onsemi QVA11234
- Part No.:
- QVA11234
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package:
- Module, PC Pins, Slot Type
- Datasheet:
-
QVA11234.pdf
- Description:
- SENSOR OPT SLOT PHOTOTRANS MODUL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,698
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Product details
Overview
QVA11234 from Fairchild Semiconductor is a slotted optical switch with 0.125-inch slot width, 5 VDC operating voltage, and 50 mA maximum LED forward current. It provides digital on/off detection via phototransistor output, operates at -40°C to +85°C, and is used in position sensing, end-of-travel detection, and encoder applications.
For engineers reviewing the QVA11234 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include slot geometry compatibility, phototransistor saturation voltage, response time, ambient light immunity, and through-hole mounting requirements for mechanical integration.
Technical Context
The QVA11234 integrates an infrared LED emitter and NPN silicon phototransistor in a single-body, side-looking, slotted package. Detection occurs when an opaque object interrupts the optical path between emitter and detector, causing phototransistor current to drop below threshold.
It features open-collector output with 0.4 V typical saturation voltage at 10 mA collector current, 15 µs turn-on/turn-off times, and 0.125-inch (3.18 mm) nominal slot width optimized for flag-based mechanical actuation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Slot Width | 0.125 inch (3.18 mm) - defines maximum flag thickness and mechanical clearance for reliable actuation |
| Operating Voltage | 5 VDC - standard logic-level supply compatible with microcontroller I/O or dedicated driver circuits |
| LED Forward Current | 50 mA max - sets minimum drive capability required from external current-limiting resistor or driver |
| Output Type | Open-collector NPN phototransistor - enables wired-OR logic, pull-up flexibility, and direct interface to TTL/CMOS inputs |
| Response Time | 15 µs turn-on / 15 µs turn-off - supports position sampling up to ~33 kHz in high-speed encoder or counting applications |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C - ensures stable switching performance across industrial and automotive under-hood environments |
Pinout & Package
QVA11234 uses a 4-pin DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch row spacing and through-hole mounting. Pins are arranged in two parallel rows: emitter anode/cathode and phototransistor collector/emitter.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (A) | IR LED anode | Connect to current-limited 5 V source; requires series resistor to limit forward current to ≤50 mA |
| Cathode (K) | IR LED cathode | Ground reference for LED; polarity-sensitive - reverse connection prevents emission |
| Collector (C) | Phototransistor collector | Open-collector output node; requires external pull-up to define logic HIGH level |
| Emitter (E) | Phototransistor emitter | Ground reference for phototransistor; tied to system ground for proper biasing |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated emitter-detector pair | Eliminates optical alignment during assembly and ensures consistent coupling efficiency over temperature |
| Side-looking slot geometry | Enables compact PCB layout with horizontal flag insertion perpendicular to board plane |
| High-speed switching (15 µs) | Supports real-time motion feedback in motor commutation and high-RPM rotary encoders |
| Wide operating temperature range | Validates reliability in uncontrolled environments such as factory automation panels and HVAC actuators |
Applications
| Printer Paper Jam Detection | Industrial Conveyor End-of-Travel Sensing |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Detect paper presence or obstruction in printer paper path using thin plastic flag interrupting optical slot. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digital presence sensor providing TTL-compatible logic-level output to printer controller MCU. Use Value: Enables immediate stall detection and jam recovery without mechanical switches subject to contact wear or bounce. | Use Scenario: Confirm pallet position at conveyor line endpoint using metal flag mounted on carrier. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Position verification switch interfacing directly with PLC input module via open-collector output. Use Value: Provides noise-immune, non-contact position confirmation with 15 µs response enabling precise stop timing. |
| Rotary Encoder Index Pulse Generation | Automotive Throttle Position Limit Switch |
Use Scenario: Generate once-per-revolution index pulse in incremental encoder disk with radial slot. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed optical interrupter delivering clean digital edge to encoder counter IC or microcontroller timer input. Use Value: Delivers sub-millisecond timing accuracy for homing sequences and absolute position initialization. | Use Scenario: Detect full-open or full-closed throttle plate position in engine control unit housing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Safety-critical mechanical limit sensor providing fail-safe position confirmation to ECU. Use Value: Ensures compliance with functional safety constraints by eliminating reliance on potentiometer-only feedback. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar slotted optical switch applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TTI OPTO11234 | Same 0.125-inch slot, but rated for 70 mA LED current and 100°C max operating temperature | Better suited for high-temperature under-hood automotive use where ambient exceeds 85°C | Select TTI OPTO11234 only if extended temperature operation is required and higher LED drive margin is available |
| Vishay TCST1103 | 0.118-inch slot width, 5 V operation, 50 mA LED rating, but 25 µs response time and different pinout (2-row, 0.4-inch spacing) | Requires PCB layout revision due to wider pin pitch and slower switching; suitable for cost-sensitive low-speed systems | Choose Vishay TCST1103 only when mechanical slot tolerance allows 0.007-inch reduction and timing budget permits 10 µs longer latency |
Compared with QVA11234, TTI OPTO11234 offers extended thermal margin at higher LED current, while Vishay TCST1103 trades speed and pin compatibility for broader distributor availability and lower unit cost in non-timing-critical designs.
Availability
QVA11234 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, printer subsystems, and automotive throttle control requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.
Supply support for QVA11234 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 semiconductor manufacturer, acquired by ON Semiconductor in 2016. Known for robust optoelectronic and discrete device portfolios.
The QVA11234 belongs to Fairchild's slotted optical switch product line, designed specifically for non-contact position and presence detection in electromechanical systems requiring reliability, speed, and mechanical simplicity.
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable LED forward current for QVA11234?
The QVA11234 specifies a maximum LED forward current of 50 mA. Exceeding this value risks accelerated LED degradation and reduced optical coupling efficiency over time. The QVA11234 must be driven with a series current-limiting resistor calculated using the 1.25 V typical forward voltage and applied supply voltage. Derating is recommended for continuous operation above 25°C ambient.
Does QVA11234 require external pull-up on its output?
Yes, QVA11234 has an open-collector NPN phototransistor output and requires an external pull-up resistor to define the logic HIGH state. Typical values range from 2.2 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on rise time requirements and load capacitance. Without a pull-up, the output remains floating and cannot drive downstream logic reliably. This design feature enables flexible voltage-level interfacing in the QVA11234 application circuit.
What is the typical saturation voltage of QVA11234's phototransistor output?
The QVA11234 phototransistor exhibits a typical saturation voltage (VCE(sat)) of 0.4 V at IC = 10 mA and IB = 1 mA. This low voltage drop ensures strong logic LOW assertion compatible with TTL and CMOS inputs. The QVA11234 datasheet confirms this value under standard test conditions and it remains stable across the full operating temperature range.
Can QVA11234 be used in life support systems?
No - Fairchild explicitly prohibits use of the QVA11234 in life support devices or systems without express written approval. The QVA11234 is not certified for surgical implantation, critical patient monitoring, or any application where failure could reasonably cause significant injury. Engineers must select medically qualified components instead of the QVA11234 for such applications.
What mechanical slot dimensions does QVA11234 support?
The QVA11234 features a nominal 0.125-inch (3.18 mm) wide slot with ±0.005-inch tolerance, designed for flag thicknesses up to 0.062 inch. Its side-looking configuration requires flags to pass perpendicularly through the slot. Mechanical integration must maintain flag alignment within ±0.010 inch lateral offset to ensure consistent optical interruption - a requirement verified in the QVA11234 mechanical drawings.
QVA11234 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- QVA
- Package/Case:
- Module, PC Pins, Slot Type
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Sensing Distance:
- 0.125" (3.18mm)
- Sensing Method:
- Through-Beam
- Output Configuration:
- Phototransistor
- Current - DC Forward (If) (Max):
- 50 mA
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- -
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 30 V
- Response Time:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
QVA11234 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for QVA11234 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for QVA11234 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for QVA11234 reliable?
The price and inventory of QVA11234 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for QVA11234 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for QVA11234?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for QVA11234 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for QVA11234?
QVA11234 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your QVA11234 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for QVA11234?
For technical support, including QVA11234 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your QVA11234 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that QVA11234 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All QVA11234 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that QVA11234 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of QVA11234?
All QVA11234 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with QVA11234, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The QVA11234 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for QVA11234:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
QVA11234 Tags

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