Broadband UV Photodiode – SG01S-18S
The SG01S-18S is a compact broadband ultraviolet photodiode built on silicon carbide (SiC) technology and housed in a TO-18 short-cap package (~3.7 mm...
Broadband UV Photodiode – SG01S-18S
The SG01S-18S is a compact broadband ultraviolet photodiode built on silicon carbide (SiC) technology and housed in a TO-18 short-cap package (~3.7 mm height). It detects UVA, UVB, and UVC wavelengths in the 221–358 nm range with peak responsivity around 280 nm. The device features a 0.06 mm² active area, visible blindness, extremely low dark current, and stable performance across wide temperature ranges. The shortened package height makes it ideal for space-constrained designs while still providing durability, accuracy, and high radiation resistance. It is well suited for industrial, scientific, and safety applications requiring robust UV detection.
Understanding Broadband UV Photodiode - SG01S-18S
The SG01S-18S photodiode converts ultraviolet light into measurable photocurrent with exceptional precision. Using SiC as the base material, it is naturally insensitive to visible light, ensuring a clean UV-only response. Its small active area allows for controlled sensitivity under moderate to strong irradiance, while its ultra-low dark current ensures high signal-to-noise performance even in low-light UV environments. Compared to the standard SG01S-18, the short-cap “S” version provides a more compact profile, making it easier to integrate into systems with limited vertical clearance. Its hermetically sealed TO-18 package ensures stability under mechanical, thermal, and environmental stress.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Typical Responsivity at Peak Wavelength | 0.160 A/W |
| Wavelength of Max. Responsivity | 280 nm |
| Responsivity Range (S = 0.1 × Smax) | 221 … 358 nm |
| Visible Blindness (Smax / S>405 nm) | > 10¹⁰ |
| Active Area | 0.06 mm² |
| Dark Current (1 V reverse bias) | 0.2 fA |
| Capacitance | 15 pF |
| Short Circuit (10 mW/cm² at peak) | 960 nA |
| Temperature Coefficient | < 0.1 %/K |
| Operating Temperature | −55 … +170 °C |
| Storage Temperature | −55 … +170 °C |
| Soldering Temperature (3 s) | 260 °C |
| Maximum Reverse Voltage | 20 V |
Key Features and Advantages
Visible-Blind UV Sensitivity
The SG01S-18S is specifically sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, with no response to visible or infrared light. This ensures accurate UV detection even in ambient light environments, preventing false readings.
Compact Short-Cap Design
The short-cap (~3.7 mm) TO-18 housing reduces vertical height, making it ideal for portable instruments, flush-mounted sensors, and compact modules where space is limited.
Broadband UV Response
Covering 221 nm to 358 nm, it spans UVA, UVB, and UVC detection, suitable for general-purpose UV monitoring across multiple industries.
Ultra-Low Dark Current
Leakage current is in the femtoampere range (~0.2 fA), enabling high-sensitivity detection of weak UV sources without electronic noise interference.
Thermal and Radiation Stability
Engineered for harsh environments, the SG01S-18S operates reliably from −55 °C to +170 °C with less than 0.1 %/K temperature coefficient, and maintains responsivity under high UV doses.
Fast Response Time
With low capacitance (~15 pF), the sensor responds quickly, making it suitable for pulsed UV detection, high-speed monitoring, and real-time feedback loops.
Durable Hermetic Packaging
The TO-18 sealed metal can provides protection against humidity, contamination, and mechanical stress, ensuring long-term durability in industrial and outdoor use.
Applications Across Industries
Compact UV Measurement Devices
The short-cap design makes SG01S-18S ideal for handheld testers, portable UV monitors, and small-form-factor devices used in fieldwork and research.
UV Curing and Industrial Systems
In curing processes involving inks, adhesives, or coatings, the photodiode ensures consistent irradiance monitoring, enabling quality control in compact equipment.
Disinfection and Sterilisation Systems
Used in UVC air, water, and surface disinfection systems, it validates dosage, detects lamp ageing, and helps maintain compliance with safety standards.
Scientific Research and Laboratory Instruments
In photobiology, material science, and spectroscopy, SG01S-18S provides stable UV detection in experimental setups with limited space.
Environmental Monitoring
Integrated into environmental sensors, the diode measures solar UV flux. Combined with optical filters, it supports compact UV index monitoring stations.
Flame Detection and Safety Systems
It can detect UVC emissions from flames in turbines, burners, or industrial safety monitoring, where compact packaging enables easier integration.
Semiconductor and Lithography Applications
UV lithography and exposure systems rely on stable UV monitoring, and the SG01S-18S allows in-situ intensity feedback in space-restricted enclosures.
Wearable UV Dosimetry
Its small active area and compact housing make it suitable for wearable badges and personal UV monitoring devices.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
Expert Consultation and Support
United Spectrum provides application-specific guidance, technical consultation, and after-sales service, ensuring customers integrate SG01S-18S seamlessly into their systems.
Reliable Supply and Authentic Products
We maintain strong partnerships with global manufacturers, guaranteeing genuine devices, local stock availability, and competitive pricing backed by efficient logistics.
Complete End-to-End Solutions
From selection and calibration to training and long-term maintenance, we deliver comprehensive support to research organisations, industries, and academic institutions across India.
United Spectrum is your trusted partner for compact and reliable UV sensing solutions.
FAQs
What wavelengths can the SG01S-18S detect?
The SG01S-18S detects UV radiation in the 221–358 nm range, covering UVA, UVB, and UVC bands, with peak responsivity near 280 nm.
What makes the SG01S-18S different from SG01S-18?
The SG01S-18S is the short-cap version (~3.7 mm height) of the SG01S-18, designed for compact devices where space is limited, while maintaining the same broadband UV sensitivity.
Can the photodiode be used in visible light environments?
Yes. It is “visible-blind” due to its SiC design, meaning visible and infrared light do not affect its readings — only UV radiation is detected.
What environments can it operate in?
The SG01S-18S functions reliably from −55 °C to +170 °C and withstands high radiation exposure, making it suitable for harsh industrial, outdoor, and research environments.
What support does United Spectrum provide with the SG01S-18S?
We deliver not only the product but also expert technical consultation, seamless integration assistance, and responsive after-sales service tailored to Indian industry and research needs.
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FAQs
What wavelengths can the SG01S-18S detect?
The SG01S-18S detects UV radiation in the 221–358 nm range, covering UVA, UVB, and UVC bands, with peak responsivity near 280 nm.
What makes the SG01S-18S different from SG01S-18?
The SG01S-18S is the short-cap version (~3.7 mm height) of the SG01S-18, designed for compact devices where space is limited, while maintaining the same broadband UV sensitivity.
Can the photodiode be used in visible light environments?
Yes. It is “visible-blind” due to its SiC design, meaning visible and infrared light do not affect its readings — only UV radiation is detected.
What environments can it operate in?
The SG01S-18S functions reliably from −55 °C to +170 °C and withstands high radiation exposure, making it suitable for harsh industrial, outdoor, and research environments.
What support does United Spectrum provide with the SG01S-18S?
We deliver not only the product but also expert technical consultation, seamless integration assistance, and responsive after-sales service tailored to Indian industry and research needs.


