How to Use ky-027.1: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The KY-027.1 is a digital infrared obstacle avoidance sensor module designed for detecting objects in its proximity. It operates by emitting infrared light through an infrared LED and detecting the reflected light using a phototransistor. When an object is detected, the module outputs a digital signal, making it easy to interface with microcontrollers and other digital systems.

• Obstacle detection in robotics
• Line-following robots
• Proximity sensing in automation systems
• Object detection in conveyor belts
• Smart home applications, such as automatic doors or lighting systems

The KY-027.1 module is compact and easy to use, with the following key specifications:

The KY-027.1 module has three pins for easy interfacing:

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Connect the Output: Connect the OUT pin to a digital input pin of a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO) or a digital logic circuit.
3. Adjust the Sensitivity: Use the onboard potentiometer to adjust the detection range and sensitivity of the sensor. Turn the potentiometer clockwise to increase sensitivity and counterclockwise to decrease it.
4. Read the Output: Monitor the OUT pin. It will output:
   • HIGH (1) when no obstacle is detected.
   • LOW (0) when an obstacle is detected within the sensor's range.

• Ambient Light Interference: The sensor may be affected by strong ambient light. Use it in controlled lighting conditions for optimal performance.
• Mounting Position: Ensure the sensor is mounted at an appropriate angle and height for the intended application.
• Power Supply: Use a stable power supply to avoid erratic behavior.
• Avoid Overexposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or strong infrared sources may degrade the sensor's performance.

Below is an example of how to connect and use the KY-027.1 with an Arduino UNO:

1. Connect the VCC pin of the KY-027.1 to the 5V pin of the Arduino.
2. Connect the GND pin of the KY-027.1 to the GND pin of the Arduino.
3. Connect the OUT pin of the KY-027.1 to digital pin 2 of the Arduino.

// KY-027.1 Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Example
// Connect the OUT pin of the KY-027.1 to Arduino digital pin 2

const int sensorPin = 2;  // KY-027.1 OUT pin connected to digital pin 2
const int ledPin = 13;    // Onboard LED pin for visual feedback

void setup() {
  pinMode(sensorPin, INPUT);  // Set sensor pin as input
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);    // Set LED pin as output
  Serial.begin(9600);         // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = digitalRead(sensorPin);  // Read the sensor output

  if (sensorValue == LOW) {
    // Obstacle detected
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);  // Turn on the LED
    Serial.println("Obstacle detected!");
  } else {
    // No obstacle
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);   // Turn off the LED
    Serial.println("No obstacle.");
  }

  delay(100);  // Small delay for stability
}

1. The sensor is not detecting obstacles:

   • Ensure the module is powered correctly (check VCC and GND connections).
   • Adjust the sensitivity using the onboard potentiometer.
   • Verify that the obstacle is within the detection range (2 cm to 30 cm).

2. False detections or erratic behavior:

   • Check for strong ambient light or infrared interference.
   • Use a stable power supply to avoid noise in the output signal.

3. Output pin always HIGH or LOW:

   • Inspect the wiring and ensure the OUT pin is connected to the correct microcontroller pin.
   • Verify that the phototransistor and infrared LED are functioning properly.

Q: Can the KY-027.1 detect transparent objects?
A: The sensor may struggle to detect transparent or highly reflective objects due to insufficient reflected infrared light.

Q: How do I increase the detection range?
A: Adjust the onboard potentiometer clockwise to increase the sensitivity and detection range.

Q: Can I use the KY-027.1 with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the KY-027.1 operates within a voltage range of 3.3V to 5V, making it compatible with 3.3V systems.

Q: What is the maximum detection angle of the sensor?
A: The KY-027.1 has a detection angle of approximately 35°, which is suitable for most obstacle detection applications.