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Detect Nearby Objects Without Contact

The Reflectance Sensor Array QTR-MD-05RC 5-Channel 8mm Pitch RC Output is an optical interrupter sensor with digital output designed for obstacle detection, touchless triggers, object counting, and simple automation. It is a practical fit for makers, students, and engineers who want reliable sensor data in embedded builds.

Key details include Operating voltage: 2.9 V to 5.5 V.

Why you’ll love it

  • Useful spec: QTR
  • Controller output: digital I/O-compatible signals that can be read in parallel as timed high pulses
  • Power range: 2.9 V to 5.5 V
  • Current draw: 30 mA (independent of supply voltage)
  • Compact size: 37.0 × 20.0 × 2.5 mm (see the dimension diagram (1MB pdf) for more details)
  • Maker-friendly build: Easy to use in prototypes, classroom projects, and custom electronics

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What you can build

This sensor is a good fit for robot obstacle avoidance, touchless dispensers, automatic doors, object counters, parking aids, and level 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 Reflectance Sensor Array QTR-MD-05RC 5-Channel 8mm Pitch RC Output
Sensor type QTR
Sensor count 5
Sensor pitch 8 mm
Output format digital I/O-compatible signals that can be read in parallel as timed high pulses
Operating voltage 2.9 V to 5.5 V
Full-brightness LED current 30 mA (independent of supply voltage)
Max board current 93 mA
Dimensions 37.0 × 20.0 × 2.5 mm (see the dimension diagram (1MB pdf) for more details)

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.

What’s in the box

1 × Reflectance Sensor Array QTR-MD-05RC 5-Channel 8mm Pitch RC Output

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Reflectance Sensor Array QTR-MD-05RC 5-Channel 8mm Pitch RC Output 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.
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.
Does it need calibration? Yes. Chemical and gas sensors usually need warm-up time, calibration, and periodic checking if you want stable readings.
Is it good for prototyping? Yes. It is a practical choice for learning, proof-of-concept builds, and small automation projects.

Compatibility & downloads

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Notes from the bench

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