photodetector

noun

pho·​to·​de·​tec·​tor ˌfō-tō-di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce photodetector (audio)
: any of various devices for detecting and measuring the intensity of radiant energy through photoelectric action

Examples of photodetector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Their camera is a photodetector against a pane of plexiglass that takes basic images and converts them into shapes a computer can be trained to recognize. IEEE Spectrum, 24 Oct. 2018 An alternative is to use single pixel imaging techniques, which form images from randomized light falling on a single photodetector. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2024 The connecting electronics can also be made largely transparent so that the entire photodetector array transmits up to 95 per cent of the light hitting it. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 21 Mar. 2024 That signal is then passed to a photodetector that translates it into an electronic one that can interface with other devices. IEEE Spectrum, 19 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for photodetector 

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of photodetector was in 1947

Dictionary Entries Near photodetector

Cite this Entry

“Photodetector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photodetector. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

photodetector

noun
pho·​to·​de·​tec·​tor -di-ˈtek-tər How to pronounce photodetector (audio)
: any of various devices for detecting and measuring the intensity of radiant energy through photoelectric action
… the pulse oximeter incorporates both photodiodes and photodetector in a fingertip sensor that can be clipped or taped to the patient's finger.The New England Journal of Medicine

More from Merriam-Webster on photodetector

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!