First miniaturised CO2 sensors are now available globally

High levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) compromise humans’ cognitive performance and well-being. Thanks to new energy standards and better insulation, houses have become increasingly energy efficient. However, CO2 produced by the human metabolism can accumulate rapidly. Therefore, CO2 is a key indicator for indoor air quality.

Measuring indoor CO2 concentration enables smart ventilation systems to regulate ventilation in the most energy-efficient and human-friendly way. Moreover, indoor air quality monitors and other connected devices can help to maintain a low CO2 concentration for a healthy, productive environment.

The SCD4x series is Sensirion’s next-generation miniature CO2 sensor that offers the smallest size combined with an unmatched price-to-performance ratio. The series consists of the SCD40 and SCD41 CO2 sensors. Both sensors are built on the photoacoustic sensing principle and Sensirion’s patented PASens and CMOSens Technology to enable unmatched small sensor size combined with high performance.

The SCD40 offers an accuracy of ±(50 ppm + 5% of reading) at 400–2000 ppm, while the SCD41 has an accuracy of ±(40 ppm + 5% of reading) at 400–5000ppm. In addition, the SCD41, featuring a low-power mode, is perfectly suited for applications with a limited power budget.

SMD compatibility and the small footprint allow cost- and space-effective integration to boost freedom of design for device manufacturers. The integrated best-in-class humidity and temperature sensor enables superior on-chip signal compensation and additional RH and T outputs.

Finally, the large supply voltage range (2.4 – 5.5V), the robustness to external stresses and the adjustable power consumption make the SCD4x the perfect fit for varying customer needs.

“The ongoing pandemic has taught us the importance of indoor air quality. Thanks to its small size, cost-effective pricing and easy assembly, the SCD4x makes CO2 sensing accessible to a new set of devices and applications. This will help us contain the pandemic and increase our well-being,” said Marco Gysel, Product Manager CO2 Sensors at Sensirion.