Vishay Intertechnology Introduces New Demo Kit for VCNL4000 Fully Integrated Proximity and Ambient Light Optical Sensor

The VCNL4000 Demo Kit software includes two interface panels: one for the ambient light function and the other for the proximity function. Designers can adjust key performance parameters of the sensor to see the effect on their applications. In addition, they can easily test different housing or window materials to determine the change in sensitivity or output of the sensor.

The Proximity Function software allows users to adjust the emitter current, sampling rate, sampling mode, and output unit of measure. It includes automatic noise and offset compensation, and offers two displays showing the full dynamic range and active dynamic range of the sensor output.

The Ambient Light Function software features an adjustable sampling rate and sampling mode, automatic adjustment for temperature-related drift and, like the Proximity Function, two displays showing the full dynamic range and active dynamic range of the sensor output. The output is displayed in counts and lux.

For mobile devices such as smartphones, touch phones, PDAs, GPS units, and digital cameras — in addition to computing and industrial devices and displays — the new VCNL4000 saves power as a proximity sensor for touch screen on/off control. In addition, the sensor serves as an integrated ambient light function for display/keypad contrast control and dimming.

For designers, the VCNL4000 contains all the circuitry needed for these applications in one device, eliminating the need for light barriers and optical alignment of the IR emitter and photo diode and greatly simplifying the design and development process.

The kit is available for purchase from any of Vishay's catalog distributors.