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Measure Light and Optical Changes with a Compact Sensor

The Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3 is a camera module designed for light logging, optical switching, line tracking, and brightness-aware projects. It is a practical fit for makers, students, and engineers who want reliable sensor data in embedded builds.

Key details include Focusing Range: 0.69m to infinity (at 1.38m); Interface: CSI; Size: 25mm x 25mm x 10mm(0.98" x 0.98" x 0.39").

Why you’ll love it

  • Lightweight and compact construction: Lightweight and compact construction
  • Easy wiring: CSI
  • Sensing range: 0.69m to infinity (at 1.38m)
  • Compact size: 25mm x 25mm x 10mm(0.98" x 0.98" x 0.39")
  • Useful spec: f=3.57 mm, f/2.8
  • Maker-friendly build: Easy to use in prototypes, classroom projects, and custom electronics

Compare with similar products

Product Sensor style Standout
Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3 camera module Current item
Raspberry Pi Camera Board v2 8 Megapixels camera module general-purpose sensing
Raspberry Pi NoIR Camera Board v2 8 Megapixels camera module general-purpose sensing
Raspberry Zero Pi Mini Camera camera module with UART general-purpose sensing

What you can build

This sensor is a good fit for automatic brightness control, line followers, light meters, UV monitors, flame detection, and optical encoders.

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 Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3
Interface CSI
Focusing Range 0.69m to infinity (at 1.38m)
Size 25mm x 25mm x 10mm(0.98" x 0.98" x 0.39")
Lens f=3.57 mm, f/2.8
Weight about 2.8g
Support 1080p@30fps with codec H.264 (AVC), 720p@60fps and 640x480p@60/90 fps video record
View Angle 65 degrees
Pixel Count 2592 x 1944(5-megapixel)

Wiring & usage notes

Check the pin labels on the Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3 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 × Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Raspberry Pi Camera Rev 1.3 measure? It is designed to measure images or video data.
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.