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Detect Nearby Objects Without Contact
The Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor is a light sensor designed for distance measurement, obstacle detection, level checks, and basic automation. It is a practical fit for makers, students, and engineers who want reliable sensor data in embedded builds.
Key details include Product Dimensions: 20.5mm x 18.0mm x 3.0mm / 0.8" x 0.7" x 0.1"; Product Weight: 1.4g / 0.0oz; Category: proximity presence sensors.
Why you’ll love it
- Maker-friendly build: Easy to use in prototypes, classroom projects, and custom electronics
- Common controller support: Works well with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and similar boards
- Project-ready sensing: obstacle detection, touchless triggers, object counting, and simple automation
Compare with similar products
| Product | Sensor style | Standout |
|---|---|---|
| Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor | light sensor | Current item |
| VL6180X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 60cm max | infrared distance sensor | motion sensing |
| VL53L4CD Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 120cm Max | infrared distance sensor | motion sensing |
| VL53L1X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 400cm Max | infrared distance sensor | motion sensing |
What you can build
This sensor is a good fit for robot obstacle avoidance, tank level checks, parking aids, object counters, and range alarms.
Starter bundles
Pair it with an Arduino-compatible board, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi, plus a breadboard or jumper wires for quick setup and testing.
Recommended add-ons
Useful add-ons include breadboards, jumper wires, displays, enclosures, and logging modules, depending on how you plan to power, mount, and log the sensor.
Technical specifications
| Product | Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 20.5mm x 18.0mm x 3.0mm / 0.8" x 0.7" x 0.1" |
| Product Weight | 1.4g / 0.0oz |
| Category | proximity presence sensors |
Wiring & usage notes
Check the pin labels on the Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor and match them to your controller voltage, ground, and signal pins. Keep wiring short and verify the logic level before powering the module.
What’s in the box
1 × Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Adafruit VL6180X Time of Flight Distance Ranging Sensor measure?
It is designed to measure distance or object presence.
Can I use it with Arduino, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi?
Yes. It is well suited for common maker and embedded platforms, as long as you power it at the correct voltage and match the signal level to your controller.
What affects accuracy?
Power quality, wiring, mounting, target material, and the real environment can all affect the reading. It is best to test and calibrate in the final setup.
Is it good for prototyping?
Yes. It is a practical choice for learning, proof-of-concept builds, and small automation projects.
Manila stock. Order before 16:00 PHT, ships today via J&T or LBC. Provincial: 1–3 working days.
Schools / class POs: we accept Purchase Orders for accredited schools and universities. contact us with your PO details.
Returns: 7-day inspection window for DOA units. Email proof of issue and we ship a replacement.
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