The demand for advanced sensing technologies using near-infrared (NIR) light has grown in recent years, particularly in virtual and augmented reality equipment and biodetection devices. These technologies are used in applications such as eye tracking, iris recognition, and blood flow and oxygen saturation measurement, which require high accuracy. At the same time, miniaturization, energy efficiency, and design flexibility are becoming increasingly important. In industrial equipment, near-infrared LEDs are playing an increasingly important role with the rise of precise printer control and automation systems. In response, ROHM is expanding customer options by developing a range of compact packages and wavelengths that offer greater design flexibility while contributing to increased accuracy and energy savings thanks to their high radiant intensity.
The new range comprises six models in three package configurations, including two ultra-compact (1.0 mm × 0.6 mm) and ultra-thin (t = 0.2 mm) products that are part of the PICOLED™ series: the SML-P14RW and SML-P14R3W. In addition, there are four variants in the industry-standard size (1.6 mm × 0.8 mm), featuring a narrow-beam circular lens package (CSL0902RT, CSL0902R3T) and a flat lens design that emits light over a wide range (CSL1002RT, CSL1002R3T). Each package is available in two wavelengths, 850 nm (860 nm for the SML-P14RW) and 940 nm, allowing customers to choose from a range of options to meet their specific application needs. The 850 nm wavelength is ideal for phototransistors and camera sensors, making it suitable for high-sensitivity applications such as eye tracking and object detection in VR/AR. Meanwhile, the 940 nm 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 biosensor applications, such as pulse oximeters for measuring blood flow and oxygen saturation (SpO2).
The light source incorporates a near-infrared (NIR) element with an optimized emission layer structure using proprietary technology developed through in-house manufacturing expertise. This has enabled the achievement of industry-leading radiant intensity* in a compact package, a feat previously considered difficult. For example, compared to a standard size 1006 product, the SML-P14RW delivers approximately 1.4 times the radiant intensity with the same current. In other words, the SML-P14RW consumes 30% less energy to achieve the same radiation intensity. This technology improves detection accuracy and overall system energy efficiency.
In the future, 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.
Compact range of NIR LEDs
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 (banknote/card detection), mobile printers (paper detection)
• Remote controls for household appliances (infrared data communication), robotic vacuum cleaners (floor detection)
Online Reseller Information
Availability: Now
Online Resellers: DigiKey™, Mouser™ and Farnell™
Target Products: SML-P14RW, SML-P14R3W, CSL0902RT, CSL0902R3T, CSL1002RT, CSL1002R3T
Note: DigiKey™, Mouser™ and Farnell™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
*PICOLED™ is a trademark or registered trademark of ROHM Co., Ltd.
*ROHM study of May 22, 2025 on compact NIR LED products.
