Analog Sun Sensor Design

[USMCinfinity]

Hey guys I've been trying to design a Analog Sun Sensor using the BPW41N photodiode (IR realm) but it hasn't worked, does anyone has any knowledge of a successful design with this photodiode? (a cubesat has been done with it but its design isn't clear to me).

 

[USMCinfinity]

This is a simple schematic I'm trying to build. How much does R1 and RL (I'm assuming I define RL) have to be do the thing doesn't burn. Also I don't see which is the anode and catode of this photodiode so I really have no idea on how to connect it, any help please?

 

[mitultaillor]

All diode has anode and cathode at unique place always. In above picture, side of "1" is anode and other terminal is cathode. I am very confused from your question. Please be specific so that any one can help you.

 

[USMCinfinity]

My question with this photodiode is that its datasheet isn't clear about its actual connection. My question is, I'm trying to do a small photodtector i.e. Sun Sensor but I have no idea of the values for the above diagram. The photodiode is the BPW41N.

 

[celestron]

There is something related to a photodiode as a cubesat Sun sensor on the Cubesat Forum (see the link). However, I am not sure BPW41N is the right choice for such an application simple because it is designed for high speed IR data transmission not for detecting the Sun presence. It will work but most likely there are better choices.

link: Sun Sensor using the BPW41N photodiode