TCS34725 RGB Color Sensor Module

TCS34725 RGB Color Sensor Module is a high-precision optical sensing solution designed to detect Red, Green, Blue (RGB), and Clear light values with high accuracy. This module integrates an array of filtered photodiodes and a 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that converts light intensity into digital data over an I2C interface. Consequently, it enables precise color matching and ambient color temperature measurement across various lighting environments. Furthermore, the built-in IR-blocking filter minimizes infrared spectral components, allowing the sensor to achieve highly accurate color measurements. Therefore, developers can easily integrate this compact sensor into microcontrollers such as Arduino, STM32, and Raspberry Pi for advanced color-sensing applications.

Key Features:

• Integrated IR-Blocking Filter: Minimizes the infrared component of incoming light to improve overall color accuracy.
• Wide Dynamic Range: Provides a 3,800,000:1 dynamic range, making it suitable for both dark and bright lighting conditions.
• On-Board Neutral White LED: Includes a controllable light source to illuminate target objects for consistent reflection measurements.
• Digital I2C Interface: Communicates via standard I2C protocol, simplifying integration with diverse host microcontrollers.
• Programmable Gain and Integration Time: Allows precise fine-tuning of sensitivity and measurement duration according to application needs.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5.0V DC (via on-board voltage regulator)
• Interface Protocol: I2C Fast-Mode (up to 400 kHz)
• I2C Slave Address: 0x29 (Fixed)
• ADC Resolution: 16-bit per channel (Red, Green, Blue, Clear)
• Operating Temperature: -30°C to +70°C
• Supply Current: ≈ 235 μA (Active mode)

Mechanical Specifications:

• Sensor Chip: AMS TCS34725
• Board Material: Standard FR-4 Double-Sided PCB
• Connector Type: 7-Pin Breakout Header (2.54 mm pitch)
• Mounting Holes: 2 x M2 mounting holes for rigid installation

Dimensions:

• Board Length: ≈ 20.5 mm
• Board Width: ≈ 20.5 mm
• Board Height: ≈ 3.2 mm
• Weight: ≈ 2.0 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• VIN: Power input pin connected to 3.3V or 5V power supply.
• GND: Ground connection pin for power supply and logic.
• 3V3: 3.3V output from the on-board voltage regulator.
• SCL: I2C Clock Line for serial data synchronization.
• SDA: I2C Data Line for bidirectional communication.
• INT: Interrupt output pin to signal completed color integration cycles.
• LED: LED Control pin; pull high to activate the illumination LED, or low to disable it.
• Note: However, always ensure correct pull-up resistors on SCL and SDA lines when interfacing with 5V microcontroller logic.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download AMS TCS34725 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Industrial Sorting Machines: Categorizing components and objects on conveyor belts based on surface color.
• Display Backlight Control: Adjusting screen temperature and ambient light color balance dynamically.
• Embedded Robotics: Navigating lines or identifying colored targets on modern robotic platforms.

Applications:

• Color Matching Systems: Measuring RGB values of paint, fabrics, or printed materials for quality control.
• Medical Diagnostics: Analyzing color changes in biochemical test strips for automated diagnostic instruments.
• Horticultural Lighting: Monitoring spectrum composition and light levels in automated growth chambers.

Equivalent Models:

• TCS3200: A frequency-output color sensor module, although it lacks integrated IR filtering and direct I2C output.
• TCS34727: A similar family member featuring alternative I2C addresses and voltage levels.
• APDS-9960: A multi-function optical sensor combining RGB color, ambient light, proximity, and gesture sensing capabilities.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TCS34725 RGB Color Sensor Module
• 1 x 7-Pin Male Header Strip (2.54 mm pitch)