Overview: The TCRT5000 IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module is a compact, reflective infrared sensor board designed for detecting obstacles, proximity, or reflective surfaces in robotics, automation, and DIY projects. It utilizes a TCRT5000 paired infrared emitter and phototransistor to emit modulated IR light and detect reflections, outputting a digital signal when an object is within the adjustable detection range. This low-cost module operates on 3.3V or 5V logic, making it compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontrollers for applications like line following, collision avoidance, or object counting. The blue PCB includes an onboard LED indicator for status and a trimmer potentiometer for sensitivity adjustment.
Key Specifications:
Parameter
Value/Detail
Sensor Type
Reflective IR (TCRT5000 emitter + phototransistor)
Detection Range
1cm – 25cm (adjustable via potentiometer)
Supply Voltage
3.3V – 5V DC
Output Type
Digital (HIGH/LOW; active low on detection)
Output Current
Up to 15mA (LED indicator)
Response Time
<1ms (fast switching)
Detection Angle
35° (conical field of view)
Operating Current
20mA (typical)
Dimensions
Approx. 32mm x 14mm x 8mm
Weight
~5g
Operating Temperature
-25°C to +85°C
Connections:
VCC (3.3V/5V): Positive supply pin (connect to 3.3V or 5V rail).
GND (0V): Ground pin (connect to common ground).
OUT (Digital Output Pin): Signal pin (goes LOW when obstacle detected; connect to microcontroller GPIO).
Adjustment: Blue trimmer potentiometer to set detection distance threshold (clockwise for longer range).
No analog output; digital only for simple threshold-based detection.
Features and Benefits:
Adjustable Sensitivity: Onboard potentiometer allows precise tuning of detection distance (1-25cm) for various environments, reducing false triggers.
Digital Simplicity: Clean HIGH/LOW output eliminates the need for additional comparators or code processing—ideal for beginners.
Integrated Components: Includes IR emitter (forward LED), receiver, op-amp comparator (LM393), and status LED for plug-and-play use.
Low Power Consumption: Efficient design suits battery-powered robots or sensors without draining resources.
Robust Build: Blue PCB with gold-plated pins for reliable soldering; black IR receiver lens filters ambient light for accurate readings.
Modulated IR: Operates at 38kHz to minimize interference from sunlight or fluorescent lights.
Applications:
Obstacle avoidance in mobile robots and autonomous vehicles.
Proximity sensing for automated doors, assembly lines, or security systems.
Line-following or edge detection in educational robotics kits.
Object counters or encoders in conveyor belt setups.
Arduino-based projects like smart carts or alarm triggers.
Note: Mount the sensor facing the detection area and test in your environment to calibrate the threshold—closer objects yield stronger reflections. Avoid direct sunlight for best performance; use multiple modules for 360° coverage. Not waterproof—suitable for indoor or enclosed use.
