Sensing

VCSELs for sensing applications

Due to low cost manufacturing, simplified packaging, low power consumption, distinguished control of wavelength as well as modal and polarization properties, VCSELs are an attractive light source for many sensing applications, e.g. in material analysis, position detection, or sensors in human input devices.

Industrial optical sensors for material analysis are used, e.g., for Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), where even small concentration of Oxygen and Moisture can be detected using single frequency lasers emitting at 760 nm and 945 nm, respectively. Single-mode VCSELs are also a good choice for sensors based on Fourier-Transform-Infrared-Spectrometry (FTIR). For wavelength sensitive applications, temperature and thus wavelength control can be achieved by miniature Thermo Electrical Cooler (TEC) and Thermistor, which are both integrated in a small TO46 package.
Coherent light at low dissipated power is also widely used for compact position detection sensors, like encoders or interferometers. Required stable spectral and spatial light emission is provided by VCSEL technology. Miniature Atomic clocks based on Rb or Cs gas cells, designed for clock synchronization or GPS receivers, do require single-frequency laser emission at specific wavelengths for atom cooling effect. Philips Photonics offers single-mode VCSEL at 795 nm and 852 nm, specifically designed for this application. Within the technology platform, Philips Photonics can also offer customized solutions designed to your specific needs!

For consumer sensing markets Philips Photonics offers a comprehensive portfolio of 850 nm single-mode VCSELs which are manufactured in very high volumes. VCSEL based laser mouse sensors have proven the volume capabilities of the manufacturing processes. More than 50 million VCSELs have been shipped into the market by Philips Photonics. Other Human input device technologies, a.o. finger navigation and gesture recognition, will find their places in hand held battery driven electronic devices, like Smartphones or Tablets within short time.

Philips Photonics supports their customers by offering device performance and reliability data for their products. Philips Photonics is committed to high quality of the devices and all products are subject to extensive performance and reliability tests before coming onto the market. Therefore, leading customers trust in the expertise of Philips Photonics for many years. Furthermore, Philips Photonics can also offer customized solutions for addressing highly specific requirements.