As an infrared-sensitive optoelectronic component, a pyroelectric detector is designed for detecting electromagnetic radiation. It can detect electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range from 2 to 14 µm. This device comprises many components to offer a varied range of applications. Though the primary usage of a pyroelectric detector is to detect radiation, the performances vary depending upon the configuration. Some configuration types include single element pyro, dual element pyro, and four-element pyro.
Also, there are two types of this device such as digital and analog. Both offer a wide range of applications in smart homes, smart cities, IoT, burglary detection, and security systems.
There is a wide range of different-sized infrared sensor surfaces. These are usually manufactured by different companies that also develop security devices. Since pyroelectric detectors and sensors come with complex configurations, opting for the best brands can ensure enhanced performance and sensitivity.
- Single-Element Pyro Detectors:
This type of pyro detectors is applied for temperature and gas measuring applications. It comes with both one-channel and dual-channel variants. As a single-element device, it offers one output per element. One can use these pyro detectors in thermally compensated devices.
NDIR is the principle of Gas monitor application. Single-element pyro detectors suit the NDIR principle as these come with narrow-band optical filters, the primary requirement of NDIR. Some gases show an absorption band in the IR spectral range. Hence, it is essential to look for suitable filter windows. Depending upon the model number of single-element pyro detectors, the output varies.
- Four-Element Pyrodetectors:
This type of pyro detector is configured with four sensing elements. They can be configured in various geometrical forms. The most prominent design of four-element pyro detectors is known as Quad. It consists of two pairs of elements in a square form layout. However, there are different variations available depending upon the spacing and polarity of the elements.
One can find four-element pyro detectors in single- and dual-channel outputs. The most common ones come in Quad design. These are also available with analog outputs. Some four-element pyro detectors come with enhanced function and streamlined integration of other security devices.
- Dual-Element Pyro Detectors:
This type of pyro detectors is widely used for motion detection. These are configured with two sensing elements that are connected in reverse polarity to provide an AC signal. For detecting motion, a dual element pyro can be switched to motion mode. There is another mode named common-mode rejection, which can also detect non-moving radiation.
Dual-element pyro detectors are available in various window sizes that meet different fields of view. The most advanced dual-element pyro detectors also offer battery-operated motion detection. Depending upon the needs and budget, one can choose the best model from a reputed brand.
- Conclusion:
The different types of pyro detectors offer different applications. Therefore, one needs to determine the needs or requirements at first. For example, single-element pyros are used for temperature and gas measuring applications whereas dual-element pyro detectors are used for motion detection. There are numerous models available in each type that offer varied prices and capacities. By looking at all these specifications, choosing a pyro detector can be simple.
