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Measure Light and Optical Changes with a Compact Sensor

The Zumo Reflectance Sensor Array is an optical interrupter sensor with digital output 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 Interface: Digital GPIO.

Why you’ll love it

  • Key feature: Make the I/O line connected to that sensor an output and drive it high.
  • Measure the time: Measure the time for the voltage to decay by waiting for the I/O line to go low.
  • Easy wiring: Digital GPIO
  • Maker-friendly build: Easy to use in prototypes, classroom projects, and custom electronics
  • Common controller support: Works well with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and similar boards
  • Project-ready sensing: light logging, optical switching, line tracking, and brightness-aware projects

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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 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 Zumo Reflectance Sensor Array
Interface Digital GPIO
Category optical light imaging photon sensors

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 × Zumo Reflectance Sensor Array

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Zumo Reflectance Sensor Array 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.

Build with this board

// from learn.circuit.rocks

Notes from the bench

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Ask the community

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