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Measure Absolute Distance with VL6180X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator
The VL6180X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 60cm 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
- VM: motor supply (2.7–10.8V)
- GND: common ground with your microcontroller
- AIN1/AIN2, BIN1/BIN2: direction & PWM speed control pins
- SLEEP: pull high to enable, low for low-power sleep mode
- Tip: Use PWM on one input per motor for smooth speed control
- Is this better than L298N? Yes. DRV8833 is more efficient, smaller, and runs cooler—especially for battery-powered robots
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 | VL6180X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 60cm max |
|---|---|
| Brand | Pololu |
| Model | VL6180X |
| Category | Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier |
| Topology | Step-Up (Boost) |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7-10.8 V |
| Sensor | VL6180X |
| Max Range | 60 cm |
| 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 × VL6180X Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Carrier with Voltage Regulator, 60cm 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
- VL6180X datasheet pdf
- Schematic pdf
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