TEMT6000 Ambient Light Sensor Module

TEMT6000 Ambient Light Sensor Module is a highly sensitive planar NPN silicon phototransistor module designed to measure ambient light levels similar to the human eye response. This breakout board integrates the Vishay TEMT6000 sensor, which converts light intensity into an analog voltage output directly proportional to the illumination level. Consequently, microcontrollers can easily read ambient lighting using an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) pin without requiring complex communication protocols. Furthermore, its peak spectral sensitivity of 570 nm allows precise light measurement for display backlighting and smart lighting automation. Therefore, you can seamlessly integrate this compact module into energy-saving systems and interactive electronics projects.

Key Features:

• Human-Eye Spectral Response: Features a peak sensitivity of 570 nm, closely matching human visual perception for natural light intensity tracking.
• Analog Voltage Output: Delivers an analog voltage signal that scales linearly with light level changes for easy microcontroller interface.
• High Sensitivity: Detects broad illuminance ranges from low light indoors to bright direct daylight conditions.
• Compact Form Factor: Integrates an NPN phototransistor onto a breakout PCB with standard header pins for quick prototyping.
• Low Power Consumption: Consumes minimal operating current, making it ideal for battery-powered smart sensors.

Technical Specifications:

• Supply Voltage: 3.3 V to 5 V DC
• Sensor Type: NPN Silicon Phototransistor (Vishay TEMT6000)
• Peak Sensitivity Wavelength: 570 nm
• Spectral Sensitivity Range: 360 nm to 970 nm
• Angle of Half Sensitivity: ±60°
• Maximum Collector Current: 20 mA
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• Substrate Material: FR-4 Glass Reinforced Epoxy PCB
• Header Connector: 3-pin standard 2.54 mm pitch straight male header
• Mounting Holes: 1 x M2 mounting hole for secure mechanical fastening
• Sensor Package: Surface Mount Device (SMD) on breakout board

Dimensions:

• PCB Length: ≈ 14 mm
• PCB Width: ≈ 8 mm
• Total Height: ≈ 3 mm (excluding pin header)
• Weight: ≈ 1.2 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connects to 3.3V or 5V power supply from the microcontroller.
• GND: Ground connection pin linked to system ground.
• OUT / SIG: Analog output signal pin connected to an ADC channel on Arduino, ESP32, or STM32.
• Note: However, ensure you add an external pull-down resistor or rely on the module onboard load resistor to achieve correct analog voltage scaling.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download Vishay TEMT6000 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Display Backlight Control: Adjusting screen brightness on smartphones, monitors, and embedded LCD interfaces automatically.
• Smart Home Automation: Triggering automatic indoor lighting systems when natural ambient light falls below set thresholds.
• Weather Stations: Measuring daylight duration and solar light intensity levels in outdoor monitoring equipment.

Applications:

• Energy Management Systems: Dimming commercial lighting setups based on real-time ambient sunlight ingress.
• Solar Tracking Systems: Assisting dual-axis solar trackers in identifying ambient light intensity vectors.
• Interactive DIY Electronics: Creating light-responsive wearable electronics and optical alarm triggers.

Equivalent Models:

• LDR Light Sensor Module: Uses a photoresistor element, although the TEMT6000 offers higher linearity and accuracy.
• BH1750 Ambient Light Sensor: Offers digital I2C output instead of direct analog voltage output.
• TSL2561 Digital Light Sensor: A digital optical sensor providing precise lux calculation via I2C interface.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TEMT6000 Ambient Light Sensor Module