A good view for security cameras: infrared LED provides light for razor sharp images

New SFH 4718A cuts the size and cost of illumination units for CCTV systems

Osram Opto Semiconductors is expanding its proven Oslon Black portfolio for infrared illumination with the addition of an infrared LED with a narrower beam angle of ± 25°. Thanks to the new SFH 4718A IRED, illumination units for camera systems with a medium capture range no longer require secondary optics. The Oslon Black family now offers a wide selection for the most varied of infrared-based applications, taking in four power classes, three wavelengths and three beam angles. 

“With the addition of the SFH 4718A, the Oslon Black portfolio now comprises three wavelengths (810 nm, 850 nm and 940 nm) and three beam angles (±25°, ±45° and ±75°). These are flanked by four different power levels, with optical outputs ranging from 0.3 W right through to 2 W”, said Jörg Heerlein, Marketing Emitter Laser Sensor at Osram Opto Semiconductors. “Since all the products are based on the same package, the emitters are easy to combine. And since the footprint remains identical, an existing design can also be easily upgraded with a new variant.” 

The Oslon Black series from Osram Opto Semiconductors spans all types of infrared illumination. Key applications include the illumination of areas monitored by closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems using infrared light. CCTV is used, for instance, to monitor public spaces, parking lots and company premises, as well as museums and bank foyers. Adding infrared illumination ensures that the camera delivers high-quality images regardless of the prevailing light conditions. The IRED can also be used for automatic license plate recognition systems.

In the low output range a new version with a narrower beam angle of ±25° is now available on the market. Particularly for camera systems with a medium capture range this means that the illumination unit can be designed without additional secondary optics. This makes the overall system more compact and cost-effective. At the same time, the SFH 4718A provides an excellent radiant intensity of 730 W/sr. At a current of 1 amp, the IRED offers an optical output of 0.8 watts (W). Their 850 nm wavelength is barely discernible by humans, but lies firmly within the sensitivity range of the camera sensors.

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