February 2026 – Murata Targets Wearables with Miniature SMD PIR Sensors
Murata has announced an expansion of its pyroelectric infrared sensor lineup with new surface-mount device (SMD) packages designed for compact and wearable applications. The new sensors maintain the performance of traditional TO-5 packages while occupying significantly less board space.
New SMD Series Highlights
IRA-S230ST01 – Ultra-Compact SMD
- Package: 4.0mm × 4.0mm × 2.0mm SMD
- Elements: Dual-element (differential)
- Spectral Response: 7-14 µm with integrated filter
- Responsivity: 3.0 kV/W typical
- Operating Voltage: 2.0-15V (external circuit)
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
IRA-E700 Series – Low-Profile SMD
- Package: 5.0mm × 5.0mm × 1.5mm SMD
- Elements: Single-element (for specific applications)
- Features: Integrated JFET, low power consumption
- Target: Wearables, smart watches, hearables
Key Advantages for Compact Designs
The new SMD packages offer several benefits for product designers:
- Automated Assembly: Compatible with standard pick-and-place and reflow soldering processes
- Height Reduction: As thin as 1.5mm, enabling integration into slim devices
- Weight Reduction: 70% lighter than TO-5 packages
- Improved Reliability: No leads to bend or break
- Better Shock Resistance: Ideal for portable and wearable applications
Technical Considerations for SMD PIR
Designing with SMD pyroelectric sensors requires attention to:
- Thermal Management: Reflow soldering profiles must not exceed sensor specifications (peak 260°C for 10 seconds)
- Optical Design: Miniature lenses or lens arrays may be needed
- PCB Layout: Guard rings and careful routing essential due to high impedance
- Shielding: May require local shielding in noisy environments
Target Applications
- Smart Watches: Gesture detection, wrist raise recognition
- Wireless Earbuds: In-ear detection, touchless controls
- AR/VR Headsets: Presence detection, user proximity
- Medical Wearables: Patient movement monitoring
- Compact IoT Sensors: Space-constrained wireless nodes
Availability
The new SMD pyroelectric sensors are available now for sampling, with volume production scheduled for Q3 2026. Evaluation boards with pre-mounted lenses are also available.
Industry Impact
“The miniaturization of PIR sensors opens up entirely new product categories,” said a Murata product manager. “We’re seeing strong interest from wearable manufacturers who previously couldn’t include motion sensing due to size constraints. These new SMD packages change that.”