What is the peak wavelength of SMD IR LEDs?
As a supplier of SMD IR LEDs, I've encountered numerous inquiries about the peak wavelength of these components. Understanding the peak wavelength is crucial for various applications, from security systems to consumer electronics. In this blog post, I'll delve into the concept of peak wavelength, its significance, and how it relates to our SMD IR LED products.
Understanding Peak Wavelength
The peak wavelength of an SMD IR LED refers to the specific wavelength at which the LED emits the maximum amount of infrared light. It is typically measured in nanometers (nm). Different applications require different peak wavelengths, and this is where the importance of choosing the right SMD IR LED comes into play.
Infrared light is divided into different regions based on its wavelength: near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and far-infrared (FIR). SMD IR LEDs commonly operate in the near-infrared region, with peak wavelengths ranging from around 700 nm to 1100 nm. The two most common peak wavelengths for SMD IR LEDs are 850 nm and 940 nm.
Significance of Peak Wavelength
The choice of peak wavelength depends on the specific application of the SMD IR LED. Here are some factors to consider:
- Visibility and Detection
- 850 nm LEDs emit a faint red glow that is visible in low-light conditions. This can be an advantage in some applications, such as security cameras, where the faint glow can act as a deterrent. However, in applications where complete invisibility is required, 940 nm LEDs are preferred as they emit light that is completely invisible to the human eye.
- Transmission and Absorption
- Different materials have different absorption and transmission characteristics at various wavelengths. For example, water has a high absorption rate at certain infrared wavelengths. In applications where the IR light needs to pass through a medium, such as glass or plastic, the choice of peak wavelength can affect the efficiency of transmission.
- Sensor Compatibility
- Many infrared sensors are designed to be most sensitive to specific wavelengths. When using SMD IR LEDs in conjunction with sensors, it is important to choose a peak wavelength that matches the sensor's sensitivity for optimal performance.
Our SMD IR LED Products and Their Peak Wavelengths
At our company, we offer a wide range of SMD IR LEDs with different peak wavelengths to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Here are some of our popular products:


- 3535 IR LED
- This SMD IR LED is available in both 850 nm and 940 nm peak wavelengths. It offers high radiant intensity and is suitable for applications such as CCTV cameras, access control systems, and proximity sensors.
- 0805 Infrared Chip Led
- The 0805 Infrared Chip Led is a compact and energy-efficient option. It comes in a 940 nm peak wavelength, making it ideal for applications where invisibility is crucial, such as in mobile devices for proximity sensing.
- 1206 IR Infrared LED
- Available in both 850 nm and 940 nm, the 1206 IR Infrared LED is a versatile component. It has a relatively high power output and is commonly used in infrared illumination for security and surveillance systems.
Factors Affecting Peak Wavelength
It's important to note that the peak wavelength of an SMD IR LED can be affected by several factors:
- Temperature
- As the temperature of the LED changes, the peak wavelength can shift. Generally, as the temperature increases, the peak wavelength tends to shift towards the longer wavelength side. This phenomenon is known as thermal wavelength shift.
- Drive Current
- The drive current applied to the LED can also have an impact on the peak wavelength. Higher drive currents can cause a slight shift in the peak wavelength, usually towards the longer wavelength side.
Testing and Quality Assurance
To ensure the accuracy of the peak wavelength of our SMD IR LEDs, we have a rigorous testing and quality assurance process in place. We use advanced testing equipment to measure the peak wavelength and other optical parameters of each LED. Only LEDs that meet our strict quality standards are released to the market.
Conclusion
The peak wavelength of SMD IR LEDs is a critical parameter that determines their suitability for different applications. Whether you need an 850 nm LED for visible deterrence or a 940 nm LED for complete invisibility, we have the right product for you. Our wide range of SMD IR LEDs, including the 3535 IR LED, 0805 Infrared Chip Led, and 1206 IR Infrared LED, offers high-quality and reliable solutions for various industries.
If you are interested in our SMD IR LED products or have any questions about peak wavelength or other technical aspects, please feel free to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the best solution for your specific requirements.
References
- "Infrared LEDs: Principles and Applications" - A technical guide on infrared LED technology.
- "Optical Characteristics of Semiconductor LEDs" - Research paper on the optical properties of LEDs, including peak wavelength.
