Vishay VCNL36829UM Proximity Sensor Draws 5 µA at Idle

Vishay Intertechnology has introduced the VCNL36829UM, a fully integrated short-distance proximity sensor for wear detection and other consumer applications. Built around a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), the sensor provides a 50 mm detection range and 14-bit proximity resolution while drawing just 5 µA in its idle state.

The VCNL36829UM integrates the VCSEL, photodiode, ASIC and 16-bit ADC in a 1.6 mm × 1.0 mm × 0.35 mm transparent mold package, which Vishay says is 44% smaller by volume than its previous-generation solutions. Sunlight immunity reaches 200 klx, supporting proximity detection in high ambient light conditions.

The sensor is designed for wear detection in true wireless stereo earphones, VR and AR headsets and smart glasses. Other applications include touchless dispensing and lid-off detection in consumer appliances.

Dual I²C Address Supports Two-Sensor Designs

A smart dual I²C slave address allows two proximity sensors to be connected without requiring a multiplexer. The I²C bus operates from 1.08 V to 3.6 V, while the sensor itself has a supply voltage range of 1.65 V to 2.0 V.

The VCNL36829UM also includes a programmable interrupt function with configurable high and low thresholds. This reduces the need for continuous communication between the sensor and microcontroller, which can lower system power consumption in battery-powered applications.

Its integrated VCSEL operates at a peak wavelength of 940 nm with a maximum drive current of 18 mA. Vishay specifies that the emitter has no visible red tail.

Crosstalk Management in a Compact Package

An isolation wall is incorporated into the package to provide crosstalk immunity between the emitter and detector. Intelligent cancellation further reduces crosstalk, while a smart persistence scheme supports accurate sensing and faster response times.

These functions are integrated alongside the VCSEL, photodiode, ASIC and ADC within the 1.6 mm × 1.0 mm footprint.

The VCNL36829UM is RoHS-compliant, halogen-free and Vishay Green. Samples and production quantities are available now, with lead times of 15 weeks.

Learn more and read the original announcement at vishay.com.

Technology Overview

A VCSEL is a semiconductor laser that emits light perpendicular to the surface of the chip. In a proximity sensor, the emitter sends infrared light toward a nearby object and the photodiode detects reflected light.

The VCNL36829UM uses a 940 nm VCSEL together with an integrated photodiode, ASIC and ADC. Its isolation wall and crosstalk cancellation functions are intended to limit unwanted optical coupling between the emitter and detector.

FAQ

What is the Vishay VCNL36829UM?

The VCNL36829UM is a fully integrated short-distance proximity sensor combining a 940 nm VCSEL, photodiode, ASIC and 16-bit ADC in a 1.6 mm × 1.0 mm × 0.35 mm package.

What is the detection range of the VCNL36829UM?

The VCNL36829UM has a proximity detection range of 50 mm, 14-bit proximity resolution and sunlight immunity up to 200 klx. Its idle supply current is 5 µA.

What applications is the VCNL36829UM designed for?

Vishay targets the sensor at wear detection in TWS earphones, VR and AR headsets and smart glasses. It can also be used for touchless dispensing and lid-off detection in consumer appliances.