What Is Infrared Led?

What exactly are Infrared LEDs?

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One common question regarding LED technology is: What are Infrared LEDs? While you may not recognize the term, you likely use devices that incorporate these components. An infrared LED, short for "light-emitting diode," is a small device that emits infrared light, primarily found in gadgets like remote controls. The infrared wavelength it produces transmits a signal that instructs devices on how to operate (for example, changing channels on your TV with a remote).

Distinguishing Infrared LEDs from Visible Light LEDs

Infrared LEDs exhibit several key differences from traditional visible light LEDs, particularly in their electrical properties. For example, infrared LEDs generally operate at a lower forward voltage compared to their visible counterparts, but they handle a higher rated current. Such distinctions arise from the unique junction properties involved. The driving current for a typical infrared LED may reach as high as 50 milliamps, which means simply substituting a visible LED in place of a malfunctioning infrared LED is not advisable.

Popular Applications of Infrared LEDs

Beyond remote controls, infrared LEDs find extensive usage in security systems due to their invisibility to the naked eye. This light operates within a wavelength range of 700 to 959 nanometers, making it perfect for devices such as alarm systems, CCTV, video cameras, and night vision equipment.

Consumer Guidance for Infrared LED Purchases

Infrared LED lights are available with different configurations, depending on their intended use. Typically, a higher number of LEDs results in increased intensity across the viewing field. To amplify the effective range of infrared light, employing an IR light pulser is beneficial. This device boosts the infrared light's output significantly—potentially ten times the normal direct current power supply. Incompatible combinations of an LED and pulser can lead to irreversible damage to the infrared LEDs.

Consider these tips before purchasing an infrared LED light:

1) Ensure it has a radiant wavelength of less than 880nm.
2) Opt for a viewing angle of at least 60 degrees or better.
3) Remember that an increased number of LEDs enhances brightness but does not extend range.
4) Employ an IR light pulser for longer operational ranges.

Innovative Application: Light Therapy

An exciting application of infrared LED technology is the advent of light therapy, which has emerged prominently in recent years. Dermatologists are now utilizing infrared LEDs instead of lasers for various skin treatments and reconstructive procedures.

There are notable benefits to using infrared LEDs over lasers in light therapy. For one, treatments are less costly to implement. Furthermore, there is potential for infrared LED technology to penetrate skin tissue more safely and effectively compared to lasers as advancements continue. This growing field underscores that the potential of infrared LEDs is just beginning to be explored.

Interested in learning more about IR LEDs for Machine Vision? Don't hesitate to reach out to us.

The Infrared Light-Emitting Diode (IR LED) is a type of Solid State Lighting (SSL) device that emits light at wavelengths longer than those of visible light. They are frequently paired with infrared receivers to facilitate wireless communication between multiple devices. Infrared light, a form of electromagnetic radiation, falls within the wavelength spectrum of 700 nm to 1 mm, making IR diodes vital in both consumer electronics and machine-to-machine communications.

Common Applications of Infrared LEDs:

• Remote controls
• Televisions
• Climate control systems
• Audio equipment
• Cameras
• Lighting equipment
• Night vision cameras

Infrared LEDs can be categorized based on their operating wavelength:

• 808 nm: Suitable for medical treatments, optical communication in space, and infrared illumination.
• 830 nm: Ideal for automated card reading systems.
• 850 nm: Commonly used in night vision cameras, CCTV systems, and digital photography.
• 940 nm: Typically employed in remote control devices.

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