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Arduino Infra-red obstacle sensor
The infrared obstacle sensor is a compact IR proximity module designed for robotics and automation projects. It detects obstacles within a 2–40 cm range and ...
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The infrared obstacle sensor is a compact IR proximity module designed for robotics and automation projects. It detects obstacles within a 2–40 cm range and outputs a TTL-level signal, making it easy to integrate with Arduino and other microcontrollers.
The detection distance is adjustable via a multi-turn potentiometer, and the sensor features an enable pin for programmatic control. Operating on 3.3–5V, it's compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems.
Key Features
- Adjustable Detection Range – 2–40 cm, tuneable via multi-turn potentiometer
- TTL Output – Low when obstacle detected, high when clear
- Wide Voltage Range – Works with 3.3V and 5V systems
- Enable Pin – Programmatically enable or disable the sensor
- 35° Effective Angle – Focused detection cone for precise obstacle sensing
- Compact Size – 28 × 23 mm
Specifications
- Interface – 4-wire (GND / VCC / Signal / Enable)
- Working Voltage – DC 3.3–5V
- Working Current – ≥ 20mA
- Detection Distance – 2–40 cm
- Effective Angle – 35°
- Operating Temperature – -10°C to +50°C
- Board Size – 28 × 23 mm
Pinout
- + – Power (3.3–5V)
- GND – Ground
- OUT – Signal output (TTL)
- EN – Enable pin
Example Code
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(9, INPUT); // Sensor output pin
}
void loop() {
Serial.print("Sensor: ");
Serial.println(digitalRead(9));
delay(500);
}Ideal For
- Robot obstacle avoidance
- Proximity detection systems
- Automated line-following or maze-solving robots
- Arduino and microcontroller beginner projects
Package Contents
- 1× Infrared obstacle sensor
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- DC
- DC means direct current, where electricity flows in one constant direction, as supplied by batteries, USB ports and many plug-pack power supplies. When a product specifies DC, it runs from a DC supply rather than mains AC, so you need to provide the correct voltage and polarity.
- GND
- GND is the ground or reference connection (0 V) for a circuit. When connecting two devices together, their grounds must be joined so both agree on what counts as a low or high signal.
- microcontroller
- A microcontroller is a small computer on a single chip that runs a stored program and controls connected inputs and outputs such as buttons, sensors, displays and communication interfaces. In a device built around one, it is the part that executes the code and coordinates the device's behaviour.
- potentiometer
- A variable resistor usually turned with a knob or shaft to create an adjustable electrical signal. It is often used for inputs such as volume, brightness or position, so it helps beginners learn how a microcontroller reads changing values.
- VCC
- VCC is the positive power-supply connection on a chip or module. Connecting it to the correct supply voltage is needed for the part to power on and helps avoid damaging the electronics.
Find this product in
Sensors & Input
Related Tutorials
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