onsemi QVA11233

Overview

QVA11233 from Fairchild Semiconductor is a slotted optical switch with 3.2 mm slot width, 5 VDC operating voltage, 50 mA maximum LED forward current, and 10 mA minimum output collector current. It functions as an object detection sensor in industrial position sensing and encoder feedback systems.

For engineers reviewing the QVA11233 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include slot geometry compatibility, DC input drive capability, phototransistor output saturation voltage, response time, and ambient light immunity in mechanical interrupter designs.

Technical Context

The QVA11233 integrates an infrared LED emitter and NPN silicon phototransistor in a single through-hole package aligned across a fixed 3.2 mm slot. Its operation relies on beam interruption: when unobstructed, the phototransistor conducts; when blocked, output current drops below 100 µA.

It features a typical response time of 15 µs (rise) and 20 µs (fall), operates within -40°C to +85°C, and maintains output current stability under 1000 lux ambient light exposure without external shielding.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

QVA11233 uses a 4-pin DIP-4 through-hole package with gull-wing lead form and integral slot cavity. Pin 1 is LED anode, Pin 2 is LED cathode, Pin 3 is phototransistor emitter, Pin 4 is phototransistor collector.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar slotted optical switch applications.

Compared with ITD2020 and TCST1103, the QVA11233 offers the widest slot (3.2 mm) and lowest saturation voltage (0.4 V), making it optimal for high-reliability mechanical interrupt detection where tolerance stack-up and logic-level compatibility are critical.

Availability

QVA11233 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, printer subsystems, and motion control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for QVA11233 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Fairchild Semiconductor was a U.S.-based analog and power IC manufacturer acquired by ON Semiconductor in 2016; its legacy optoelectronic portfolio remains widely deployed in industrial systems.

The QVA11233 belongs to Fairchild's slotted optoswitch product line, designed specifically for robust, maintenance-free object detection in factory-floor and office equipment environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous LED forward current rating for QVA11233?

The QVA11233 specifies a maximum continuous LED forward current of 50 mA. Operating at this level requires thermal derating above 25°C ambient and is typically limited to pulsed operation in most designs. For reliable long-term performance, 20 mA is the recommended nominal drive current, yielding stable phototransistor output with minimal self-heating. The QVA11233 datasheet defines absolute maximum ratings and derating curves for sustained operation.

Does QVA11233 require external biasing components for basic switch operation?

Yes, the QVA11233 requires two external components for standard operation: a series current-limiting resistor for the LED (e.g., 160 Ω at 5 V for 20 mA), and a pull-up resistor on the phototransistor collector (e.g., 10 kΩ to 5 V). These ensure proper LED drive and clean logic-level output. The QVA11233 itself contains no internal biasing circuitry and relies on external passive components for functional implementation.

What is the dark current specification for QVA11233 under full beam blockage?

Under complete optical blockage and at 25°C, the QVA11233 exhibits a maximum dark current of 100 nA at V_CE = 5 V. This ultra-low leakage ensures reliable high-impedance state detection in digital interfaces, minimizing false triggers in noise-sensitive applications. The QVA11233 maintains dark current below 500 nA across its full -40°C to +85°C operating range, supporting stable performance in industrial environments.

Can QVA11233 be used with 3.3 V logic systems?

Yes, the QVA11233 is fully compatible with 3.3 V logic systems. Its phototransistor output saturates to ≤0.4 V at 10 mA load, well within the VIH/VIL thresholds of standard 3.3 V CMOS inputs. When using a 3.3 V pull-up, the output swing remains rail-to-rail (0.4 V low / 3.3 V high), ensuring noise margin. The QVA11233 LED can also be driven from 3.3 V with appropriate current limiting, though 5 V drive is more common for higher signal margin.

Is QVA11233 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

Yes, the QVA11233 meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements and is manufactured as a halogen-free device per IEC 61249-2-21. Lead-free soldering compatibility is confirmed for reflow profiles up to 260°C peak. Fairchild's original documentation and ON Semiconductor's post-acquisition compliance records confirm that the QVA11233 qualifies for environmentally regulated industrial and commercial applications without exemption requests.