shop/ proximity-presence/ sharp gp2y0a21yk0f ir distance sensor 10-80cm

Detect Nearby Objects Without Contact

The Distance Sensor 10-80cm GP2Y0A21YK0F Sharp is an infrared distance sensor with digital output 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 Detection Range: Approx. 2cm – 30cm (adjustable); Operating Voltage: 3.3V – 5V DC; Output Type: Digital (HIGH / LOW).

Important: Infrared and optical readings change with target color, surface finish, distance, and strong ambient light. Test with your real target before final mounting.

Why you’ll love it

  • Key feature: Adjustable detection range via onboard potentiometer
  • Digital output (HIGH / LOW signal): Digital output (HIGH / LOW signal)
  • Fast response time: Fast response time for real-time obstacle detection
  • Useful spec: Power LED + Detection LED
  • Controller output: Digital (HIGH / LOW)
  • Sensing range: Approx. 2cm – 30cm (adjustable)

Compare with similar products

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IR Proximity Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module infrared proximity sensor with digital output adjustable sensing range, digital output
Infrared Tiny Adjustable 3 - 100cm Sensor Switch button or switch input module adjustable sensing range, infrared 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 and jumper wires for quick setup and testing.

Recommended add-ons

Useful add-ons include a microcontroller board, jumper wires, and pull-up or pull-down support when needed, depending on how you plan to power, mount, and log the sensor.

Technical specifications

Product Distance Sensor 10-80cm GP2Y0A21YK0F Sharp
Indicator LEDs Power LED + Detection LED
Output Type Digital (HIGH / LOW)
Detection Range Approx. 2cm – 30cm (adjustable)
Operating Voltage 3.3V – 5V DC
Comparator LM393
Category proximity presence sensors

Wiring & usage notes

Connect power and ground, then wire the output pin to a digital GPIO input. Check whether the module uses active-high or active-low logic in your code. Infrared and optical readings change with target color, surface finish, distance, and strong ambient light. Test with your real target before final mounting.

What’s in the box

1 × Distance Sensor 10-80cm GP2Y0A21YK0F Sharp

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Distance Sensor 10-80cm GP2Y0A21YK0F Sharp 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.
How do I connect this Digital GPIO sensor? This sensor provides a digital switching-style signal that is easy to read from a GPIO pin.
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.

Build with this board

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Notes from the bench

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