IR Infrared Sensor Module for Arduino and Robotics Projects
= Versatile Infrared Detection Module for Obstacle Avoidance and Remote Control =
This IR sensor module is a standard infrared detection board featuring an infrared emitting and receiving tube pair, an LM393 comparator, and a potentiometer for sensitivity adjustment . It is widely used for obstacle avoidance in robotics, line-following, and remote control applications .
Reliable Object Detection Detects obstacles within 230cm range with 35° angle
Adjustable Sensitivity Builtin potentiometer for fine-tuning detection distance
Operating voltage is 3.3V to 5V - compatible with Arduino, ESP32, and other MCUs
Connect OUT pin to any digital input; output goes LOW when an obstacle is detected
Detection range and sensitivity may vary; adjust potentiometer based on surface reflectivity
= Technical Specifications =
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Operating Voltage | 3.3V to 5V DC |
| PCB Size | 32 x 14mm (varies by model) |
| Output Signal | Digital (TTL Level) |
| Detection Angle | 35° |
| Detection Distance | 2cm to 30cm (adjustable) |
| Comparator IC | LM393 |
= Pin Configuration =
| Pin | Function |
|---|
| VCC | 3.3V to 5V power input |
| GND | Ground connection |
| OUT | Digital signal output (LOW when obstacle detected) |
Connect VCC to 5V (or 3.3V), GND to ground, and OUT to an Arduino digital pin
Use digitalRead() to read sensor status in your code
Output is active LOW - sensor outputs LOW when an object is detected within range
= Operating Principle =
The module uses an infrared transmitter that emits IR light at a specific frequency. When an obstacle is present, the IR light reflects back to the receiver. The LM393 comparator processes the signal and drives the output pin LOW while illuminating a green LED .
The detection distance is adjustable via the onboard potentiometer, allowing customization for different applications and surface reflectivity .
= Key Applications =
- Obstacle avoidance for Arduino robots and smart cars
- Line-following and edge detection
- Proximity sensing and object counting
- IR remote control signal reception
BeginnerFriendly Simple 3-pin interface with extensive library support
Versatile Use - Works with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other MCUs
√ Compatible with most microcontroller boards
√ Includes mounting holes for secure installation
√ Ideal for educational and hobby robotics projects
= Troubleshooting =
Sensor not detecting obstacles:
- Adjust sensitivity potentiometer
- Check VCC and GND connections
- Ensure object is within detection range and angle
Inconsistent readings:
- Clean IR emitter and receiver surfaces
- Avoid strong ambient IR light sources
- Fine-tune potentiometer for specific surface reflectivity
