SparkFun
SparkFun Ambient Light Sensor - VEML6030 (Qwiic)
The SparkFun VEML6030 Ambient Light Sensor is a high-accuracy, 16-bit light sensor that measures ambient light in lux with a spectral response similar to the...
The SparkFun VEML6030 Ambient Light Sensor is a high-accuracy, 16-bit light sensor that measures ambient light in lux with a spectral response similar to the human eye. It connects via the Qwiic I2C system for solderless plug-and-play setup, with 0.1" header pins also broken out for breadboard use.
With a readable range from 0 to 120,000 lux, configurable high/low threshold interrupts, and ultra-low power consumption in the single-digit microamp range, this sensor is well suited for display brightness control, environmental monitoring, and smart lighting applications.
Key Features
- 16-Bit Resolution – High-accuracy ambient light readings in lux
- Human Eye Response – Spectral sensitivity matched to human vision
- 0–120,000 Lux Range – From darkness to bright sunlight
- Qwiic I2C Connector – Solderless, polarised 4-pin JST connection
- Configurable Interrupts – Set high and low lux thresholds for event triggering
- Ultra-Low Power – Single-digit µA current draw in power-saving mode
- Breadboard Friendly – 0.1" header pins broken out alongside Qwiic
- Arduino Library – Full-featured library with example code included
Ideal For
- Automatic display brightness adjustment
- Environmental light monitoring and data logging
- Smart lighting and home automation
- Low-power IoT sensor nodes
Package Contents
- 1× SparkFun VEML6030 Ambient Light Sensor (Qwiic)
Resources
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- Ambient light sensor
- A sensor that measures the general brightness of light falling on it, similar to how a device can adjust screen brightness automatically. It matters when you want a project to react to room lighting, daylight, shadows, or covered/uncovered conditions.
- I2C
- I2C is a two-wire communication bus used by many sensors and small modules. It matters because several I2C devices can share the same two wires, but each device needs a compatible address and your controller must support I2C.
- IoT
- Short for Internet of Things, meaning physical devices that connect to networks or the internet to send data or be controlled remotely. It matters if you want projects such as connected sensors, remote controls or classroom data-logging activities.
- lux
- Lux is the standard unit for measuring how much light falls on a surface, similar to how a light meter reports brightness. A sensor that outputs lux gives readings that are easier to compare between rooms, outdoor conditions, and different projects.
- Qwiic
- Qwiic is a plug-in connector system for I2C devices that uses small 4-pin cables, so you can connect compatible sensors without soldering. It matters because your controller or adapter also needs Qwiic, or you will need a cable or breakout to wire it up.
Find this product in
Brands
Sensors & Input
SparkFun VEML6030 Ambient Light Sensor Schematic
Schematic · 101.0 KB · Click any page to view full size
VEML6030 Ambient Light Sensor Datasheet
Datasheet · 220.8 KB · Click any page to view full size
Supplier page — sparkfun.com
Supplier Description · 708.1 KB · Click any page to view full size
Resources & Downloads
Guides, code examples, and more
Related Tutorials
Free guides on learn.littlebird.com.au
