TCRT5000L 3 Channel Infrared Tracking Sensor Module

TCRT5000L 3 Channel Infrared Tracking Sensor Module is a compact and highly effective line-following array that integrates three sets of TCRT5000L reflective optical sensors. This module is an essential component for mobile robotics, providing precise, real-time feedback on the surface directly beneath the robot. By utilizing infrared light emission and detection, the module differentiates between light and dark surfaces (such as a white floor and a black line). Each channel operates independently and provides a digital output, allowing microcontrollers to simultaneously track multiple lines or edges, or to detect variations in surface color across the robot’s width. Consequently, designers favor the TCRT5000L 3 Channel module for building intelligent, autonomous vehicles that require accurate path navigation.

Key Features:

• Three-Channel Array: Integrates three individual TCRT5000L sensors, offering wide-area detection capability for sophisticated line-following algorithms.
• Digital Output: Each sensor channel provides a clean, digital output signal (high/low), simplifying the interface with any microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, PIC, or Raspberry Pi).
• Reflective Optical Technology: The sensor uses an infrared emitting diode (IRED) and a phototransistor to measure reflectivity, giving it high immunity to ambient light.
• Adjustable Sensitivity: Built-in potentiometers allow you to independently adjust the sensitivity and switching threshold for each channel, optimizing performance for varying surface colors.
• Wide Voltage Compatibility: The module operates efficiently across a standard 3.3 V to 5 V DC supply range, ensuring compatibility with most embedded platforms.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3 V to 5 V DC
• Sensor IC: TCRT5000L
• Output Type: Digital (TTL Level)
• Detection Distance (Optimal): ≈ 1 mm to 25 mm
• Emitter Wavelength: 950 nm (Infrared)
• Output Current (Max Sink): 15 mA per channel
• Operating Temperature Range: −10°C to +60°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• PCB Material: FR4 Fiberglass
• Mounting Holes: Features mounting holes for secure attachment to robot chassis.
• Weight: ≈ 15 g (Lightweight construction for mobile applications)
• Indicator LEDs: Includes power LED and status LEDs for each channel, providing visual feedback on detection status.

Dimensions:

• Module Length: ≈ 58 mm
• Module Width: ≈ 20 mm
• Sensor Pitch (Center-to-Center): ≈ 16 mm
• Mounting Hole Diameter: ≈ 3.0 mm

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect this pin to the positive supply voltage (3.3 V or 5 V DC).
• GND: Connect this pin to the circuit ground (0 V).
• OUT1 (Left): Digital output for the leftmost sensor. Connect this to a microcontroller digital input pin.
• OUT2 (Center): Digital output for the center sensor. Connect this to a microcontroller digital input pin.
• OUT3 (Right): Digital output for the rightmost sensor. Connect this to a microcontroller digital input pin.
• Connection Note: Furthermore, ensure you use short, shielded wires for the output pins if operating the sensor array in a noisy electrical environment to maintain signal integrity.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download Vishay TCRT5000 Reflective Optical Sensor Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Educational Robotics Kits: Serving as the fundamental sensor for teaching autonomous line-following behavior.
• Sumo Robots: Detecting the edge of the sumo ring boundary.
• Warehouse/AGV Navigation: Following painted or taped lines for path guidance in automated guided vehicles.

Applications:

• Multi-Line Following: Tracking complex paths that may involve split or crossing lines, providing greater control than single-channel sensors.
• Edge Detection: Preventing robots from falling off tables or platforms by sensing the sudden change in reflectivity at the edge.
• Proximity Sensing: Detecting objects placed directly above the sensors for simple counting or positioning tasks.

Equivalent Models:

• Kyoto TSOP344: A similar-functioning reflective sensor array, although often optimized for different distances.
• QRE1113 Array: A common single-channel alternative; however, the TCRT5000L module offers superior integration and multi-point sensing out of the box.
• 5-Channel Tracking Modules: While larger, these modules achieve similar tasks with greater redundancy and resolution, consequently acting as high-end alternatives.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TCRT5000L 3 Channel Infrared Tracking Sensor Module