Photodiodes are semiconductors that generate voltage or current when light illuminates them. They are used for accurate measurement of the intensity of light in science, industry and in many consumer electronic devices. These devices include smoke detectors, CD players, remote control receivers for TVs and VCRs. In the medical field, equipment for computed tomography, instruments to analyze samples (immunoassay) and blood gas monitors each contain a photodiode detector.

There are several different types of photodiodes. A PIN photodiode is used for optical communications because it is faster and more sensitive than ordinary p-n junction diodes. An InGaAs photodiode is a PIN photodiode that operates as a near infrared (NIR) detector, and is used for NIR spectroscopy and optical communication. The silicon photodiode is most commonly used in precision photometry, which makes much sought after for use in industrial measurement systems, analytical instruments, medical instrumentation and semiconductor tools. No matter what the application, these tips will help you acquire the photodiodes you need for your business:

1. Request a price quote and place an order with premier photodiode manufacturers.
2. Get exactly what you need by custom ordering photodiodes to your direct specifications.
3. Buy in bulk to take advantage of wholesale prices for photodiodes.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Place an order directly with manufacturers of photodiodes

Two well-known photodiode manufacturers are Hammatsu and OSI Optoelectronics. Hammatsu is well-known for its research into the basic and applied aspects of light science. OSI Optoelectronics is a result of the consolidation of several subsidiaries under the same brand name. They now manufacture photodiodes for applications within every field from medical to the military.

I recommend: You must register as a new user on the Hammatsu site in order to request price quotes and detailed product information. You can also buy photodiodes directly from OSI Systems. Fill out the form on their website to contact sales and technical support, and a representative will be in touch with you as soon as possible.

Order customized photodiodes for your company

Your project may require non-standard photodiodes. If that's the case, there are suppliers of photodiodes that are capable of processing photodiodes in any geometry necessary.

I recommend: You can purchase custom detector dies--including a single element diode, a photodiode array, or a multi-element diode--from Detection Technology. Quantum Devices work with planar photodiodes. They are able to customize single or multiple diode structures on a single photodiode circuit chip.

Pay wholesale prices with leading photodiode distributors

There are numerous distributors of photodiodes that allow you to cut costs by purchasing in bulk. TTI is the world's leading authorized distributor specialist offering passive, connector, electromechanical and discrete components. Newark is a leading electronics distributor that supports millions of purchasing professionals and engineers across the country.

I recommend: TTI has a wide selection of photodiodes available for purchase on their website. Check out how many they have in stock, and request a price quote. Newark also offers photodiodes from a number of different manufacturers. The more you purchase, the cheaper per unit price you pay.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Oftentimes, manufacturers of photodiodes are willing to work with you to fulfil the requirements of any project you are working on. Many of them offer customization of photodiodes that aren't widely publicized on their websites. Feel free to speak with a representative to find out exactly what they are willing to do to help you out.