High speed PIN photodiodes provide reliable signal detection

Vishay Intertechnology, has broadened its optoelectronics portfolio to meet the need for reliable signal detection in wearable devices and medical and industrial applications. The company has introduced two new high speed silicon PIN photodiodes that deliver enhanced sensitivity for visible light. The VEMD5510C and VEMD5510CF feature infrared radiation suppression filters and black packages for an improved signal-to-noise ratio, offer fast switching times and low capacitance in compact top-view, surface-mount packages. The photodiodes featuring a large radiant-sensitive area measuring 7.5mm², offer sensitivity ranges from 440nm to 700nm for the VEMD5510C and 440nm to 620nm for the VEMD5510CF, with reverse light currents of 0.6µA and 0.25µA, respectively. The devices' on-chip suppression filters eliminate disturbances from non-visible light, while their black packages block unwanted lateral illumination. Closely matching that of the human eye, this results in spectral sensitivity of less than 5% for wavelengths greater than 800nm for the VEMD5510C and greater than 700nm for the VEMD5510CF. The photodiodes are offered in small 5mm x 4mm packages with a low 0.9mm profile to enable slim sensor designs. The two devices are optimized for optical heart rate measurement in wearable devices such as fitness trackers and smart watches, as well as in medical biosensors connected to patient monitoring systems. The photodiodes also provide high speed photo detection for flame detectors and ambient light sensing for display dimming or light adjustment functions. The devices feature a ±65-degree angle of half-sensitivity, an operating temperature range of -40C to +100C, and 550nm and 540nm wavelengths of peak sensitivity, respectively. RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay Green, the photodiodes provide a moisture sensitivity level (MSL) of four in accordance with J-STD-020 for a floor life of 72 hours.