VL53L4CD Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor - module with ToF distance sensor VL53L4CD 120cm

Description

The VL53L4CD sensor module from ST Microelectronics is an advanced distance measurement module utilizing innovative Time-of-Flight (TOF) technology. It is a compact, standalone LiDAR system that uses a 940 nm Class 1 laser, which is invisible and completely safe for the eyes. By employing FlightSense technology, the sensor precisely measures the return time of light pulses, providing highly accurate results regardless of lighting conditions and the surface characteristics of the object.

Unlike traditional infrared sensors that estimate distance based on reflected light intensity, the VL53L4CD delivers absolute distance measurements. The sensor can operate in a wide range of conditions since its results are not affected by the color, texture, shape, or reflectivity of the measured object. However, environmental factors such as ambient light intensity and configuration settings may influence the maximum measurement range. Under ideal conditions, such as low ambient light and a highly reflective surface, the sensor can measure distances from 1 mm to 1.2 m with an impressive 1 mm resolution. The user can also configure the measurement timing, allowing optimization between accuracy, readout speed, maximum distance, and power consumption.

Measurement data is transmitted via the I²C interface, supporting 16-bit distance readings. The sensor includes additional features such as an XSHUT input for disabling the module and a GPIO1 output that can be configured to signal object detection within a specific distance range. Thanks to its compact size and built-in voltage regulator and logic level shifter, the VL53L4CD is easy to integrate with systems operating at 2.6 V to 5.5 V. The I²C lines are compatible with both 3.3 V and 5 V logic, making the sensor easy to connect with popular microcontrollers such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and others.

The module features a standard 2.54 mm pin pitch, facilitating use with breadboards and perforated prototyping boards. Additionally, for convenient mounting, the sensor includes two mounting holes compatible with #2 and M2 screws. This makes the VL53L4CD an excellent choice for both professional applications and hobby projects requiring precise distance measurements.

Features

• Measurement range: 1 mm to 1.2 m
• Measurement accuracy: 1 mm
• Communication interface: I²C
• Ultra-low power mode (ULP): < 100 μA
• Maximum sampling frequency: 100 Hz
• Emission source: 940 nm VCSEL laser (Class 1 – eye-safe)
• Detector: SPAD (Single Photon Avalanche Diode)
• Field of view (FoV): 18°
• Built-in 2.8 V voltage regulator
• Integrated logic level shifter for I²C
• Interrupt modes:
  • Object closer than the set distance
  • Object farther than the set distance
  • Object within a specified range
  • Object outside the specified range
• Operating voltage: 2.6 V to 5.5 V
• Current consumption: 25 mA
• Peak current consumption: up to 40 mA
• Pin pitch: 2.54 mm
• Dimensions: 13 x 18 x 2 mm
• Weight: 0.5 g
• Two mounting holes: compatible with M2 screws