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VL53L1CX

VL53L1CX

STMicroelectronics
A newer VL53L1-family ToF sensor option with different performance/feature tradeoffs.
Active21,215 in stock

Overview

The VL53L1CX is a long-range Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor based on STMicroelectronics FlightSense technology, capable of measuring distances up to 400 cm. It integrates a 940 nm Class 1 laser emitter, a SPAD receiving array with an integrated lens, and an internal microcontroller that handles advanced digital firmware for distance calculations. This sensor supports multi-zone operation and a programmable region of interest (ROI), allowing for precise spatial awareness in compact designs.

Why Choose This Part

The VL53L1CX offers a significant range increase to 4m while remaining pin-to-pin compatible with the earlier VL53L0X sensor. Its programmable ROI allows users to narrow the field of view or create custom detection zones, providing better performance in applications with specific spatial constraints. Integrated firmware reduces host processing overhead by delivering calibrated distance data directly over an I2C interface.

Applications

User Detection
Enabling wake-on-approach or auto-sleep functions in laptops, monitors, and smart home appliances.
Obstacle Avoidance
Providing real-time distance data for service robots and drones to navigate complex environments.
Industrial Liquid Level Sensing
Measuring the fill level of tanks or containers without physical contact with the contents.
Gesture Recognition
Utilizing the programmable ROI and multizone capabilities to detect hand movements for touchless control interfaces.

Key Specifications

Output Type I2C
Sensing Distance 157.480" (4m)
Voltage - Supply 2.6V ~ 3.5V
Operating Temperature -20degC ~ 85degC

Getting Started

Start development using the P-NUCLEO-53L1A1 evaluation kit which includes an STM32F401RE Nucleo board and a VL53L1 expansion board. STMicroelectronics provides the STSW-IMG007 (X-CUBE-TOF1) software expansion pack for the STM32Cube environment, containing drivers and example code. Ensure the sensor is supplied between 2.6V and 3.5V and utilize the XSHUT pin for hardware standby to minimize power consumption when not in use.

Also Consider

VL53L1X Satellite Board STMicroelectronics - A small breakout board ideal for rapid prototyping and easy integration into existing hardware setups.
VL53L3CX STMicroelectronics - Offers multi-target detection capabilities and improved histograms for measuring through cover glass with smudges.
VL53L0X STMicroelectronics - A lower-cost alternative for applications only requiring a 2-meter range and simpler sensing requirements.
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