Introducing VCNL4100, a fully integrated sensor from Vishay. Part of their Light to Digital portfolio, this long-distance, integrated proximity and ambient light sensor can sense objects up to 1 meter away. A cost-effective option, this sensor is surprisingly small in size. Learn about the specifics of VCNL4100 and find out what sets it apart.
The VCNL4100 can sense objects up to 1 meter away. It is a fully integrated sensor which includes an infrared emitter, proximity detector, ambient light sensor, signal conditioning IC, and I2C interface. It offers programmable high and low threshold interrupts, a built-in background light cancellation scheme, and Filtron™ technology for ambient light sensing close the human eye. Display control for home appliances, light controls, robot and drone collision detection, gaming attract mode. . .
S: So, who are you, and why are we here?
A: Let me introduce myself, Mr. Engineer. I am the Arrow Electronics Guy, and I have something interesting to show you.
S: Oh great, so it’s a sales pitch.
A: It’s more like a friendly, informative chat.
S: Sure.
A: So check this out...it’s the VCNL4100 from Vishay Opto.
S: Cool part number but it tells me nothing about what it actually is.
A: Well, it’s a long-distance, integrated proximity and ambient light sensor
S: What makes it integrated?
A: The VCNL4100 includes an infrared emitter, proximity detector, ambient light sensor, signal conditioning IC, and I2C interface. It is part of their Light To Digital portfolio
S: All that in one sensor, it has to be big.
A: Actually it is only 1.8 mm in height and measures 3 mm in width and 8.0 mm in length
S: Smaller than I would think. That “long distance” is kind of vague. How long?
A: Up to 1 meter depending on the reflective medium.
S: Is this one of those time of flight sensors like they use in high cost drones?
A: No, this is far more cost effective. It provide relative proximity sensing, not an exact range. In most applications that is sufficient.
S: Cost effective, you mean less expensive right?
A: Yes, much less expensive. And to top it all off, the device also has an ambient light sensor.
S: Ok, this sounds legit. I imagine that could come in handy for turning on the display in my refrigerator and thermostat as I approach it. It could also keep the display dim when I am going for that late night snack. Now if it could control the intensity of the light in the refrigerator.
A: It could.
S: Cool, I’m sold. Thanks.
A: It also has an I2C interface for setting upper and lower thresholds and other programming functions!!!!!
S: I said I’M SOLD.
A: So would you like me to get you a quote on the VCNL4100?
S: I thought this wasn’t a sales pitch.
A: Just a friendly, informative conversation.
S: Okay, sure. Why not.
