Product description
VL6180 Time-of-Flight Range Sensor
This sensor module is based on the VL6180, which measures distance using Time-of-Flight technology. Instead of relying on reflected light intensity or angle, it uses a precise internal clock to calculate the time it takes for light to bounce off a surface. This provides greater accuracy and noise immunity. The same technology is used in mobile phones to detect proximity to the user’s face.
The VL6180 is a 3-in-1 device that combines an IR emitter, range sensor, and ambient light sensor. It communicates via an I2C interface and includes an onboard 2.8V voltage regulator and logic level shifter, allowing it to operate safely with supply voltages higher than 2.8V. The board layout matches the popular Sharp IR sensor footprint, making it compatible with many existing mounting systems.
Specifications:
- Sensor: VL6180 Time-of-Flight
- Voltage regulator: 2.8V (onboard)
- Level shifter: I2C logic conversion from 2.8V to VCC
- Interface: I2C
- Measurement range: up to 100 mm (tested up to 250 mm)
- Integrated features: IR emitter, range sensor, ambient light sensor
- GPIO: two programmable
- Form factor: compatible with Sharp IR sensor mounts
- Gesture recognition supported