ams AG (SIX: AMS), a provider of high performance sensors and analog ICs, has launched the smallest ever optical sensor module that delivers a combination of colour (RGB), ambient light and proximity sensing, providing OEMs with design flexibility and the ability to provide a better display viewing experience.

The TMD3700 footprint, at 4.00 x 1.75mm, is the smallest footprint available in the market, and with height of 1.00mm, its low-profile is ideal for next-generation mobile phones with extremely tight layout and mechanical design constraints. Its wide 45 degree field-of-view, ambient light sensing accuracy of +/-10% and operating range of 200mlux to 60Klux behind dark glass enable smartphones to measure the surrounding light environment and automatically adjust display colour and brightness for optimal viewing.

The TMD3700 colour sensor channels each have UV and IR blocking filters and a dedicated converter allowing simultaneous data capture necessary for accurate measurements. The combination of photopic colour and ambient light sensing enables smartphones to perform real-time adjustment of the display properties, such as white point, colour gamut and colour saturation, to achieve the best visual colour accuracy.

The TMD3700 features allow dynamic elimination of both electrical and optical crosstalk producing reliable proximity detection, a function used by smartphone manufacturers to disable the touchscreen display when it is held close to the user’s face. In addition, the module’s integrated IR LED is calibrated for maximum performance and consistent operation.

“Smartphone OEMs are continually condensing their product profiles while seeking ways to improve display performance for the best visual appeal. The availability of the TM3700 light sensing and proximity detection performance in a compact package enables innovative display management for today’s space-constrained smartphones,” said Darrell Benke, Strategic Program Director for Advanced Optical Solutions at ams.