Vishay Semiconductor Opto Division VEMD2503X01

Overview

VEMD2503X01 from Vishay Semiconductors is a silicon PIN photodiode in a reverse gullwing surface-mount package with dome lens, optimized for high-speed visible and near-infrared detection (350–1120 nm), 10 μA reverse light current at 950 nm, ±35° half-sensitivity angle, and 100 ns rise/fall time - deployed in optical switches and light curtains.

For engineers reviewing the VEMD2503X01 datasheet, VEMD2503X01 pinout, VEMD2503X01 application, or VEMD2503X01 equivalent, key selection criteria include spectral bandwidth (350–1120 nm), radiant sensitivity (10 μA @ 950 nm, 5 V), thermal stability (−40 to +100 °C operating range), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.

Technical Context

The VEMD2503X01 operates as a photovoltaic/photocurrent-mode detector under reverse bias, delivering fast transient response (tr/tf = 100 ns) due to low junction capacitance (1.3 pF @ 5 V) and small active area (0.23 mm²). Its dome lens enhances angular uniformity and couples efficiently with Vishay's VSMB2943X01 IR emitter series.

Designed for ambient-temperature-stable operation, it exhibits a −2.6 mV/K temperature coefficient on open-circuit voltage and +0.1 %/K on short-circuit current, enabling predictable performance across −40 to +100 °C without active compensation in many industrial sensing applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Reverse gullwing SMD (RGW), 2.3 × 2.3 × 2.55 mm, clear epoxy dome lens, MSL 2a (4-week floor life).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar photodiode applications.

Compared with VEMD2503X01, VEMD2523X01 offers identical optical performance but demands a different SMT footprint, while TEMDF1000 trades speed and qualification for higher responsivity in non-automotive, lower-bandwidth uses.

Availability

VEMD2503X01 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical switch detection, light curtain safety systems, and industrial encoder position sensing requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and automotive-grade qualification.

Supply support for VEMD2503X01 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 Semiconductors is a global leader in discrete semiconductors and passive components, specializing in high-reliability optoelectronics, power MOSFETs, and precision resistors.

The VEMD2503X01 belongs to Vishay's high-speed silicon PIN photodiode product line, engineered for robust, repeatable optical sensing in automotive, industrial automation, and safety-critical systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for VEMD2503X01?

The VEMD2503X01 has an absolute maximum reverse voltage rating of 60 V. Operation above this value risks permanent junction breakdown. For reliable linear photocurrent response, Vishay recommends biasing at ≤5 V - where junction capacitance is minimized (1.3 pF) and dark current remains low (≤10 nA). The VEMD2503X01 datasheet specifies 32 V breakdown voltage at 100 μA leakage, confirming safe operation within standard 5 V or 12 V optical receiver rails.

Is VEMD2503X01 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, the VEMD2503X01 is AEC-Q101 qualified, meaning it has passed rigorous stress tests for automotive electronics including temperature cycling, high-temperature reverse bias, and humidity testing. Its −40 to +100 °C operating range, Pb-free reflow compatibility, and MSL 2a handling make it suitable for cabin sensors, seatbelt pretensioner triggers, and ADAS proximity modules - provided optical alignment and EMI shielding meet system-level requirements.

How does the dome lens affect VEMD2503X01's angular response?

The dome lens on the VEMD2503X01 establishes a ±35° angle of half sensitivity, meaning irradiance at 35° off-axis produces 50% of the peak photocurrent. This controlled angular profile improves coupling efficiency with matched IR emitters like VSMB2943X01 and reduces sensitivity to stray ambient light. Unlike flat-lens diodes, the dome maintains consistent responsivity across its field-of-view without requiring external collimating optics.

What is the spectral peak sensitivity wavelength of VEMD2503X01?

The VEMD2503X01 exhibits peak spectral sensitivity at 900 nm, with usable responsivity spanning 350–1120 nm. At 950 nm - a common wavelength for high-efficiency IR LEDs - the device delivers 10 μA reverse light current under 1 mW/cm² irradiance and 5 V bias. This makes the VEMD2503X01 especially effective in 850 nm and 940 nm optical link designs where emitter and detector spectra overlap strongly.

Can VEMD2503X01 be used in photovoltaic (zero-bias) mode?

Yes, the VEMD2503X01 can operate in photovoltaic mode, generating an open-circuit voltage of 350 mV under 1 mW/cm² irradiance at 950 nm. However, its temperature coefficient (−2.6 mV/K) and low output impedance limit dynamic range and linearity compared to reverse-biased operation. For precision or high-speed applications, reverse bias is strongly recommended - the VEMD2503X01 achieves optimal speed (100 ns) and linearity only under bias.