Optical Sensors - Reflective

Optical Sensors - Reflective - Logic Output

Image	Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity	Rfq
	27300 Parallax, Inc.	SENSOR DIRRS DISTANCE INFRARED	0

Image

Part Number

Description / PDF

Quantity

Rfq

27300

Parallax, Inc.

SENSOR DIRRS DISTANCE INFRARED

Optical Sensors - Reflective - Logic Output

1. Overview

Reflective optical sensors with logic output are proximity detection devices combining infrared (IR) emitters and photodetectors. They operate by measuring reflected light intensity from target objects, converting optical signals into digital logic outputs (HIGH/LOW). These sensors are critical in automation, consumer electronics, and industrial systems for non-contact detection of objects, position verification, and motion control.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Features	Application Examples
Slot-Type Sensors	Integrated emitter/detector in U-shaped housing	Encoder disk detection, paper presence in printers
Surface-Mount Sensors	Miniature SMD packages for PCB integration	Smartphone proximity detection, robotics
Long-Range Sensors	Lens-optimized for 10-50cm detection distance	Conveyor belt object tracking, safety barriers
High-Speed Sensors	Response time <10 s	Encoder pulse counting, high-frequency motion control

3. Structure and Components

Typical construction includes:

IR LED Emitter: 850-950nm wavelength source
Photodetector: PIN photodiode or phototransistor
Optical System: Integrated lens/filter for ambient light rejection
Signal Processor: Built-in comparator for threshold-based logic output
Housing: Thermoplastic resin with IP64 protection rating

4. Key Technical Specifications

Parameter	Typical Range	Importance
Detection Distance	2mm - 150mm	Determines application suitability
Response Time	1 s - 1ms	Affects high-speed operation
Supply Voltage	2.7V - 30V	Dictates system power design
Output Type	CMOS/TTL, NPN/PNP	Compatibility with control circuits
Ambient Light Immunity	10,000 - 100,000 lux	Prevents false triggering

5. Application Fields

Industrial: Conveyor systems, robotic arms, safety interlocks
Consumer: Smartphones, printers, gaming consoles
Automotive: Rain sensors, seat occupancy detection
Healthcare: Medical analyzers, infusion pump monitoring

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Representative Product	Key Features
Omron	EE-SX671	1m detection, IP67 rating
Vishay	TCRT5000L	5V operation, 2.5mm SMD
STMicro	VL53L0X	Time-of-flight measurement, I2C interface
Everlight	ITR8307	High-speed phototransistor output

7. Selection Recommendations

Key considerations:

Determine required detection range with safety margin
Assess environmental conditions (temperature, ambient light)
Match output type with controller voltage levels
Consider mechanical packaging for installation constraints
Evaluate power consumption for battery-operated devices

Industry Trends

Emerging developments include:

Integration of AI algorithms for adaptive thresholding
Miniaturization through MEMS fabrication techniques
Wireless sensor network compatibility (IoT integration)
Multi-spectral sensing for improved material discrimination
Energy harvesting designs for self-powered operation