ROHM Expands NIR LED Portfolio for Sensing Applications

ROHM Semiconductor has expanded its lineup of surface-mount near-infrared (NIR) LEDs with new compact top-view types optimized for integration into space-constrained devices. The expanded portfolio addresses requirements in virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), biosensing, and industrial sensing applications.

As demand increases for NIR sensing in eye tracking, gesture recognition, iris scanning, and blood oxygen monitoring, developers face growing constraints around footprint, power consumption, and ambient light performance. At the same time, the use of NIR in industrial environments continues to grow, supporting functions such as optical position detection and self-checkout object sensing. In response, ROHM has introduced six new LED models that combine high radiant intensity with greater design flexibility across a range of wavelengths and package sizes.

The expanded lineup includes two ultra-compact models (1.0 mm × 0.6 mm, thickness 0.2 mm) in the PICOLED™ series—SML-P14RW and SML-P14R3W—along with four 1.6 mm × 0.8 mm options. These include narrow-beam circular lens types (CSL0902RT, CSL0902R3T) and wide-angle flat lens types (CSL1002RT, CSL1002R3T). Each model is available in either 850 nm (860 nm for the SML-P14RW) or 940 nm wavelengths, supporting use cases with different optical and photodetection requirements.

ROHM’s proprietary emission layer structure, developed through in-house NIR device manufacturing expertise, enables high radiant output in compact form factors. For example, the SML-P14RW offers approximately 1.4 times the radiant intensity of standard 1006-size devices at the same drive current—or equivalent performance with 30% less power consumption. These improvements contribute to system-level sensing precision and energy efficiency.

Typical applications include VR/AR headsets, biosensing devices such as pulse oximeters, self-checkout and mobile printers, remote controls, and optical detection systems in industrial automation.

The new NIR LEDs are available through authorized distributors including DigiKey™, Mouser™, and Farnell™. The company also offers complementary NIR-sensitive phototransistors for integrated emitter-detector system designs.

View the full product lineup here.

About ROHM Semiconductor

ROHM Semiconductor develops and manufactures a wide range of ICs, discretes, and optoelectronic components supporting applications in automotive, industrial, and consumer markets. The company’s vertically integrated model and in-house process technologies support high-reliability sensing, power, and control solutions. ROHM’s NIR LED and phototransistor portfolio supports advanced optical systems requiring compact size, radiant efficiency, and application-specific wavelength options.

Source/Photo Credit:  ROHM Semiconductor

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