Infrared Detector Element: Spectral Range 0.7-14 μm

Component Specifications

Definition

An infrared detector element is a semiconductor-based electronic component that detects infrared radiation within specific wavelength ranges (typically 0.7-14 μm). It operates by converting incident infrared photons into measurable electrical signals through photoelectric or thermal effects, enabling non-contact temperature measurement, motion sensing, and thermal imaging applications in industrial automation.

Working Principle

The element functions through either photonic detection (using materials like InGaAs, HgCdTe, or pyroelectric crystals that generate electrical charge when exposed to IR radiation) or thermal detection (using thermopiles or microbolometers that change resistance with temperature). Incident IR radiation causes electron excitation in semiconductor materials, producing voltage or current proportional to radiation intensity, which is then amplified and processed by associated circuitry.

Materials

Semiconductor materials: InGaAs (0.7-2.6 μm), HgCdTe/MCT (3-5 μm, 8-14 μm), InSb (3-5 μm), pyroelectric materials (LiTaO₃, PZT), silicon microbolometers; Packaging: TO-5, TO-8, or ceramic packages with germanium/silicon windows; Electrodes: Gold bonding wires.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Responsivity	1-10 V/W
Field Of View	20°-120°
Response Time	1 ns-1 ms
Spectral Range	0.7-14 μm
Detectivity (D*)	10^8-10^11 cm·Hz¹/²/W
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +85°C
Noise Equivalent Power	10^-9-10^-12 W/Hz¹/²

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 18434-1, IEC 62471, ASTM E1256

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Infrared Sensor

An electronic device that detects infrared radiation emitted by objects and converts it into an electrical signal for measurement or detection purposes.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Thermal drift affecting accuracy
Window contamination reducing sensitivity
Electrostatic discharge damage
Moisture ingress causing failure

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Thermal stress from rapid temperature changes
Failure: Cracking of semiconductor material or packaging
Mitigation: Implement gradual temperature cycling in operation, use thermal interface materials, and design with expansion-matched materials

Trigger: Electrostatic discharge during handling
Failure: Permanent damage to sensitive semiconductor junctions
Mitigation: Use ESD-protected workstations, proper grounding, and antistatic packaging during manufacturing and installation

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±2% of reading or ±2°C for temperature measurement applications

Test Method

Calibration against blackbody radiation sources per ASTM E1256, spectral response testing using monochromators, and environmental testing per IEC 60068-2 standards

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

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Manufacturers of Infrared Detector Element

Manufacturer profiles associated with Infrared Detector Element.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between photonic and thermal infrared detectors?

Photonic detectors (like InGaAs or HgCdTe) directly convert photons to electrons, offering faster response and higher sensitivity but require cooling. Thermal detectors (like pyroelectric or microbolometer) measure temperature changes, operating at room temperature with slower response but broader spectral range.

How do I select the right infrared detector element for my application?

Consider spectral range (match target emission wavelength), response time (faster for motion detection), sensitivity (D* value), operating temperature, and environmental conditions. For high-speed applications, choose photonic detectors; for cost-effective thermal imaging, select microbolometers.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Infrared Detector Element