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VL53L0X Time-of-Flight Laser Ranging Sensor Module | 940nm I2C | 2m Range 1mm Resolution | Arduino Robotics
VL53L0X Time-of-Flight Laser Ranging Sensor Module | 940nm I2C | 2m Range 1mm Resolution | Arduino Robotics
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VL53L0X Time-of-Flight Laser Ranging Sensor Module — 940nm I2C | 2m Range | 1mm Resolution
The VL53L0X from ST Microelectronics is the world’s smallest Time-of-Flight (ToF) ranging sensor, using FlightSense™ technology to measure the time taken for a 940nm infrared laser pulse to travel to a target and return — providing accurate distance measurements up to 2 metres with 1mm resolution, completely independent of target reflectance. Unlike IR proximity sensors that measure reflected light intensity (and are fooled by dark or light surfaces), the VL53L0X measures actual time-of-flight and delivers consistent distance readings regardless of target colour or reflectivity. This breakout board integrates the VL53L0X with all supporting components and a 2.8V regulator, accepting 2.6–5.5V supply for direct Arduino and Raspberry Pi compatibility.
Specifications
| Sensor IC | ST Microelectronics VL53L0X |
| Technology | Time-of-Flight (ToF), FlightSense™ |
| Laser Wavelength | 940nm (infrared, eye-safe Class 1) |
| Measurement Range | Up to 2m (6.6ft) |
| Resolution | 1mm |
| Accuracy | ±3% (typical, optimal conditions) |
| Interface | I2C (400kHz fast mode) |
| I2C Address | 0x29 (default, software-changeable) |
| Supply Voltage (VIN) | 2.6V – 5.5V |
| Regulated Output (VDD) | 2.8V, ~150mA available |
| Additional Pins | XSHUT (shutdown input), GPIO1 (interrupt output) |
| Package | SMD (on breakout board) |
| Origin | Mainland China |
ToF vs. IR Proximity Sensors
| Property | VL53L0X (ToF) | IR Proximity Sensor |
|---|---|---|
| Measurement method | Time-of-flight (laser pulse timing) | Reflected IR intensity |
| Target colour effect | None — independent of reflectance | Significant — dark objects appear closer |
| Maximum range | 2m | Typically 10–80cm |
| Resolution | 1mm | Analogue, low resolution |
| Ambient light immunity | High (940nm, narrow band) | Low (affected by sunlight) |
| Interface | I2C (digital) | Analogue or digital threshold |
Key Features
- ✅ ST FlightSense™ technology — genuine ST VL53L0X sensor, not a clone
- ✅ 2m measurement range — far exceeds typical IR proximity sensors
- ✅ 1mm resolution — precise distance measurement for robotics and automation
- ✅ Target-independent — consistent readings regardless of target colour or reflectivity
- ✅ I2C interface — simple 2-wire connection to Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or any I2C microcontroller
- ✅ 2.6–5.5V supply — direct 3.3V and 5V Arduino/Raspberry Pi compatibility
- ✅ XSHUT pin — hardware shutdown for power management and multi-sensor I2C address assignment
- ✅ GPIO1 interrupt — hardware interrupt output for threshold-based distance alerts
- ✅ Eye-safe Class 1 laser — 940nm infrared, safe for consumer and educational use
Common Applications
- Robot obstacle detection and avoidance
- Drone altitude hold and landing detection
- Gesture recognition (hand distance sensing)
- Liquid level measurement in tanks
- People counting and presence detection
- 3D scanning and mapping (short range)
- Automatic door and gate triggering
- Parking sensor and proximity alert
- Camera autofocus assist
Arduino Quick Start
- Connect VIN to Arduino 3.3V or 5V, GND to GND, SDA to A4 (Uno) or SDA pin, SCL to A5 (Uno) or SCL pin.
- Install the Adafruit VL53L0X library via the Arduino Library Manager.
- Upload the basic ranging example sketch.
- Open Serial Monitor at 115200 baud to see distance readings in millimetres.
Multiple Sensor I2C Setup
The VL53L0X has a fixed default I2C address (0x29). To use multiple sensors on the same I2C bus, use the XSHUT pin to disable all sensors, then enable and re-address them one at a time using software. The Adafruit library includes examples for multi-sensor setups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this work outdoors in sunlight?
A: The VL53L0X uses a 940nm narrow-band laser and optical filter to reject ambient light. It works in most outdoor conditions but performance may degrade in very bright direct sunlight at maximum range.
Q: What is the minimum measurable distance?
A: The VL53L0X can measure distances as short as approximately 30mm (3cm). Objects closer than this may not be reliably detected.
Package Contents
- 1× VL53L0X Time-of-Flight Laser Ranging Sensor Breakout Board
