Capella Microsystems has been selected as a Windows 8 co-engineering partner for Ambient Light Sensors (ALS). ALS finds use in many applications including computers, tablets, smartphones and televisions.
An ALS sensor is designed for managing display brightness under different types of light conditions. It helps optimize the consumption of power, increase legibility and contrast, and decrease strain to the eyes.
Capella has included its patented Filtron technology in its ALS products. For ambient light sensing requirements it does not require any external optical filters. The Capella sensors possess high ALS sensitivity through dark cover lens and low lux conditions. They provide a high light cancellation capability. The sensor does not require any other microcontrollers. It has a reliable output tolerance, which enables good performance. Capella’s Filtron enables a close ambient light spectral sensitivity when compared to human eye responses.
Capella Microsystems’ President and CEO, Cheng-chung Shih, stated that the special characteristics of the Capella sensors were essential for meeting Window 8’s requirements. The ALS will help reduce power consumption and enable other applications to utilize the optical sensor technology. The lower power consumption helps the green initiative.
Capella had recently released the CM36262 smart optical lid sensor, which has the capability to distinguish between a human hand and a fabric cover or lid. The sensor causes the touch screen to stay powered when a user is handling the screen and power down when the lid is closed.