Definition of infrared light-emitting diode

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Photonics Dictionary

infrared light-emitting diode: An infrared light-emitting diode (IR LED) is a semiconductor device that emits infrared light when an electric current passes through it. Similar to standard LEDs that emit visible light, IR LEDs are designed to emit light in the infrared spectrum, which lies beyond the visible spectrum.

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IR LEDs are constructed using semiconductor materials such as gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs), or indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs), which are capable of emitting light at infrared wavelengths when forward biased. The emission wavelength of an IR LED depends on the materials used and the manufacturing process, typically ranging from around 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter.

These devices are commonly used in various applications, including:

Remote controls: IR LEDs are widely used in remote control devices for televisions, DVD players, air conditioners, and other electronic appliances. When you press a button on the remote control, it sends a coded infrared signal to the device it's controlling.

Proximity sensors: IR LEDs are used in proximity sensors to detect the presence or absence of an object within a certain range. When an object comes within the sensor's detection range, it reflects the emitted infrared light back to the sensor, triggering a response.

Infrared communication: IR LEDs are used in communication systems for short-range data transmission, such as IrDA (Infrared Data Association) communication between devices like smartphones, laptops, and printers.

Optical encoders: Infrared LEDs, along with photodetectors, are used in optical encoders to detect rotational or linear motion in devices like computer mice, trackballs, and rotary encoders.

Security systems: IR LEDs are utilized in security cameras and motion sensors for night vision and infrared illumination, allowing surveillance systems to operate effectively in low-light conditions.

Medical devices: IR LEDs are used in various medical applications, including pulse oximeters for measuring oxygen saturation in blood and infrared therapy devices for pain relief and tissue healing.

Overall, IR LEDs are versatile components with widespread use in electronics, communications, automation, and other fields where the detection and emission of infrared radiation are required.

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