IR-Emitters

Emitters from CAL Sensors

Emitters from CAL Sensors (CAL-Source) are based on metal alloys. They are available as coils (SA series, DC type for non-pulsed operation) or as small metal bands (SVF series, for pulsed operation). A parabolic mirror is integrated by default. The technology used is robust and has been proven many times over – improvements are almost impossible. The maximum temperature is 730°C.

SPF-Series

CAL Sensors has expanded its series of pulsable emitters with the new SPF series for high speed. A degree of modulation of 50% is achieved at approximately 180 Hz. Emitters with a maximum temperature of 1000 K come in a TO-5 housing with an integrated reflector and sapphire window.

SF-Series

The SF-series infrared emitters are designed to be used as low cost pulsed source of blackbody radiation for near-to-far infrared applications. The radiating element is an ultra-thin metallic foil with an emissivity of 0.88 and closely emulates a blackbody source in spectral distribution.

PIRE^PLUS: Pulsable IR Emitter as a Compact Module

This IR emitter module is sold under the trade name PIREPLUS. The module fits on a 14-pin IC socket. It features a peak temperature of 730°C, and the emitter still has a modulation depth of 50% even at 180 Hz. It emits wavelengths of up to 5 µm. Operation requires supply voltages of +12 volts and +5 volts.

Emitters from Intex

In comparison, the IR emitters from Intex are based on a rather modern technology. They are comprised of micromechanically structured hotplates. A carbon-based, nano-composite (amorphous diamond) is deposited onto a silicon membrane as resistor material with a very low temperature coefficient of the resistor and a high emission grade. One special advantage thereof: Due to the short thermal time constant, even at a modulation frequency of 100 Hz a modulation depth of 50% can be achieved. Due to the constant resistance, a turn-on voltage pulse cannot be observed. The emitter is position and shape stable. At the maximum temperature of 750°C (10 Hz, 50% duty cycle) a lifetime of 10,000 hours is achieved and at 600°C approximately 25,000 hours. Intex‘ core competence is the cabon coating. The developers expect to see further improvements with regard to the maximum temerpature and lifetime of the emitters.