January 2026 – Excelitas Expands DigiPyro Family with Ultra-Low Power Option
Excelitas Technologies announced in January 2026 the introduction of the PYD 2597 Ultra-Low Power DigiPyro sensor, designed specifically for battery-operated motion detection applications. The new sensor operates from supply voltages as low as 1.4V with current consumption of just 2µA at 1.8V.
Key Features
- Supply Voltage Range: 1.4V to 3.6V – enables direct operation from two AA batteries without boost converters
- Current Consumption: 2µA at 1.8V (typical) – among the lowest available
- Integrated Motion Detection Unit: Configurable with interrupt functionality for wake-up applications
- One-Wire Digital Interface: Simplifies system integration
- Package: Standard TO-5 with 130° field of view
- Responsivity: 3.2 kV/W (typical)
- Dual Pyroelectric Elements: Differential configuration for excellent common-mode rejection
Wake-Up Mode Technology
The PYD 2597’s signature feature is its wake-up mode. The internal Motion Detection Unit continuously monitors for motion while drawing minimal current. When motion is detected, it asserts an interrupt signal that can wake a sleeping microcontroller. This enables true “zero-power standby” for battery-operated devices, where the main system remains completely off until motion occurs.
Target Applications
- Long-range battery-powered motion detection
- Wireless intrusion alarms (2-4 year battery life)
- Energy-harvesting IoT sensors
- Smart home battery-powered sensors
- Industrial wireless monitoring
- Horizontal mounting designs
Comparison with Alternatives
Compared with other digital PIR sensors and camera- or radar-based motion detection technologies, the PYD 2597 offers significant advantages for battery-powered applications: lower power consumption (2µA vs. mA for radar), lower cost, inherent privacy advantages, and ideal characteristics as a wake-up sensor for higher-power systems.
Availability
The PYD 2597 is available now for sampling, with volume production scheduled for Q2 2026. Evaluation boards and application notes are available on the Excelitas website.