News: Optoelectronics
27 September 2023
ROHM launches sensor for attachment/detachment and proximity detection
Japan-based ROHM has developed the compact (2.0mm x 1.0mm) RPR-0720 proximity sensor, optimized for applications requiring attachment/detachment and proximity detection.
As the use of IoT continues to grow, sensor devices that play a critical role require greater miniaturization and functionality, says ROHM. The firm offers proximity sensors that combine light emitting and receiving elements in a single package, providing versatility that has led to adoption in a range of applications, from mobile devices to industrial equipment. Particularly for wearable devices, in response to the growing demand for small proximity sensors that can support improved designs and an increase in the number of parts resulting from higher functionality, ROHM has developed a compact proximity sensor that integrates a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) and sensor IC.
The RPR-0720 is an optical sensor module that adopts a VCSEL featuring higher directivity than LEDs as the light-emitting element and a sensor IC for the light-receiving element. Compact size is achieved by optimizing the module structure using in-house chips, reducing area by about 78% compared with conventional products. At the same time, the wide input voltage range (2.7–4.5V) of the built-in VCSEL eliminates the need for a peripheral voltage booster circuit (consisting of a power supply IC, three capacitors, and one inductor) when using a Li-ion battery, contributing to greater space savings and leading to smaller applications and increased battery capacity. This makes it suitable not only for sensing attachment/detachment, but also for detecting various conditions in a wide range of applications.
ROHM says that, going forward, it will continue to develop sensing products that combine original light-receiving and -emitting elements to further improve energy savings and convenience.
Suitable applications that use light reflection to detect conditions include:
- attachment/detachment detection of wireless ear buds, smart watches, gaming console controllers, VR headsets etc;
- paper detection in printers, copiers, shredders and other office automation devices;
- E-cigarette cartridge/liquid detection; and
- detecting various conditions in smartphones and laptops.
ROHM also offers the RPR-0720-EVK evaluation board for the RPR-0720 proximity sensor. A user guide is available on ROHM’s website.
Online distributors include DigiKey, Mouser and Farnell. The products will be offered at other online distributors as they become available.
