Description
Phototransistor applications
The fact that phototransistors are easy to use and perform well, within their limitations, means that these semiconductor devices are used in a wide variety of electronic circuits.
Often the applications are where a light beam is interrupted, but sometimes they can be used for light level detection.
- Encoders where a rotating disc with light and dark stripes rotates – this gives speed and direction or rotation.
- Card readers.
- Security systems
- Infra-red detectors.
- Lighting control.
- Opto-couplers
- Counting systems – a light or IR beam is interrupted for each item counted.
- Lighting control.
Phototransistor advantages
- Have a relatively high gain and therefore they are relatively sensitive.
- These electronic components are relatively cheap as they are effectively a transistor that is open to light.
- They can be incorporated into an integrated circuit.
- Offer a reasonable speed.
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