Adafruit VL6180X Time‑of‑Flight Distance Ranging Sensor

Adafruit VL6180X Time‑of‑Flight Distance Ranging Sensor

The VL6180X is a compact, precise distance sensor that measures how close an object is by timing how long a tiny integrated laser pulse takes to bounce back. Unlike ultrasonic sensors, which measure over a wide cone, the VL6180X uses a very narrow spot, so it’s excellent for precisely detecting the distance to the surface directly in front of it—ideal for gesture‑like sensing, short‑range obstacle detection, or touchless button projects. It works with 3–5 V microcontrollers and can be used on breadboards or sewn‑in platforms with the right carrier.

Key Specs (from description + common VL6180X behavior)

• Sensing method: Time‑of‑flight (ToF) laser ranging
• Operating distance: Typically about 5 mm to 100 mm
• Light source: Integrated low‑power laser (eye‑safe, for short‑range indoor use only)
• Interface: I²C digital protocol (3.3 V logic, 5 V compatible with level‑shifting if needed)
• Supply: Operates with 3–5 V power
• Form factor: Small breakout or module, with 3.3–5 V, GND, SCL, SDA pins
• Use cases: Proximity sensing, short‑range object detection, tapless switches, or simple gesture detection right in front of a device

Note: Product size and dimension may vary.

Disclaimer: The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact match.