12 May 2020

light sensor advantages and disadvantages

As we know that light sensors are photoelectric devices that convert light energy whether visible or infrared light into some electrical signal.  A light sensor which generates an output signal indicating the intensity of light by measuring the radiant energy that will exist in a very narrow range of frequencies, it is called light. And which ranges in frequency from infrared of visible up to ultraviolet light spectrum. Here this article gives information about the advantages and disadvantages of the light sensor to better understand this topic.

Advantages of the light sensor

  • It is easy to integrate with lighting systems such as automatic lighting systems.
  • LDR based light sensors are available in different shapes and sizes.
  • Flexible solution system.
  • The light sensor needs a small voltage and power for its operation.
  • A variety of set is available. 
  • Design is attractive.
  • It is used for energy consumption or energy management by automatic control of brightness level in mobile phone and auto ON/OFF of street lights based on ambient light intensity.
  • It is integrated into the lighting system.
  • The light sensor needs a small voltage and needs power for its operation.
  • Phototransistor generates high current compare to photodiodes.
  • Expandability.
  • The phototransistor is very fast and provides immediate output as compare to the photoresistor.
  • Photodiodes offer quick response time, lower in cost, and provide a digital output.
  • Energy management, maintenance of light source.

Disadvantages of light sensor:

  • LDR is highly inaccurate with the high response time.
  • The photodiode is temperature sensitive and is unidirectional unlike photoresistor,
  • Resistance varies continuously in photoresistors and is tugged in nature.
  • Photodiodes are temperature sensitive voltage and are unidirectional, unlike photoresistor.
  • High initial investment.
  • Phototransistor can not withstand voltage above 1000 volts.
  • The phototransistor is vulnerable to surges, spikes, and EM energy. 
  • Separation of power circuit and command more connection, more cabling.
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