Sensor designed for detection of dust in the air, indoor air quality and monitoring

Designed for the detection of dust in the air, indoor air quality and monitoring, Amphenol Advanced Sensors' SM-PWM-01A SMART dust sensor is now available from Mouser. The device is a miniature infrared obscuration sensor that matches the accuracy and reliability of many larger sensors. Incorporating special algorithms, the sensor can differentiate between small and large particle sizes to give a true reflection of air quality condition unattainable in previous generations, says the company. The sensor detects the dust particle concentration in air by using an optical sensing method. An infrared light emitting diode (IR LED) and a photo-sensor are optically arranged in the device. The photo-sensor detects the reflected IR LED light from the dust particles in the environment. The SMART Dust Sensor detects small particles like cigarette smoke (typically 1µm) to large house dust particles (typically 20µm) and the signal output is in proportion to both particle size and concentration. With additional protection, the unit can be used in outdoor environments, and by adjustment, in smoke detection applications.