Photodiodes and Phototransistors

From Mech
Revision as of 15:18, 6 July 2006 by Stephens (talk | contribs)
Jump to navigationJump to search

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