Vishay Intertechnology (NYSE: VSH) introduced a new short-distance proximity sensor, the VCNL36829UM, targeting consumer wearable and appliance applications, according to a company press release.

The sensor integrates a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL), photodiode, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and 16-bit ADC in a 1.6 mm x 1.0 mm x 0.35 mm transparent mold package. It offers 14-bit proximity resolution, an idle current of 5 μA, a 50 mm operating range, and a typical supply voltage of 1.8 V. Sunlight immunity is rated up to 200 klx.

Vishay states the new device has a 44% smaller volume compared to previous-generation solutions. The VCSEL wavelength peaks at 940 nm. The sensor includes a programmable interrupt function that allows designers to set high and low detection thresholds, reducing continuous microcontroller communication. A smart dual I²C slave address enables connection of two sensors without a multiplexer.

The device is intended for use in true wireless stereo earphones, virtual reality and augmented reality headsets, smart glasses, touchless dispensing systems, and lid-off detection in consumer appliances.

The VCNL36829UM is RoHS-compliant and halogen-free. Samples and production quantities are available, with a lead time of 15 weeks.