Boardoza VL6180V1NR/1 Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Breakout Board
This board is designed with the VL6180V1NR/1 Time-of-Flight (ToF) distance sensor, optimized for single-axis measurements. It is configured to operate with both 3.3V and 5V supply systems. Thanks to the integrated MOSFET-based level shifters, the I²C interface ensures reliable communication with controllers operating at either 3.3V or 5V logic levels.
All necessary passive components are included on the board to guarantee stable sensor performance, eliminating the need for additional external circuitry.
With its compact design and high integration, the board offers a ready-to-use solution for applications requiring:
- Precise single-axis distance measurement (up to millimeter resolution)
- Ambient light sensing for automatic brightness control
- Proximity detection for smart interaction systems
This makes the board a versatile choice for robotics, industrial automation, consumer electronics, and IoT devices, where reliable distance and light measurements are critical.
Applications
- Mini Robot Obstacle Detection
- Can be used in line-following or mini sumo robots to detect obstacles.
- Works well in tight spaces due to its fast response at short distances.
- Hand Gesture Control
- Turn a device on/off by moving your hand closer (e.g., desk lamp, music player).
- Can be implemented as a simple gesture control system.
- Automatic Screen Wake-Up
- Wake up a tablet, computer, or display when you approach it.
- Makers often use this in low-power IoT projects.
- Touchless Button
- Ideal for door openers, elevator call buttons, or other hygienic, contactless controls.
- Especially popular after COVID for touch-free interaction.
- Smart Games and Interactive Art Projects
- Trigger sounds, lights, or motors based on proximity.
- Perfect for interactive art installations at maker fairs.
- 3D Printer / CNC Reference Sensor
- Due to its high short-range accuracy, it can be used as a Z-axis homing or calibration sensor.
- Automatic Lid / Drawer Opener
- Open secret compartments, drawers, or boxes when a hand is nearby.
Key Features
- Operates with both 3.3V and 5V supply systems
- Integrated MOSFET-based level shifting for I²C communication
- Time-of-Flight measures absolute distance rather than estimating distance from reflected-light intensity. Maximum range is up to 62 cm under suitable conditions and depends on target reflectance, ambient light and optical setup. Ambient-light rejection and cover-glass cross-talk compensation are supported.
- Gesture recognition – Distance and signal level can be used by host system to implement gesture recognition – Demo systems (implemented on Android smartphone platform) available.
- I2C interface for device control and data, 400 kHz serial bus.
- No additional optics
- The module is designed for low power operation.Ranging measurements can be automatically performed at user defined intervals. Multiple threshold and interrupt schemes are supported to minimize host operations
Technical Specifications
- Item
- B-VL6180-BRK
- Input Voltage
- 3V to 5.5V
- Functions
- LIDAR
- Operating Temperature
- -20/+70°C
- Board Dimensions
- 20x20mm
- Measurement Distance
- Up to 62 cm under suitable conditions; maximum range depends on target reflectance, ambient light and optical setup
Support
For technical questions, documentation and issue reports, use the GitHub repository or write to us directly.