00:00Photodiode or phototransistor? Speed vs. Gain
00:05Phototransistors amplify signal, but run slow. Photodiodes give pure speed and linear response,
00:11need external op-amp attested both. Found best component deals online to settle debate.
00:18First pick, S5106 silicon-pin photodiode. Massive 5x5mm active area catches every stray photon.
00:26Covers 320 to 1,100 nm, peaks at 960. Costs $21.73.
00:36Pricey, but large surface area means zero alignment headaches in precision light needering.
00:42Next, classic BPX65 in metal 218 can. Built for raw speed, peaks 850 nm.
00:49Costs $1.32. Blast window withstands abuse, fast rise time beats any phototransistor.
00:58Grab this for high-frequency optical data links on tiny budget.
01:03Third, BPW 34-pin photodiode pack. Industry standard flat package, broad spectral range.
01:10Five pieces cost $3.93. Hits 4.8-star reliability across thousands sold.
01:18Perfect baseline sensor for radiation detection experiments, solar monitors, low-noise DIY tech.
01:25Fourth, PD-438C side looker diode. Features 4.8mm semi-lens to boost infrared sensitivity from
01:33side angle. Bolt pack runs $4.42. Side-facing profile slots right onto edge of printed circuit
01:41boards. Cheap, effective IR receiver for optical limit switches. Fifth, LTR-301 infrared receiver pairs
01:50with LTE-302 emitter. Runs 940 nm, classic optical mouse encoder format. Pack costs $5.14.
01:59Sense. High-sensitivity phototransistor build delivers strong output current without complex
02:05amplifier circuit. Best choice when project demands simple plug-and-play break beam sensing.
02:11Links to all parts sit below in video description.
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