25 August 2011

Osram Opto launches smallest 1W-class IR LED

Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH of Regensburg, Germany claims that its new IR OSLON SFH 4715S is the smallest infrared LED with more than 1W of optical power. The device measures just 3.75mm x 3.75mm and hence can facilitate very compact illumination units for CMOS and CCD cameras.

Picture: Osram Opto’s IR OSLON SFH 4715S.

The infrared OSLON typically provides 1070mW of optical power at 1A operating current, and it has a typical thermal resistance of only 6.5K/W. A lens with ±45° emission angle is integrated into the device. Due to this adapted outcoupling lens, the IR OSLON delivers 15% more output power than components without lens. Also, with a wavelength of 850nm, the IR OSLON is well matched to the sensitivity of CMOS and CCD camera sensors. The small package allows compact configurations, enabling high power density. In particular, 3D cameras benefit from the improved power since the IR LED can be modulated up to very high operating currents of 5A in the range of 10MHz.

To achieve the record-breaking ratio of device size to power, Osram Opto has combined its nanostack chip technology with its temperature-stable OSLON Black Series package. The highly efficient stack chips have two p-n junctions connected in series and generate nearly twice the optical power of conventional emitters, it is claimed. The OSLON Black Series package is based on a metal lead frame, and its thermal expansion matches exactly the thermal behavior of circuit boards. Thus good cycle stability is achieved, even at heavily fluctuating temperatures, as may occur outdoors, for instance. The IR OSLON also complies with quality standards such as automotive standard AEC-Q101. Together, the latest chip technology and the package properties ensure an operating lifetime of up to 50,000 hours.

The IR OSLON is fully compatible with its counterpart for the visible spectral range. Manufacturers of street lighting or CCTV systems that combine visible and infrared LEDs can hence use their experience with OSLON Black Series LEDs and apply existing designs and board layouts.

Osram Opto says that, with the IR OSLON, it is expanding its position in the field of infrared illumination and complementing its range of products with an additional power class. The new device particularly addresses the security industry. Possible applications range from spotlights for IR cameras and CCTV systems via machine vision solutions to number-plate recognition.

For Dr Joerg Heerlein, marketing manager for infrared devices, the IR OSLON hallmarks the beginning of a new product family: “As our next move we plan a 940nm version. The longer-wavelength reduces the so-called red glow effect: since humans perceive intensive infrared light as a faint red glow, this IR OSLON is especially tailored for light sources which should not be seen by people.”

Tags: Osram IR LEDs

Visit: www.osram-os.com