Melexis announces the launch of the MLX75303 Optical Switch SensorEyeC. This is the first member of the new SensorEyeC series of optical sensors specifically designed for high volume automotive, industrial and consumer applications. The name “SensorEyeC” refers to “sensor eye” as well as to “sensor IC”.

This MLX75303 is an integrated sensor IC, which means that the photodiode, transimpedance amplifier and the Schmitt Trigger voltage output stage are all included in the sensor chip. This guarantees stable light responsivity over time and over temperature, and also drastically improves noise behavior when compared to designs that use discrete photodiodes. It simplifies application design, requires less external components and improves quality.

Dirt Robust

In everyday environments like cars, production plants and homes, dirt and dust build-up on light sensitive sensors presents unique performance challenges. To overcome dirt build-up in light switching functions, brighter LED light can be used to penetrate the dust and dirt if the sensor allows this. Now, the new Melexis sensor is specially designed to continue functioning at high speed (10µs typical/20µs max. response time) while being oversaturated by a strong light source up to 1000x the sensor’s switch-on threshold level.

SensorEyeC series

The MLX75303 can be used in applications with near infrared light or with ambient light where, for instance, day/night detection is required. Its unique features include:  
    – Dirt tolerance: The sensor is designed to maintain its speed, even after exposure to light 1000
    times greater than its switching level. This is accomplished by using increased light levels, so
    that sufficient light penetrates even after dirt builds-up on the sensor.
    – Light responsivity that is relatively independent of temperature
    – Small DFN open cavity package: 3mm x 3mm x 0.65mm (also available in SO8 package)
    – Very high positional accuracy; optical sensors must maintain alignment between the light
    source and the sensor. The small, symmetrical DFN package provides pin-to-photodiode
    accuracy better than ±85µm. Additionally, the photodiode area is relatively large (600µm x
    600µm) and thus tolerant to mechanical misalignment.
    – Extended operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C that meets AEC-Q100 automotive
    specifications. A consumer version up to +85°C is available also.
    – Solder reflow 260°C compatible

www.melexis.com

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Filed Under: Automotive, Sensors (position + other), Vision • machine vision • cameras + lenses • frame grabbers • optical filters

 

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