Optical Sensors Transmit BMS Data at Rates of Up to 6 Mbit/s

Communication in Battery Management Optical Sensors Transmit BMS Data at Rates of Up to 6 Mbit/s

2026-10-15 Source: Press Release | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

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Four new optical sensors from Vishay enable wireless data transmission between battery cells and control units. They are designed to offer an interference-resistant alternative to radio-based communication in battery management.

Vishay's nine optical sensors combine an infrared emitter with a PIN photodiode. They enable bidirectional data transmission at speeds of up to 6 Mbit/s, for example in battery management systems for electric vehicles.(Image: Vishay) — Vishay's nine optical sensors combine an infrared emitter with a PIN photodiode. They enable bidirectional data transmission at speeds of up to 6 Mbit/s, for example in battery management systems for electric vehicles.
(Image: Vishay)

In modern electric vehicles, numerous battery cells must be continuously monitored. To this end, voltage and temperature readings are recorded, and information is exchanged between the individual monitoring units and the overarching battery management system (BMS). In addition to wired connections, wireless communication solutions are also an option.

With four new optical sensors , Vishay aims to provide another option for data transmission in battery management. The VCND2040X02, VCND2040SLX02, VCND2045X02, and VCND2045SLX02 each combine an infrared emitter with a PIN photodiode and, according to the manufacturer, achieve data rates of up to 6 Mbit/s.

Unlike radio-based solutions, data is transmitted via light. As a result, the optical connection is immune to electromagnetic interference, such as that generated by power electronics and electric drives. Vishay also highlights the fact that it is less vulnerable to interference than radio connections.

Two Sensor Models for Different Requirements

The four devices differ primarily in the design of their IR emitters and their mounting orientation. The VCND2040X02 and VCND2040SLX02 variants feature a single-stage IR emitter and achieve typical rise and fall times of 18 ns. For the VCND2045X02 and VCND2045SLX02 variants, Vishay uses a two-stage emitter with rise and fall times of 9 ns each.

All four sensors enable simultaneous bidirectional data transmission. Two separate lenses and an integrated optical barrier between the transmitter and receiver are designed to prevent the emitted light from interfering with the sensor's own detector.

Optical communication can occur directly through the air over short distances. According to the manufacturer, distances of several meters can also be bridged with the help of additional optical components and optical fibers. This makes connections possible even over winding or spatially constrained transmission paths.

The sensors are qualified according to AEC-Q102 and are housed in SMD packages measuring 4.4 mm × 2.25 mm × 1.9 mm (0.173 in × 0.089 in × 0.075 in). Depending on the variant, they can be used with an optical interface oriented upward or to the side. A special connection geometry with wettable edges is also designed to facilitate inspection of the solder joints.

In addition to communication between battery cells and BMS control units, Vishay cites stationary energy storage, industrial automation, and optical switches and position sensors as potential applications. According to the manufacturer, the four sensors are available immediately as samples and in production quantities. The stated lead time is eight weeks.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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