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Use Beam Interruption for Fast Optical Detection
The Opto Interrupter TCST2103 is an optical interrupter sensor designed for slot sensing, encoder feedback, speed counting, and position detection. It is a practical fit for makers, students, and engineers who want reliable sensor data in embedded builds.
Key details include Typical Output Current: TCST2103: 4 mA TCST2202: 2 mA TCST2300: 0.5 mA; Size (L x W x H): 24.5 × 6.3 × 10.8 mm; Gap Width: 3.1 mm.
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: Integrated infrared LED and phototransistor in one compact unit
- Reliable object detection: Reliable object detection using beam interruption
- Built-in daylight blocking filter: Built-in daylight blocking filter for stable performance in bright environments
- Controller output: TCST2103: 4 mA TCST2202: 2 mA TCST2300: 0.5 mA
- Sensing gap: 3.1 mm
- Compact size: 24.5 × 6.3 × 10.8 mm
Compare with similar products
| Product | Sensor style | Standout |
|---|---|---|
| Opto Interrupter TCST2103 | optical interrupter sensor | Current item |
| Reflective Optical Sensor with Transistor Output CNY70 | optical interrupter sensor | infrared sensing, temperature sensing |
| Adafruit TSL2591 High Dynamic Range Digital Light Sensor - STEMMA QT | light sensor with I2C | STEMMA QT connector, digital output |
| Gesture and RGB Sensor APDS 9960 | gesture sensor | digital output, infrared sensing |
What you can build
This sensor is a good fit for wheel encoders, slot sensors, paper-feed monitors, shaft counters, and motor feedback.
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 | Opto Interrupter TCST2103 |
|---|---|
| Typical Output Current | TCST2103: 4 mA TCST2202: 2 mA TCST2300: 0.5 mA |
| Gap Width | 3.1 mm |
| Size (L x W x H) | 24.5 × 6.3 × 10.8 mm |
| Wavelength | 950 nm IR |
| Filter | Daylight blocking |
| TCST2103 | 4 mA |
| TCST2202 | 2 mA |
| TCST2300 | 0.5 mA |
Wiring & usage notes
Check the pin labels on the Opto Interrupter TCST2103 and match them to your controller voltage, ground, and signal pins. Keep wiring short and verify the logic level before powering the module. 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 × Opto Interrupter TCST2103
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Opto Interrupter TCST2103 measure?
It is designed to measure light, reflection, or beam interruption.
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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