OPTEK’S Vcsel Infrared Lasers Improve Depth Of Field, Reduce Drive Current In Security Camera Applications

ROSEMONT, IL (June 6, 2006) — Providing design engineers with an infrared laser designed to improve performance in security cameras, TT electronics OPTEK Technology has developed a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) device that uses lower drive currents to achieve the same power output levels as conventional infrared LEDs. Designated the OPV330 Series, the VCSELs feature high thermal stability and low drive current, making them ideal for lower power consumption applications such as battery-operated equipment. According to Dave Birtalan, Vice President of OPTEK Technology’s Components Business Unit, VCSELs offer many advantages in sensing applications in comparison to infrared LEDs, particularly those involving security cameras. “VCSELs can achieve much greater distances with lower power consumption than infrared LEDs. Typically only eight, and even as few as four, VCSEL components are needed to replace up to 20 IR LEDs,” said Birtalan.“Because of their narrower beam, VCSELs also produce less unwanted reflections in narrow spaces, as well as better long distance visibility and clarity, making them ideal for night-time security cameras in un-lit spaces.” The primary advantage of VCSEL devices compared to conventional IR LEDs is their higher apertured power output, which enables enhanced operation in many transmissive and reflective applications, Birtalan continued. Additional applications for the OPV330 Series device include non-contact position sensing, photoelectric sensors, optical encoders and light curtains. The flat lens lateral packaging allows the device to be used with secondary optics to create custom beam profiles, Birtalan explained. The OPV330 VCSEL is optically and spectrally compatible with OPTEK’s standard detector products. The OPV330 Series is an 850nm VCSEL device. Maximum forward peak current is 20mA, with a maximum reverse voltage of 5V. Operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C Typical pricing for the OPV330 Series VCSEL starts at $3.78 each in quantities of 1,000 pieces, with samples available immediately. Production quantity lead time, if stock is not available, is 6 weeks. OPTEK Technology is a leading manufacturer of standard and application-specific sensors using infrared, visible, magnetic and fiber optic technologies focused on applications in office machines, industrial equipment, encoders, automotive electronics, military and high-reliability applications, and medical diagnostic equipment. Headquartered in Carrollton, TX, the company is ISO/TS16949:2002 and BS EN ISO 9001:2000 certified, as well as ITAR registered. OPTEK Technology was acquired by TT electronics in December 2003. TT electronics plc is a global electronics company manufacturing a broad range of advanced electronic components, assemblies and sensor modules for the automotive, industrial, telecommunication, computer and aerospace markets.