The optoelectronics group of Vishay Intertechnology Inc. has introduced a new proximity sensor that offers a sensing distance of up to 30 cm. Combining an infrared emitter, photo detectors for proximity, amplifiers and analog-to-digital converter circuitry into a single package, the Vishay Semiconductors VCNL3040 features a programmable interrupt function and supports the I²C bus communication interface for efficient object and 
Source: Vishay Intertechnology Inc.collision detection in a wide variety of consumer and industrial applications.
Ideally suited for use in smart home, industrial, office and toy products, the device provides a 33% increase in proximity detection distance compared to previous-generation sensors and at a lower cost than similar solutions on the market. Applications include presence detection to activate displays in printers, copiers and home appliances; collision detection in robots and toys; vehicle occupancy detection in parking lots; and proximity detection in lavatory appliances.
The VCNL3040’s programmable interrupt function allows designers to specify high and low thresholds, which reduces the continuous communication with the microcontroller. Featuring selectable 12-bit and 16-bit outputs, the proximity sensor uses intelligent cancellation to eliminate cross talk, while a smart persistence scheme ensures accurate sensing and fast response time. The emitter wavelength peaks at 940 nm and has no visible red tail.
The device offers a supply voltage range of 2.5 V to 3.6 V, an I²C bus voltage range from 1.8 V to 3.3 V and excellent temperature compensation from -40° C to 85° C. Offered in a lead-free, eight-pin, QFN package, the sensor is RoHS-compliant, halogen-free and Vishay Green.
Samples and production quantities of the new VCNL3040 are available now, with lead times of eight to 12 weeks for large orders.
