Optical Sensors & Detector – UV Photodetectors
UVB Photodetector – TOCON_B5UVB+UVC
High-Dynamic UVB + UVC Photodetector with Integrated Amplifier for Ambient and Process Monitoring
The TOCON_B5 from SGLUX GmbH is a filtered SiC-based photodetector optimized for both UVB and UVC bands, combining a built-in low-noise amplifier to directly generate a 0–5 V output proportional to incident irradiance. With a saturation limit of approximately 75 µW/cm² (at 280 nm) and robust visible-light rejection, this sensor is ideal for combined UVB/UVC measurement in environmental exposure systems, germicidal monitoring, photobiology studies, and industrial UV safety. Housed in a hermetically sealed TO5 metal can with a diffusor, the TOCON_B5 offers stability, durability, and uniform angular response. Its compact, plug-and-play design simplifies integration into radiometric, control, or data-logging systems, making it suitable for calibration, monitoring, and UV-based process control.
Understanding UVB Photodetector - TOCON_B5UVB+UVC
The TOCON_B5 uses a SiC photodiode filtered for both UVB and UVC wavelengths, with its amplifier integrated into the sensor housing to output 0–5 V directly. It is designed to respond primarily around 280 nm, covering wavelengths from ~243 nm to ~303 nm (10% response limits) Its maximum irradiance capacity before saturation is about 75 µW/cm² at peak wavelength . The diffusor and TO5 packaging help flatten angular response and protect from environment. The built-in amplifier eliminates the need for external electronics, making integration straightforward.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Function |
UVB + UVC photodetector with integrated amplifier
|
| Detector Type |
SiC photodiode with UVB/UVC filtering + internal amplifier
|
| Spectral Coverage (10 % limits) | ~243 nm to ~303 nm |
| Peak Wavelength | |
| Output Signal |
0 – 5 V DC (linear with irradiance)
|
| Saturation / Maximum Irradiance |
≈ 75 µW/cm² at 280 nm
|
| Dynamic Range / Lower Limit |
From ~18 nW/cm² to ~180 µW/cm² (per spec, though saturation at 75 µW/cm²)
|
| Supply Voltage | |
| Operating Temperature |
–25 … +85 °C (typical TOCON spec)
|
| Housing | |
| Visible / IR Rejection |
Very high (extreme visible blindness typical of SiC)
|
| Connector / Output |
Standard TOCON output pin / wiring
|
| Calibration |
Optional factory calibration available (units often shipped uncalibrated)
|
Key Features and Advantages
Combined UVB + UVC Filtering & Selectivity
Unlike pure UVB or pure UVC detectors, the TOCON_B5 is filtered to respond across both UVB and UVC spectral bands (roughly 243–303 nm), with a peak sensitivity at ~280 nm. This allows it to capture germicidal UVC signals and UVB exposure simultaneously. The filtering also suppresses sensitivity to longer UVA or visible radiation, minimizing interference from ambient sunlight or stray illumination.
Integrated Amplifier with Clean 0–5 V Output
The sensor integrates a transimpedance amplifier inside its TO5 package, converting the photocurrent into a stable and linear 0–5 V analog voltage. This design minimizes noise pickup along wiring and eliminates the need for an external preamp, simplifying system design and reducing errors.
Saturation Handling & Moderate Dynamic Range
The TOCON_B5’s maximum irradiance handling is about 75 µW/cm² at 280 nm before output saturation. This is moderate compared to high-power UV sensors, and positions the B5 for mid-level UV intensity environments. The dynamic range is sufficient for many applications involving ambient UV and moderate germicidal intensities. For very high-intensity sources, care must be taken to avoid saturation.
Robust Housing & Angular Uniformity
Encased in a hermetically sealed TO5 metal can and outfitted with a diffusor, the TOCON_B5 is durable and its angular response is smoothed. This improves measurement consistency if the light incidence is not perfectly normal, and protects the sensor from dust, humidity, or mechanical stress.
High Visible Rejection & Stability
As with typical SiC detectors, the TOCON_B5 exhibits extremely strong rejection of visible and IR light, meaning that even in environments with strong ambient light, the UV measurement remains clean. Also, the internal electronics and packaging ensure thermal and environmental stability suitable for field or lab use.
Ease of Integration
The 0–5 V output is compatible with standard data acquisition systems, microcontrollers, PLC analog inputs, or monitoring systems. No additional amplification or signal conditioning is normally required. The design also supports modular integration in UV monitoring and control systems.
In summary, the TOCON_B5 offers a balanced solution for combined UVB/UVC detection: good spectral coverage, built-in amplification, robust form factor, and straightforward integration, making it a useful choice for environmental, safety, or process-based UV measurement systems.
Applications Across Industries
Environmental & Solar UV Monitoring
The TOCON_B5 is useful for measuring UVB + UVC in outdoor and environmental settings. It helps to assess exposure conditions, monitor UV irradiance trends, or validate UV index models that include some germicidal contributions.
Germicidal & Disinfection Systems
In disinfection or sterilization systems (air, water, surfaces), UVC is often the focus, but residual UVB components or stray UVB radiation may be present. The TOCON_B5 can monitor both bands concurrently, helping to detect leaks, verify system output, or ensure consistent dosing.
Photobiology & Biological Exposure Studies
Many biological processes are sensitive to UVB and UVC. This detector can help in experiments where combined exposure to those bands is relevant — e.g. DNA damage, microbial UV stress, or UV hazard studies.
UV Safety & Shield Verification
When testing enclosures, shielding, or safety interlocks, the TOCON_B5 can detect both UVB and UVC leakage to ensure that no harmful irradiance escapes. It’s useful as part of safety check systems in labs, production rooms, or UV processes.
Lamp Characterization & QA
UV lamp manufacturers (particularly those producing UVC or UVB lamps) can use the TOCON_B5 during R&D or quality assurance to measure output including any UVB tail or leakage. It helps in detecting spectral shifts, drift, or deviations over lifetime.
UV Curing & Material Processing
Some industrial processes combine UVC/UVB exposure (e.g. surface treatments, coatings). The TOCON_B5 can monitor the UV contribution in these processes to ensure proper dosage and uniform exposure.
Regulatory & Occupational Exposure Monitoring
In environments where UVB and UVC exposure may affect personnel safety, using a detector sensitive to both bands allows implementing comprehensive monitoring or alert systems.
Process Control & Automation
Because of its 0–5 V interface, the TOCON_B5 can integrate into feedback systems controlling UV lamp power, shuttering, or exposure timing in automated processes. It can trigger maintenance warnings when output drops or drifts.
By combining dual-band UV sensitivity, a clean analog output, and robust construction, the TOCON_B5 is ideal for hybrid measurement tasks across monitoring, safety, biology, and industrial UV systems.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
As SGLUX’s authorized partner in India, United Spectrum Instruments provides you with the TOCON_B5 photodetector along with local calibration, support, and system integration services. We ensure traceability to international standards, supply prompt replacements and accessories, and assist with electronic interfacing, calibration, and deployment across India. Our technical team supports end-to-end solutions — so you don’t just get the sensor but a working UV measurement system ready for your application.
FAQs
Which wavelength ranges does it cover?
It covers ~243 nm to ~303 nm (10 % response limits), with peak sensitivity around 280 nm
What is its maximum measurable irradiance?
Approximately 75 µW/cm² at 280 nm before saturation
Does visible or UVA light interfere?
Interference is minimal due to strong visible/IR rejection typical of SiC detectors.
Do I need external amplification?
No — the amplifier is built in, and you get a 0–5 V output directly.
Is the unit calibrated when shipped?
Typically sold without a calibration certificate; calibration service can be requested.
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FAQs
Which wavelength ranges does it cover?
It covers ~243 nm to ~303 nm (10 % response limits), with peak sensitivity around 280 nm
What is its maximum measurable irradiance?
Approximately 75 µW/cm² at 280 nm before saturation
Does visible or UVA light interfere?
Interference is minimal due to strong visible/IR rejection typical of SiC detectors.
Do I need external amplification?
No — the amplifier is built in, and you get a 0–5 V output directly.
Is the unit calibrated when shipped?
Typically sold without a calibration certificate; calibration service can be requested.


