January 13, 2026 /SemiMedia/ — Vishay Intertechnology has broadened its optical sensor portfolio with the release of two new surface-mount transmissive sensors aimed at industrial automation, consumer electronics and telecom infrastructure applications.

The newly introduced VT171P and VT172U come in a compact 5.5 mm × 4 mm × 5.7 mm package and feature a dome height roughly 42% higher than Vishay’s previous industrial-grade designs. The added vertical clearance is intended to simplify mechanical integration, particularly in encoder systems that rely on larger code wheels or turn-and-push interfaces.

The devices are positioned for use in motion, speed and position sensing across factory automation equipment, motor drives and power tools, as well as in household appliances, health-related electronics and mobile broadband hardware. The dual-channel VT172U additionally supports direction detection, making it suitable for more advanced encoder configurations.

From a device perspective, the single-channel VT171P integrates an infrared emitter and one phototransistor, while the VT172U pairs the emitter with two phototransistor detectors. Both sensors operate at a 950 nm wavelength, deliver a typical output current of 1.5 mA, and feature fast response times designed for high-speed signal detection in industrial environments.

The sensors are rated MSL 1 with unlimited floor life and are compatible with lead-free reflow soldering under JEDEC standards. Vishay said the components are halogen-free, RoHS-compliant and aligned with the company’s Vishay Green manufacturing guidelines.

Samples and volume production are available immediately, with typical lead times of around 10 weeks, the company said.