[sdiy] CCD cameras for control

[Mike I.]

Hi Rob,
Many CCD cameras have a IR-blocking filter. The color filters in color 
CCD cameras also block IR. These apparently can be removed, or you could 
get a camera intended for IR use. Most plastic and glass lenses actually 
transmit near IR fairly well - they are not IR-opaque. What you might 
want is an IR transmitting filter (Wratten 87C or similar) to put in 
front of the CCD to reduce the effects of visible light. A good IR 
emitting diode to try is the Infineon (Siemens) SFH484-2. These have 
good efficiency, lots of power output (around 25 to 30 mW at 880 nM and 
100 mA current) and are fairly inexpensive.
Mike