Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division TCUT1800X01

Overview

TCUT1800X01 from Vishay Semiconductors is a quad-channel transmissive optical sensor with phototransistor outputs, designed for absolute and incremental encoding. It integrates two 950 nm infrared emitters and four discrete phototransistor detectors in a single surface-mount package with a 3 mm gap and 0.3 mm aperture, delivering 1.3 mA typical output current per channel at IF = 15 mA and VCE = 5 V - used in automotive position sensing and motion detection.

For engineers reviewing the TCUT1800X01 datasheet, TCUT1800X01 pinout, TCUT1800X01 application, or TCUT1800X01 equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, 4-channel independent output capability, -40 °C to +105 °C operating range, compact 5.7 × 5.9 × 7.1 mm SMD footprint, and daylight-blocking filter absence requiring external ambient light mitigation.

Technical Context

The TCUT1800X01 implements a dual-emitter, quad-detector transmissive architecture where each phototransistor channel operates independently with VCEO = 20 V, ICEO ≤ 100 nA at 25 V, and switching times (tr/tf) of 9–150 μs under RL = 100 Ω load. Its optical alignment enables precise edge detection across horizontal and vertical shutter displacements up to ±1.2 mm and ±4.5 mm respectively.

It supports encoder applications via four synchronized analog current outputs - not logic-level digital signals - requiring external signal conditioning (e.g., comparators or ADCs) to resolve 4-bit (16-position) absolute states or quadrature-based direction/speed information. The device lacks integrated hysteresis or Schmitt-triggering, necessitating external circuitry for noise-immune digital conversion.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Surface-mount, 8-pin DIP-style molded housing (5.7 × 5.9 × 7.1 mm), with two unconnected (n.c.) pins. Optical axes aligned for horizontal/vertical shutter detection; emitter and detector domes positioned face-to-face across 3 mm gap.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transmissive optical encoder applications.

Compared with TCUT1630X01 and TCUT1810X01, the TCUT1800X01 offers balanced performance for enclosed automotive and industrial encoders - delivering quad-channel resolution without daylight-filter overhead, making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained designs where ambient light is mechanically blocked.

Availability

TCUT1800X01 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive gear position sensing, industrial rotary encoder modules, motor speed and direction detection, and linear motion feedback systems requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TCUT1800X01 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

Vishay Intertechnology is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and passive components, specializing in high-reliability optoelectronics, power MOSFETs, and precision resistors.

The TCUT1800X01 belongs to Vishay's transmissive optical sensor product line, engineered specifically for robust position and motion sensing in automotive and industrial encoder applications demanding AEC-Q101 compliance and precise optical alignment.

FAQ

What is the optical configuration of the TCUT1800X01?

The TCUT1800X01 features a face-to-face transmissive configuration with two infrared emitters (950 nm) and four phototransistor detectors arranged in a single surface-mount package. Its 3 mm optical gap and 0.3 mm aperture enable precise detection of mechanical shutters, and the top-view layout (Document 84243, Fig. 15–17) shows defined channel offsets for horizontal and vertical displacement sensing. The TCUT1800X01 does not include a daylight-blocking filter.

Does the TCUT1800X01 provide digital or analog outputs?

The TCUT1800X01 provides analog current outputs - each of its four phototransistors delivers a collector current proportional to incident IR intensity (e.g., 1.3 mA typical per channel at IF = 15 mA). These open-collector outputs require external pull-up resistors and signal conditioning (e.g., comparators or ADCs) to generate digital position or quadrature signals. The TCUT1800X01 itself does not perform internal digitization or logic-level conversion.

Is the TCUT1800X01 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, the TCUT1800X01 is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for operation from -40 °C to +105 °C ambient temperature, making it suitable for under-hood and cabin-mounted automotive applications such as gear position sensing and throttle pedal monitoring. Its MSL 1 rating and lead-free reflow compatibility further support automotive manufacturing requirements. The TCUT1800X01 has been validated per JEDEC J-STD-020 standards.

How many pins does the TCUT1800X01 have, and which are unused?

The TCUT1800X01 uses an 8-pin surface-mount package with six functional terminals: E1 and E2 (emitter anodes), and C1–C4 (phototransistor collectors). Two pins are marked "n.c." (no connection) and must remain unconnected in the PCB layout to prevent optical crosstalk or electrical interference. The datasheet explicitly prohibits connecting n.c. pins to any circuit node.

What is the maximum forward current rating for the TCUT1800X01 emitters?

The TCUT1800X01 emitters are rated for a maximum forward current (IF) of 25 mA at ambient temperatures ≤ 95 °C, with a surge rating of 200 mA for pulses ≤ 10 μs. Continuous operation above 15 mA increases thermal load and may reduce long-term reliability; the typical operating point specified in the datasheet is IF = 15 mA, yielding 1.3 mA collector current per phototransistor channel. Exceeding 25 mA risks permanent damage to the IR emitters.