Photodiode Light Detector

This light detector is a current-to-voltage converter. The FET input op-amp prevents the loading of the photodiode and the voltage at the output is proportional to the current in the photodiode. So long as the photodiode response to the light is linear, the output voltage is proportional to the light falling on the photodiode.

Photodiodes

A photodiode consists of an active p-n junction which is operated in reverse bias. When light falls on the junction, a reverse current flows which is proportional to the illuminance. The linear response to light makes it an element in useful photodetectors for some applications. It is also used as the active element in light-activated switches.

Photodiode

The mechanism of the photodiode is like that of a (miniaturized) solar cell. Their response time is fast, on the order of nanoseconds. As light detectors, they are reverse biased - the reverse current is linearly proportional to the illuminance striking the diode. They are not as sensitive as a phototransistor, but their linearity can make them useful in simple light meters.

Photodiode Characteristics

Photodiode Characteristics

The reverse current through a photodiode varies linearly with illuminance once you are significantly above the dark current region.