Electronics people - how to convert light intensity to an electric signal

[dullard]

Simple question. I've got light of varying intensities (fairly dim). I've got all the electronic equipment needed to read analog or digital electrical signals. So what is used as a detector that converts the light intensity to an electronic signal (hopefully an analog voltage as that would be the easiest to read)? I can do a google search and come up with tons of places selling items. Each site calls them different things. But what I want to know the advantages/disadvantages of these. What would you use? What is the difference between a photoconductive cell, phototransistor, photodiode, planar photodiode, optocouplers, etc?

 

[Viper GTS]

http://www.peg.si/electro/light.html

That help any?

TSL250

http://www.csi3.com/HOMEVIS/light_sensor.pdf

Viper GTS

 

[hjo3]

Sounds like you just need a light meter...?

 

[dullard]

Originally posted by: hjo3
Sounds like you just need a light meter...?

I need this integrated into a machine. So a light meter won't fit my needs.

Viper GTS: that is the type of thing I'm looking for. I wasn't very clear with my post above. I suppose I should be asking "what are the differences between the millions of types of light detectors and what do you think is the best to use". Ah your edit is a much better link.