PS11.9-5-TO5 First Sensor Diode (Other) In Stock
The PS11.9-5-TO5 is a silicon photodiode from First Sensor optimised for visible-to-near-infrared light detection, featuring an active area of approximately 11.9 mm² and a 5 V bias supply in a hermetic TO-5 metal package. It serves precision optical sensing, photometry, and scientific instrumentation applications requiring stable low-noise performance.
- Manufacturer
- First Sensor
- Package
- Other
- Pin Count
- 2
- Lifecycle
- CONTACT MANUFACTURER
- Datasheet
- PS11.9-5-TO5 Datasheet PDF
- Category
- Diode
- RoHS
- Compliant
- Lead Time
- 3–7 business days
- Shipping
- DHL Express · Worldwide
Key Features
- 11.9 mm² active area provides high photosensitivity for low-light detection in photometric instruments
- Hermetic TO-5 metal package delivers superior protection against humidity and mechanical stress in harsh environments
- 5 V bias operation compatible with standard analog front-end circuits without additional supply conversion
- Silicon photodiode construction offers broad spectral response from visible to near-infrared wavelengths
Applications
The PS11.9-5-TO5 photodiode is used in precision photometric instruments, spectroscopy systems, and laboratory light-measurement equipment where a large 11.9 mm² active area and low dark current are essential. Its hermetic TO-5 package makes it equally suited for industrial optical sensors, medical diagnostic devices, and aerospace applications that demand long-term stability and protection from environmental contaminants.
Compliance & Regulatory
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Lead-Free | Yes (Pb-Free) |
Alternate & Equivalent Parts
No known alternates. Submit an RFQ and our team can suggest alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What active area does the PS11.9-5-TO5 photodiode provide, and why does it matter for low-light detection?
The PS11.9-5-TO5 has an active sensing area of approximately 11.9 mm², which collects significantly more photons per unit time than smaller photodiodes. This larger area translates directly into higher photocurrent at low illuminance levels, reducing the gain requirements of the transimpedance amplifier and improving signal-to-noise ratio in photometric instruments operating below 1 µW/cm².
How does the hermetic TO-5 package benefit the PS11.9-5-TO5 in harsh or outdoor environments?
The TO-5 metal can package creates a hermetically sealed enclosure that prevents moisture ingress, dust contamination, and chemical exposure from degrading the 11.9 mm² silicon die. This construction maintains dark current stability over years of operation and extends the sensor's service life in outdoor weather stations, industrial process monitors, and space-rated optical assemblies where open-cavity devices would fail within months.
At what bias voltage does the PS11.9-5-TO5 operate, and how does that affect circuit design?
The PS11.9-5-TO5 operates at a 5 V reverse bias, which is directly compatible with standard single-supply transimpedance amplifier circuits powered from a common 5 V rail. At this bias level, junction capacitance is reduced compared to zero-bias operation, extending the -3 dB bandwidth and enabling faster pulse detection in scanning and time-of-flight measurement systems.
Which alternative First Sensor photodiode should an engineer consider if a smaller footprint than the TO-5 is needed?
Engineers needing a smaller package than the TO-5 metal can should evaluate First Sensor photodiodes in SMD or TO-18 packages, which offer active areas from 1 mm² to 7 mm² while retaining silicon spectral coverage from 400 nm to 1100 nm. Selecting a smaller area trades some photosensitivity for reduced PCB real estate and lower package capacitance, which is beneficial when bandwidth above 10 MHz is required.
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