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The SparkFun AS7263 NIR Spectral Sensor Breakout is a compact board for measuring how objects absorb and reflect near-infrared light. It is useful for spectroscopy tests, material comparison, light analysis, plant research demos, and sensor-based school projects.
This breakout measures six spectral channels: 610nm, 680nm, 730nm, 760nm, 810nm, and 860nm. Each channel has a 20nm full-width half-max detection range, giving you useful spectral data across red and near-infrared wavelengths.
With Qwiic connectors, wiring is simple. Just connect it to a Qwiic-compatible board or shield, then start reading data through I2C. The board also supports serial communication using AT commands.
Why Choose This Sensor?
- Measures six red to near-infrared spectral channels
- Great for spectroscopy and light reflection experiments
- Qwiic-ready for fast, solder-free prototyping
- Includes onboard lighting support for better readings
- Works well with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other development boards
What You Can Build
- Near-infrared spectroscopy test projects
- Material reflectance comparison tools
- Plant and leaf light response experiments
- Basic color and light analysis systems
- Data logging projects for school or lab use
- Sensor demos for STEM and electronics learning
Key Specs
| Sensor IC | AS7263 Near-Infrared Spectral Sensor |
|---|---|
| Spectral Channels | 610nm, 680nm, 730nm, 760nm, 810nm, and 860nm |
| Channel Bandwidth | 20nm FWHM per channel |
| ADC | 16-bit digital output |
| Interface | I2C and serial interface using AT commands |
| I2C Address | 0x49, hardware-defined |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7V to 3.6V |
| Connectors | 2x Qwiic connectors |
| Lighting Support | Onboard LED plus pads for adding an external LED |
| SKU | SEN-14351 |
Pinout & Power Notes
The AS7263 uses I2C for easy connection to microcontrollers. Its fixed I2C address is 0x49, so a Qwiic Mux or I2C multiplexer is needed if you want to use more than one AS7263 sensor on the same I2C bus.
Note: Use a 3.3V-compatible controller or proper logic level setup. Always check your board voltage before connecting the sensor.
Recommended Add-ons
- Qwiic cable
- Arduino or ESP32 development board
- Qwiic shield or Qwiic adapter
- Qwiic Mux for multi-sensor setups
- microSD data logger for recording readings
What’s in the Box?
- 1x SparkFun AS7263 NIR Spectral Sensor Breakout - Qwiic
FAQ
What does this sensor measure?
It measures light intensity across six red and near-infrared wavelength channels.
Is this the same as a normal color sensor?
No. A normal color sensor reads broad RGB values. This sensor reads six fixed spectral channels.
Can I use this with Arduino?
Yes. It can work with Arduino using I2C, especially with a Qwiic shield or proper wiring.
Can I connect more than one AS7263 sensor?
Yes, but you need an I2C multiplexer because the sensor address is fixed at 0x49.
Does it need soldering?
Not when using Qwiic cables. Soldering is only needed if you use the pin headers or add an external LED.
FAQ
Will this ship from Manila?
Yes — all stock ships from our Quezon City warehouse. Order before 4 PM weekdays for same-day cutoff via J&T or LBC.
Do you ship nationwide?
Yes. Metro Manila usually arrives next-day; provincial 1–3 working days.
Can I get this on a school PO or class order?
Yes — we accept Purchase Orders from accredited schools and universities. Contact us with your PO details and we'll process it.
Is this compatible with Arduino, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi?
Most parts work with common maker boards — check the description for specific pinout / voltage notes. If you're unsure, send us a message before ordering.
What's your return policy?
7-day inspection window for DOA units. Email proof of issue and we'll ship a replacement or refund. Used / installed parts are not returnable unless faulty.
Do you offer technical support?
Yes — questions land on our forum or via email, weekday or weekend. We've actually wired up most of what we sell.
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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