New Miniaturized Reflective Optical Sensor Features Surface-Mount Design for Space-Efficient, High-Speed Assembly

MALVERN, PENNSYLVANIA-April 20, 2001-A new reflective optical sensor that incorporates a miniaturized profile and a surface-mountable design well suited for the high-speed assembly of space-constrained end products was released today by Vishay Intertechnology (NYSE: VSH).

Housed in a package with dimensions of 3.4 mm by 2.7 mm and a height profile of just 1.5 mm, the Vishay Telefunken TCaNT1000 integrates an infrared emitting light source and a phototransistor detector, positioned side by side to enable the detection of varied materials and objects across a defined distance range. Designed for object detection, the new device is optimized for use in code wheels, shaft encoders, counting or metering systems, copy machines, printers, and fax machines, or any other product that requires the sensing of reflective materials such as paper, IBM cards, or magnetic tape.

With an operating wavelength of 950 nm, the TCNT1000 is capable of sensing objects within the recommended distance of 1 mm to the sensor. Compatible with the CECC00802 Table 1, Class B or C soldering specification, the device is optimized for the reflow soldering process.

In a market that is placing rising emphasis on the automated construction of increasingly compact products, the demand for components that are compatible with high-precision automated assembly is considerable-and the TCNT1000 meets this demand. As a surface-mountable device delivered in tape and reel packaging, the TCNT1000 is ideal for the high-speed pick and place assembly of even the most compact products.

Samples and production quantities of the TCNT1000 reflective optical sensor are available now. The devices will be shipped in reels of 2000 pieces, with a lead time for larger orders of six to eight weeks.

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors (diodes, rectifiers, transistors, and optoelectronics and selected ICs) and passive electronic components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, sensors, and transducers). These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment, in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Its product innovations, successful acquisition strategy, and ability to provide "one-stop shop" service have made Vishay a global industry leader. Vishay can be found on the Internet at http://www.vishay.com.