Infrared Obstacle Avoidance IR Sensor Module

Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V DC
• Detection Distance: 2cm – 30cm (Adjustable via onboard potentiometer)
• Detection Angle: 35°
• Output Signal: Digital (0 or 1)
• Onboard Hardware: LM393 Voltage Comparator
• Indicator LEDs: Power LED (Red) and Obstacle Detection LED (Green)
• Pinout: * VCC: 3.3V-5V external voltage
• GND: External ground
• OUT: Digital output interface (Small board)

Key Applications & Projects

• Autonomous Robotics: The primary sensor for obstacle avoidance in 2WD and 4WD robot chassis.
• Production Lines: Object counting on conveyor belts.
• Security Systems: Detecting movement through doorways or restricted entries.
• Interactive Art: Triggering lights or sound when a hand approaches a display.

Project Evolution 

• Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you have mastered blinking an LED and reading a push-button, you are ready for this sensor.
  
• Feature Upgrade: Integrating this module unlocks Spatial Awareness. It moves your project from a "static" device to an "active" agent that can react to its physical surroundings.
  
• Effort/Requirements: Beginner Level. Requires only 3 jumper wires and a basic digital read script.

Virtual Technician & Wiring

Safety Warning: Ensure the VCC does not exceed 5V, as this can overheat the IR emitter. Wiring Guide:

1. Connect VCC to 5V on Arduino.
2. Connect GND to GND on Arduino.
3. Connect OUT to Digital Pin 2.
4. Rotate the onboard potentiometer clockwise to increase detection range and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

Package Includes: 

1 X Infrared Obstacle Avoidance IR Sensor Module

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I adjust the detection range?
   Use a small screwdriver to turn the onboard potentiometer; clockwise increases sensitivity.
2. Does sunlight affect the sensor?
   Yes, high ambient IR from sunlight can cause false triggers. Best used indoors.
3. What is the maximum detection distance?
   Typically up to 30cm, depending on the reflectivity of the object.
4. Can it detect black objects?
   Black surfaces absorb IR light, so the detection range will be significantly reduced compared to white objects.
5. Does it provide an analog distance reading?
   No, this is a digital sensor (High/Low) only.
6. Is it compatible with Raspberry Pi?
   Yes, it works perfectly with the Pi’s 3.3V logic levels.
7. What does the Green LED indicate?
   The Green LED lights up when an obstacle is detected within the set range.
8. Why is the sensor always 'ON'?
   Your sensitivity might be too high; try turning the potentiometer counter-clockwise.
9. Can I use this for a line follower robot?
   While possible, our dedicated Line Hunter modules are better suited for tracking narrow lines.
10. What is the current consumption?
    Approximately 20mA.
11. Does it need a library to work?
    No, it uses standard digitalRead() commands.
12. What is the beam angle?
    Approximately 35 degrees.
13. Can it detect transparent glass?
    Usually no, as IR light passes through glass rather than reflecting.
14. Is it waterproof?
    No, this is an open-circuit module for indoor use.
15. What is the response time?
    It is near-instantaneous, limited only by your microcontroller's clock speed.
16. How do I mount it?
    The board features a M3 mounting hole for easy attachment to robot chassis.
17. Can I use it with ESP8266?
    Yes, connect VCC to 3.3V.
18. Why are there two "bulbs" on the front?
    One is the IR Transmitter (Clear) and the other is the IR Receiver (Black).
19. What if the pins are bent?
    We use Probots™ Secure-Transit packaging to prevent this, but they can be gently straightened if needed.
20. Can it be used for liquid level sensing?
    No, it is designed for solid obstacle detection.