The Evolution of Opto Diode: A Legacy in Photonics Innovation

Since its founding in 1981 in Camarillo, California, Opto Diode Corporation has been a trusted U.S.-based leader in the design and manufacture of custom photodiodes, LEDs, and infrared detectors for high-performance industries. Over four decades, Opto Diode has grown from a specialized LED manufacturer to a globally recognized provider of EUV, UV, and high-energy photodetectors for the semiconductor, aerospace, medical, and scientific research markets.

From Custom LEDs to Global Photonics Solutions

Opto Diode began with a focus on custom red and near-infrared (NIR) LEDs, serving customers who required high-reliability, precision-engineered light sources. Its commitment to quality and innovation quickly made it a trusted partner for industrial and defense applications where performance cannot be compromised.

A New Era Under ITW

In August 2008, Opto Diode became a division of Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a Fortune 200 global industrial company. This partnership strengthened Opto Diode’s resources and positioned it within the ITW Photonics Group, enabling the company to scale production and accelerate R&D for advanced optoelectronic solutions.

Expanding Capabilities with IRD and Cal Sensors

Opto Diode further expanded its spectral reach and technical capabilities with two key acquisitions:

• 2011 – International Radiation Detectors (IRD): A California-based innovator in UV, X-ray, and high-energy particle detection. IRD, founded by Dr. Raj Korde and Dr. Dejan Jovanovic, was renowned for radiation-hard photodiodes and detectors for space, scientific, and industrial applications.

• 2014 – Cal Sensors (CSI): A Santa Rosa-based leader in mid-infrared (mid-IR) detectors, emitters, and lead-salt components, bolstering Opto Diode’s ability to support gas sensing, thermal analysis, and flame detection markets.

These integrations allowed Opto Diode to offer a full-spectrum photonics portfolio, from extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and deep ultraviolet (DUV) through mid-infrared, all supported by U.S.-based wafer fabrication and thin-film coating facilities.

Opto Diode Today: A Trusted Partner Across Industries

In 2025, Opto Diode stands as a leader in EUV photodetectors, UV detectors, and high-reliability IR emitters, trusted by top organizations in:

• Semiconductor manufacturing and metrology

• Aerospace and defense systems

• Medical and scientific research

• Industrial monitoring and sensing applications

With ITAR compliance and an in-house wafer fab, Opto Diode continues to deliver custom optical solutions that meet the most demanding performance and environmental standards.History of ODCLooking Ahead

Whether you need custom EUV photodiodes for semiconductor lithography, ITAR-compliant infrared detectors for defense systems, or precision-engineered LEDs for industrial sensing, Opto Diode is your trusted U.S. partner for reliable, high-performance photonics solutions.

Learn more about our products and capabilities at www.optodiode.com.