The Next Generation of High‑End Optics Phlux Technology’s 1550 nm Sensors for Professional Shooting Optics

Phlux Technology, a manufacturer of avalanche photodiode (APD) infrared sensors, announced that its patented Noiseless InGaAs infrared sensors, proven in demanding defense, telecoms and industrial applications, are now being evaluated for use in premium hunting and professional shooting optics.

Designed to detect extremely faint infrared signals around 1550 nm, Phlux’s InGaAs avalanche photodiode (APD) technology delivers an order of magnitude higher sensitivity than conventional near‑infrared detectors. This leap in performance, first adopted in laser range finders (LRF) in the defense industry and optical test equipment for fiber‑network monitoring, is now drawing the attention of manufacturers of top‑end laser rangefinders, integrated ballistic scopes, and specialist low‑light targeting systems for serious hunters and professional marksmen. Special versions of the detectors have now been developed for these applications and Phlux has partnered with leading manufacturers of 1550 nm high-power lasers to support optics makers in end-to-end product development. 

Why High‑Sensitivity 1550 nm Matters

Modern hunting and shooting optics increasingly rely on laser range finding and digital fire‑control. By operating at around 1550 nm, an eye‑safe infrared wavelength, system designers can legally and safely use higher laser powers than when using traditional 905 nm devices, opening the door to longer ranging distances and more robust returns on difficult, low‑reflectivity targets or non‑cooperative backgrounds.

Phlux’s Noiseless InGaAs sensors are optimized precisely for this 1550 nm band. The combination of ultra‑low noise and high internal gain means they can detect much weaker return pulses, allowing manufacturers to:

• Extend effective ranging distance without increasing laser power.
• Maintain current range performance while shrinking optics and reducing power consumption.
• Improve ranging reliability in fog, drizzle, heat shimmer and low‑contrast environments where conventional receivers struggle.

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Enabling the Next Generation of High‑End Optics

Beyond stand‑alone rangefinders, premium optics makers are exploring Phlux’s sensors for integrated solutions that combine ranging, ballistic computation and imaging. Pairing a highly sensitive 1550 nm receiver with advanced optics and on‑board processing can support:

• Smart riflescopes that blend precise range data with ballistic profiles to give the shooter a more accurate hold point.
• Compact binocular or monocular units that provide fast, repeatable ranging across real‑world targets rather than ideal reflective plates.
• Specialist professional and tactical‑style systems using 1550 nm for “covert” illumination or aiming aids that are effectively invisible to traditional night‑vision devices tuned below 1 µm.

Because Phlux’s technology originated in demanding defense and telecoms environments, it is designed for reliability, thermal stability and long‑term consistency - qualities that matter as much to a professional hunter on a multi‑day trip as they do to an engineer monitoring a fiber‑optic backbone.

Phlux Technology is now in discussions with leading optics and electro‑optics manufacturers serving the global hunting, precision rifle and professional pest‑control markets. The company is offering application support to help partners redesign receivers for 1550 nm, optimize optical layouts, and extract maximum real‑world range and reliability from the new sensors.