STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has expanded its portfolio of environmental sensors with the introduction of the UVIS25, the world's first sensor to provide a direct digital output of the Ultraviolet Index (UVI), the international measurement of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun, at a given place and time.
Digital ultra-compact UV sensor from STMicroelectronics
Exposure to UV radiation can affect people in ways that range from temporary sunburn to more serious conditions. UVI was developed, adopted, and standardized in the mid '90s by the World Health Organization and the World Meteorological Organization to provide guidance on exposure to solar UV radiation so that people could take appropriate precautions to avoid harmful effects.
The UVIS25 is a digital ultra-compact UV sensor aimed at all UV-sensing markets, including wearable devices, smartphone and tablet apps, and weather-station equipment. Leveraging patented ST technology, the device is sensitive to UV waves in the 200-400nm range, encompassing the key UV-A (315-400nm) and UV-B (280-315nm) wavelengths that are of greatest concern to human-health effects. Delivering more than just sensing, the UVIS25 calculates the UVI internally, uniquely eliminating the need for external processing algorithms or calibration on the customer's manufacturing line.
"Today, with ozone layer depletion, higher levels of UV radiation reaching the earth's surface are more frequent1. This new UV sensor is yet another demonstration of ST's ability to enable new products and applications; it will help people to be sun-savvy and to live healthier lives," said Francesco Italia, General Manager, High-End Sensor and Analog Division, STMicroelectronics.
Key technical features of the UVIS25 include a UVI output range of 0-15 with a resolution of just 1/16, SPI and I2C interfaces, 1.7 to 3.6 V supply voltage range, and the ability to provide updated UVI values as often as every second. The device is supplied in a 2.5x2.5x0.76 mm LGA-10L transparent molded package.
Samples of the UVIS25 are available now, with volume production scheduled for the end of Q2 2015. Unit pricing is $1.70 for orders of 1,000 pieces.