Project – TCRT5000 IR sensor (Obstacle Avoidance / Reflective Sensor)

The TCRT5000 is an IR sensor unit module. It has both a Photodiode and a Phototransistor coupled in its package. The photo diode has two pins (Anode and Cathode) which can be used to generate an IR signal. Similarly, the Photo transistor also has two pins (Collector and Emitter) which can be used to read the IR signal that is reflected back. It can provide both Analog Output Signals and Digital Output Signal with the help of LM393 Comparator IC whose threshold can be changed by onboard potentiometer. The module has 4 pins in which 2 pins are power pins and 2 output pins. This sensor can be used to detect the presence of object or any other reflective surface in front it. This can distinguish between reflective and non reflective surfaces and hence it is commonly used in Line follower or maze solving robots, obstacle detection and avoidance programs etc with development boards like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PIC and ATMEL controllers.

Specifications

• Working Voltage Range 3.5-5Vdc
• Both Analog and Digital Outputs
• Sensitivity Adjustment available in Digital Mode
• M4 Hole for mounting
• 1mm to 10mm measuring range