Ultrasonic Distance Sensor with I2C Interface - RCWL-1601
This ultrasonic distance sensor uses I2C communication instead of the traditional trigger/pulse interface, making it easy to integrate with microcontrollers and microcomputers that lack fast GPIO or hardware UART. It works with both 3.3V and 5V power and logic, so it's compatible with virtually any development platform.
The sensor measures distances from approximately 2cm to 450cm, with best results in the 10–250cm range. The I2C interface is straightforward — write a '1' to start ranging, wait a few milliseconds, then read 3 bytes for the distance in micrometres.
Key Features
- I2C Interface – Simple read/write protocol on address 0x57
- 3.3V and 5V Compatible – Works with any logic level
- Wide Range – 2cm to 450cm (best results 10–250cm)
- Low Cost – Affordable ultrasonic sensing
- Pull-Up Resistors Included – Two 10K resistors for breadboard wiring
Specifications
- Model: RCWL-1601
- Interface: I2C (address 0x57, fixed)
- Operating Voltage: 3.3–5V
- Range: ~2cm to 450cm
- Output: Distance in micrometres (3-byte response)
- Pin Order (L→R): Power, SCL, SDA, Ground
Ideal For
- Robotics obstacle detection
- Interactive art installations
- Automation and proximity sensing
- Projects without available UART or fast GPIO
Note: This sensor does not share the I2C bus well with other devices — it can become confused by other commands and lock up the bus. Best used on a dedicated I2C bus or as the sole I2C device. No built-in pull-up resistors — two 10K resistors are included for breadboard wiring.
Package Contents
- 1× RCWL-1601 Ultrasonic Distance Sensor (I2C)
- 2× 10K Pull-Up Resistors
Resources
The Ultrasonic Distance Sensor with I2C Interface - RCWL-1601 appears in the following collections:
SKU AF-4742
by Adafruit
