Infrared photo-interrupters in compact housings

Omron's Photomicrosensors are now stocked by Mouser. Non-amplified photo-microsensors, more commonly known as photo-interrupters or optical switches, are infrared emitter/detector pairs contained in a compact single housing designed to detect the presence or absence of objects. Hundreds of variations on the basic photo-interrupter are available so designers can focus on the type, body shape and connection style best suited for their individual application. The transmissive photo-microsensor incorporates an emitter and detector that face each other. When an object is positioned between the emitter and detector, the optical beam is interrupted, causing the detector to react to this change in optical energy. The reflective photo-microsensor incorporates an emitter and detector that face outward. When an object comes into range, the optical beam sent out by the emitter will reflect off the object and back towards the detector, causing the detector to react to this change in optical energy. Omron uses a silicon potting structure on the LEDs inside its photo-microsensors. This reduces any mechanical stress applied to the LED and thus strengthens the physical integrity of the LED chip. The end result is an LED that maintains higher brightness for a longer period of time, says the company.