DFRobot Mini Laser I2C Distance Range Sensor Module - 2-400cm Measurement Range
Overview
The module is a laser-based distance sensor using optical Time-of-Flight (ToF) ranging technology.
Measures distance: 2 cm to 400 cm
Provides digital output via I2C
Designed for high-speed, short-to-medium range distance measurement
It is an active optical sensor (emits laser light and measures reflection time).
Working Principle (Time-of-Flight)
The sensor emits a laser pulse
The pulse reflects off an object
The sensor measures the time taken for the light to return
Distance is calculated using:
Distance=c't2\text{Distance} = \frac{c \times t}{2}Distance=2c't
Where:
ccc = speed of light
ttt ethod enables:
Fast response
High precision compared to ultrasonic sensors
Measurement Characteristics
Range: 2 cm to 400 cm
Accuracy:
25 cm: 1 cm
25 cm: 4% of distance (approx., ~5 mm practical error)
Detection angle: ~19
Narrow beam better directional measurement
Electrical Characteristics
Supply voltage: 3.3V to 5V
Idle current: ~2 mA
Operating current: < 19 mA
Efficient for embedded and battery-powered systems
Communication Interface
Interface: I2C digital communication
Typical I2C address: 0x7>
Distance in mm / cm / m (via register read)
No analog signal direct integration with microcontrollers
Performance Parameters
Response time: 1938 ms
Measurement frequency: up to ~100 Hz
Startup delay: 800 ms
Suitable for real-time sensing applications
Environmental Characteristics
Operating temperature: 15C to 60C
Storage temperature: 30C to 80C
Some variants feature:
IP67 protection (dustproof & waterproof)
Internal Features
Optical Ranging System
Integrated laser emitter + photodetector
Filters noise and reflections
Provides stable output data
Narrow Field-of-View
~19 beam angle
Reduces interference from surrounding objects
Operating Behavior
Surface Dependency
Works best on:
Solid, reflective surfaces
Less accurate on:
Transparent objects
Very dark or absorbent materials
Lighting Conditions
Generally robust to ambient light
Very strong sunlight may slightly affect readings
Measurement Stability
Stable at short distances
Slight variation at long range due to:
Surface reflectivity
angle of incidence
Limitations
Cannot measure>
Performance affected by:
Surface texture
Reflectivity
Accuracy decreases at longer distances
Not suitable for:
sub-millimeter precision applications
Module Structure
Typical connections:
VCC
GND
SDA
SCL
Fully digital module minimal external components required
Summary
This DFRobot Mini Laser Distance Sensor is a compact, high-speed optical distance measurement module that:
Uses laser ToF technology
Measures 2400 cm range
Provides fast, accurate digital output via I2C
Offers low power consumption and compact design
Is optimized for