Industry News

ROHM expands NIR LED lineup for VR/AR and sensor applications

The lineup includes six models in three packages, with two ultra-compact 1.0×0.6×0.2mm PICOLED series LEDs.

ROHM Semiconductor announced updates to its portfolio of surface-mount near-infrared (NIR) LEDs, adding compact top-view models designed for use in VR/AR devices, industrial optical sensors, and human detection sensors.

Optimized for applications such as VR/AR devices, industrial optical sensors, and human detection sensors

The use of near-infrared (NIR) sensing technologies has increased in applications such as VR/AR equipment and biosensing devices, where functions like eye tracking, iris recognition, and blood flow or oxygen saturation measurements require reliable performance. There is also a growing focus on miniaturization, energy efficiency, and flexible design. In industrial settings, NIR LEDs are being used more frequently in applications like printer control and automation systems. To address these needs, ROHM is expanding its product lineup with compact packages and a range of wavelengths aimed at supporting flexible design and efficient performance.

The new lineup consists of six models in three package configurations, including two ultra-compact (1.0mm x 0.6mm), ultra-thin (t=0.2mm) products as part of the PICOLED series: SML-P14RW and SML-P14R3W. In addition, there are four variants in the industry-standard (1.6mm × 0.8mm) size, featuring a narrow beam circular lens package (CSL0902RT, CSL0902R3T) and flat lens design that emits light over a wide range (CSL1002RT, CSL1002R3T). Each package is available in two wavelengths, 850nm (860nm for the SML-P14RW) and 940nm, allowing customers various options for their specific application needs. The 850nm wavelength is well-suited for phototransistors and camera sensors, making it ideal for high-sensitivity applications such as eye tracking and object detection in VR/AR. At the same time, the 940nm wavelength is less affected by sunlight and does not appear red when emitting light, making it suitable for motion sensors. It is also widely used in biosensing applications like pulse oximeters to measure blood flow and oxygen saturation (SpO2).


Achieving approximately 1.4 times the radiant intensity at the same current value

The light source incorporates an NIR element with an optimized emission layer structure utilizing proprietary technology developed through in-house manufacturing expertise. This has made it possible to achieve industry-leading radiant intensity in a compact package, which was previously considered difficult. For example, compared to a standard 1006 size product, the SML-P14RW delivers approx. 1.4 times the radiant intensity at the same current. In other words, it achieves the same radiation intensity with 30% less power consumption. This technology improves sensing accuracy and power savings for the entire system.

Going forward, ROHM will continue to provide innovative light source solutions that support next-generation sensing technologies, creating new value in the VR/AR and industrial equipment markets, while contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.

Application examples

  • VR/AR licenses (eye tracking, gesture recognition)
  • Pulse oximeters (blood flow/oxygen saturation measurement)
  • Industrial optical sensors (object passage detection, position detection), self-checkout systems (bill/card detection), mobile printers (paper detection)
  • Home appliance remote controls (IR data communication), robot vacuum cleaners (floor detection)

For more information, visit rohm.com.