GY-53 VL53L0X Laser ToF Flight Time Ranging Sensor Module

QUICK OVERVIEW:

The GY-53 VL53L0X Laser ToF Flight Time Ranging Sensor Module is a device that can measure the distance of objects in front of it using a tiny invisible laser. It can also detect basic gestures. It works with a 2.8 to 5V supply, thanks to its 2.8V regulator and level shifters. You can use it in any application that requires a precise and narrow distance sensor.

The VL53L0X is different from other distance sensors because it uses a Time of Flight method. It sends out a laser beam and measures how long it takes for the light to bounce back. This way, it can calculate the exact distance of the object in front of it.

The VL53L0X is better than sonars that use ultrasonic waves, because it has a very narrow sensing area. It is also better than IR distance sensors that measure the amount of light reflected, because it does not have problems with linearity or double imaging.

The module has a small PCB that supports the VL53L0X sensor. You can break off this PCB and use it separately with a 2.8V supply and flying leads. This makes it easier to integrate into your devices because of its small size.

The module is designed to save power. It can perform distance measurements automatically at intervals that you can set. It also supports different thresholds and interrupt schemes to reduce the work of the host device. You can read the data from the module using serial port or PWM. The code for STM32, Arduino, and 51 MCU is provided.

Please note that the sensor may be affected by external light sources, such as sunlight. This may reduce the maximum range of measurement, but not the accuracy. The default settings are: serial baud rate 9600, automatic output, high precision mode. Please remove the protective film from the sensor before using it.

VL53L0X Overview:

The VL53L0X is a product that uses ST’s patented FlightSense™ technology, which is a breakthrough in measuring absolute distance regardless of the target’s reflectance. Unlike conventional methods that estimate the distance by measuring the amount of light reflected from the object (which depends largely on its color and surface), the VL53L0X measures the exact time it takes for the light to travel to the closest object and bounce back to the sensor (Time-of-Flight). The VL53L0X combines an IR emitter and a range sensor, making it easy to integrate and saving OEMs from lengthy and costly optical and mechanical design optimizations.

Note: The VL53L0X comes with a liner to protect the module’s holes from foreign material during the assembly process. The liner should be removed as late as possible during the final assembly, and always before the module calibration.

Useful Links: Code and Libraries

Features:

1. VL53L0X 3-in-1 ranging and gesture detection sensor
2. Regulator: 5 to 2.8V range input voltage (output voltage: 2.8V)
3. VL53L0X signal interface level shifter
4. Serial Port PWM Output
5. True distance measurement independent of target size and reflectance
6. Able to function in multi-module applications
7. Small size mini-PCB
8. Breakout board, easy to integrate into the customer device
9. Allows basic gesture recognition use case.

Specification-

Package Includes:

1 x GY-53 VL53L0X Laser ToF Flight Time Ranging Sensor Module.

1 x Jumper Connector (without soldered).