Optoelectronics

Lighting Imaging Telecom Sensors

Detectors and Sensors

Photoconductive Cells and

Analog Optoisolators (Vactrols®)

Specialty Lighting

Digital Imaging

Telecom

Sensors

.
 .

Optoswitches, optical hybrids, custom assemblies, photodiodes, phototransistors, IR

emitters, and photoconductive cells for industrial, commercial, and consumer electron-
ics applications.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics has the distinction of being one of the foremost manufacturers in
optoelectronics. Founded in 1947, PerkinElmer offers its customers over 35 years experience
in the development and application of optoelectronic devices. The product line is one of the
broadest in the industry, including a variety of standard catalog products as well as custom
design and manufacturing capabilities. Approximately 75% of the products shipped are cus-
tom designed and tested to serve the needs of specific OEM applications.

Three basic objectives guide PerkinElmer’s activities - Service, Quality, and Technology.
Our outstanding engineering staff, coupled with the implementation of modern material control
and manufacturing techniques, plus our commitment to quality, has gained PerkinElmer “certi-
fied” status with many major customers. Products are often shipped directly to manufacturing
lines without need for incoming QC at the customer’s facility. PerkinElmer’s products are verti-
cally integrated, from the growing of LED crystals, silicon die fabrication, package design, reli-
ability qualification, to assembly. Vertical integration is your assurance of consistent quality.

Recognizing the need for low-cost manufacturing to serve world markets, PerkinElmer
expanded its manufacturing/assembly operations into the Far East more than 20 years ago.
The combination of strong technology in processing at the St. Louis headquarters and low-
cost assembly operations in the Far East has allowed PerkinElmer to effectively serve all
markets, worldwide. PerkinElmer provides optical sensors, IR emitters and subassemblies for
such diverse applications as street light controls, cameras, smoke alarms, business
machines, automotive sensors, and medical equipment.

For pricing, delivery, data sheets, samples, or technical support please contact your
PerkinElmer Sales Office or direct your questions directly to the factory.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics
10900 Page Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63132 USA
Tel: (314) 423-4900 Fax: (314) 423-3956

Copyright 2001 by
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics
All rights reserved
www.perkinelmer.com/opto
Table of Contents

Photoconductive Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
What is a Photoconductive Cell? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Photoconductive Cell Typical Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Why Use Photocells? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Photoconductive Cell Typical Application Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Selecting a Photocell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves @ 25°C Type Ø Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Type Ø Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves @ 25°C Type 3 Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Type 3 Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Photoconductive Cell Testing and General Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Production Testing of Photocells - PerkinElmer’s New Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Device Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Plastic Coated
VT900 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
VT800 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
VT800CT Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
VT400 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Glass/Metal (Hermetic) Case
VT200 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
VT300 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
VT300CT Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
VT500 Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
APPLICATION NOTE #1 Light - Some Physical Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
APPLICATION NOTE #2 Light Resistance Measurement Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
APPLICATION NOTE #3 Spectral Output of Common Light Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
APPLICATION NOTE #4 Spectral Matching of LEDs and Photoconductive Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
APPLICATION NOTE #5 Assembly Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
APPLICATION NOTE #6 A Low Cost Light Source for Measuring Photocells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
APPLICATION NOTE #7 How to Specify a Low Cost Photocell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

i
Table of Contents (Continued)

Analog Optical Isolators VACTROLS® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

What Are Analog Optical Isolators? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Typical Applications of Analog Optical Isolators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Transfer Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Response Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Distortion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Voltage Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Power Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Life and Aging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Storage Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Temperature Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Capacitance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Typical Transfer Characteristics (Resistance vs. Input Current) For Standard Vactrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Analog Optoisolator Comparison Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Device Specifications
VTL5C1, 5C2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
VTL5C3, 5C4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
VTL5C2/2, 5C3/2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
VTL5C4/2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
VTL5C6, 5C7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
VTL5C8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
VTL5C9, 5C10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
APPLICATION NOTE #1 Audio Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
APPLICATION NOTE #2 Handling and Soldering AOIs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
APPLICATION NOTE #3 Recommended Cleaning Agents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

ii
Custom and Semi-Custom Devices

Upon request, and where sufficient quantities are involved,

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics will test standard parts to your
unique set of specifications. The advantage of testing parts
under actual operating conditions is predictable performance in
the application.

PerkinElmer offers a broad line of standard photodiodes in a

wide variety of packages and sensitivities. Nevertheless, some
applications demand a totally custom device. Recognizing this
real need, PerkinElmer’s engineering, research, and sales
departments are geared for working with the customer from
initial concept through design, prototype, and volume production.

A custom design usually required the commitment of valuable

resources. PerkinElmer reviews requests for custom devices on
a case by case basis and reserves the right to decide if the
business potential warrants the undertaking of such a project.
The customer may be asked to share in the expense of
development.

PerkinElmer has designed and fabricated custom products for

many companies. PerkinElmer’s staff can work closely with the
customer and protect proprietary information. A custom design
usually required the commitment of valuable resources.
PerkinElmer reviews requests for custom devices on a case by
case basis and reserves the right to decide if the business
potential warrants the undertaking of such a project. The
customer may be asked to share in the expense of development.

PerkinElmer has designed and fabricated custom products for

many companies. PerkinElmer’s staff can work closely with the
customer and protect proprietary information.

Your inquiries to PerkinElmer should include electrical,

environmental, and mechanical requirements. Also, information
on anticipated volumes, price objectives, and lead times is
helpful since these often determine the choices of design and
tooling.

iii
Photoconductive Cells

1
What is a Photoconductive Cell?
Semiconductor light detectors can be divided into two major Figure 2
categories: junction and bulk effect devices. Junction devices, when Bulk Effect Photoconductor (Photocell)
operated in the photoconductive mode, utilize the reverse
characteristic of a PN junction. Under reverse bias, the PN junction In contrast, bulk effect photoconductors have no junction. As shown in
acts as a light controlled current source. Output is proportional to Figure 2, the bulk resistivity decreases with increasing illumination,
incident illumination and is relatively independent of implied voltage as allowing more photocurrent to flow. This resistive characteristic gives
shown in Figure 1. Silicon photodiodes are examples of this type bulk effect photoconductors a unique quality: signal current from the
detector. detector can be varied over a wide range by adjusting the applied
voltage. To clearly make this distinction, PerkinElmer Optoelectronics
refers to it’s bulk effect photoconductors as photoconductive cells or
simply photocells.

Photocells are thin film devices made by depositing a layer of a

photoconductive material on a ceramic substrate. Metal contacts are
evaporated over the surface of the photoconductor and external
electrical connection is made to these contacts. These thin films of
photoconductive material have a high sheet resistance. Therefore, the
space between the two contacts is made narrow and interdigitated for
low cell resistance at moderate light levels. This construction is shown
in Figure 3.

Figure 1
Junction Photoconductor (Photodiode)

Figure 3
Typical Construction of a Plastic Coated Photocell

2
Photoconductive Cell Typical Applications

Why Use Photocells?

Photocells can provide a very economic and technically superior solution for many applications where the presence or absence of light is sensed
(digital operation) or where the intensity of light needs to be measured (analog operation). Their general characteristics and features can be
summarized as follows:
• Lowest cost available and near-IR photo detector
• Available in low cost plastic encapsulated packages as well as hermetic packages (TO-46, TO-5, TO-8)
• Responsive to both very low light levels (moonlight) and to very high light levels (direct sunlight)
• Wide dynamic range: resistance changes of several orders of magnitude between "light" and "no light"
• Low noise distortion
• Maximum operating voltages of 50 to 400 volts are suitable for operation on 120/240 VAC
• Available in center tap dual cell configurations as well as specially selected resistance ranges for special applications
• Easy to use in DC or AC circuits - they are a light variable resistor and hence symmetrical with respect to AC waveforms
• Usable with almost any visible or near infrared light source such as LEDS; neon; fluorescent, incandescent bulbs, lasers; flame sources;
sunlight; etc
• Available in a wide range of resistance values

Applications
Photoconductive cells are used in many different types of circuits and applications.

Analog Applications
• Camera Exposure Control
• Auto Slide Focus - dual cell
• Photocopy Machines - density of toner
• Colorimetric Test Equipment
• Densitometer
• Electronic Scales - dual cell
• Automatic Gain Control - modulated light source
• Automated Rear View Mirror

Digital Applications
• Automatic Headlight Dimmer
• Night Light Control
• Oil Burner Flame Out
• Street Light Control
• Absence / Presence (beam breaker)
• Position Sensor

3
Photoconductive Cell Typical Application Circuits

Ambient Light Measurement

Camera Exposure Meter (VT900)
Brightness Control (VT900)

DC Relay
Rear View Mirror Control (VT200)
Head Light Dimmer (VT300 or VT800)

AC Relay
Night Light Control (VT800 or VT900)
Street Light Control (VT400)
Flame Detector (VT400 or 500)

Object Sensing / Measurement

Beam Breaking Applications (VT800)
Security Systems (VT800 or VT900)
Colorimetric Test Equipment (VT200 or VT300)
Densitometer (VT200 or VT300)

Bridge Circuits
Auto Focus (VT300CT or VT800CT)
Electronic Scales (VT300CT or VT800CT)
Photoelectric Servo (VT300CT or VT800CT)

4
Selecting a Photocell
Specifying the best photoconductive cell for your application requires composition of the detector. For a given type of photoconductor
an understanding of its principles of operation. This section reviews material, at a given level of illumination, the photoconductive film will;
some fundamentals of photocell technology to help you get the best have a certain sheet resistivity. The resistance of the photocell at this
blend of parameters for your application. light level is determined by the electrode geometry.

When selecting a photocell the design engineer must ask two basic RH = ρH (w / l )
questions: where:
1. What kind of performance is required from the cell?
RH = resistance of cell at light
2. What kind of environment must the cell work in?
level H

Performance Criteria ρH = sheet resistivity of

photoconductive film at light level
Sensitivity H

The sensitivity of a photodetector is the relationship between the light w = width of electrode gap
falling on the device and the resulting output signal. In the case of a
photocell, one is dealing with the relationship between the incident light l = length of electrode gap
and the corresponding resistance of the cell. Sheet sensitivity (ρH) for
photoconductive films at 2 fc are in the range of 20 MΩ per square.

The ratio w / l can be varied over a wide range in order to achieve

design goals. Typical values for w / l run from 0.002 to 0.5, providing
flexibility for terminal resistance and maximum cell voltage.

Spectral Response

Like the human eye, the relative sensitivity of a photoconductive cell is

dependent on the wavelength (color) of the incident light. Each
photoconductor material type has its own unique spectral response
curve or plot of the relative response of the photocell versus
wavelength of light.
Defining the sensitivity required for a specific application can prove to
be one of the more difficult aspects in specifying a photoconductor. In
order to specify the sensitivity one must, to some degree, characterize
the light source in terms of its intensity and its spectral content.

Within this handbook you will find curves of resistance versus light
intensity or illumination for many of PerkinElmer’s stock photocells. The
illumination is expressed in units of fc (foot candles) and lux. The light
source is an incandescent lamp. This lamp is special only in that the
spectral composition of the light it generates matches that of a black
body at a color temperature of 2850 K. This type of light source is an
industry agreed to standard.
The spectral response curves for PerkinElmer’s material types are
Over the years PerkinElmer has developed different “types” of given in the handbook and should be considered in selecting a
photoconductive materials through modifications made to the chemical photocell for a particular application.

5
Selecting a Photocell

Slope Characteristics
Plots of the resistance for the photocells listed in this catalog versus
light intensity result in a series of curves with characteristically different
slopes. This is an important characteristic of photocells because in
many applications not only is the absolute value of resistance at a
given light level of concern but also the value of the resistance as the
light source is varied. One way to specify this relationship is by the use
of parameter (gamma) which is defined as a straight line passing
through two specific points on the resistance curve. The two points
used by PerkinElmer to define γ are 10 lux (0.93 fc) and 100 lux (9.3 Likewise, for dual element photocells the matching factor, which is
fc). defined as the ratio of the resistance of between elements, will
increase with decreasing light level.
Log Ra – Log Rb
γ = ------------------------------------- Dual Element Photocell Typical Matching Ratios
Log a – Lob b
Log ( Ra ⁄ Rb ) 0.01 fc 0.1 fc 1.0 fc 10 fc 100 fc
= ------------------------------
Log ( b ⁄ a ) 0.63 – 1.39 0.74 – 1.27 0.75 – 1.25 0.76 – 1.20 0.77 – 1.23

Dark Resistance
As the name implies, the dark resistance is the resistance of the cell
under zero illumination lighting conditions. In some applications this
can be very important since the dark resistance defines what
maximum “leakage current” can be expected when a given voltage is
applied across the cell. Too high a leakage current could lead to false
Applications for photocells are of one of two categories: digital or triggering in some applications.
analog. For the digital or ON-OFF types of applications such as flame The dark resistance is often defined as the minimum resistance that
detectors, cells with steep slopes to their resistance versus light can be expected 5 seconds after the cell has been removed from a
intensity curves are appropriate. For analog or measurement types of light intensity of 2 fc. Typical values for dark resistance tend to be in the
applications such as exposure controls for cameras, cells with shallow 500k ohm to 20M ohm range.
slopes might be better suited.
Temperature Coefficient of Resistance.
Resistance Tolerance
Each type of photoconductive material has its own resistance versus
The sensitivity of a photocell is defined as its resistance at a specific temperature characteristic. Additionally, the temperature coefficients of
level of illumination. Since no two photocells are exactly alike, photoconductors are also dependent on the light level the cells are
sensitivity is stated as a typical resistance value plus an allowable operating at.
tolerance. Both the value of resistance and its tolerance are specified
for only one light level. For moderate excursions from this specified From the curves of the various types of materials it is apparent that the
light level the tolerance level remain more or less constant. However, temperature coefficient is an inverse funstin of light level. Thus, in order
when the light level the tolerance level remain more or less constant. to minimize temperature problems it is desirable to have the cell
However, when the light level is decades larger or smaller than the operating at the highest light level possible.
reference level the tolerance can differ considerably.
Speed of Response
As the light level decreases, the spread in the tolerance level
increases. For increasing light levels the resistance tolerance will Speed of response is a measure of the speed at which a photocell
tighten. responds to a change from light-to-dark or from dark-to-light. The rise
time is defined as the time necessary for the light conductance of the
photocell to reach 1-1/e (or about 63%) of its final value.

6
Selecting a Photocell
The decay or fall time is defined as the time necessary for the light This guide illustrates the fact that a photocell which has been stored for
conductance of the photocell to decay to 1/e (or about 73%) of its a long time in the light will have a considerably higher light resistance
illuminated state. At 1 fc of illumination the response times are typically than if it was stored for a long time in the dark. Also, if a cell is stored
in the range of 5 msec to 100 msec. for a long period of time at a light level higher than the test level, it will
have a higher light resistance than if it was stored at a light level closer
The speed of response depends on a number of factors including light to the test light level.
level, light history, and ambient temperature. All material types show
faster speed at higher light levels and slower speed at lower light This effect can be minimized significantly by keeping the photocell
levels. Storage in the dark will cause slower response than if the cells exposed to some constant low level of illumination (as opposed to
are kept in the light. The longer the photocells are kept in the dark the having it sit in the dark). This is the reason resistance specifications
more pronounced this effect will be. In addition, photocells tend to are characterized after 16 hours light adept.
respond slower in colder temperatures.

Light History Environmental/Circuitry Considerations

All photoconductive cells exhibit a phenomenon known as hysteresis, Packaging

light memory, or light history effect. Simply stated, a photocell tends to
remember its most recent storage condition (light or dark) and its In order to be protected from potentially hostile environments
instantaneous conductance is a function of its previous condition. The photocells are encapsulated in either glass/metal (hermetic) package
magnitude of the light history effect depends upon the new light level, or are covered with a clear plastic coating. While the hermetic
and upon the time spent at each of these light levels. this effect is packages provide the greatest degree of protection, a plastic coating
reversible. represents a lower cost approach.

To understand the light history effect, it is often convenient to make an The disadvantage of plastic coatings is that they are not an absolute
analogy between the response of a photocell and that of a human eye. barrier to eventual penetration by moisture. This can have an adverse
Like the cell, the human eye’s sensitivity to light depends on what level effect on cell life. However, plastic coated photocells have been used
of light it was recently exposed to. Most people have had the successfully for many years in such hostile environments as street light
experience of coming in from the outdoors on a bright summer’s day controls.
and being temporarily unable to see under normal room levels of
Temperature Range
illumination. your eyes will adjust but a certain amount of time must
elapse first. how quickly one’s eyes adjust depends on how bright it The chemistry of the photoconductive materials dictates an operating
was outside and how long you remained outdoors. and storage temperature range of –40°C to 75°C. It should be noted
that operation of the cell above 75°C does not usually lead to
The following guide shows the general relationship between light
catastrophic failure but the photoconductive surface may be damaged
history and light resistance at various light levels. The values shown
leading to irreversible changes in sensitivity.
were determined by dividing the resistance of a given cell, following
infinite light history (RLH), by the resistance of the same cell following The amount of resistance change is a function of time as well as
“infinite” dark history (RDH). For practical purposes, 24 hours in the temperature. While changes of several hundred percent will occur in a
dark will achieve RDH or 24 hours at approximately 30 fc will achieve matter of a few minutes at 150°C, it will take years at 50°C to produce
RLH. that much change.

Typical Variation of Resistance with Light History Expressed as a Ratio RLH / Power Dissipation
RDH at Various Test Illumination Levels.
During operation, a cell must remain within its maximum internal
Illumination
temperature rating of 75°C. Any applied power will raise the cell’s
RLH / RDH 0.01 fc 0.1 fc 1.0 fc 10 fc 100 fc
Ratio
temperature above ambient and must be considered.
1.55 1.35 1.20 1.10 1.10

7
Selecting a Photocell
Many low voltage situations involve very little power, so that the Maximum Cell Voltage
photocell can be small in size, where voltages and/or currents are
higher, the photocell must be physically larger so that the At no time should the peak voltage of the cell exceed its maximum
semiconductor film can dissipate the heat. voltage. the designer should determine the maximum operating or
peak voltage that the cell will experience in the circuit and choose an
The following curve of power dissipation versus ambient temperature appropriately rated cell. Typical voltage rates range from 100V to 300V.
describes the entire series of cells for operation in free air at room
ambient (25°C). Note that regardless the size, all photocells derate What Type of Material is Best?
linearly to zero at an ambient temperature of 75°C. The adequate heat
sinks can increase the dissipation by as much as four times the levels Each specific material type represents a trade off between several
shown in this graph. characteristics. Selecting the best material is a process of determining
which characteristics are most important tin the application.

PerkinElmer’s standard photocells in this catalog are manufactured

using one of two different material types offered: type “Ø” or type “3”.

In general, material type “Ø” is used for applications such as

nightlights, automotive sensors. Material type “3” is primarily used in
camera, streetlight control, and flame detector applications.

8
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves

@ 25°C Type Ø Material

Type Ø Material
This is a general purpose material. Its characteristics include a good temperature coefficient and fast response time, especially at very
low light levels. Cells of this type have relatively low dark history. Type Ø material is often used in lighting controls such as nightlights,
and security lighting.

The resistance for any standard catalog cell is controlled at only one light level. If the resistance at other light levels is a concern,
please contact the factory.

To obtain the typical resistance versus illumination characteristic Resistance vs. Illumination
for a specific part number:
1. Look up 2 footcandle resistance in table.
2. Insert resistance given and draw a curve through that point
and parallel to the closest member of the family of curves
shown for the appropriate type of photo-sensitive material.

Response Time vs. Illumination Response Time vs. Illumination

(Rise Time) (Decay Time)

9
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves

@ 25°C Type Ø Material

Relative Spectral Response

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

10
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves

@ 25°C Type 3 Material

Type 3 Material
This is a high speed material with a spectral response closely approximating the human eye. This material is well suited for switching
from one light level to another and offers our best temperature stability and response time. This material is often used in cameras and
industrial controls.

The resistance for any standard catalog cell is controlled at only one light level. If the resistance at other light levels is a concern,
please contact the factory.

To obtain the typical resistance versus illumination characteristic Resistance vs. Illumination
for a specific part number:
1. Look up 2 footcandle resistance in table.
2. Insert resistance given and draw a curve through that point
and parallel to the closest member of the family of curves
shown for the appropriate type of photo-sensitive material.

Response Time vs. Illumination Response Time vs. Illumination

(Rise Time) (Decay Time)

11
Photoconductive Cell Typical Characteristic Curves

@ 25°C Type 3 Material

Relative Spectral Response

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

12
Photoconductive Cell Testing and General Notes

Production Testing of Photocells - PerkinElmer’s New Approach

Historically within this industry, vendors have set their
production testers to the limits specified on the
customer’s print. Measurement errors due to ambient
temperature, calibration of light source, light history
effect, plus any tester errors have always guaranteed that
a certain percentage of the cells shipped are out of
specification.

This practice is incompatible with the realities of today’s

marketplace, where quality levels are being measured in
parts per million.

With this new catalog, PerkinElmer is taking the

opportunity to correct this situation. for parts in this
catalog, PerkinElmer has pulled in the test limits on our
production testers to compensate for measurement
errors.

General Notes
(Refer to the following data specification pages.)
1 Photocells are supplied categorized into groups by resistance. All groups must be purchased together and PerkinElmer maintains
the right to determine the product mix among these groups.
2 Dimension controlled at base of package.
3 Photocells are tested at either 1 fc or 10 lux. 2 fc typical values shown in the tables are for reference only.
4 Cells are light adapted at 30 - 50 fc.
5 The photocell “grid” pattern can vary from that shown. PerkinElmer reserves the right to change mix grid patterns on any standard
product.
6 The resistance for any standard cell is controlled at only one light level. If the resistance at other light levels is a concern, please
contact the factory.

13
 Photoconductive Cell VT900 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 80 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 1.6 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type LOG (R10/R100)
-------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT9ØN1 6k 12 k 18 k 6k 200 k 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8

VT9ØN2 12 k 24 k 36 k 12 k 500 k 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8
VT9ØN3 25 k 50 k 75 k 25 k 1M 5 Ø 0.85 100 78 8
VT9ØN4 50 k 100 k 150 k 50 k 2M 5 Ø 0.90 100 78 8
VT93N1 12 k 24 k 36 k 12 k 300 k 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
VT93N2 24 k 48 k 72 k 24 k 500 k 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
VT93N3 50 k 100 k 150 k 50 k 500 k 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
VT93N4 100 k 200 k 300 k 100 k 500 k 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
VT935G
Group A 10 k 18.5 k 27 k 9.3 k 1M 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
1 Group B 20 k 29 k 38 k 15 k 1M 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
Group C 31 k 40.5 k 50 k 20 k 1M 5 3 0.90 100 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

14
 Photoconductive Cell VT800 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 175 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 3.5 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT8ØN1 4k 8k 12 k 4k 100 k 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8

VT8ØN2 8k 16 k 24 k 8k 500 k 5 Ø 0.80 200 78 8
VT83N1 6k 12 k 18 k 6k 100 k 5 3 0.95 100 35 5
VT83N2 12 k 28 k 36 k 14 k 500 k 5 3 0.95 200 35 5
VT83N3 24 k 48 k 72 k 24 k 1M 5 3 0.95 200 35 5
VT83N4 50 k 100 k 150 k 50 k 2M 5 3 0.95 200 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

15
 Dual Element VT800CT Series
Photoconductive Cell

VT800CT Series PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation (Per Element) PD 80 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 1.6 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance Per Element (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Matching Maximum
Part Material
@ 10 Lux Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
R1–2 / R2–3 ------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT83CT 30 k 60 k 90 k 30 k 1M 5 0.70 – 1.30 3 0.90 100 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

16
 Photoconductive Cell VT400 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 400 mW
Demand (20 minutes) 600 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 8.0 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
1 fc 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
6500 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT43N1 4k 8k 12 k — 300 k 30 3 0.90 250 90 18

VT43N2 8k 16 k 24 k — 300 k 30 3 0.90 250 90 18
VT43N3 16 k 32 k 48 k — 500 k 30 3 0.90 400 90 18
VT43N4 33 k 66 k 100 k — 500 k 30 3 0.90 400 90 18

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

17
 Photoconductive Cell VT200 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 50 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 1.0 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type LOG (R10/R100)
-------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT2ØN1 8k 16 k 24 k 8k 200 k 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8

VT2ØN2 16 k 34 k 52 k 17 k 500 k 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8
VT2ØN3 36 k 72 k 108 k 36 k 1M 5 Ø 0.80 100 78 8
VT2ØN4 76 k 152 k 230 k 76 k 2M 5 Ø 0.80 200 78 8
VT23N1 20 k 40 k 60 k 20 k 500 k 5 3 0.85 100 35 5
VT23N2 42 k 86 k 130 k 43 k 1M 5 3 0.85 100 35 5
VT23N3 90 k 180 k 270 k 90 k 2M 5 3 0.85 100 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

18
 Photoconductive Cell VT300 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 125 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 2.5 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT3ØN1 6k 12 k 18 k 6k 200 k 5 Ø 0.75 100 78 8

VT3ØN2 12 k 24 k 36 k 12 k 500 k 5 Ø 0.80 200 78 8
VT3ØN3 24 k 48 k 72 k 24 k 1M 5 Ø 0.80 200 78 8
VT3ØN4 50 k 100 k 150 k 50 k 2M 5 Ø 0.80 300 78 8
VT33N1 20 k 40 k 60 k 20 k 500 k 5 3 0.90 100 35 5
VT33N2 40 k 80 k 120 k 40 k 1M 5 3 0.90 200 35 5
VT33N3 80 k 160 k 240 k 80 k 2M 5 3 0.90 200 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

19
 Dual Element VT300CT Series
Photoconductive Cell

VT300CT Series PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation (Per Element) PD 50 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 1.0 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance Per Element (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Matching Maximum
Part Material
10 Lux Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
R1–2 / R2–3 ------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT3ØCT 10 k 20 k 30 k 10 k 500 k 5 0.70 – 1.30 Ø 0.80 200 78 8

VT33CT 60 k 120 k 180 k 60 k 1M 5 0.70 – 1.30 3 0.90 200 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

20
 Photoconductive Cell VT500 Series

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS

Parameter Symbol Rating Units
Continuous Power Dissipation PD 500 mW
Derate Above 25°C ∆PD / ∆T 10 mW/°C
Temperature Range
Operating and Storage TA –40 to +75 °C

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARACTERICTICS @ 25°C (16 hrs. light adapt, min.) 4

Resistance (Ohms) 3 6 Sensitivity

(γ, typ.) Response Time @ 1 fc
10 lux 2 fc (ms, typ.)
Dark
2850 K 2850 K
Maximum
Part Material
Voltage
Number Type OG (R10/R100)
------------------------------------
LOG (100/10) (V, pk)
Min. Typ. Max. Typ. Min. sec. Rise (1-1/e) Fall (1/e)

VT5ØN1 4k 8k 12 k 4k 200 k 5 Ø 0.75 200 78 8

VT5ØN2 8k 16 k 24 k 8k 500 k 5 Ø 0.75 200 78 8
VT5ØN3 16 k 32 k 48 k 16 k 1M 5 Ø 0.80 300 78 8
VT53N1 16 k 32 k 48 k 16 k 1M 5 3 0.85 200 35 5
VT53N2 32 k 76 k 96 k 38 k 2M 5 3 0.85 200 35 5
VT53N3 66 k 132 k 200 k 66 k 3M 5 3 0.85 300 35 5

See page 13 for notes.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

21
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells

APPLICATION NOTE #1 wavelength is defined as the distance a wave travels in one cycle.
Since the wavelengths of light are very short they are normally
Light - Some Physical Basics
measured in nanometers, one nanometer being equal to 1 x 10-9
Light is produced by the release of energy from the atoms of a material meters.
when they are excited by heat, chemical reaction or other means. Light The spectral response of PerkinElmer’s photoconductors are specified
travels through space in the form of an electromagnetic wave. by lots of relative response versus wavelength (color) for various
A consequence of this wave-like nature is that each “color” can be material types.
completely defined by specifying its unique wavelength. The
400 700

Ultraviolet Visible Light Infrared

(To X-rays and Gamma Rays) (To Radar Waves)

Violet Red Wavelength

Violet Below 450 nm

Blue 450 - 500 nm

Green 500 - 570 nm

Yellow 570 - 590 nm

Orange 590 - 610 nm

Red 610 - 700 nm

Natural Illuminance Room Illumination

Sky Condition Light Level (Typical) Lighting Condition Light Level (Typical)

Direct Sunlight 10000 fc Candle - Lit Room 5 fc

Overcast Day 1000 fc Auditorium 10 fc

Twilight 1 fc Classroom 30 fc

Full Moon 0.1 fc Inspection Station 250 fc

Clear Night Sky (moonless) 0.001 fc Hospital Operating Room 500 - 1000 fc

22
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells

APPLICATION NOTE #2 APPLICATION NOTE #3

Light Resistance Measurement Techniques Spectral Output of Common Light Sources
The light resistance or “on” resistance (RON) of a photoconductor cell Incandescent lamps can be considered as black body radiators whose
is defined as the resistance of the cell as measured at a special light spectral output is dependent on their color temperature. The sun has
level using a light source with a known output spectrum. Furthermore, approximately the same spectral radiation distribution as that of a black
the cell must be “light adapted” for a specific period of time at an body @ 5900 K. However, as viewed from the surface of the earth, the
established level of illumination in order to achieve repeatable results. sun's spectrum contains H2O and CO2 absorption bands.

The industry standard light source used for light resistance

measurements is a tungsten filament lamp operating at a color
temperature of 2850 K. Specifying the 2850 K color temperature for the
light source fixes the spectral output (i.e. the tungsten filament light has
fixed amounts of blue, green, red, and infrared light).

For consistency and ease of comparing different cells, PerkinElmer

lists light resistance values for its photocells at two standard light
levels: 2 fc (footcandles) and at 10 lux. The footcandle is the old,
historical unit for measuring light intensity and is defined as the
illumination produced when the light from one standard candle falls
normally on a surface at a distance of one foot. The lux (the metric unit Black Body Sources Output vs. Wavelength
of light measurement) is the illumination produced when the light from
one candle falls normally on a surface of one meter. The conversion Fluorescent lamps exhibit a broad band spectral output with narrow
between footcandle and lux. is as follows: peaks in certain parts of the spectrum. Shown below is a plot of the
light output of a typical daylight type fluorescent tube.
1.0 fc = 10.76 lux
1.0 lux = 0.093 fc

As explained in the section on “Selecting a Photocell”, the “light

history” effect necessitates the pre-conditioning of the cell before a
light resistance measurement is made. PerkinElmer stores all cells at
room temperature for 16 hours minimum at 30 – 50 fc (about 320 - 540
lux) prior to making the test measurement.

Sometimes the design engineer or user does not have access to the
precision measurement equipment necessary to determine the light
levels or light intensities of the application. Should this prove to be a
problem, calibrated photocell samples with individual data can be
provided by PerkinElmer. Fluorescent Lamp Output vs. Wavelength

Due to their long operating lifetimes, small size, low power

consumption, and the fact they generate little heat, LEDs are the light
sources of choice in many applications. When biased in the forward
direction LEDs emit light that is very narrow in spectral bandwidth (light
of one color). The “color” of the light emitted depends on which
semiconductor material was used for the LED.

23
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells

LED Light Sources

The LED/photocell matching factors listed are independent of power
LED Type Color λP
output from the LEDs. In order to get a real feel on how well any LED/
GaP GREEN 569 nm
photocell pair couple together, the power output from the LED at a
GaAsP/GaP YELLOW 585 nm particular forward drive current must be considered.
GaAsP/GaP ORANGE 635 nm Normalized LED/Photocell Matching
GaAsP/GaAs RED 655 nm
LED Type λP (nm) Type Ø Material Type 3 Material
AIGaAs RED 660 nm
GaP/GaP RED 697 nm GaP 569 39% 40%

GaAIAs INFRARED 880 nm GaAsP/GaP 58 60% 52%

GaAs INFRARED 940 nm GaAsP/GaP 635 49% 38%

GaAsP/GaAs 655 31% 27%
AIGaAs 66 31% 27%
APPLICATION NOTE #4 GaP/GaP 697 47% 31%
Spectral Matching of LEDs and GaAIAs 880 — —
Photoconductive Types GaAs 940 — —

Since light sources and light detectors are almost always used The intensity of the light being emitted by visible LEDs is often given in
together the designer must take into consideration the optical coupling units of millicandela. Millicandela is photometric unit of measure which
of this system or the ability of the detector to “see” the light source. assumes the human eye as the detector. For most detectors other than
the human eye the most convenient system for measurement is the
In order to have good optical coupling between the emitter and the radiometric system. Listed below is the typical light power output of
conductor the spectral output of the light source must, to some degree, some LEDs measured at two different forward drive currents. Note that
overlap the spectral response of the detector. If the design involves the LEDs of a given type can show a 5:1 manufacturing spread in power
use of a light source with a broad band spectral output the designer is outputs.
assured that the photocell will have good response to the light. This
Power Output
may not be the case when an LED light source is employed. LEDs emit LED Type Color λP (nm)
their light within a very narrow spectral band so that they are often If = 1 mA If = 10 mA
considered to be emitting at only on (peak) wavelength. GaP GREEN 569 nm 1.2 µW 24.1 µW
GaAsP/GaP YELLOW 585 nm 0.3 µW 26.2 µW
Spectral matching factors were calculated for a number of different
GaAsP/GaP ORANGE 635 nm 3.2 µW 101.9 µW
LEDs and the photoconductor material types manufactured by
GaAsP/GaAs RED 655 nm 6.2 µW 102.1 µW
PerkinElmer. Each matching factor was derived by multiplying the
AIGaAs RED 660 nm 33.8 µW 445.1 µW
detector response curves by the LED spectral output curve and then
measuring the resulting area. GaP/GaP RED 697 nm 54.3 µW 296.2 µW
GaAIAs INFRARED 880 nm 76.8 µW 1512.3 µW
GaAs INFRARED 940 nm 35.5 µW 675.0 µW

24
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells
Factoring in the power outputs of the LEDs, in this case at a forward Storage in the dark will change both the sensitivity and decay time of
drive current of 10 ma, coupling factors (matching factor multiplied by the cell.
power output) for the various LED/material type combinations can be
generated.
APPLICATION NOTE #6
Normalized LED/Photocell Coupling Factors @ 10 mA
A Low Cost Light Source for Measuring
LED Type λP (nm) Type Ø Type 3
Photocells
GaP 569 3% 3%
GaAsP/GaP 58 5% 5% The Light Source used in the measurement of photocell resistance
GaAsP/GaP 635 17% 13% must be characterized for intensity and spectral composition.
GaAsP/GaAs 655 11% 9% PerkinElmer uses a tungsten filament lamp having a spectral output
AIGaAs 66 47% 35% approximating a black body @ 2850 K with a known candlepower
GaP/GaP 697 47% 31% output at a specified voltage and current.
GaAIAs 880 — —
GaAs 940 — — While calibrated lamps of this type are available from the National
Institute of Standards and Technology (formerly NBS) and private
Once gain, this data is intended as a general guide. LED power testing labs, a low cost alternative is to use a 100 W, inside frosted,
outputs can vary 5:1 between manufacturer lots. tungsten filament lamp available from any home or hardware store.
Such a lamp operated at 120 VAC will produce approximately 90
candlepower (cp) of illumination and a color temperature of 2700 K to
APPLICATION NOTE #5
2800 K.
Assembly Precautions
The relationship between candlepower and footcandle is:
When soldering the cell leads take all measures possible to limit the
amount of heating to the photocell. The maximum recommended candle power
soldering temperature is 250°C with a solder duration of 5 seconds. footcandle = ----------------------------------------2
Heat sink the LEDs if possible. Keep soldering iron 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) ( distance in feet )
minimum from base of package when soldering.
Since this equation assumes a point source of light, the distance
Avoid chemicals which can cause metal corrosion. Do not clean the between lamp and detector should be at least five times the lamp
plastic coated cells with organic solvents (ketone types). Check with diameter.
factory for specific cleaning recommendations.
There are some characteristics of incandescent lamps which should
Finally refrain from storing the cells under high temperature and/or be noted:
humidity conditions. If cells are stored in the dark for any length of time 1. Color temperature increases with increasing wattage.
please “light adept” before testing (see section on Light History Effect).
2. When operated at a constant current, light output rises with time.

25
Application Notes—Photoconductive Cells

APPLICATION NOTE #7
Lower Cost Factor Higher Cost
How to Specify a Low Cost Photocell
Plastic Packaging Glass/Metal
Sometimes the demands of the application such as power dissipation,
Broad Resistance Range Narrow
“on” resistance, voltage, temperature coefficient, etc. limit the selection
of the photocell to one particular device. However, more common is the Small Package Size Large
case where any number of photocell types can be used, especially if Open Order with Scheduling Released Orders
minor changes are undertaken at an early enough point in the circuit Scheduled Releases
design. In these cases, price is often the deciding factor.
Standard Tests Testing Special Tests
Many factors influence price. In order to give some guidance and
weight to these factors the reader is referred to the following table
which is meant to serve as a general guide.

26
Analog Optical Isolators VACTROLS®
What Are Analog Optical Isolators?
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics has been a leading manufacturer of They must be protected from excessive forward current due to the low
analog optical isolators for over twenty years and makes a broad range dynamic resistance in the forward direction. The forward characteristic
of standard parts under its trademark VACTROL®. of an LED typically used in VACTROLs is shown below.

There are many kinds of optical isolators, but the most common is the
LED/phototransistor type. Other familiar types use output elements
such as light sensitive SCRs, Triacs, FETs, and ICs. The major
application for these silicon based devices is to provide electrical
isolation of digital lines connected between different pieces of
equipment. The principle of operation is very simple. When an input
current is applied to the LED, the output phototransistor turns on. The
only connection between the LED and phototransistor is through
light—not electricity, thus the term optical isolator. These optical
isolators are primarily digital in nature with fast response times suitable
for interfacing with logic gates. Rise and fall times of a few
microseconds, faster for some isolators, are typical.
LED Forward Characteristics
The analog optical isolator (AOI) also uses an optical link between
input and output. The input element is an LED and the output element Output Element
is always photoconductive cell or simply photocell. Together, the
The output element in all PerkinElmer’s AOIs is a light dependent
coupled pair act as an electrically variable potentiometer. since the
resistor (LDR), also called a photoconductor or photocell. Photocells
output element of the AOI is a resistor, the voltage applied to this
are true resistors.
output resistor may be DC and/or AC and the magnitude may be as
low as zero or as high as the maximum voltage rating. Because the These passive resistors are made from a light sensitive polycrystalline
input will control the magnitude of a complex waveform in a semiconductor thin film which has a very high electron/photon gain.
proportional manner, this type of isolator is an analog control element. There are no P/N junctions in a photocell, making it a bilateral device.
AOIs may be used in the ON-OFF mode but the fastest response time
is only in the millisecond range. A level sensitive Schmitt trigger is The resistance of the photocell depends on the amount of light falling
required between the AOI and logic gates when used in digital circuits. on the cell. For a given illumination, the amount of electrical current
The figure below shows the circuit diagram of a standard AOI. through the cell depends on the voltage applied. This voltage may be
either AC or DC. Thus, the photocell is the ideal low distortion output
element for an analog optoisolator.

A complete discussion of photoconductive cells can be found in the

first section of this book.

AOI Circuit Diagram

Input Element
Light emitting diodes used in AOIs are usually visible LEDs best
matching the sensitivity spectrum of the photocell output element.
LEDs are the ideal input element in most applications. They require
low drive current and voltage, respond very fast and have virtually
unlimited life. They are very rugged and are unaffected by shock and
vibration. Since the LED is a diode, it conducts in one direction only.

28
What Are Analog Optical Isolators?

Light History Considerations The table illustrates the fact that the resistance of a photocell can
increase substantially as it transitions from dark adapted state to a light
Photoconductive cells exhibit a phenomenon knows as hysteresis, light adapted state. The table shows that the Type 1 photocell can increase
memory, or light history effect. Special consideration must be given to resistance by a factor of more than three times as it light adapts up to
this characteristic in the analog optoisolator because the 0.1 fc. In some applications, this can be an important consideration. In
photoconductive element is normally in the dark. This will lead to general, the magnitude of this effect is larger for types 1, 4, and 7 than
having the photocell initially in a “dark adapted” state in many for types Ø, 2, and 3.
conditions.
Each specific material type represents a tradeoff between several
The light levels that are seen by the photocell in many analog characteristics. Selecting the best material is a process of determining
optoisolator applications are quite low, ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 fc. The what characteristics are most important in the application. The chart
effect of this combination of dark adapt and low light levels will be seen gives some appreciation for the general interrelationships between the
in the following table. material types and their properties.
The table shows the relationship between light history and light
resistance at various light levels for different material types. The values
shown were determined by dividing the resistance of a given cell,
following “infinite” light history (RLH), by the resistance of the same cell
following infinite dark history (RDH). For practical purposes, 24 hours in
the dark will achieve RDH or 24 at approximately 30 fc will achieve RLH .

Variation of Resistance with Light History Expressed as a

Ratio RLH/RDH at Various Test Illumination Levels

Illumination (fc)
Material
Type
0.01 0.1 1.0 10 100

Type Ø 1.60 1.40 1.20 1.10 1.10

Type 1 5.50 3.10 1.50 1.10 1.05

Type 2 1.50 1.30 1.20 1.10 1.10

Type 3 1.50 1.30 1.20 1.10 1.10

Type 4 4.50 3.00 1.70 1.10 1.10

Type 7 1.87 1.50 1.25 1.15 1.08

29
What Are Analog Optical Isolators?

Material Characteristics
(General Trends)

Types 2 & 3 Type Ø Type 7 Type 4 Type 1

Lower Temperature Coefficient Higher

Higher Sheet Resistivity Lower

Slower Speed of Response Faster

Lower Resistance Slope Higher

Smaller Light History Effect Larger

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

Type Ø Material Type 2 Material

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

Type 1 Material Type 3 Material

30
What Are Analog Optical Isolators?

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

Type 4 Material

Relative Resistance vs. Temperature

Type 7 Material

31
Typical Applications of Analog Optical Isolators

Why Use Analog Optical Isolators?

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics’ line of analog optical isolators (AOIs) consists of a light tight package which houses a light source and
one or more photoconductive cells. Through control of the input current or voltage applied to the AOI, the output resistance can be
varied. The output resistance can be made to switch between an “on” and “off” state or made to track the input signal in an analog
manner. Because a small change in input signal can cause a large change in output resistance, AOIs have been found to provide a
very economic and technically superior solution for many applications. Their general characteristics and salient features can be
summarized as follows:
• High input-to-output voltage isolation
• True resistance element output
• Single or dual element outputs available
• Low cost
• Suitable for AC or DC use
• Wide range of input to output characteristics
• Low drive current
• Low “on” resistance, high “off” resistance
• Complete solid-state construction

Applications
Analog Optical Isolators are used in many different types of circuits and applications. Here is a list of only a few examples of where
AOIs have been used.
• DC isolators
• Feedback elements in automatic gain control circuits
• Audio limiting and compression
• Noiseless switching
• Logic interfacing
• Remote gain control for amplifiers
• Photochoppers
• Noiseless potentiometers

32
Typical Applications of Analog Optical Isolators

Typical Application Circuits

Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

Remote Gain Control

Noiseless Switching/Logic Interfacing

(See Application Note #1)

Audio Applications

33
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators
Transfer Characteristics applied, the photocells resistance drops very fast, typically reaching
63% (1-1/e conductance) of its final values in under 10 msec.
The light output of an LED is proportional to the input drive current, IF.
Some LEDs will begin to radiate useful amounts of light output at When the light is removed, the resistance increases initially at an
forward currents as low as 10 µA. These same LEDs can be driven at exponential rate, approximately tripling in a few milliseconds. The
50 mA with no degradation in performance. resistance then increases linearly with time.

A transfer curve of output resistance versus input light current for a The fast turn-on and slow turn-off characteristics can be used to
typical AOI is shown in Figure 1. AOIs not only possess a large advantage in many applications. This is especially true in audio
dynamic range, but the output resistance tracks the input current in a applications where a fast turn-on (attack) and a slow turn-off (release)
somewhat linear manner over a range of two or more decades. is preferred. For example, the typical AOI can be made to turn-on in
100 to 1000 µsec. In a limited circuit this is fast enough to catch high
This characteristic makes the AOI suitable for use in a very broad peak amplitudes but not so fast as to cause obvious clipping. The turn-
range of applications, especially in audio circuits where they are used off will take as much as 100 times longer so the audio circuit will return
for switching, limiting, and gating. For a more extensive discussion on to a normal gain condition without a disturbing “thump” in the speaker.
AOIs in audio circuits, refer to Application Notes #1.

Response Time
AOIs are not high speed devices. Speed is limited by the response
time of the photocell. With rise and fall times on the order of 2.5 to
1500 msec, most AOIs have bandwidths between 1 Hz and 200 Hz.

Figure 2. Resistance vs. Time

Noise
The sources of electrical noise in the output element of AOIs are the
same as for any other type of resistor.
Figure 1. Transfer Curves (25°C)
One source of noise is thermal noise, also known as Johnson or
One of the characteristics of photocells is that their speed of response “white” noise, which is caused by the random motion of free electrons
increases with increasing levels of illumination.1 Thus the bandwidth of in the photoconductive material.
Vactrols is somewhat dependent upon the input drive level to the LED.
In general, the higher the input drive the wider the bandwidth.

The turn-off time and turn-on time of photocells are not symmetrical.
The turn-on time can be an order of magnitude faster than the turn-off
time. In the dark (no input), the resistance of the cell is very high,
typically on the order of several megohms. When light is suddenly

1. For a more comprehensive discussion on the turn-on and turn-

off characteristics of photocells and how response time is effect-
ed by light level, see the Photoconductive Cell section of this cat-
alog.

34
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators
Some major characteristics of Johnson noise are that it is: The third type of noise is flicker of 1/f noise. The source of 1/f noise is
1. Independent of frequency and contains a constant power density not well understood but seems to be attributable to manufacturing
per unit of bandwidth. noise mechanisms. Its equation is as follows:
2. Temperature dependent, increasing with increased temperature. I NF = KI dc BW ⁄ f
3. Dependent on photocell resistance value.

Johnson noise is defined by the following equation: where:

I NJ = ( 4kTBW ) ⁄ R INF = flicker noise, amps

K = a constant that depends on the type of material
and its geometry
where: Idc = dc current, amps
BW = bandwidth of interest, Hertz
INJ = Johnson noise current, amps RMS f = frequency, Hertz
k = Boltzmann’s constant, 1.38 x 10-23
T = temperature, degrees Kelvin Unlike thermal or shortnoise, flicker noise has 1/f spectral density and
R = photocell resistance in the ideal case for which it is exactly proportional to 1 ⁄ f , it is
BW = bandwidth of interest, Hertz termed “pink noise”. Unfortunately, the constant (K) can only be
determined empirically and may vary greatly even for similar devices.
A second type of noise is “shot” noise. When a direct current flows Flicker noise may dominate when the bandwidth of interest contains
through a device, these are some random variations superimposed on frequencies less than about 1 kHz.
this current due to random fluctuations in the emission of electrons due
to photon absorption. The velocity of the electrons and their transit In most AOI circuits noise is usually so low that it is hardly ever
time will also have an effect. considered. One notable exception is in applications where large
voltages are placed across the cell. For a typical isolator, it takes 80 to
“Shot” noise is: 100V across the photocell before the noise level starts to increase
1. Independent of frequency. significantly.
2. Dependent upon the direct current flowing through the photocell.

Shot noise is defined by the following equation: Distortion

Analog Optical Isolators have found wide use as control elements in
I NS = 2eI dc BW audio circuits because they possess two characteristics which no other
active semiconductor device has: resistance output and low harmonic
distortion. AOIs often exhibit distortion levels below -80 db when the
where: voltage applied to the photocell output is kept below 0.5V.
INS = shot noise current, amps RMS Figure 3 shows the typical distortion generated in typical AOIs. The
e = electron charge, 1.6 x 10-19 distortion depends on the operating resistance level as well as the
Idc = dc current, amps applied voltage. The minimum distortion or threshold distortion shown
BW = bandwidth of interest, Hertz in Figure 3 is a second harmonic of the fundamental frequency. The
actual source of this distortion is unknown, but may be due to some
type of crossover nonlinearity at the original of the I-V curve of the
photocell.

35
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

Figure 3. Typical LED AOI Distortion Characteristics

At high AC voltages, distortion to the waveform can be seen using an The RMS value of voltage or current is not very sensitive to a large
oscilloscope. The waveform is still symmetrical but contains the third harmonic component, but the instantaneous value is. A 10%
fundamental and the odd harmonics, the third harmonic being harmonic will only change the RMS values by 0.5%. If the output is
predominant. If there is DC as well as AC voltage on the photocell, used to control a thermal element, such as a thermal relay, circuit
both even and odd harmonics are generated. operation is not affected. Further, when the AOI is used in ON-OFF
applications, waveform distortion is not a problem.

36
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

Voltage Rating Power Rating

The maximum voltage rating of the output element (photocell) applies Photocells are primarily used for signal control since the maximum
only when the input is off. Two different kinds of dark current “leakage” allowable power dissipation is low. Typically, the steady-state output
characteristics are observed in photocell output elements. Figure 4 current should be kept below 10 mA on catalog LED AOIs because of
shows the soft breakdown found in lower resistivity materials. With no the small size ceramic used in the output cell. However, the surface
input, if the applied voltage is suddenly increased from zero to V1, the area is large compared to similarly rated transistors, so AOIs withstand
current increases along section ‘a’, with the steepness depending on significant transient current and power surges.
the rate at which the voltage is increased. If the voltage is now held at
V1, the current decreases along curve ‘b’ and stabilizes at a much Power ratings are given in the catalog and are typically a few hundred
lower value. If the voltage is again increased, the next section of the milliwatts, but special AOIs have been made with power dissipation
curve is traversed with the current dropping along curve ‘d’ in time. ratings as high as 2.0 W.
This process can be repeated until the reverse current becomes so
great that the cell burns up. The maximum voltage rating for photocells Life and Aging
with this soft reverse characteristic is based on a safe steady-state
power dissipation in the OFF condition. Life expectancy of an AOI is influenced both by the input and output
devices. Isolators which use an LED have long life since LED lifetimes
are long: 10,000 to 200,000 hours, depending on the application. LEDs
normally show a decrease in light output for a specified bias current as
they age.

The photocell output elements in AOIs show an increase in output

resistance over time as they age. With a continuous input drive current
and with voltage bias applied to the output, the output resistance will
generally increase at a rate of 10 percent per year. The aging rate is
lower with intermittent operation. Figure 5 shows the trend line for
output resistance under typical operating conditions. Other AOIs using
different photoconductive materials show similar trends.

Figure 4. Breakdown characteristics of photocells with low resistivity

photoconductive material.

Higher resistivity photoconductive materials do not show the reverse

characteristics of Figure 4 to any significant degree. As voltage is
increased, the dark current increases, but remains very low until
breakdown occurs. The current then increases in an avalanche fashion
resulting in an arc-over which causes the cell to be permanently
damaged (shorted). The dielectric breakdown voltage is approximately
8 - 10 kV per cm of contact spacing for materials with this type of
reverse characteristic. Photocells have 0.16 - 0.5 mm electrode
spacing so the maximum voltage ratings typically fall into the 100 - 300
volt range. Figure 5. VTL5C3 Life Test.
The high voltage capability of photocells suggests their use as the
series pass element in a high voltage regulated power supply. Voltages
up to 5 or 10 kV can be regulated but the current should be limited to 1
or 2 mA. The isolated input element greatly simplifies the circuit design
and the single output element avoids the need for voltage and current
sharing components.

37
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

Storage Characteristics Storage at low temperature has no operating effect on AOIs. Units may
be stored at temperatures as low as -40°C. Lower temperatures may
The instantaneous output resistance of any AOI is somewhat cause mechanical stress damage in the package which can cause
dependent on the short term light history of the photocell output permanent changes in the AOI transfer characteristics.
element. With no applied input current or voltage, the output element is
in the dark. Dark storage causes the cell to “dark adapt”, a condition The chemistry of the photoconductive materials dictates a maximum
which results in an increase in the photocell’s sensitivity to light. When operating and storage temperature of 75°C. It should be noted that
first turned on, an AOI which has experienced a period of dark operation of the photocell above 75°C does not usually lead to
adaption will exhibit a lower value for “on” resistance, at any given drive catastrophic failure but the photoconductive surface may be damaged,
condition, than the same device which has been continuously on. leading to irreversible changes in sensitivity.

The output resistance of an AOI which has been biased “on” is The amount of resistance change is a function of time as well as
considered to be constant with time (neglecting long term aging temperature. While changes of several hundred percent will occur in a
effects). After the removal of the input drive, the photocell begins to matter of a few minutes at 150°C, it will take years at 50°C to produce
experience dark adaption. The cell’s rate of increase in sensitivity is that much change.
initially high but eventually levels off with time in an exponential In most applications, operation is intermittent. At elevated
manner. Most of the dark adapt occurs in the first eight hours, but with temperatures, the resistance of the cell rises during the turn-on period
some AOIs for sensitivity can continue to increase for several weeks. and recovers during the turn-off period, usually resulting in little net
When an AOI which has been sitting in the dark is turned on, the cell change. However, if the AOI is stored at elevated temperatures for
immediately begins returning to its light adapted state. For any given many hours with no input signal, there is a net reduction in output
device, the rate of recovery is dependent on the input light level. resistance. There will be some recovery during operation over time but
The type of photoconductive material is the major factor determining it is not possible to predict the rate or to what degree. Elevated
the magnitude of these changes. Lower resistivity materials show temperatures do not produce sudden catastrophic failure, but changes
greater initial and final changes but their rate of change is faster. in the device transfer curve with time must be anticipated.

These light/dark history effects are pronounced at both high and low
input levels. However, at high input levels, the photocell light adapts
quite rapidly, usually in minutes.

Figure 1 shows the transfer curves for an AOI after 24 hour storage
with no input and then after it has been operated with rated input for 24
hours. Because of these “memory” phenomena, it is best to use these
parts in a closed loop circuit to minimize the effects of these changes.
Open loop proportional operation is possible if the application can
tolerate variations. The use of the VTL5C2 and VTL5C3 with their
more stable characteristics will help.

Temperature Range
Operating and storage temperature range is limited at the lower end by
the reduction of dark resistance of the cell and at the upper end by
rapid aging. At low temperatures, the response time of the output cell
increases. The temperature at which this becomes pronounced
depends on the photoconductive material type. Isolators using low
resistivity materials, as in the VTL5C4, will show this lengthening of
response time at -25°C. Higher resistivity materials such as used in the
VTL5C3 and VTL5C6 do not slow down excessively until temperatures
get below -40°C. This characteristic is completely reversible with the
response time recovering when the temperature rises.

38
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

Capacitance
The equivalent circuit for the output photocell is a resistor in parallel
with the capacitance. The capacitance arises from the topside
metallization of the electrodes which form a coplanar capacitor. The
value of this capacitance is largely determined by the size of the
ceramic base. For lower capacitance, a smaller cell is needed. The
capacitance is so small (3.0 pF, typical on catalog AOIs) that it is
negligible in most applications. However, there are applications such
as wideband or high frequency amplifiers in which the capacitance
needs to be considered. At 4.5 MHz, the video baseband frequency,
the photocell capacitive reactance is only 12 kilohms. If the phase shift
of the signal is to be kept below 10°, the highest useful cell resistance
is only 2.0 kilohms. At high AOI input drive, where the cell is drive
below 1.0 kilohm, the capacitance can increase additionally from 2 to
10 times, possibly due to distributed effects.

Summary
Analog Optical Isolators have many unique features, such as:
1. High input-to-output isolation.
2. True resistance element output.
3. Wide dynamic range (low “on” resistance/high “off” resistance).
4. Low drive current.
5. Low distortion.

These features are primarily dependent on which input element and

output element photoconductive material is used in the Vactrol AOI.
Thus, there is a wide variety of Vactrols to choose from for your
application.

39
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

Typical Transfer Characteristics (Resistance vs. Input Current) For Standard Vactrols
Curves shown are based upon a light adapt condition for 24 hours @ no input at 25°C.

Output Resistance vs. Input Current

VTL5C Series

Output Resistance vs. Input Current

VTL5C Series

40
Characteristics of Analog Optical Isolators

Analog Optoisolator Comparison Chart

Temperature Speed of Light History
Device Material Type Slope Dynamic Range Dark Resistance
Coefficient Response Effect
VTL5C1 1 15.0 100 db 50 MΩ Very High Very Fast Very Large
VTL5C2 Ø 24.0 69 db 1 MΩ Low Slow Small
VTL5C2/2 Ø 20.0 65 db 1 MΩ Low Slow Small
VTL5C3 3 20.0 75 db 10 MΩ Very Low Very Slow Very Small
VTL5C3/2 3 19.0 71 db 10 MΩ Very Low Very Slow Very Small
VTL5C4 4 18.7 72 db 400 MΩ High Fast Large
VTL5C4/2 4 8.3 68 db 400 MΩ High Fast Large
VTL5C6 Ø 16.7 88 db 100 MΩ Low Slow Small
VTL5C7 7 5.7 75 db 1 MΩ Average Average Average
VTL5C8 Ø 8.0 80 db 10 MΩ Low Slow Small
VTL5C9 1 7.3 112 db 50 MΩ Very High Very Fast Very Large
VTL5C10 4 3.8 75 db 400 MΩ High Fast Large

Specification Notes
(These notes are referenced on the following LED Vactrol Data Sheet pages.)
1 Since the input has a substantially constant voltage drop, a current limiting resistance is required.
2 Dark adapted resistance measured after 24 or more hours of no input.
3 Measured 10 sec. after removal of the input. The ultimate resistance is many times greater than the value at 10 seconds.
4 Ascent measured to 63% of final conductance from the application of 40 mA input. The conductance rise time to a specified value is
increased at reduced input drive while the conductance decay time to a specified value is decreased.
5 Typical matching and tracking from 0.4 to 40 mA is 25%.
6 Measured 5 sec. after removal of the input. The ultimate resistance is many times greater than the value at 5 seconds.
7 VTL5C9 response times are based on a 2.0 mA input. VTL5C10 response times are based on a 10.0 mA input for ascent time and
a 1.0 mA input for decay time.

41
42
 Low Cost Axial Vactrols VTL5C1, 5C2

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS inch (mm)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C1 offers 100db dynamic range, fast response time, and very high dark resistance.
VTL5C2 features a very steep slope, low temperature coefficient of resistance, and a small light history memory.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.0V (1.65V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 100V (VTL5C1),
200V (VTL5C2)
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted @ 0.5 mA R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) ------------------------
(Typ.) ------------------------ (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 5 mA R@ 20 mA
1 mA 20 kΩ
VTL5C1 1 10 mA 600 Ω 50 MΩ 15 100 db 2.5 ms 35 ms
40 mA 200 Ω
1 mA 5.5 kΩ
VTL5C2 0 10 mA 800 Ω 1 MΩ 24 69 db 3.5 ms 500 ms
40 mA 200 Ω

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

43
Typical Performance Curves
Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time
VTL5C1 VTL5C1

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C2 VTL5C2

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

44
 Low Cost Axial Vactrols VTL5C3, 5C4

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C3 has a steep slope, good dynamic range, a very low temperature coefficient of resistance, and a small light history memory.
VTL5C4 features a very low “on” resistance, fast response time, with a smaller temperature coefficient of resistance than VTL5C1.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.0V (1.65V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 250V (VTL5C3),
50V (VTL5C4)
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted R@ 0.5 mA R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) -------------------------
(Typ.) R@ 5 mA ------------------------ (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 20 mA
1 mA 30 kΩ
VTL5C3 3 10 mA 5Ω 10 MΩ 20 75 db 2.5 ms 35 ms
40 mA 1.5 Ω
1 mA 1.2 kΩ
VTL5C4 4 10 mA 125 Ω 400 MΩ 18.7 72 db 6.0 ms 1.5 sec
40 mA 75 Ω

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

45
Typical Performance Curves
Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time
VTL5C3 VTL5C3

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C4 VTL5C4

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

46
 Dual Element Axial Vactrols VTL5C2/2, 5C3/2

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C2/2 features a very steep slope, low temperature coefficient of resistance, and a small light history memory.
VTL5C3/2 has a steep slope, good dynamic range, a very low temperature coefficient of resistance, and a small light history memory.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.0V (1.65V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 50V (VTL5C2/2),
100V (VTL5C2/3)
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) @ 0.5 mA ------------------------
(Typ.) ------------------------ R@ 20 mA (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 5 mA
5 mA 2.5 kΩ
VTL5C2/2 Ø 1.0 MΩ 20 65 db 7.0 ms 150 ms
40 mA 700 Ω
1 mA 55 kΩ
VTL5C3/2 3 10 MΩ 19 71 db 3.0 ms 50 ms
40 mA 2Ω

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

47
Typical Performance Curves
Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time
VTL5C2/2 VTL5C2/2

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C3/2 VTL5C3/2

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

48
 Dual Element Axial Vactrols VTL5C4/2

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C4/2 features a very low “on” resistance, fast response time, with a smaller temperature coefficient of resistance than VTL5C1.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.0V (1.65V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 30V
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) @ 0.5 mA ------------------------
(Typ.) ------------------------ R@ 20 mA (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 5 mA
1 mA 1.5 kΩ
VTL5C4/2 4 400 Ω 8.3 68 db 6.0 ms 1.5 sec
10 mA 150 Ω

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

49
Typical Performance Curves (Per Element)

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C4/2 VTL5C4/2

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

50
 Low Cost Axial Vactrols VTL5C6, 5C7

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C6 has a large dynamic range, high dark resistance, a low temperature coeffecient of resistance, and a small light history
memory. VTL5C7 is a shallow sloped device with good dynamic range, average temperature coefficient of resistance, speed of
response, and light history memory.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.0V (1.65V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 250V (VTL5C6),
50V (VTL5C7)
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Dynamic Range Response Time 4
Slope
OFF 3 (Typ.)
Part Material (Typ.) Turn-off (Decay)
Dark Resistance Turn-on to
Number Type Input to (Max.)
Adapted @ 10 sec. (Min.) @ 0.5 mA R DARK 63% Final RON
current ------------------------ ------------------------
(Typ.) R@ 5 mA (Typ.) 1 MΩ 100 kΩ
R@ 20 mA
1 mA 75 kΩ
VTL5C6 0 10 mA 10 kΩ 100 MΩ 16.7 88 db 3.5 ms 50 ms
40 mA 2 kΩ
0.4 mA 5 kΩ
VTL5C7 7 1 MΩ 5.7 75 db 6.0 ms 1 sec
2 mA 1.1 kΩ

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

51
Typical Performance Curves
Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time
VTL5C6 VTL5C6

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C7 VTL5C7

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

52
 Low Cost Axial Vactrols VTL5C8

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C8 is similar to VTL5C2 with a low temperature coefficient of resistance and little light history memory, but has a more shallow
slope and a lower “on” resistance at low (1 mA) drive currents.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.8V (2.2V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 500V
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) @ 0.5 mA
(Typ.) ------------------------ ------------------------ (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 5 mA R@ 20 mA
1 mA 4.8 kΩ
VTL5C8 0 4 mA 1.8 kΩ 10 MΩ 8 80 db 4 ms 60 ms
16 mA 1.0 kΩ

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

53
Typical Performance Curves

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C8 VTL5C8

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

54
 Low Cost Axial Vactrols VTL5C9, 5C10

PACKAGE DIMENSIONS INCH (MM)

PLASTIC POTTING CONTOUR

NOT CONTROLLED

DESCRIPTION
VTL5C9 has a 112 db dynamic range, fast response time, high dark resistance, but with a more shallow slope and lower “on”
resistance at low (1 mA) drive currents than the VTL5C1. VTL510 offers a low “on” resistance at low drive currents, a fast response
time, and has a smaller temperature coefficient than the VTL5C9.

ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS @ 25°C

Maximum Temperatures LED Forward Voltage Drop @ 20 mA: 2.8V (2.2V Typ.)
Storage and Operating: –40°C to 75°C
Cell Power: 175 mW Min. Isolation Voltage @ 70% Rel. Humidity: 2500 VRMS
Derate above 30°C: 3.9 mW/°C
LED Current: 40 mA 1 Output Cell Capacitance: 5.0 pF
Derate above 30°C: 0.9 mA/°C
Cell Voltage: 100V (VTL5C9),
50V (VTL5C10)
LED Reverse Breakdown Voltage: 3.0 V
Input - Output Coupling Capacitance: 0.5 pF

ELECTRO-OPTICAL CHARCTERISTICS @ 25°C

ON Resistance 2 Slope Dynamic Range Response Time 4
OFF 3 (Typ.) (Typ.)
Part Material Dark Turn-on to Turn-off (Decay)
Resistance
Number Type Input current Adapted R DARK 63% Final RON to 100 kΩ
@ 10 sec. (Min.) @ 0.5 mA
(Typ.) ------------------------ ------------------------ (Typ.) (Max.)
R@ 5 mA R@ 20 mA
VTL5C9 1 2 mA 630 Ω 50 MΩ 7.3 112 db 4.0 ms 50 ms
VTL5C10 4 2 mA 400 Ω 400 KΩ 3.8 75 db 1.0 ms 1.5 sec

Refer to Specification Notes, page 41.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

55
Typical Performance Curves
Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time
VTL5C9 VTL5C9

Output Resistance vs. Input Current Response Time

VTL5C10 VTL5C10

Input Characteristics Notes:

1. At 1.0 mA and below, units may have substantially higher
resistance than shown in the typical curves. Consult factory if
closely controlled characteristics are required at low input
currents.
2. Output resistance vs input current transfer curves are given for
the following light adapt conditions:

(1) 25°C — 24 hours @ no input

(2) 25°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(3) +50°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
(4) –20°C — 24 hours @ 40 mA input
3. Response time characteristics are based upon test following
adapt condition (2) above.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics, 10900 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132 USA Phone: 314-423-4900 Fax: 314-423-3956 Web: www.perkinelmer.com/opto

56
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

APPLICATION NOTE #1 Audio Applications resistor, the feedback may approach an open circuit condition at
maximum gain. In this open loop state, the circuit becomes unstable
The LDR output element of AOIs is almost purely resistive in nature. and may latch up. The parallel resistor R3 sets the maximum gain of
This property makes the AOI a very useful device for the control of AC the amplifier and stabilizes the DC output voltage. Resistor R2 is in
signals. Further, because AOIs also possess very low noise and low series with the AOI output and sets the minimum gain of the circuit. For
harmonic distortion characteristics, they are ideal for use as variable op-amps with unity gain compensation, R2 is set equal to R3 so the
resistors, capable of being remotely adjusted in a wide range of audio circuit gain does not drop below one. The maximum voltage on the cell
applications and control circuits. (LDR) is eout. If minimizing distortion is a consideration, eout should be
kept below 1.0V.
The focus of this note is on the use of AOIs in audio applications.
However, many of the approaches used are equally applicable to Op-Amp Input Resistor Control
higher frequency AC amplification and control circuits.
When the AOI is used as the input resistor of an op-amp, Figure 1d, a
fixed resistor in series will limit the maximum gain as well as prevent
Control Circuits overload of the previous stage.

Voltage Divider Circuits Non-Inverting Op-Amp Circuits

The output element of the AOI is a two terminal variable resistor and The AOI can also be used in non-inverting op-amp circuits. Gain is
may be used in a voltage divider circuit as shown in Figures 1a and 1b. controlled potentiometrically and, again, resistors should be used to
limit the maximum gain. The circuit of Figure 1e requires a resistor in
Shunt Input Control series with the AOI, while the circuit of Figure 1f requires one in
Figure 1a shows the AOI as the shunt element. With IF = 0, the parallel.
photocell has a very high resistance so eout = ein. When IF is injected
General Considerations
into the LED, the AOI output resistance decreases pulling down the
output voltage. Since the cell cannot be driven to zero resistance, the The circuit application and AOI characteristics will influence the choice
value of R1 must be selected to give the desired maximum attenuation. of circuit to use. In Figure 1a to 1f, gain vs. IF curves are given for each
circuit, as well as input impedance and gain formulas. Once the proper
A VTL5C4 with a maximum “on” resistance of 200 ohms at IF = 10 mA
circuit function is selected, AOI response speed must be considered.
requires an R1 of 6100 ohms for 30 db voltage attenuation (producing
Because an LDR (photocell) turns “on” fast and “off” slowly, circuits of
a 1000:1 power ratio). The actual attenuation ratio will be greater since
Figure 1d and 1e will increase in gain rapidly but be slower in the
the 10 mA “on” resistance is typically 125 ohms.
decreasing gain. The circuits of Figure 1c and 1f respond faster when
When the maximum IF is less than 10 mA, the series resistance must the gain is reduced. All other design considerations are the same as
be greater to get the same attenuation ratio. If R1 is made large, the they would be for any op-amp circuit. In all the amplifier configurations,
insertion loss (db attenuation at IF = 0) will be higher when the output is a gain ratio of 1000:1 or higher can be achieved.
loaded. The maximum voltage across the photocell in this circuit is
equal to the input voltage assuming no insertion loss. An input voltage
as high as 5 – 10V will produce noticeable distortion but that will drop
as IF is increased. To minimize distortion, the voltage across the cell
should be kept below 1.0V at the normal operating point.

Series Input Control

With an AOI as the series element as shown in Figure 1b, eout = 0 at IF
= 0. The maximum voltage across the cell is ein, but decreases as IF
increases.

Op-Amp Feedback Resistor Control

The AOI may also be used as the input or feedback resistor of an
operational amplifier. When used in the feedback loop, Figure 1c, a
fixed resistor should be used in parallel. With no parallel limiting

57
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Input e
o ut
Basic Circuit Configuration Gain -----------
e
Resistance in

R ( LDR )
Variable ---------------------------
R1 + R ( LDR )

Figure 1a. Shunt Input Control

R1
Variable --------------------------
-
R1 + R ( LDR )

Figure 1b. Series Input Control

R 3 [ RLDR + R 2 ]
-------------------------------------------
-
1 [ R LDR + R 2 + R 3 ]

Fixed, Low

Figure 1c. Feedback Resistor Control

58
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Basic Circuit Configuration Input Resistance Gain

R2
Variable ---------------------------
R( LDR ) + R 1

Figure 1d. Input Resistor Control

R1
1 + ---------------------------
R ( LDR ) + R2

Fixed, High

Figure 1e. Potentiometric Gain

R 1 R( LDR )
+ -------------------------------------
-
R 2 [ R( LDR ) + R1
Fixed, High

Figure 1f. Potentiometric Gain

59
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Switching 0.5 db of full signal is one time constant, which is usually only a few
milliseconds. The step change of a switch has been transformed into a
Mechanical switching of low level audio signals requires the use of rapid but smooth increase in signal level. In addition, the possibility of
switches with precious metal contacts. Sudden changes in signal can turn-on in the middle of a peak has been eliminated.
cause the speakers to thump and damage may occur if the speaker is
underdamped. A simple way to avoid these problems is to use an AOI Turn-off is slower and depends on the ratio of R1 to the final value of
in place of a mechanical switch. In the circuit of Figure 1d, the initial photocell resistance. A high ratio will slow down the turn-off and speed
resistance of the LDR cell is so high that amplifier gain is essentially up the turn-on.
zero. A step change in forward current through the LED is translated This circuit can be extended into a matrix as shown in Figure 2. While
into a slower time change in the cell resistance. The resistance drops a 3 x 3 matrix is shown, the number of nodes is not limited. Individual
to 10 times the final value in one millisecond or less. As the resistance inputs can be summed into a single output or connected to more than
continues to drop, the final value is approached exponentially. Express one output. A matrix can be made very compact with the output
in terms of conductivity: amplifiers mounted very close to reduce pickup. The op-amps
eliminate any crosstalk between the inputs since the summing point is
G = G0 [ 1 – exp ( – t ⁄ tc ) ] mhos
at virtual ground.
and: R = 1 ⁄ G ohms The controls for the matrix are usually remotely located. The DC
current through the LEDs may be controlled by switches, manual
where: potentiometers, or a computer. The matrix may be used for simple ON-
OFF gating, summing of several signals, or proportional control. When
G = conductance, mhos proportional control is used, the output should be continuously
t = time, ms supervised to correct for changes in signal level due to photocell
tc = time constance of the photocell, ms resistance variation from temperature, light adapt history, and self
heating.
If R1 is made equal to nine times the final value of resistance, the
response to 50% signal will occur in 1.0 ms. The time to get to within

Figure 2. Switching Matrix

60
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Gating and Muting A2 which inverts the negative half of the signal. The rectifier charges
C2 used for RELEASE TIME control and drives the base of transistor
Background noise becomes very objectionable when a signal level in a Q1, the LED driver. The threshold voltage is a sum of the forward drop
program is low. Noise is any unwanted sound and may be due to tape of the rectifying diodes, the voltage drop across R6, VBE or Q1 and VF
hiss or amplifier hum. These noises can be eliminated by selective use of the LED. This voltage is 2.5 – 3.0V and when referred to the input
of gating and muting, that is, turning the amplifier on when the signal gives a threshold of 2.5 – 3.0 mV at the amplifier.
level is high and off when it is low. This technique can also remove or
reduce unwanted echo, print through, presence or any other distracting The circuit can be set up for a specified threshold voltage. Release
signal during portions of a program which are normally silent. The time is usually determined empirically. A typical set up procedure uses
gating circuit must be completely transparent to the listener, having a an audio signal containing spoken dialog. Initially, the THRESHOLD
smooth, rapid operation with no signal distortion. adjustment is set to the maximum and the RELEASE is set to the
minimum. The program is turned on and the THRESHOLD is
A practical gating circuit having these features is shown in Figure 3. decreased until the audio starts coming through, but sounds chopped
The circuit has five basic sections: the threshold adjustment, a high AC up. The chopping occurs because the circuit is too fast on release. The
gain stage, full-wave rectifier, LED driver and an electrically controlled RELEASE is increased until the audio is smoothed out and sounds
voltage divider. When the signal is below the threshold level, the normal. Setting of the two controls needs to be made carefully. A
voltage divider consisting of the AOI and R10 has maximum threshold set too high cuts off the quieter sounds, while a setting which
attenuation. When the signal exceeds the threshold, the voltage divider is too low allows more of the noise to come through. Short release time
allows the signal to pass through. causes more chopping of the audio and can create some distortion at
the lower frequencies. Long release time keeps the gate open too long
The circuit operation is as follows. The THRESHOLD potentiometer allowing noise to come through after the signal is gone. Adjustments
applies a portion of the signal to the high gain AC amplifier consisting should be made incrementally and worked between the two controls
of op-amp A1, resistors R2 and R3 and capacitor C1. The amplified until the best sound is achieved.
signal is full-wave rectified by diodes D1 and D2 together with op-amp

Figure 3. Audio Sound Gate

61
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Limiters from going open loop when there is no input signal, in which case the
cell “off” resistance is much higher than 10 MΩ.
If the magnitude of an AC signal varies over a wide range, it may be
necessary to amplify or compress the signal before any audio Amplifier A2 operates as a high input impedance rectifier that drives
processing can be performed. In other cases, the audio power has to the LED. The forward drop of the LED is 1.6 – 2.0V, and when the peak
be limited to prevent damage to an output device. Circuits that perform output of the rectifier exceeds this value, current will flow into the LED.
this function on a continual basis need a non-linear element to produce As the signal increases, more current flows into the LED, driving the
variable gain. However, most non-linear elements introduce distortion. photocell resistance lower thus decreasing the amplifier gain. The
This is unacceptable in a high fidelity audio circuit and other critical output of A1 is regulated at a voltage determined by the forward drop of
applications. Using an AOI, simple circuits can be made to perform this the LED and the closed loop gain of amplifier A2. A2 amplifies the
function without introducing distortion or generating any noise. signal by a factor of two, and a 1.8V peak (1.27 VRMS) is required to
activate this AOI. This results in the output voltage being held to 0.64
VRMS over a input range of 1 – 600 mV. Changing the value of R4
Signal Limiters changes the gain of the rectifier. Omitting R4 will double the output
voltage because the rectifier gain drops to one. Putting a resistor in
Any circuit that performs as a limiter or compressor must have low gain series with the LED will cause the regulated voltage to rise as the input
when the signal magnitude is high and high gain when the signal is is increased (see Figure 4b). As the amplifier gain changes, the
low. The gain is adjusted so that a wide dynamic range is compressed amplifier bandwidth also changes. When the signal is low, the amplifier
into a small one. In other signal processing applications, the signal will have the highest gain and lowest bandwidth.
may need to be virtually constant.

The circuit such as shown in Figure 4a will keep the output level
constant when the input voltage varies over a range of 50 – 60 db.

Amplifier A1 operates as an inverting amplifier with a gain:

eout / ein = RPHOTOCELL / R1

The feedback resistor is a photocell and has an “off” resistance of 10

megohms, minimum, and an “on” resistance of 5000 ohms with 5.0 mA
in the LED. Using the components shown, the gain of this stage varies
between 500 with no signal and 0.5 with maximum signal applied. R2
limits the maximum gain and is needed to prevent the amplifier, A1

Figure 4a. Peak Sensing Compressor Figure 4b. Output Characteristics

62
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

Figure 5. Peak Sensing Compressor with Constant Bandwidth

Variable bandwidth can be avoided if the AOI is used in a voltage the voltage limit is determined by the allowable diaphragm excursion.
divider circuit at the input of a fixed gain amplifier. For the same range For constant voltage on the speaker, the displacement doubles when
of input signals, the amplifier gain must be 500 and the voltage divider the frequency is reduced by half. The maximum displacement is
must have a range of 1000:1. This configuration is shown in Figure 5. determined by the mechanical design of the speaker and exceeding
The AOI has been changed to a lower resistance unit to be able to the limit will produce extreme distortion and may even cause
work over the wider range. Also, A1 is now a high input impedance, mechanical damage.
non-inverting stage to avoid a high insertion loss. This circuit is useful
when the input voltage is high, which allows the use of a lower gain
amplifier.

Speaker Power Limiting

Speakers that are driven from high power amplifiers must be protected
from excess drive. While ordinary program levels may be well within
the rating of the speaker, peaks do occur that can be destructive. The
simplest solution is to use a compressor or limiter. Unfortunately, the Figure 7. Maximum sine wave Voltage and Power for a Typical Woofer
maximum power that may be applied is not constant over the
frequency range. Therefore, the limit must be set to provide protection
at the lowest frequency that is expected.

To understand the requirements for effective speaker protection, a brief

review of speaker power limitations follows. Figure 7 is a typical
maximum sine wave voltage limit for a low frequency speaker
commonly called a “woofer”. Above 200 Hz, the maximum allowed
voltage or power is constant. The operating temperature at which wire
insulation and coil bonding fail establishes this value. Below 200 Hz,

63
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators
This reduced low frequency power rating can be accommodated by the threshold has been exceeded, current is injected into the LED of
using a limited circuit which reduces the limit threshold when the the AOI which attenuates the signal voltage. This voltage divider can
frequency is below 200 Hz. Figure 8a shows a very simple circuit to do be placed anywhere in the signal path. Once the limiter comes into
this. At low frequency, the gain of amplifier A1 is unity. The amplifier play, the system frequency response will no longer be flat, but no
has a 6 db/octave gain roll-off starting at 25 Hz and levels off at 100 distortion is introduced.
Hz. Therefore it will take a signal that is four times as large at 100 Hz
as at 25 Hz before limiting action starts. Breakpoints in the Frequency
vs. Gain curve shown in Figure 8b can be set to match the speaker
Automatic Gain Control
frequency dependent power limit. Also, potentiometer R4 can be set to Automatic gain control (AGC) circuits have electrically programmable
match the power rating and impedance of the speaker. references or set points, but in other respects are the same as limiters
The threshold is set by the sum of VBE of Q1 and the forward voltage or compressor circuits. Each has a forward gain amplifier and a loop
drops of D1 and the LED, approximately 2.8V peak or 2.0 VRMS. Once which controls the gain of that amplifier.

Figure 8a. Speaker Power Limiter with Frequency Compensation

Figure 8b. Amplitude vs. Frequency for the Amplifier Figure 8c. System Voltage Limits

64
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators
Figure 9 shows an AGC circuit which consists of three main elements: too wide, the control loop will follow the signal on an instantaneous
a variable gain amplifier, full-wave active rectifier and a summing basis. The AOI alone is not very fast, but signals with frequencies of 30
amplifier. The variable gain amplifier consists of op-amp A1 with – 60 Hz could be distorted if there were no time delay in the integrator.
potentiometric gain that is controlled by the resistance of the photocell
of the AOI. The gain of this amplifier is: The AGC circuit operates as follows. When there is no signal, the
negative VREF causes A4 to be at a maximum positive output.
Gain = 1 + R2 / RPHOTOCELL Maximum forward current is injected into the LED, driving the cell to a
low resistance and the gain of A1 to the maximum where it stays until
With R2 = 100k ohms, the minimum gain is one since the cell “off” there is a signal. A signal at the input terminal is amplified, rectified and
resistance is several megohms. The maximum gain in only 100 since algebraically summed with VREF at the inverting terminal of the
the resistance of a typical VTL5C2 is 1000 ohms at an input current of integrator. The control loop will then act to make the absolute value of
5.0 mA. If a range of 40 db (100:1) is not adequate, there are several the rectified signal equal to the reference voltage. VREF may be a fixed
options. R2 can be increased, the LED drive current for the AOI can be value or a function of some other parameter.
increased or a lower resistance AOI such as the VTL5C4 can be used.

Amplifier A2 together with diodes D1 and D2 and resistors R3, R4, and Electrically Controlled Gain
R5 form a full-wave rectifier. The amplifier has a gain of one so the
The gain of an amplifier can be electrically programmed using the
output is equal to the rectified input. There is no offset due to rectifier
circuit of Figure 10. An AOI with a center tapped photocell is used, one
forward drops so this circuit will rectify signals all the way down to zero
side in the signal amplifier channel and the other in the control loop.
volts. Since the DC output of A2 is not referenced to ground, op-amp
The signal amplifier consists of op-amp A1, resistors R3 and R2 which
A3 and resistors R6, R7, R8, and R9 form a fully differential amplifier
set the gain and the input resistor R5. The gain of this amplifier is given
which shifts the DC reference to ground.
by:
Op-amp A4 is used as an integrator. The signal from the full-wave eout ( R2 + R3 )
rectifier is summed with a reference voltage VREF and integrated. The G = -------
- = ----------------------
time constant of the integrator is selected to limit the bandwidth of the e in R2
control loop as well as assure stability of the loop. If the bandwidth is

Figure 9. AGC Circuit with Electrical Setpoint

65
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators
The control loop consists of op-amp A2 and resistors R1 and R4. This Note that R1 and R2 are the two halves of the cell. These two resistors
circuit sets the LED current so that: match within 10% and track over a wide range within 5% so that the
gain is closely set by VC when VREF is fixed.
V REF ( R1 + R4 )
----------- = ---------------------- The limits of operation are:
VC R1
0 < VC < VREF
If we set: R3 = R4 and the signal must never be so large that amplifier A1 saturates when
and: R1 = R2 the gain is at maximum.
then: eout / ein = VREF / VC
or: eout = ein (VREF / VC) This circuit performs a dividing operation with ein and VC as the
where VC = control voltage numerator and denominator respectively. The accuracy is limited by
the tracking ability of the two sides of the photocell. The error due to
matching can be eliminated by trimming R4.

eout V REF
- = Gain
-------- = ----------
e in VC

Figure 10. Electrically Programmable Gain

66
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators

APPLICATION NOTE #2
Handling and Soldering AOIs
All opto components must be handled and soldered with care,
especially those that use a cast or molded plastic and lead frame
construction like the LEDs used in AOIs.

In LED lead frame construction, the emitter chip is mounted directly to

one lead and a wire bond is made from the chip to the other lead. The
encapsulating plastic is the only support for the lead frame. Care must
be taken when forming the leads of plastic opto packages. Excessive
mechanical force can cause the leads to move inside the plastic
package and damage the wire bonds. Weakened bonds can then When hand soldering, it is important to limit the maximum temperature
“open up” under further mechanical or thermal stressing, producing of the iron by controlling the power. It is best if a 15W or 25W iron is
open circuits. used. The maximum recommended lead soldering temperature (1/16"
from the case for 5 seconds) is 260°C. An RMA rosin core solder is
In order to form leads safely, it is necessary to firmly lamp the leads
recommended.
near the base of the package in order not to transfer any force
(particularly tension forces) to the plastic body. This can be Sn60 (60% tin / 40% lead) solder is recommended for wave soldering
accomplished either through use of properly designed tooling or by opto components into printed circuit boards. Other alternatives are
firmly gripping the leads below the base of the package with a pair of Sn62 and Sn63. The maximum recommended soldering temperature
needle nose pliers while the leads are being bent. is 260°C with a maximum duration of 5 seconds.

The amount of tarnish on the leads determines the type of flux to use
when soldering devices with silver plated leads.

Condition of Leads Recommended Flux

Clear Bright Finish RMA - Mildly Activated
(Tarnish Free)
Dull Finish RMA - Mildly Activated
(Minimal Tarnish)
Examples of Tooling Fixtures Used to Form Leads Light Yellow Tint RA - Activated
(Mild Tarnish)
For highest reliability, avoid flush mounting the AOI body on the printed Light Yellow / Tan Color AC - Water Soluble,
circuit board. This minimizes mechanical stress set up between the (Moderate Tarnish) Organic Acid Flux
circuit board and the LED and photocell packages. It also reduces Dark Tan / Black Color Leads Need to be Cleaned
solder head damage to the packages. (Heavy Tarnish) Prior to Soldering

Cleaners designed for the removal of tarnish from the leads of

electronic components are acidic and it is best to keep the immersion
time as short as possible (less than 2 seconds) and to immediately
wash all devices thoroughly in ten rinses of deionized water.

Good printed circuit board layout avoids putting any spreading (plastic
under tension) force on the leads of the LED and photocell.

67
Application Notes—Analog Optical Isolators
The best policy is one which prevents tarnish from forming. Tarnish, 2. The exact requirement of the cleaning process will vary from
which is a compound formed when silver reacts with sulfur (Ag2S), can customer to customer and application to application.
be prevented by keeping the components away from sulfur or sulfur 3. Additives and concentrations will vary from supplier to supplier.
compounds. Since two major sources of sulfur are room air and paper
products, it is best to store the devices in protective packaging such as Because of these uncertainties, our recommendation is that all
a “silver saver” paper or tightly sealed polyethylene bags. customers carefully evaluate their own cleaning process and draw their
own conclusions about the effectiveness and reliability of the process.
After soldering, it is necessary to clean the components to remove any PerkinElmer cannot assume any responsibility for damage caused by
rosin and ionic residues. For a listing of recommended cleaning agents the use of any of the solvents above or any other solvents used in a
please refer to Application Notes #3. cleaning process.

APPLICATION NOTE #3
Recommended Cleaning Agents
The construction of an AOI consists of a cast epoxy LED, ceramic
photocell, a molded case and epoxy as the end fill. This construction
allows a wide variety of cleaning agents to be sued after soldering.

In many cases the devices will be exposed to a post solder cleaning

operation which uses one or more solvents to remove the residual
solder flux and ionic contaminants. Only certain cleaning solvents are
compatible with the plastics used in the AOI packages.

Recommended Not Recommended

Arklone A Acetone
Arklone K Carbon Tetrachloride
Arklone F Methyl Ethyl Ketone
Blaco-Tron DE-15 Methylene Chloride
Blaco-Tron DI-15 Trichloroethylene (TCE)
Freon TE Xylene
Freon TES Trichloroethane FC-111
Freon TE-35 Trichloroethane FC-112
Freon TP Freon TF
Freon TF-35 Freon TA
Genesolv D Freon TMC
Genesolv DE-15 Freon TMS
Genesolv DI-15 Genesolv DA
Isopropyl Alcohol Genesolv DM
Water Genesolv DMS

This listing of recommended/not recommended solvents represents

only a very small percentage of available chemical cleaning agents.
Even with this list of recommended solvents it is important to be aware
that:
1. Solvent exposure times should be as short as possible.

68
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics
Warranty Statement
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics warrants that all items sold will be free from defects in materials and
workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one year from the date of shipment. If
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics receives notice of such defects during the warranty period, PerkinElmer
Optoelectronics shall, at its option, repair or replace any defective components or credit the purchaser's
account with the purchase price paid. This warranty shall not apply to items that have been (a) subject
to misuse, neglect, accident, damage in transit, abuse or unusual hazard; (b) altered, modified or
repaired by anyone other than PerkinElmer Optoelectronics; or (c) used in violation of instructions
furnished by PerkinElmer Optoelectronics. The Buyer should contact PerkinElmer Optoelectronics for a
return authorization number prior to shipping returned parts.

The specific PerkinElmer Optoelectronics' products shown in this catalog are not authorized or
recommended for use as critical components in life support systems or in surgical implant devices
wherein a failure or malfunction of the PerkinElmer Optoelectronics product may directly threaten life or
cause personal injury. The Buyer agrees to notify PerkinElmer Optoelectronics of any such intended
application and to proceed only after receiving the expressed written approval of an officer of
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics. Additionally, the user of PerkinElmer Optoelectronics components in life
support or implant applications assumes all risks of such use and indemnifies PerkinElmer
Optoelectronics against all damages.

In order to provide the best possible products, PerkinElmer Optoelectronics reserves the right to change
specifications without prior notice. Information supplied in PerkinElmer Optoelectronics' catalogs, data
sheets, and other literature, and information supplied by PerkinElmer Optoelectronics' technical support
personnel is believed to be reliable, however, PerkinElmer Optoelectronics cannot assume responsibility
for omissions, errors, or misapplication of this information.

It is the responsibility of the Buyer to determine the suitability of PerkinElmer Optoelectronics/ products
and recommendations in his own specific application, particularly when the products are operated at or
near their maximum rating specifications. No license is granted by implication or otherwise of any
patent, copyright, or trademark right of PerkinElmer Optoelectronics or others.

PerkinElmer Optoelectronics' warranty, as stated above, shall not be affected or changed by, and no
obligation or liability shall grow out of, PerkinElmer Optoelectronics' providing technical advice or service
to the Buyer.

PERKINELMER OPTOELECTRONICS MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR

IMPLIED, AND EXPRESSLY EXCLUDES AND DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE REMEDIES PROVIDED
HEREIN ARE THE BUYER'S SOLE EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES. PERKINELMER OPTOELECTRONICS
SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY LEGAL THEORY. PERKINELMER
OPTOELECTRONICS' LIABILITY ON ANY CLAIM SHALL IN NO CASE EXCEED THE PRICE
ALLOCABLE TO THE ITEM WHICH GIVES RISE TO THE CLAIM.
Quality Statement
PerkinElmer Optoelectronics’ business is the design, development, and production of optoelectronic components
and assemblies. Our development and manufacturing activities focus on achieving and maintaining consistent
product quality and high levels of reliability. PerkinElmer produces devices and assemblies for the commercial,
industrial, automotive, and medical markets.

PerkinElmer’s commitment to quality emphasizes designed-in quality, problem prevention, and closed loop cor-
rective action. This concept of quality is implemented through the use of fully documented procedures, in-
process monitoring and process control (including SPC), and 100% production testing of devices using state-of-
the-art automated test equipment. As a world class manufacturer, PerkinElmer’s concept of product quality
includes Total Quality Management (TQM) and Just In Time (JIT) delivery.

Quality is a measure of how well a device conforms to its specifications. Reliability is a measure of how well a
device performs over time. PerkinElmer insures the reliability of its products by careful design and by the period-
ic testing of random samples taken from the manufacturing lines. Reliability tests include temperature cycles,
thermal shock, room ambient life tests, elevated temperature life tests, high and low temperature storage, tem-
perature/humidity tests, and water immersion.

PerkinElmer also performs special tests covering a wide range of environmental and life stress conditions to
support non-standard, custom applications. The information generated not only assures the customer that the
device will work well in a particular application, but also contributes to our data base for continual product
improvement.

Driven by our goal of continuous improvement and the needs of customers, PerkinElmer runs an active product
improvement program. PerkinElmer continuously evaluates new materials, manufacturing processes, and pack-
aging systems in order to provide our customers with the best possible product.

PerkinElmer’s quality works: we are an ISO 9000 and QS 9000 certified supplier (ship to stock - no inspection
required) to a number of major customers.
 Additional Sensor Products Catalogs

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