How to measure the intensity of Infra red

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on measuring infrared intensity using photodetectors. Matthew is currently using a photodiode from Rapid but finds it only indicates the presence of infrared rather than its intensity. Mark suggests that the effectiveness of the photodiode depends on the specific infrared wavelengths being measured and the circuit configuration. Matthew is considering switching to a phototransistor or infrared transistor for better intensity measurement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photodiodes and their operational principles
  • Knowledge of phototransistors and their applications
  • Basic circuit design and analysis skills
  • Familiarity with infrared wavelength ranges and detection limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specifications and operational principles of phototransistors for infrared detection
  • Explore circuit designs that enhance the sensitivity of photodiodes for measuring infrared intensity
  • Investigate the wavelength sensitivity of different photodetectors
  • Learn about signal processing techniques to quantify infrared intensity readings
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists working on infrared detection projects, and students studying photonics or sensor technology.

MMorris
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Hi,
Im investigating how infra red is affected in different areas e.g at home, out side, in the dark or in light. To do this i have made a circuit with a photodiode from the company rapid. The problem is that the photodiode is operating as just a switch, saying if the infrared is on or off so i am not able to measure how strong or weak, the beam of infra red is.
At the moment, I am thinking of having a phototransisor or infrared transistor to measure the intensity insead of a photodiode but am not sure if it will work with infra red? can anyone help?

Thanks

Matthew
 
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Welcome to PF.

A photodiode can work for this, but it depends on the circuit you use it with. It also depends on what infrared wavelengths you are trying to measure. If the infrared you want to measure is outside the detectable range of the photodiode, then all bets are off.

Can you describe (or better, provide a drawing of) the circuit you have?

Regards,

Mark

p.s. Is this for a class assignment or homework? If not, I can inquire about getting the question moved to a more appropriate area here at PF.
 

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