Photodiodes and Phototransistors.docVIP

3.4 Photodiodes and Phototransistors. Photodiodes and phototransistors are used extensively to detect light pulses and convert them into digital electrical signals. In an optical fibre network these signals can be used directly by computers or converted into analog voice signals in a telephone. Light meters or sensors on cameras use photodiodes. One of the most common uses is in CD or DVD players to pick up the signal reflected from the digital encoding on the disc. Figure 3.16.Optical signal recovery from a CD using a photodiode. A photodiode is ideal for very fast signals but gives a much lower output signal. The phototransistor is used in the kit as it provides an amplified signal output and the signals studied tend to be relatively slow. Figure 3.17 Structure of a photodiode, symbol and a negative bias operating circuit All PN junctions are light sensitive. When a photon strikes the junction in a photodiode electrons are released and the formation of (positive) holes occurs. If the two sides of the junction are connected a current flows. A photodiode is constructed from layers of p and n type silicon housed to allow light to strike the junction. Figure 3.18 Phototransistor structure, symbol and operating circuit In a phototransistor photons strike the base region of the transistor. This causes current to flow through the collector/emitter circuit and in effect amplification occurs. The base connection is not usually connected. Phototransistors, figure 3.19 come in a variety of forms and may resemble a LED with only two leads. Try the device both ways round. Figure 3.19 Phototransistor pin outs Refer to figure 3.18 and build the circuit on the breadboard so the phototransistor faces the white LED on the optical table as shown in figure 3.20. The phototransistor is a BPX 43 and the pin out is shown in figure 3.19. Start off with R1 at 1M( and record the voltage level on the meter. If the phot