Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module

Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module

The Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module offers an affordable solution for obstacle detection in robotics and various electronic applications.

Pre-assembled with just four pins – +5 volts, GND, output, and EN – this module is straightforward to interface with Arduino or other microcontrollers. It’s also compatible with the Raspberry Pi within a voltage range of 3-6 volts (ensure Vcc is connected to 3 volts).

The enable pin “EN” disables the device when set to HI (Vcc) and enables it when set to LO (GND). While the onboard jumper allows for external control of enable/disable, leaving it on with the pin disconnected is typically sufficient. The module features two potentiometers: one for adjusting the operating frequency (centered at 38 kHz) and the other for intensity. Although tweaking may marginally improve range, it’s advisable to maintain the default settings, as the effective range is rather narrow but sufficient.

During testing, the module demonstrated a maximum reliable range of approximately 30-40 cm, with performance varying based on surface material. Smooth white surfaces yielded better results compared to black or rough surfaces. Overall, the module functions effectively straight out of the box, requiring minimal adjustments for optimal performance.

Sample Code:

int detector = 8; // define the obstacle avoidance sensor interface
int val ;
 
void setup ()
{
  pinMode(13, OUTPUT);     // Built in Arduino LED
  digitalWrite (13, LOW);
  pinMode (detector, INPUT) ;// define the obstacle avoidance sensor output interface
}
 
void loop ()
{
  val = digitalRead (detector) ;
  if (val == HIGH) // When the obstacle avoidance sensor detects a signal, LED flashes
  {
    digitalWrite (13, HIGH);
    delay(100);
  }
  else
  {
    digitalWrite (13, LOW);
    delay(100);
  }
}

Specification:

Detection distance: 2-40cm

IO Interface: 4-wire interfaces (- / + / S / EN)

Output signal: TTL level

Adjustment: adjust multi-turn resistance

Effective angle: 35 °

Package Includes:

1 x Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module