Tiny Chip Conditions Optical Sensors

Promising to enhance the performance of optical proximity and/or object-detection sensors, the APDS-9700 signal conditioning IC reliably detects objects in ambient light and sunlight conditions and allows users to package more functionality into applications where PCB space is tight. Residing in an eight-pin QFN package measuring 0.55 mm x 2 mm by 2 mm, the device targets compact designs such as PDAs, mobile phones, handheld games, and laptop computers. Other applications include industrial automation equipment, contact-less switches, and sanitary automation devices. The IC includes a LED driver circuit, artificial light immunity, sunlight cancellation, and a LED-stuck protection circuit to enable operation in artificial or sunlight conditions. It can team with either an integrated proximity sensor or discrete pair topology for further design flexibility. Other features include a complete shutdown mode, supply voltage from 2.4V to 3.6V, operation in sunlight conditions up to 100 klux, analog and digital output modes, and a wide bandwidth transimpedance amplifier. Pricing for the APDS-9700 starts at $1.60 each/2,500. AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES, San Jose, CA. (800) 235-0312.