Light Sensor ICs Fortify LCD Backlighting

The company’s family of analog and digital Ambient Light Sensor (ALS) ICs for controlling LED backlighting in LCD-equipped devices employ a proprietary trimming process and multiple photodiodes with different junction depths. Their spectral response is tailored to closely match that of the human eye for accurate light measurement. Features of the ALS Series include a ±15% light-sensing accuracy, an operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, and a detection range up to 100,000 lux. The family includes the BH16xx analog and BH17xx digital series. The BH16xx devices provide a linear current output proportional to a luminous intensity ranging from 0 to 100,000 lux while the BH17xx series integrates a 16-bit a/d converter. The analog and digital ALS ICs are available in either a WSOF5 surface-mount package (1.6 mm x 1.6 mm x 0.55 mm) or a WSOF6 surface-mount package (3 mm x1.6 mm 0.7 mm). Prices range from $0.58 to $1.50 each in small OEM quantities. For more information, call ROHM ELECTRONICS, San Diego, CA. (858) 625-3600 and/or visit http://www.rohmsemiconductor.com/als.html.