EVERLIGHT ITR2010

ITR2010 Overview

 

The ITR2010 from Everlight Electronics is a through-hole, slot-type photointerrupter. It integrates an infrared emitting diode (IRED) and a phototransistor in a single package, aligned across a 5 mm slot. When an object passes through the slot and interrupts the infrared beam, it triggers a change in the phototransistor's output — allowing for accurate and fast detection of objects without physical contact.

 

Its simple yet rugged design makes it ideal for many mechanical, optical, and industrial sensing tasks. The ITR2010 is a versatile, high-performance, and economical optical sensor component, ideal for non-contact object detection across industries — from office electronics to heavy industrial systems. Its speed, precision, and ruggedness make it a go-to choice for design engineers needing reliable mechanical feedback.

 

ITR2010 Features

 

1. Fast Response Time

How: Thanks to the high-speed infrared emitter and sensitive phototransistor, the ITR2010 can react almost immediately when the beam is interrupted. Benefit: Perfect for detecting fast-moving objects, such as in conveyor belts or rotating mechanical parts.

 

2. High Sensitivity

How: The internal phototransistor can detect very small differences in infrared light levels. Benefit: Enables detection of even thin or semi-transparent materials, not just opaque objects.

 

3. Ambient Light Shielding

How: The U-shaped plastic housing is designed to block unwanted light sources (like room lighting or sunlight) from interfering with detection. Benefit: High stability and reliability even in brightly lit environments, both indoor and outdoor.

 

4. Standard Slot Width (5mm)

How: A moderate slot width allows a wide range of objects — from small pins to broader materials — to interrupt the beam. Benefit: Flexibility in usage, especially when design tolerances are tight.

 

5. Environmentally Friendly

How: Certified RoHS compliant, meaning no hazardous substances like lead are used. Benefit: Safer for manufacturers, consumers, and the environment.

 

6. Ease of Integration

How: The DIP-4 through-hole package is designed for wave soldering and mechanical stability. Benefit: Simplifies mounting during production, reduces mechanical stress, and increases lifetime.

 

7. Mechanical Robustness

How: The plastic housing provides structural strength and precise optical alignment. Benefit: Excellent mechanical endurance against vibration, shocks, or physical stress.

 

8. Long Operational Life

How: Solid-state devices inside with minimal wear and tear. Benefit: Guarantees consistent performance over hundreds of thousands of operational cycles.

 

In-Depth Applications of ITR2010

 

1. Printers and Copiers
Usage: Detect paper presence, end of paper trays, or jam conditions. How it works: As the paper interrupts the beam, the printer can sense feeding status.

 

2. Optical Encoders
Usage: Detect rotary or linear position. How it works: An encoder disk with holes or slots interrupts the beam in a pattern, translating motion into an electrical signal.

 

3. Computer Peripherals (Mice, Scanners)
Usage: Track wheel movements or sliding parts. How it works: Internal parts block the beam during movement to create input signals.

 

4. Robotics
Usage: Position sensing, object detection, safety switches. How it works: Detects the presence of arms, trays, or components reaching a certain position.

 

5. Industrial Automation
Usage: Conveyor belt monitoring, part counting, or quality control. How it works: Tracks passing parts or objects on a moving line for sorting, labeling, or packaging.

 

6. Gaming and Vending Machines
Usage: Coin validation, prize delivery detection. How it works: Detects when coins drop through the machine or when prizes are dispensed.

 

7. Home Appliances
Usage: Safety locks, lid open/close detection. How it works: Senses if the appliance door or lid is properly closed before operation (e.g., washing machines, microwaves).

 

8. Medical Devices
Usage: Safe position detection. How it works: Ensures medical equipment parts like trays or arms are correctly positioned before activating functions.

 

9. Automotive Applications
Usage: Seat adjustment sensing, window closure detection. How it works: Verifies the presence or absence of motion in automated systems.