 mm. The sensor provides transistor output. It is offered as a miniature SMD package that measures 3.4x2.7x1.5 mm. The optical sensor contains Vishay's new 940 nm emitter chip that provides a comparatively high 4% CTR. This feature allows designers to increase the detection range. The sensor allows the device to reduce its power consumption without any detrimental effect on its performance. Under test conditions, the sensor provides a typical 0.8 mA output current. It functions within an operating range of -40°C to +85°C.

The sensor can be used in DVD players, computer disk drives and industrial metering systems for switching and optical encoding operations. It can be used in office equipment as a position sensor for shaft encoders.

In the Vishay TCNT2000 sensor, the silicon phototransistor detector and the emitting light source are located on the same plane. Detection of reflected infrared light from objects at a distance of 0.2 to 5 mm triggers an analog output signal. Daylight blocking filter, which is an inbuilt feature in the sensor, suppresses ambient light that may cause any disturbance, which in turn may lead to a higher signal-to-noise ratio.