Reflective Object Sensor Housed In Transistor Package

An 880-nm AlGaAs infrared emitter (IRED) and a NPN open-collector photo device (photo IC) are mounted on a custom, four-leaded TO-72 header to make up the CL1700 Reflective Object Sensor. The IRED emits a broad radiation pattern through the formed clear epoxy lens on top of the package. Radiation reflected from a target received by a 0.020" diameter fiber-optic light pipe attached to the active area of the photo IC can trigger the device. The device can sense objects less than 0.010" in size. Threshold current of the IRED necessary to cause the device to change state is 7mA under standard measuring conditions. The device operates from a 5V supply. Hysteresis provided by an on-chip Schmitt trigger circuit affords high immunity to noise. Price is $9.10 each/1,000. CLAIREX TECHNOLOGIES INC., Plano, TX. (972) 422-4676.