I need help understanding how to identify unmarked phototransistors, so I can order extras for a current project. First, I have no formal training in electronics. However, I'm a hopeless science geek who has been dabbling in electronics for over 40years.
My current project is an invention that performs a specific task when triggered by a visible light signal. It's a little along the lines of an opto-coupler but I'm using it for a very unique function in a sports application.
The invention incorporates a simple phototransistor light activated relay circuit that I buy as a pre-assembled board. I don't know the specs on the phototransistor that come mounted on the boards but there are a couple of reasons I need to buy more. I'd appreciate any advice on how to test them so I know what I need.
The other reason I want to know the specs is that I'm looking for phototransistors that can perform similarly with visible light but with less sensitivity to IR. The intended light signal that operates my devices can originate from a variety of possible sources, BUT the signals will always be based on visible green light. Right now, I'm having problems with interference due to ambient IR from sunlight. The equipment must operate outdoors so I need a fix.
I'd like to try a different phototransistor to help minimize IR interference. Ideally, I would like to find a phototransistor that is more responsive to visible light between 525 and 580nm-ish. Are color filters ever used for things like this?
My current phototransistors come already mounted on the boards, so I have to desolder them in order to install them into the specialized sensor assemblies that I build. Sometimes I need spares or extra phototransistors but I don't have any specs to help me buy the right ones.
I've taken a few shots at buying them online but the ones I received were too different to work as a drop in. Once I found some at Radio Shack that worked great, but with no specs! I bought their last few but they have since discontinued that part.
How do you test an unidentified phototransistor to order extra ones from Mouser or Allied, etc.?
My current project is an invention that performs a specific task when triggered by a visible light signal. It's a little along the lines of an opto-coupler but I'm using it for a very unique function in a sports application.
The invention incorporates a simple phototransistor light activated relay circuit that I buy as a pre-assembled board. I don't know the specs on the phototransistor that come mounted on the boards but there are a couple of reasons I need to buy more. I'd appreciate any advice on how to test them so I know what I need.
The other reason I want to know the specs is that I'm looking for phototransistors that can perform similarly with visible light but with less sensitivity to IR. The intended light signal that operates my devices can originate from a variety of possible sources, BUT the signals will always be based on visible green light. Right now, I'm having problems with interference due to ambient IR from sunlight. The equipment must operate outdoors so I need a fix.
I'd like to try a different phototransistor to help minimize IR interference. Ideally, I would like to find a phototransistor that is more responsive to visible light between 525 and 580nm-ish. Are color filters ever used for things like this?
My current phototransistors come already mounted on the boards, so I have to desolder them in order to install them into the specialized sensor assemblies that I build. Sometimes I need spares or extra phototransistors but I don't have any specs to help me buy the right ones.
I've taken a few shots at buying them online but the ones I received were too different to work as a drop in. Once I found some at Radio Shack that worked great, but with no specs! I bought their last few but they have since discontinued that part.
How do you test an unidentified phototransistor to order extra ones from Mouser or Allied, etc.?