IR & NIR LED

IR & NIR LEDs – High-Efficiency Infrared Emitters (700 nm – 950 nm)

Infrared (IR) and near-infrared (NIR) LEDs emit invisible light just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum. IR LEDs have been used for decades in everyday devices like TV remote controls (typically around 940 nm), and today they also power advanced systems in security, communications, and sensing. Notably, nearly half of the Sun’s energy reaching Earth is in the infrared – illustrating the abundance and utility of IR light. Typically, IR starts at about 700 nm wavelength and extends to several micrometers. Engineers often divide this region into sub-bands: IR-A (or NIR) covers roughly 700–950 nm and includes most night-vision and biometric illumination; IR-B spans ~950–1400 nm and is used in applications like telecommunications and moisture sensing; IR-C (1400 nm and above) enters the short-wave infrared range used for thermal imaging and specialty sensing. Tech-LED’s IR/NIR product line focuses on the IR-A and IR-B bands, providing high-performance emitters up to about 1050 nm (for longer wavelengths, see our SWIR LED offerings).

Why Choose Tech-LED for Near-Infrared?

High radiant output

Our IR/NIR LEDs deliver exceptional optical power, with some emitters achieving up to 5–6 W of output in compact packages (plenty for long-range floodlights and illuminators). Using advanced chip designs and thermal packaging (such as our ceramic SMBB 5 × 5 mm and EDC 3.5 × 3.5 mm devices), we offer intense infrared illumination from a small footprint.

Tight wavelength binning

We offer standard NIR LEDs at key wavelengths – for example 730 nm (far-red), 780 nm, 810 nm, 850 nm, and 940 nm – each sorted in narrow wavelength bins (typically ±5 nm). This tight binning ensures uniformity and repeatability in sensor designs, especially important for applications like biometrics or structured-light systems that demand a specific IR wavelength.

Scalable thermal solutions

Tech-LED provides infrared emitters in formats suitable for both small and large-scale deployments. For board-level and wearable devices, we have low-profile surface-mount LEDs (with heat-spreading substrates) that integrate easily. For high-power requirements, we offer components like TO-66 metal-can arrays and custom multi-LED illuminators, which can handle higher drive currents and dissipate heat efficiently, enabling use as flood lights or long-range IR spotlights. For example, our multi-die IR illuminators in TO-66 cans combine several chips behind an optical window to produce an exceptionally high-intensity beam for surveillance or machine vision.

Applications of IR & NIR LEDs

Security and biometrics

High-power 850 nm and 940 nm LEDs are widely used for CCTV security cameras, covert illuminators, and facial recognition systems, and automatic license plate recognition (ANPR) for traffic monitoring. Our NIR LEDs serve as invisible floodlights that allow night-vision cameras to capture clear images in complete darkness. They are also used in biometric identification like iris scanners and eye-tracking systems (for VR headsets or driver monitoring), providing safe, invisible light to track eye movement or authenticate users.

Medical devices & therapy

NIR LEDs play a crucial role in health monitoring and treatment. 940 nm IR emitters, paired with red LEDs, are the basis of pulse oximetry sensors that measure pulse (heart rate) and blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) in wearable devices and hospital monitors. Additionally, arrays of 850 nm and 810 nm LEDs are used in photobiomodulation therapy (near-infrared light therapy) to stimulate tissue healing, reduce pain, and improve circulation. Our LEDs provide the stable, specific wavelengths needed for consistent medical outcomes.

LiDAR and range-finding

Infrared LEDs (often 905 nm or 940 nm) and laser diodes are used in time-of-flight rangefinders, LiDAR sensors, and proximity detectors. Tech-LED’s high-efficiency IR chips enable these systems to send out powerful pulses of light and accurately measure distances for applications such as automotive LiDAR and robotics navigation. The eye-safe nature of certain NIR wavelengths allows for their use in consumer electronics (e.g. structured-light 3D cameras in smartphones) as well.

Industrial sorting & sensing

IR and NIR LEDs help automate quality control by detecting material properties invisible to the human eye. For instance, 740–980 nm illumination is used to differentiate plastics or to sense moisture content on production lines (water absorbs specific NIR wavelengths). In food processing, 850 nm LEDs can assist in sorting produce or grains by detecting surface characteristics. Our infrared emitters offer the reliability and fast switching needed for these high-speed machine vision systems.

Environmental & consumer sensors

Infrared LED-based sensor pairs are common in smoke detectors, where an IR LED and photodiode work together to detect airborne particles (smoke) via light scattering. IR proximity sensors are also used in consumer electronics – for instance, helping smartphones detect when they are near your face or enabling touchless gesture controls. Our IR emitters provide reliable, low-noise output for these safety and convenience applications.

Together, these applications demonstrate the versatility of Tech-LED’s IR/NIR devices – from enabling safer cities with IR surveillance to advancing healthcare and industry with precise infrared sensing. If your project requires wavelengths above ~1000 nm (such as 1050 nm, 1300 nm, or 1550 nm), please explore our complementary SWIR LED chips for extended infrared coverage. Whatever your infrared illumination needs, Tech-LED provides a solution backed by our technical expertise and commitment to quality.

IR & NIR LED FAQ’s

What is NIR LED technology?

NIR LED technology refers to light-emitting diodes that operate in the near-infrared spectrum, typically between 700nm and 1400nm. These LEDs are energy-efficient light sources that can penetrate various materials, making them suitable for applications such as sensing, imaging, and communication.

How do NIR LEDs compare to traditional infrared light sources?

NIR LEDs offer several advantages over traditional infrared light sources. They are more compact, energy-efficient, and have a longer lifespan. Additionally, NIR LEDs can provide better sensitivity and accuracy in applications such as detection and measurement, especially in the near-infrared range.

What are the common applications of NIR LEDs?

NIR LEDs are widely used in various applications, including medical devices for biological detection, industrial sensors for gas and chemical analysis, and in R&D for optical measurement. Their ability to operate in the near-infrared spectrum enables them to perform tasks that visible light cannot, such as penetrating certain materials without causing damage.

What is the wavelength range of NIR LEDs?

The wavelength range of NIR LEDs typically spans from around 700nm to 1400nm. Commonly used wavelengths include 740nm, 850nm, and 940nm. Each wavelength has its specific applications and advantages based on the conditions and materials being analyzed or illuminated.

Can NIR LEDs be used for biological and chemical detection?

Yes, NIR LEDs are highly effective for biological and chemical detection. Their ability to penetrate tissues and materials without damage allows for non-invasive measurements. This makes them suitable for medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and chemical analysis.

What are the advantages of using NIR LEDs in lighting?

NIR LEDs provide several advantages in lighting applications, including lower power consumption, enhanced reliability, and the ability to operate in conditions where visible light may not be effective. They can optimize energy efficiency while providing illumination in specific wavelengths that are invisible to the human eye.

How do you measure the performance of NIR LEDs?

The performance of NIR LEDs can be measured in terms of output power, efficiency, and wavelength stability. Analytical techniques are used to assess their sensitivity and accuracy in various applications, ensuring they meet the required specifications for detection and measurement tasks.

Are there any safety concerns associated with using NIR LEDs?

NIR LEDs are generally considered safe for use, as they emit light in wavelengths that are not harmful to human eyes. However, proper precautions should still be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to intense NIR light sources, as with any light-emitting device. Always refer to manufacturer guidelines for safe operation.