Quadrant silicon PIN photodiode for automotive applications

Vishay Intertechnology has released what is claimed to be the industry's first four-quadrant silicon PIN photodiode in a standard surface-mount package, qualified for automotive applications. Incorporating high photo sensitivity with low 0.1 % crosstalk and almost no tolerance between its segments, the Vishay Semiconductors K857PE allows a mixture of sensor and control applications for the automotive, consumer, and industrial markets.

The AEC-Q101 qualified device offers four monolithic PIN diodes — each with an active area of 1.6mm² — integrated into a single 4.72mm x 4.72mm x 0.8mm top-view, surface-mount package. The sides of the device's package are opaque, which stops stray light irradiating the photodiodes, producing excellent SNR. The device's linear photo response allows small signal detection for automotive rain/light sensors, laser beam alignment, industrial automation systems, and virtual reality applications.

Constructed on epitaxial technology, the photodiode provides a wide sensitivity range from 690nm to 1050nm, with 8.5µA reverse light current per segment at Ee = 1mW/cm² and an 850nm wavelength. The device offers a daylight blocking filter, ±60-degree angle of half sensitivity, and works over a temperature range of -40C to +110C. RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and Vishay Green, the device provides a floor life of 168h in accordance with J-STD-020.