Hi all,
I’m working on a small DIY project that uses the OPT101 light sensor to measure light levels and trigger some control logic. On paper, it seemed straightforward since the OPT101 has a built-in photodiode and amplifier, but in practice I’m hitting a snag.
The problem is that my output signal keeps drifting over time, even when the light source is steady. For example, with a fixed LED light a few inches away, the voltage starts out where I expect (~2V), but then slowly creeps down toward 1.5V and fluctuates slightly. I’ve checked my wiring and power supply (5V regulated), and the sensor is connected exactly as per the datasheet.
Is this normal behavior and do I need additional filtering or shielding to stabilize the readings? Or is it possible I’m missing something in how the amplifier stage needs to be set up for consistent results?
Any tips would be greatly appreciated. I’d like to get this part stable before building out the rest of the logic.
Thanks!
I’m working on a small DIY project that uses the OPT101 light sensor to measure light levels and trigger some control logic. On paper, it seemed straightforward since the OPT101 has a built-in photodiode and amplifier, but in practice I’m hitting a snag.
The problem is that my output signal keeps drifting over time, even when the light source is steady. For example, with a fixed LED light a few inches away, the voltage starts out where I expect (~2V), but then slowly creeps down toward 1.5V and fluctuates slightly. I’ve checked my wiring and power supply (5V regulated), and the sensor is connected exactly as per the datasheet.
Is this normal behavior and do I need additional filtering or shielding to stabilize the readings? Or is it possible I’m missing something in how the amplifier stage needs to be set up for consistent results?
Any tips would be greatly appreciated. I’d like to get this part stable before building out the rest of the logic.
Thanks!