FreeTrack Forum

Hello

So I am looking to build a tracking system and so far I have located everything I need except for the infrared led SFH 415. I have been on Google all morning and the best I can do for that exact model are overseas websites that are asking for a minimum $30 postage for these 50c products.

I had a look on eBay and found a few alternatives that had similar specs but not the wide 80 degree viewing angle. I found a lot of people have corrected their own by sanding the top of the LED to a flat surface which creates a higher viewing angle. I also read that there are instances where people have had to "cut the head" of the LED. What does this mean and how can this be achieved?

I have posted a few links below with the alternative IR LED types and I was hoping I could get some closer as to whether or not these would suffice and maybe even people who have personally experienced these types of models?

Alternative 1: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10-PCS-5mm-940nm-IR-Receiver-Infrared-Diode-LED-Lamps-Bulbs-New-/251389931564?pt=AU_Lighting_Fans&hash=item3a8801f02c&_uhb=1

Alternative 2: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/20pcs-5mm-940nm-LEDs-infrared-emitter-and-IR-receiver-diode-10pairs-diodes-301A-/181205810147?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2a30b53be3&_uhb=1

With alternative 1 he states the emitted colour to be clear.. is this okay? I don't have the best knowledge when it comes to electronics and would greatly appreciate anyone helping me out.

Cheers

J

Hi,

both links don't work for me, so I can't give an advice on it.
Generally most 5mm IR-diode works good. You can file them down, if the beam angle isn't enough.
It's important to have an exact reference or the data-sheet of them to determine forward voltage and max. current.

Cheers. I ended up getting very similar IR LED's to the SFH's:

IR LED,5mm through hole 17mW 940nm 38deg

For anyone interested:

https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CC0QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Faustralia.rs-online.com%2Fweb%2Fp%2Fir-leds%2F7269411%2F&ei=bfqjUuPwGoa8kgX1_4HYBg&usg=AFQjCNFp8grRPIT7zUd7XQP9HkbdiFEnRQ&sig2=TfWz8FNCeBenEyy975ZV9g&bvm=bv.57752919,d.dGI

I use the ir led from 3 old tv remote controls.

Cut off the head is the same as sanding it flat but using a dermal tool, etc. to cut off the curved lens part.