Difference between revisions of "Photodiodes and Phototransistors"

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==References==
==References==


* Fairchild Semiconductor, "Design Fundamentals for Phototransistor Circuits," [[media:phototransistors.pdf|PDF]], http://www.fairchildsemi.com
* [http://www.fairchildsemi.com Fairchild Semiconductor], "Design Fundamentals for Phototransistor Circuits," [[media:phototransistors.pdf|PDF]],

Revision as of 15:20, 6 July 2006

Phototransistors

Phototransistor amplifiers.png

Phototransistors are transistors with the base terminal exposed. Instead of applying a voltage to the base, the photons from striking light activate the transistor.


The phototransistor can be used in two different modes: 1) active & 2) switch. These modes are controlled by changing the value of the resistor. The equations are:

Phototransistor modes.png

Fairchild recommends a 5kohm resistor or greater to use as a switch

  • Switch Mode - when operating as a switch, the transistor can be switched between the cut-off ("off") and saturated ("on") states. This means that when light strikes the phototransistor, it will conduct. Otherwise, it will insulate.
  • Active Mode - In active mode, the output of the transistor is proportional to the intensity of the light.

References