Editorial Technical Reference

Infrared Sensor

This page explains how Infrared Sensor is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

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

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Infrared Sensor

Definition
An infrared sensor is an electronic device that detects and measures infrared radiation in the electromagnetic spectrum, typically in wavelengths from 700 nanometers to 1 millimeter. These sensors operate by converting infrared energy into an electrical signal that can be processed and analyzed. They are widely used for non-contact temperature measurement, motion detection, gas analysis, and various industrial automation applications where thermal detection is required without physical contact with the target object. The sensor typically includes a photodetector such as a thermopile, pyroelectric sensor, or photodiode, which absorbs infrared radiation and generates a corresponding electrical signal. This signal is then amplified and processed by electronic circuitry to provide a measurable output. Infrared sensors are available in various configurations, with parameters such as spectral response range, field of view, response time, operating temperature range, sensitivity, supply voltage, output signal, detection distance, operating humidity, ingress protection, housing material, and weight. These parameters are specified as reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model and application. The sensor is designed for use in industrial environments, with an operating temperature range of -40 to 85 °C and non-condensing humidity up to 95% RH. The housing is made of ABS plastic, which is UV resistant, and the sensor has an ingress protection rating of IP54 to IP65, indicating dust and water resistance. The sensor's detection distance is adjustable via lens, ranging from 1 to 10 meters. The output signal can be analog or digital, with a supply voltage of 3 to 5 V DC. The sensitivity is at least 1000 V/W, indicating the output voltage per unit of incident infrared power. The spectral response range is 7 to 14 μm, which is suitable for detecting infrared radiation emitted by objects at typical ambient temperatures. The field of view is 90 to 120 degrees, and the response time is 10 to 50 ms. The sensor weighs between 5 and 15 grams, making it lightweight for easy mounting. It is important to verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.
Working Principle
Infrared sensors operate based on the principle that all objects with a temperature above absolute zero emit infrared radiation. The sensor contains a photodetector (such as a thermopile, pyroelectric sensor, or photodiode) that absorbs infrared radiation and converts it into an electrical signal. This signal is then amplified and processed by electronic circuitry to provide measurable output. Different types of infrared sensors use various detection methods including thermal detection (measuring temperature changes in the detector material) and photon detection (measuring photon-induced electron transitions in semiconductor materials).
Common Materials
Semiconductor Silicon, Germanium, Thermopile Materials, Pyroelectric Crystals
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Spectral Response RangeRequired7–14 μmThe wavelength range of infrared radiation that the sensor can detect effectively
Field of ViewRequired90–120 degreesThe angular extent of the observable area that the sensor can detect
Response TimeRequired10–50 msTime required for the sensor to respond to changes in infrared radiation
Operating Temperature RangeRequired-40–85 °CTemperature range within which the sensor operates within specified performance limits
SensitivityRequired≥1000 V/WOutput voltage per unit of incident infrared power, indicating detection capability
Supply Voltage3–5 V DCTypical for digital output
Output Signal0–3.3 VAnalog or digital
Detection Distance1–10 mAdjustable via lens
Operating Humidity0–95 %RHNon-condensing
Ingress ProtectionIP54–IP65Dust and water resistantIEC 60529
Housing MaterialABSUV resistant
Weight5–15 gLightweight for easy mounting

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

Components / BOM
  • Infrared Detector Element Part
    Converts incoming infrared radiation into an electrical signal through thermal or photonic effects
    Material: Semiconductor material (Silicon, Germanium) or pyroelectric crystal
  • Optical Filter
    Selectively transmits specific infrared wavelengths while blocking unwanted radiation
    Material: Infrared-transparent materials with dielectric coatings
  • Signal Amplifier
    Amplifies the weak electrical signal from the detector for further processing
    Material: Semiconductor integrated circuit components
  • Housing Part
    Protects internal components from environmental factors and provides mounting interface
    Material: Metal or plastic enclosure with infrared-transparent window
  • Temperature Compensation Circuit
    Compensates for temperature-induced variations in sensor performance
    Material: Semiconductor components and temperature sensors

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Infrared Sensor.

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: 0.8 to 1.2 atm (standard atmospheric range)
other spec: Detection range: 0.1m to 30m, Response time: <100ms, Wavelength: 700nm to 1400nm
temperature: -40°C to +85°C (operating), -55°C to +100°C (storage)
Media Compatibility
✓ Non-contact temperature measurement in HVAC systems ✓ Motion detection in security applications ✓ Level sensing in dry bulk material handling
Unsuitable: Direct immersion in liquids or exposure to condensing humidity without protective housing
Sizing Data Required
  • Required detection distance (m)
  • Target object size and emissivity
  • Environmental conditions (ambient temperature, presence of interfering IR sources)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Lens Contamination
Cause: Accumulation of dust, dirt, oil, or moisture on the infrared lens or protective window, obstructing infrared radiation transmission and causing inaccurate readings or signal loss.
Electronic Drift/Calibration Loss
Cause: Aging of internal electronic components (e.g., detectors, amplifiers), temperature-induced drift, or exposure to environmental extremes, leading to gradual deviation from calibrated accuracy.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Erratic or unstable readings on the display or output signal, indicating potential contamination or electronic failure.
  • Visible condensation, fogging, or physical damage (cracks, scratches) on the sensor lens or housing.
Engineering Tips
  • Implement regular lens cleaning with appropriate solvents and soft materials, and use protective air purges or enclosures in dirty or humid environments.
  • Schedule periodic calibration checks against known standards and ensure stable, clean power supply to minimize electrical stress on components.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 13849-1: Safety of machinery - Safety-related parts of control systems IEC 60947-5-2: Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Control circuit devices and switching elements - Proximity sensors EN 60947-5-2: European standard for proximity sensors (equivalent to IEC 60947-5-2)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Sensing distance tolerance: +/-10% of nominal range
  • Response time: +/-1 ms for high-speed models
Quality Inspection
  • Environmental testing (IP rating validation for dust/water resistance)
  • Electrical performance verification (output signal accuracy under varying conditions)

Manufacturers of Infrared Sensor

7 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Skysorter
Anhui, CN
CE
Also makes: Air Compressor, Filter Assembly, Solenoid Valve and 1 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “High-speed near-infrared sensor:”
View source page ↗ skysorter.com · checked 2026-08-22
Labthink Instruments Co., Ltd.
Jinan, Shandong, CN
ASTM F2338 USP <1207> 21 CFR Part 11 (optional)
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “infrared sensor method”
View source page ↗ en.labthink.com · checked 2026-09-13
GNS Components Limited
Hong Kong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Infrared Sensor”
View source page ↗ ictransistors.com · checked 2026-08-28
Hanwei Electronics Group Corporation
Beijing, CN
Also makes: Gas Panel, Flame Detector, Alarm System and 3 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Cooled Infrared Sensor Module”
View source page ↗ hwsensor.com · checked 2026-08-30
Nordson
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Also makes: Radar Sensor, Control System, Locking Device and 4 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Non touch Exit Infrared Sensor”
View source page ↗ chinanordson.com · checked 2026-09-03
S4A Access Control
Shenzhen, Guangdong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “S4A107 4 Active Infrared Sensor”
View source page ↗ s4a-access.com · checked 2026-09-03
Tianjin G-TEK Sensor Technology Co., Ltd.
Tianjin, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Listed there as: “Infrared sensor”
View source page ↗ gteksensor.com · checked 2026-08-31

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spectral response range of this infrared sensor?

The spectral response range is 7 to 14 μm, which is typical for detecting infrared radiation from objects at ambient temperatures. This range is suitable for non-contact temperature measurement and motion detection. However, the exact range may vary by model, so it is essential to confirm with the manufacturer.

What is the operating temperature range?

The operating temperature range is -40 to 85 °C. This indicates the ambient temperature range within which the sensor operates within specified performance limits. For applications outside this range, consult the manufacturer for suitability.

What is the ingress protection rating?

The ingress protection rating is IP54 to IP65, according to IEC 60529. This indicates the sensor is dust and water resistant to a certain degree. The specific rating depends on the model, so verify with the supplier.

What is the detection distance?

The detection distance is adjustable via lens, ranging from 1 to 10 meters. This allows the sensor to be configured for different application requirements. The actual detection distance may vary based on the target size and environmental conditions.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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