IR emitter diode, also known as infrared emitting diode, is a semiconductor device that emits infrared light when an electric current passes through it. As an important component in the field of infrared technology, it has been widely used in various fields such as remote control, optical communication, and infrared detection. In this article, we will introduce the development, characteristics, and application of IR emitter diodes in the industry.

Development of IR Emitter Diodes

The development of IR emitter diodes can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1908, an American physicist named Robert Wood discovered that when a semiconductor material was illuminated by light, it could emit light with a longer wavelength. This discovery laid the foundation for the development of IR emitter diodes. In the 1930s, the German physicist Otto Schott discovered that selenium could be used as a semiconductor material to emit infrared light. In the 1950s, the United States successfully developed the first IR emitter diode based on gallium arsenide (GaAs). Since then, the development of IR emitter diodes has entered a new era.

Characteristics of IR Emitter Diodes

1. Wavelength: The wavelength of IR emitter diodes can be divided into near-infrared, middle-infrared, and far-infrared according to the different spectral ranges. The near-infrared has a wavelength of 0.76-3.0μm, the middle-infrared has a wavelength of 3.0-30μm, and the far-infrared has a wavelength of 30-1000μm. 2. Emission Power: The emission power of IR emitter diodes is mainly determined by the material, structure, and driving current. The higher the driving current, the stronger the emission power. 3. Emission Angle: The emission angle of IR emitter diodes is related to the structure and design of the device. Generally, the emission angle of IR emitter diodes is relatively small, which can achieve better focusing effect. 4. Life Span: The life span of IR emitter diodes is mainly affected by the material, structure, and operating conditions. Under normal conditions, the life span of IR emitter diodes can reach tens of thousands of hours.

Application of IR Emitter Diodes

1. Remote Control: IR emitter diodes are widely used in remote control devices, such as TVs, air conditioners, and audio equipment. They can send control signals to the corresponding devices through the air. 2. Optical Communication: IR emitter diodes can be used in optical communication systems, such as fiber optic communication and wireless optical communication. They can achieve high-speed data transmission with low signal loss. 3. Infrared Detection: IR emitter diodes can be used for infrared detection in various fields, such as security, fire prevention, and medical equipment. They can detect the infrared radiation emitted by objects and convert it into electrical signals for processing. 4. Image Transmission: IR emitter diodes can be used in image transmission systems, such as thermal imaging cameras and night vision devices. They can capture the infrared radiation emitted by objects and convert it into visible light for display. 5. Automotive Industry: IR emitter diodes are used in automotive industry for various applications, such as automotive lighting, automotive radar, and driver assistance systems.

Future Development of IR Emitter Diodes

With the continuous development of semiconductor technology and infrared technology, the application fields of IR emitter diodes will continue to expand. In the future, the following aspects are expected to be the focus of development: 1. High-power and High-efficiency: Developing high-power and high-efficiency IR emitter diodes to meet the needs of high-power applications. 2. Wide Spectral Range: Expanding the spectral range of IR emitter diodes to meet the needs of various applications. 3. Miniaturization and Integration: Realizing the miniaturization and integration of IR emitter diodes to reduce the size and weight of devices. 4. Low-cost and High-reliability: Reducing the cost and improving the reliability of IR emitter diodes to promote their wider application. In conclusion, IR emitter diodes have been widely used in various fields due to their excellent performance and wide application prospects. With the continuous development of technology, the future of IR emitter diodes will be more promising.