Transmissive sensors offer greater vertical headroom and design flexibility

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. has announced that it has expanded its transmissive sensor family with the release of two new surface-mount devices for industrial, consumer, and telecom applications. Offered in a compact 5.5mm x 4mm x 5.7mm package, the Vishay Semiconductors single-channel VT171P and dual-channel VT172U feature a 42% increased dome height compared with previous-generation industrial devices.

Thanks to their high dome height, the devices allow for increased flexibility in mechanical designs, while offering more vertical headroom for large code wheels in turn-and-push applications. They can be utilised as position sensors for encoders in industrial automation systems and drives and tools; consumer entertainment products, appliances, and health and care devices; switches, relays, and antennas; and mobile broadband routers. Both sensors can detect motion and speed. With dual channels, the VT172U can also be employed to detect direction.

The single-channel VT171P includes an infrared emitter and phototransistor detector located face-to-face in a surface-mount package, while the dual-channel VT172U consists of an infrared emitter and two phototransistor detectors. Both sensors deliver a typical output current of 1.5mA and operate at a wavelength of 950nm. The devices feature a 3mm gap width and apertures of 0.3mm, and fast rise and fall times of 14μs and 21μs, respectively.

With a Moisture Sensitivity Level rating of 1 (MSL1), the VT171P and VT172U have an unlimited floor life. Compatible with lead (Pb)-free reflow solder processes according to JEDEC-STD-020, the devices are halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and Vishay Green.