Infrared Tracking and Obstacle Detection Sensor Module This Infrared Sensor Module is a compact IR transceiver board for tracking trajectories, detecting reflective marks, and sensing nearby obstacles. It uses infrared emission and reception with a comparator-style output circuit to generate a digital signal for a controller. A rear potentiometer adjusts the threshold and detection distance, making the module flexible for both line-tracking and close-range obstacle detection. It works from 3.3 V to 5 V and integrates easily with Arduino-style GPIO wiring. Use it when you need a simple digital IR signal for small robots, object counters, or reflective surface tests. Adjust the threshold until the indicator just changes at the desired distance. Technical Specifications Parameter Value Sensor type Infrared tracking / obstacle detection module Detection principle IR reflection with receiver processing Output type Digital signal Operating voltage 3.3 V to 5 V Detection response distance Approx. 1 mm to 50 mm Sensitivity adjustment Rear potentiometer Indicator Blue detection indicator LED Connector 2.54 mm pitch 3-pin header Pinout GND, VCC, S Recommended use Line tracking, obstacle detection, reflective mark counting Development support Arduino, ESP32, STM32, Raspberry Pi Pico GPIO Board Layout & Label Guide IR transmitter: Emits infrared light toward the detection direction. IR receiver: Receives reflected light from the target. Potentiometer: Adjusts threshold and detection distance. G pin: Power ground. V pin: 3.3 V to 5 V power input. S pin: Digital output to the controller. Indicator LED: Helps tune the threshold during setup. Application Scenarios 1. Line Detection for Robot Chassis Use Infrared Sensor Module as a digital line sensor. The output is commonly active-low when a reflective target is detected, so the code prints line state for calibration. const int SENSOR_PIN = 2; void setup() { pinMode(SENSOR_PIN, INPUT); Serial.begin(115200); } void loop() { bool activeLow = digitalRead(SENSOR_PIN) == LOW; Serial.println(activeLow ? "line_or_reflection_detected" : "background"); delay(50); } 2. Two-Motor Line Following Logic A single sensor can be used for simple demonstrations, or duplicated left/right for a basic line-following robot. const int LEFT_SENSOR = 2; const int RIGHT_SENSOR = 3; const int LEFT_MOTOR = 5; const int RIGHT_MOTOR = 6; void setup() { pinMode(LEFT_SENSOR, INPUT); pinMode(RIGHT_SENSOR, INPUT); pinMode(LEFT_MOTOR, OUTPUT); pinMode(RIGHT_MOTOR, OUTPUT); } void loop() { bool left = digitalRead(LEFT_SENSOR) == LOW; bool right = digitalRead(RIGHT_SENSOR) == LOW; analogWrite(LEFT_MOTOR, right ? 180 : 90); analogWrite(RIGHT_MOTOR, left ? 180 : 90); } 3. Object or Mark Counter Count passing marks, slots, or reflective labels with a debounce interval to prevent repeated triggers. const int SENSOR_PIN = 2; unsigned long lastHit = 0; unsigned long count = 0; void setup() { pinMode(SENSOR_PIN, INPUT); Serial.begin(115200); } void loop() { bool detected = digitalRead(SENSOR_PIN) == LOW; if (detected && millis() - lastHit > 150) { count++; lastHit = millis(); Serial.println(count); } } Packing List 1 x Infrared Sensor Tracking Trajectory Obstacle Avoidance Module FAQ Q: Can this module work with Arduino?A: Yes. Connect VCC, GND, and the signal pin to an Arduino-compatible board or an OpenELAB Sensor Shield V5. Q: Can it work with 3.3 V controllers?A: Yes for the listed 3.3 V to 5 V modules, but keep analog output within the controller ADC range. Q: Is calibration required?A: For threshold or quantitative use, calibrate in the final installation and record baseline readings. Q: Can I use long wires?A: Shorter wires are better for analog stability; use averaging in firmware if readings fluctuate. Q: Does the module output precise engineering units?A: Most of these modules provide relative analog or digital signals, not certified measurement data. Q: What should I check first if it does not trigger?A: Verify power, ground, pin mapping, threshold setting, and whether the signal is active-high or active-low. Q: Is it suitable outdoors?A: Only with enclosure protection. Keep connectors and electronics away from water and corrosion. Q: Can it drive a relay or motor directly?A: No. Use the module as an input to a controller, then drive a suitable relay or motor driver.
