An automotive qualified ambient light sensor that can measure incident light levels down to 0.01 lux with near human eye spectral response, has been developed by Intersil Corporation. The ISL76671 is claimed as the industry’s first low light ambient light sensor (ALS) that operates within the automotive temperature range of -40 0C to 105 0C; guaranteeing reliable performance without external temperature compensation.
The sensor features internal temperature compensation, fast 30 millisecond response time and good infrared (IR) rejection. The ALS operates from a 1.8V to 3.0V supply with an ultra-low operating current of less than 4uA, and its voltage output can be connected directly to an ADC without buffering. It is available in a small 2.1mm by 2.1mm package, and is an ideal solution for light detection behind darkened glass and plastic bezels in a wide range of light-based applications.
