IR sensor modules operate in direct sunlight
Able to operate in direct sunlight without attenuation, the surface mount TSSP93038DF1PZA and leaded TSSP93038SS1ZA are fixed gain infra red (IR) sensor modules by Vishay Intertechnology.
The sensor modules are in compact Minimold packages and designed to lower costs and increase stability for outdoor applications. They offer typical irradiance of 1.3 mWm² and have a presence and proximity sensing capability of one metre or 11 metres for light curtain applications in industrial environments. According to Vishay Semiconductors, the TSSP93038DF1PZA and leaded TSSP93038SS1ZA provide robust operation in direct sunlight while still providing enough sensitivity for light barrier applications.
High sensitivity, fixed gain IR sensor modules require attenuators like dark panels, apertures and sunshades to protect them against sunlight which add cost, explained Vishay but the controlled sensitivity of these modules allows them to operate in full sunlight without unwanted pulses. For short range presence and proximity applications, the sensors’ reduced sensitivity eliminates the need for extremely low emitter forward currents, which can lead to unstable intensity outputs, the company added.
The modules feature a fast 260 microseconds reaction time and long range proximity sensing (one metre with TSAL6100 at 100mA). A range of 11 metres is possible in light curtain applications, said Vishay. Longer ranges can be achieved by using a more focused emitter like the VSLY5940 or by increasing the emitter forward current, advised Vishay.
The devices are suitable for sensing the distance to objects for toys, drones, robots, and vicinity switches. They are also suitable for presence detection for traffic control lights and parking, gateway access and water level sensors as well as light barriers for sports racing and lawnmower robots. They may also be used as reflective sensors for hand dryers, towel or soap dispensers, water taps, toilets, vending machine fall detection and security and pet gates.
The TSSP93038DF1PZA and TSSP93038SS1ZA operate over a supply voltage range from 2.0 to 3.6V, feature a low supply current of 0.35mA and are sensitive to a carrier frequency of 38kHz. Designed to receive IR pulses from an emitter with a peak wavelength of 940nm, the devices are insensitive to ripple noise on the supply voltage and provide shielding against EMI, while an IR filter suppresses visible light.
The modules are RoHS-compliant and halogen-free. Samples and production quantities of the new sensors are available now, with lead times of six weeks.
