This Product Selection Guide contains information to help select products in the Optical Sensors - Photodiodes category on DigiKey.com
Products in the photodiode family are used for detection and measurement of light. Based on the interaction of light with a semiconductor junction similar to that found in rectifier diodes, devices adapted for a wide range of purposes are available. Some are adapted for sensitivity over narrow wavelength ranges, others for sensitivity over a wide range. Some are suitable for detection of high-speed signals such as encountered in fiber optic communications, others for detection of extremely low levels of light (even individual photons) with applications ranging from medical imaging to distance measurement.
SelectionCharacteristics
Specifications to determine which photodiode is right for your application.
Wavelength: This is the wavelength of peak sensitivity within the range of inputs that will produce a valid output.
Color - Enhanced: A region of wavelengths for which a device is designed to have peak or improved sensitivity.
Spectral Range: The range of optical wavelengths over which a device’s sensitivity exceeds a manufacturer-defined fraction of peak value.
Diode Type: Indicates which among several common photodiode construction methods a device employs.
Responsivity @ nm: Characterizes device sensitivity, in terms of photocurrent produced per unit of incident optical power at the wavelength indicated. Typically this wavelength is the one at which device sensitivity is highest.
Response Time: The amount of time it takes for the sensor to respond to a change in input.
Voltage – DC Reverse (Vr) (Max): The maximum voltage that a device is rated to withstand in a reverse-biased or “blocking” mode.
Current – Dark (Typ): Characterizes the amount of current that flows through a reverse-biased device in the absence of any incident light to which a device is sensitive.
Active Area: The physical size of the photoreceptive element(s) within the device.
Viewing Angle: The angle of optimum sensitivity of light detection.
Operating Temperature: Recommended operating temperature, typically given in a range or as a maximum. Exceeding these temperatures may affect performance or damage the device and other system components.
Mounting Type: Indicates how the device is attached.
Package/Case: Indicates the type of protective case used on an electronic component to allow easy handling, installation, and protection. This selection was determined to be the closest industry standard applicable to the suppliers device packaging. Typically it is best to check the actual dimensions from the datasheet rather than depend on this terminology when designing your circuit.
ProductExamples
| MFR PART # | GUVB-T11GM-LA |
|---|---|
| DIGIKEY PART # | 2096-GUVB-T11GM-LA-ND |
| MANUFACTURER | Genicom Co., Ltd. |
| DESCRIPTION | Photodiode 10ms Module |
| DATASHEET | Click Here |
| MFR PART # | SLSD-71N300 |
|---|---|
| DIGIKEY PART # | SLSD-71N300-ND |
| MANUFACTURER | Advanced Photonix |
| DESCRIPTION | Photodiode 930nm 120° Rectangular, Wire Leads |
| DATASHEET | Datasheet currently not available |
| MFR PART # | PIN-10DF |
|---|---|
| DIGIKEY PART # | 2640-PIN-10DF-ND |
| MANUFACTURER | OSI Optoelectronics, Inc. |
| DESCRIPTION | Photodiode Module |
| DATASHEET | Click Here |
| MFR PART # | VEMD2023SLX01 |
|---|---|
| DIGIKEY PART # | VEMD2023SLX01TR-ND - Tape & Reel (TR) |
| MANUFACTURER | Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division |
| DESCRIPTION | Photodiode 940nm 100ns 70° 2-SMD |
| DATASHEET | Click Here |
| MFR PART # | OP906 |
|---|---|
| DIGIKEY PART # | 365-1084-ND |
| MANUFACTURER | TT Electronics/Optek Technology |
| DESCRIPTION | Photodiode 935nm 5ns |
| DATASHEET | Click Here |
Schematic Symbol
Photodiode schematic symbol courtesy of Scheme-It please use the link for more information and symbols.
MediaLinks
Videos
Automotive Grade PIN Photodiodes
High Linearity Photodiodes for Small Signal Detection
Videos on Photodiodes
Articles
The Basics of Photodiodes and Phototransistors
Implementation of Photodiodes & Phototransistors
Articles on Photodiodes
Product Training Modules
Product Training Modules on Photodiodes
Blogs
Blogs on Photodiodes
TechForum
TechForum posts on Photodiodes