In the modern era of touchless technology, smart devices, and advanced surveillance, Infrared LEDs (IR LEDs) have quietly become a core component behind the scenes. Though invisible to the human eye, these LEDs are critical in powering everything from TV remotes and night-vision cameras to biometric scanners and industrial sensors.
Whether used for transmitting data, detecting motion, or enabling machine vision, IR LEDs are essential to countless modern applications that rely on invisible light.
What is an Infrared LED?
An Infrared LED Market Share is a type of light-emitting diode that emits infrared light—electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength longer than visible light, typically in the 700 nm to 1,000 nm range.
Unlike visible LEDs that produce colored light, IR LEDs emit light that cannot be seen by the naked eye but can be detected by specialized sensors and cameras.
How Do IR LEDs Work?
IR LEDs function similarly to traditional LEDs:
When electric current passes through a semiconductor material (usually gallium arsenide or aluminum gallium arsenide), it releases energy in the form of photons.
For IR LEDs, this photon energy falls within the infrared spectrum, not visible light.
The wavelength of the infrared light depends on the bandgap energy of the materials used.
Key Specifications of IR LEDs
Wavelengths: Commonly 850 nm, 880 nm, 940 nm (940 nm is invisible to humans, 850 nm may appear faintly red)
Viewing Angle: Ranges from narrow (10°) for long-distance to wide (>100°) for close-range coverage
Forward Voltage: Typically 1.2V–1.5V
Power Output: Measured in mW; higher power = longer range
Package Types: SMD, through-hole, dome lens, flat-top, and integrated modules
Key Applications of Infrared LEDs
? 1. Remote Controls
IR LEDs are used to transmit coded signals to TVs, air conditioners, and set-top boxes.
? 2. Security Cameras and Night Vision
Enables vision in complete darkness by flooding an area with invisible IR light.
? 3. Biometric Devices
Facial recognition systems, iris scanners, and fingerprint readers use IR LEDs for precise imaging.
? 4. Proximity and Motion Sensors
Combined with photodiodes or IR receivers to detect object presence or motion.
? 5. Industrial Automation
Used in optical encoders, line-following robots, and non-contact object counters.
? 6. Medical Devices
Pulse oximeters and vein detection systems use IR LEDs for non-invasive readings.
? 7. Optical Communication
Short-range data transmission in IrDA systems and some fiber optic applications.
Advantages of IR LEDs
✅ Invisible Light – No light pollution or interference with visible tasks
✅ Low Power Consumption – Ideal for battery-powered and embedded systems
✅ Fast Switching – Enables high-speed data communication and sensor responsiveness
✅ Compact & Durable – Small form factor suitable for integration into wearables and sensors
✅ Cost-Effective – Mass-produced and widely available
IR LED vs Visible LED
| Feature | Infrared LED | Visible LED |
|---|---|---|
| Wavelength Range | 700–1,000 nm | 400–700 nm |
| Visibility | Invisible (except 850 nm faint glow) | Fully visible |
| Applications | Sensing, communication, night vision | Illumination, indicators |
| Eye Safety | Safer at low power | Bright light can be straining |
Market Share Overview
The global Market Share for infrared LEDs is growing steadily, driven by the expansion of smart home devices, advanced security systems, and biometric authentication.
? Market Share Snapshot:
Market Share Size (2023): ~$650 Million
Expected Size (2032): ~$1.3 Billion
CAGR (2024–2032): ~8.2%
Growth Drivers:
Proliferation of IoT and AI-based smart surveillance
Growth of biometric security and access control
Demand for touchless interfaces in healthcare and consumer electronics
Leading IR LED Manufacturers
Osram Opto Semiconductors
Vishay Intertechnology
Lite-On Technology
Everlight Electronics
Kingbright
Lextar
Epistar
ROHM Semiconductor
Stanley Electric
Nichia Corporation
Recent Innovations and Trends
? High-Power IR LEDs
For longer-range detection and illumination in outdoor and industrial use.
? Integrated IR Modules
IR LED + photodiode + controller in compact packages for mobile and wearable devices.
? Eye-Safe IR LEDs
Optimized to emit within the safe spectrum for use in facial recognition and AR/VR.
? IR in Automotive
Driver-monitoring systems, gesture controls, and in-cabin sensing.
Conclusion
Though invisible to the human eye, Infrared LEDs are highly visible in their impact on technology. From enabling night vision to powering biometric security, they are the silent workhorses behind many innovations in smart devices, surveillance, healthcare, and beyond.
As devices become smarter and more integrated, IR LEDs will continue to illuminate the path—quietly, reliably, and invisibly.
Read More
