Errata for Process Control v1.0 (#122-28176)
Chapter 4 Opto-Reflective Switch Use
Background
The opto-reflective switch is used predominately in Chapter 4 as a means to illustrate sensor
sensitivity and response in relation to the sizing of the pull-up resistor on an Infrared (IR)
phototransistor's collector. This errata note will assist in successfully completing Chapter 4
activities and demonstrating the principles intended.
The principle in operation is that an IR LED emits infrared light which is reflected to the
phototransistor from a white surface in close proximity causing the phototransistor to conduct
within its linear range. A black surface will absorb the IR preventing the transistor from
conducting sufficiently. By adjusting the collector resistance (R
how this value affects both the sensitivity and the response of the sensor and BJT transistors in
general.
Issues relating to the successful completion of Chapter 4 activities using the opto-reflective
switch include:
Recommendations are provided, but it will rely upon the understanding of the principles of those
conducting the experiments to ensure their objectives are being met by adjusting test parameters
as necessary to achieve desired results.
Ambient IR Sources
The phototransistor is extremely sensitive to IR light, and as such, care should be taken to
prevent ambient light sources from affecting the experiment. Sunlight, and in some cases
fluorescent light, can affect measurements of the sensor. Care should be taken to limit these
sources if they appear to be affecting the experiment.
Recommendations
When testing Activity #1, position the reflector approximately 2 cm from the detector and
determine the voltage output of the sensor. Darken the area of the experiment as best as possible
and measure once again. There should be no significant voltage change (< 0.5 V).
• Ambient IR sources.
• Part substitution from authorship to publication.
• Reflectivity of inks.
© Parallax, Inc. • Errata for Process Control v1.0 (#28176)
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v1.0 5/22/06
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) the text intends to illustrate
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