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Measure Light and Optical Changes with a Compact Sensor

The QTR-8A Reflectance Sensor Array is an optical interrupter sensor with analog 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 Output voltage range: 0 V to supplied voltage; Operating voltage: 3.3-5.0 V; Output format: 8 analog voltages.

Why you’ll love it

  • Key feature: Use a microcontroller’s analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to measure the voltages.
  • Controller output: 8 analog voltages
  • Power range: 0 V to supplied voltage
  • Current draw: 100 mA
  • Compact size: 2.95" x 0.5" x 0.125" (without header pins installed)
  • Useful spec: 0.125" (3 mm)

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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 breadboards, jumper wires, displays, enclosures, and logging modules, depending on how you plan to power, mount, and log the sensor.

Technical specifications

Product QTR-8A Reflectance Sensor Array
Output format 8 analog voltages
Output voltage range 0 V to supplied voltage
Operating voltage 3.3-5.0 V
Supply current 100 mA
Dimensions 2.95" x 0.5" x 0.125" (without header pins installed)
Optimal sensing distance 0.125" (3 mm)
Weight without header pins 0.11 oz (3.09 g)
Maximum recommended sensing distance 0.25" (6 mm)

Wiring & usage notes

Many modules in this style expose both analog and digital pins. Use the analog pin for raw readings and the digital pin for threshold-based switching, if available.

What’s in the box

1 × QTR-8A Reflectance Sensor Array

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the QTR-8A 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 Analog and digital sensor? This module may provide both analog and digital outputs, depending on how you wire and read it.
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

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Notes from the bench

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Ask the community

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