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SparkFun TFMini - Micro LiDAR Module (12m)

SparkFun TFMini - Micro LiDAR Module (12m)

MPN: 15179
SparkFun Electronics
Optical Sensor 3.94" ~ 472.44" (10 ~ 1200cm) I2C, UART Output
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Overview

The SparkFun 15179 is a Micro LiDAR module designed for short to medium range distance sensing between 0.1m and 12m. This compact Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor provides reliable distance measurements over a UART interface, making it ideal for integration into small-scale robotic platforms and industrial monitoring systems. It features an IP65 rated enclosure to protect the internal optics and electronics from dust and water splashes.

Why Choose This Part

The module operates on a standard 4.5V to 5.5V supply and consumes approximately 110mA during active measurement, with a low-power shutdown mode of 500uA. Its IP65 rating and wide operating temperature range of -20C to 60C allow for deployment in challenging environmental conditions where standard optical sensors might fail.

Applications

Drone Altimetry
Provides precise altitude hold and terrain following for small UAVs during indoor or low-altitude flight.
Robotic Obstacle Avoidance
Enables mobile robots to detect and navigate around obstacles in real-time within a 12-meter radius.
Industrial Tank Level Sensing
Monitors the level of non-corrosive liquids or solids in containers using the IP65 rated housing.
Security and Presence Detection
Triggers alarms or lighting systems by detecting people or vehicles entering a specific zone.

Getting Started

Connect the four-pin header to any microcontroller UART port (TX/RX) and provide a stable 5V power source. Use the SparkFun TFMini Arduino library to quickly parse the 9-byte data packets which include distance, signal strength, and temperature data.

Also Consider

VL53L1X Breakout STMicroelectronics - A more compact, lower-power Time-of-Flight sensor for very short-range (4m) applications requiring high precision.

Categories

Sensors > Proximity & Time-of-Flight