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Measure Absolute Distance with VL53L8CX Time-of-Flight 8×8-Zone Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulators
The VL53L8CX Time-of-Flight 8×8-Zone Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulators, 400cm Max is a laser time-of-flight distance sensor carrier that measures real distance instead of reflected brightness alone.
It is useful for obstacle detection, presence sensing, level checks, positioning, and robot navigation where ambient light can change.
Important: Maximum range depends on target reflectivity, field of view, timing settings, and ambient conditions. Always validate distance performance in your real setup.
Why you'll love it
- Depth map capable: configurable 4×4 or 8×8 zone grid; each zone can include multiple targets
- Better ambient-light performance: V53L8CX is positioned as an upgrade over VL53L5CX, with improved performance in brighter conditions
- Easy interfacing: onboard level shifter shifts all I/O to the same logic level as VIN (works cleanly with 3.3V and 5V systems)
- Single-supply friendly: dual regulators generate the required 1.8V and 3.3V rails from a single 3.2–5.5V supply
- Breadboard-ready: 0.1" pin spacing for standard breadboards and perfboards
- Not recommended for 8-bit MCUs: initialization + processing requires significant RAM/code space; ST’s API for VL53L8CX typically uses…
What you can build
Ideal for obstacle sensing, robot ranging, presence detection, level measurement, basic mapping experiments, and distance-triggered automation.
Compare Pololu ToF sensor options
| Sensor | Max range | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| VL53L1X | 400 cm | ToF distance sensor | I²C carrier with onboard regulator |
| VL53L4CD | 120 cm | ToF distance sensor | I²C carrier with onboard regulator |
| VL53L8CX | 400 cm | ToF distance sensor | I²C carrier with onboard regulator |
| VL6180X | 60 cm | ToF distance sensor | I²C carrier with onboard regulator |
Technical specifications
| Product | VL53L8CX Time-of-Flight 8×8-Zone Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulators, 400cm Max |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pololu |
| Model | VL53L8CX |
| Category | Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier |
| Topology | Step-Up (Boost) |
| Operating Voltage | 3.2-5.5 V |
| Sensor | VL53L8CX |
| Max Range | 400 cm |
| Interface | I2C |
| Support | Official Pololu product search and support resources linked below |
Official resources
Find this product on Pololu | Pololu ToF sensor carrier category
What’s in the box
1 × VL53L8CX Time-of-Flight 8×8-Zone Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulators, 400cm Max
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it measure real distance?
Yes. It uses time-of-flight laser ranging rather than simple reflected-light intensity.
Yes. It uses time-of-flight laser ranging rather than simple reflected-light intensity.
Will bright light affect it?
It is less sensitive to ambient light than basic IR reflectance sensors, but range still depends on conditions.
It is less sensitive to ambient light than basic IR reflectance sensors, but range still depends on conditions.
Can I use it with 3.3V and 5V boards?
Yes. Pololu carrier boards in this family typically include level shifting and regulator support.
Yes. Pololu carrier boards in this family typically include level shifting and regulator support.
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.
Compatibility & downloads
// downloads
- VL53L8CX datasheet pdf
- Schematic pdf
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