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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between IR LED and Photodiode?

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The main difference between an IR LED and a photodiode is their function: an IR LED emits infrared light, while a photodiode detects incoming light and converts it into an electrical current. Here are some key points about each component:

IR LED:

  • Emits light in the range of IR (infrared) of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum.
  • Operates in the wavelength range of 700 nm to 1 mm.
  • Commonly used in electronics, remote controls for televisions and other electronics, and IR cameras.

Photodiode:

  • A semiconductor device with a p-n junction that can convert photons into electrical current.
  • Detects incoming light and converts it into an electrical current.

In summary, an IR LED is a device that emits infrared light, while a photodiode is a semiconductor device that detects incoming light and converts it into an electrical current.

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  • What is the Difference Between IR LED and Photodiode?
  • Comparative Table: IR LED vs Photodiode

    • Comparative Table: IR LED vs Photodiode

    The main difference between an IR LED and a photodiode is their functionality and the type of energy they convert. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two:

    Property IR LED (Infrared Light-Emitting Diode) Photodiode
    Outcome Emits light (specifically, infrared light) Converts light into electrical current
    Function Source of light in the range of IR of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum Detector of incoming light, converting it into electrical current
    P-N Junction Yes Yes
    Semiconductor Material Material used to manufacture IR LEDs is different from photodiodes Material used to manufacture photodiodes includes silicon, germanium, and indium gallium arsenide

    IR LEDs are devices that emit light in the range of IR of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum, while photodiodes are semiconductor devices having a p-n junction that can convert photons into electrical current.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.