4.

4 Light-emitting diode LED

Fig 4.5 LED

Blue, green, and red LEDs; these can be combined to produce most perceptible colors,
including white. Infrared and ultraviolet (UVA) LEDs are also available.

Fig 4.6 LED schematic symbol

.
4.4.1
Introduction

A light-emitting-diode (LED) is a semiconductor diode that emits light when

an electric current is applied in the forward direction of the device, as in the simple
LED circuit. The effect is a form of electroluminescence where incoherent and
narrow-spectrum light is emitted from the p-n junction in a solid state material.

4.4.2 Uses

LEDs are widely used as indicator lights on electronic devices and

increasingly in higher power applications such as flashlights and area lighting. An
LED is usually a small area (less than 1 mm 2) light source, often with optics added
directly on top of the chip to shape its radiation pattern and assist in reflection. The
color of the emitted light depends on the composition and condition of the semi
conducting material used, and can be infrared, visible, or ultraviolet. Besides lighting,
interesting applications include using UV-LEDs for sterilization of water and
disinfection of devices, and as a grow light to enhance photosynthesis in plants.

4.5. Infrared LED Emitter

4.5.1 Introduction

The infrared LED emitter is a high power (150 mW) infrared LED that is
commonly used in a wide variety of remote control and communications projects. It's
wide 60 degree beam width and high output power make it a great infrared
transmitter. Combined with the PNA4602M IR receiver and you have the makings for
a solid IR communications or control link (See the related products section for the
PNA4602).

4.5.2 Specifications

Peak Wavelength 940 nm

Spectral Bandwidth 45 nm
Half Angle Beam Width +/- 30 degrees (60 degrees total)
Package T1-3/4 (5mm)
Max Current: 100 mA
Breakdown Voltage 5V
Forward Voltage 1.4V-1.5V
Power Dissipation 150 mW

Fig 4.7 IR Led

 Fig 4.8 Circuit ShowingTypical Usage of LED

4.6 Use of Infrared Detectors Basics

Fig 4.9 Detector and Emitter

 Fig 4.10 IR Phototransistor

4.6.1 IR emitter and IR phototransistor

An infrared emitter is an LED made from gallium arsenide, which emits near-
infrared energy at about 880nm. The infrared phototransistor acts as a transistor with
the base voltage determined by the amount of light hitting the transistor. Hence it acts
as a variable current source. Greater amount of IR light cause greater currents to flow
through the collector-emitter leads.

4.6.2 Working

As shown in the diagram below, the phototransistor is wired in a similar

configuration to the voltage divider. The variable current traveling through the resistor
causes a voltage drop in the pull-up resistor. This voltage is measured as the output of
the device.
 Fig 4.11 Circuits of IR emitter and IR Phototransistor

Fig 4.12 Circuit diagram of an infrared reflectance sensor

IR reflectance sensors contain a matched infrared transmitter and infrared

receiver pair. These devices work by measuring the amount of light that is reflected
into the receiver. Because the receiver also responds to ambient light, the device
works best when well shielded from ambient light, and when the distance between the
sensor and the reflective surface is small(less than 5mm). IR reflectance sensors are
often used to detect white and black surfaces. White surfaces generally reflect
well, while black surfaces reflect poorly. One of such applications is the line
follower of a
robot.

Fig 4.13 Schematic Diagram for a Single Pair of Infrared

Transmitter and Receiver