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Infrared Sensors

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Infrared sensors to detect an obstacle, follow a black line, measure a distance or spot a flame: FC-51, TCRT5000, E18-D80NK modules and IR arrays for robots.

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Choosing the right infrared sensor

An infrared sensor sends out invisible light and reads what comes back. Depending on how it interprets that return, the use changes completely: on-off detection, line following or distance measurement.

  • Obstacle detection: the FC-51 (1 channel) or the 4-channel version give a digital output, with a potentiometer to adjust the range. Simple to wire to an Arduino, but sensitive to the color of the object and to ambient light.
  • Line following: the TCRT5000 is placed a few millimeters from the ground and distinguishes black from white. With a 5-channel version or a QTR 8-channel array, the robot knows its position on the line and corrects its path instead of zigzagging.
  • Adjustable range: the E18-D80NK, in a cylindrical housing, adjusts from 3 to 80 cm and mounts cleanly on a machine or a gate.
  • Actual measurement: the Sharp 2Y0A21 outputs an analog voltage related to distance (10-80 cm), useful when you need a number rather than just a yes/no.

Check the supply voltage and the logic level: a 5 V output wired to a 3.3 V board like the ESP32 requires a voltage divider. For other families of detection, see the Sensors category.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the FC-51 and the TCRT5000?

The FC-51 detects an obstacle in front of it, a few centimeters away, and is used to avoid walls. The TCRT5000 works very close to a surface and compares reflectance, which makes it a line follower.

Which sensor should I use to measure a precise distance?

The Sharp 2Y0A21 gives an analog voltage proportional to distance between 10 and 80 cm, which allows an actual measurement. IR modules like the FC-51 only give presence information.

Why doesn't my IR sensor detect a black object?

A black or matte surface absorbs infrared radiation and reflects too little light back to the receiver. Move the sensor closer, adjust the potentiometer, or switch to an adjustable-range sensor like the E18-D80NK.

How many channels are needed for a line-following robot?

Two or three sensors are enough for a slow robot. For a smooth path and tight turns, a 5-channel array or QTR 8-channel array allows you to calculate the offset from the line and apply a progressive correction.

Does the flame sensor detect any kind of fire?

It reacts to the infrared radiation of a flame, within a limited cone and at short range. It is a module for projects and learning, not a certified safety detector.