Proximity sensor comes fully integrated in a small package

By Heather Hamilton, contributing writer

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. has unveiled a fully integrated proximity sensor that packs a high-power vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), a photodiode, a signal processing IC, and a 12-bit ADC in a 3.05 × 2-mm leadless package with a low profile of 1 mm. The VCSEL-based VCNL36687S targets smartphones, tablets, augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) headsets, and other battery-operated and space-constrained devices.

The VCNL36687S offers a range of 20 cm (7.9 inches), “simplifying the use and design-in of the proximity sensing capability in consumer and industrial applications because no mechanical barriers are required to optically isolate the emitter from the detector,” said Vishay.

Vishay identifies mobile devices as a key application for the proximity sensor where it can minimize accidental touch inputs that can lead to dropped calls and accidental camera launch or detect when a user wears a VR/AR headset. In addition, the VCNL36687S is suitable for applications that need narrow angle detection thanks to the VCSEL’s profile of ±3°.

The VCNL36687S requires less energy for identical functionality compared to previous-generation products. With a 20-mA pulse current, the device can detect a Kodak Gray Card at a distance of 20 cm compared to previous devices that required 200 mA of current.

The sensor comes standard with an I² C bus serial digital interface, allowing for simple access to the proximity signal. With a programmable interrupt function, the VCNL36687S offers wake-up functionality for the microcontroller in the event of a proximity change, which eliminates the need for continuous polling and reduces overhead processing.

Available in sample and production quantities, the VCNL36687S is priced at $0.90 each in quantities of 5,000 for U.S. delivery. Lead time is eight to 12 weeks.