Melexis Distance-to-Spot Studio Simplifies Far-Infrared Temperature Sensor Selection

Tessenderlo-Ham, Belgium, 9 September 2025 — Selecting the correct non-contact far-infrared (FIR) temperature sensor can be challenging due to performance and application factors, including the target object's size and distance. Experimental trial and error can be complicated and time-consuming, potentially wasting development resources. To address this, Melexis has launched an online tool to support its MLX90614 product range.

The Challenge

For any given application, engineers looking to deploy FIR sensors need to consider a wide range of parameters, including the sensor’s field of view (FOV). The primary difficulty with using FOV alone is that it's a simplification that can lead to errors in the sensor selection, often failing to deliver the required precision.

The Solution

Melexis has developed an intuitive online studio to streamline the selection of its extensive portfolio of MLX90614 FIR sensors, ensuring engineers can quickly find the right device for their application.

Engineers using the tool simply need to enter the following application information:

• The diameter of the measured object
• The distance to the measured object
• The expected temperature range of the measured object
• The maximum expected temperature difference between the object and its background
• The maximum acceptable temperature deviation due to the distance to spot ratio

From here, the selection can be further narrowed by setting the ideal supply voltage and whether medical accuracy is required. The tool then suggests sensor(s), considering each device’s parameters.

From Melexis

The new online tool is completely free to use and encompasses support for Melexis' comprehensive FIR product lineup. This includes a wide selection of advanced MLX90614 sensors capable of measuring object temperature from -70°C to 380°C, and a variant that features accuracy suited for medical applications.

“FIR sensing is a crucial part of many modern applications, from cooking to safety monitoring in industry, but choosing the right sensor without manufacturer assistance can be incredibly difficult,” said Joris Roels, Marketing Manager at Melexis. He continued, “We designed this tool to be a simple, user-friendly online resource that lets engineers easily identify the correct sensors for their application, helping them to avoid development mistakes.”

To discover this new tool, please visit www.melexis.com/distance-to-spot.