ROHM introduces compact surface-mount near-infrared LEDs for VR/AR and industrial applications

ROHM has expanded its range of surface-mount near-infrared (NIR) LEDs with six new compact top-view models designed for applications including VR/AR devices, industrial optical sensors, and human detection sensors. The lineup addresses growing demand for NIR-based sensing technologies in VR/AR equipment, biosensing devices, and industrial automation systems requiring high accuracy, miniaturization, energy efficiency, and design flexibility.

The new models include three package types: two ultra-compact (1.0mm × 0.6mm, 0.2mm thick) PICOLED series LEDs (SML-P14RW and SML-P14R3W), and four models in the standard 1.6mm × 0.8mm size with either a narrow beam circular lens (CSL0902RT, CSL0902R3T) or a flat lens for wider light emission (CSL1002RT, CSL1002R3T). Each package is available in 850nm (860nm for SML-P14RW) and 940nm wavelengths. The 850nm wavelength suits high-sensitivity applications like eye tracking and object detection in VR/AR, while the 940nm wavelength, less affected by sunlight and not emitting visible red light, is used in motion sensors and biosensing applications like pulse oximeters for blood flow and oxygen saturation measurement.

The LEDs use an NIR element with an opt...