Volkswagen Passat '97, User Manual

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68
Air-conditioning
Sunshine penetration photosensor G107
The air-conditioning temperature control is affec-
ted by the sunshine penetration photosensor.
It measures the sunlight falling directly on the
car’s occupants.
How it works:
The sunlight impinges on a photodiode through a
filter and an optical element.
The filter has the same effect as sunglasses and
prevents sublight from damaging the
photodiode.
The photodiode is a light-sensitive semiconduc-
tor element. When it is not illuminated, only a
small electric current can flow through the diode.
When it is illuminated, the electric current
increases. The stronger the light, the higher
the current.
To the control unit, an increase in electric current
indicates higher sunshine penetration.
It regulates the interior temperature accordingly.
Photodiode
Optical element
Filter
Housing cover
Housing
SSP 192/093
SSP 192/034