How to Use VL53L7CX: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The VL53L7CX is a state-of-the-art time-of-flight (ToF) distance sensor developed by STMicroelectronics. It uses advanced laser technology to measure distances with high precision and speed. This sensor is capable of multi-zone distance measurement, allowing it to detect objects in multiple regions simultaneously. Its ability to function in various lighting conditions makes it ideal for a wide range of applications.

• Robotics for obstacle detection and navigation
• Drones for altitude measurement and collision avoidance
• Smart home devices, such as automated doors and lighting systems
• Gesture recognition in consumer electronics
• Industrial automation and safety systems

The VL53L7CX offers impressive performance and flexibility. Below are its key technical details:

The VL53L7CX is typically provided in a compact LGA package. Below is the pin configuration:

The VL53L7CX is straightforward to integrate into a circuit, thanks to its I²C interface and compact design. Below are the steps and considerations for using the sensor:

1. Connect the VDD pin to a 2.8 V power supply.
2. Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
3. Connect the SDA and SCL pins to the corresponding I²C data and clock lines of your microcontroller.
4. Optionally, connect the XSHUT pin to a GPIO pin on your microcontroller to control the sensor's power state.
5. Use pull-up resistors (typically 4.7 kΩ) on the SDA and SCL lines if not already present on your board.

• Ensure the I²C bus voltage matches the sensor's voltage levels (2.8 V).
• Avoid exposing the sensor to direct sunlight or reflective surfaces, as this may affect accuracy.
• Use a stable power supply to minimize noise and ensure reliable measurements.

Below is an example of how to use the VL53L7CX with an Arduino UNO. This code assumes you are using a library such as the VL53L7CX library provided by ST.

#include <Wire.h>
#include <VL53L7CX.h> // Include the VL53L7CX library

VL53L7CX sensor; // Create a sensor object

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
  Wire.begin();       // Initialize I²C communication

  // Initialize the VL53L7CX sensor
  if (!sensor.begin()) {
    Serial.println("Failed to initialize VL53L7CX sensor!");
    while (1); // Halt execution if initialization fails
  }

  Serial.println("VL53L7CX initialized successfully.");
}

void loop() {
  uint16_t distances[64]; // Array to store distances for 64 zones

  // Perform a distance measurement
  if (sensor.getDistances(distances)) {
    Serial.println("Distance measurements (in mm):");
    for (int i = 0; i < 64; i++) {
      Serial.print(distances[i]);
      Serial.print(" ");
      if ((i + 1) % 8 == 0) Serial.println(); // Print 8 values per line
    }
    Serial.println();
  } else {
    Serial.println("Failed to read distances.");
  }

  delay(500); // Wait 500 ms before the next measurement
}

• The VL53L7CX library must be installed in your Arduino IDE. You can find it on GitHub or the Arduino Library Manager.
• The getDistances() function retrieves distance measurements for all 64 zones in millimeters.

1. Sensor Not Detected on I²C Bus

   • Ensure the SDA and SCL lines are correctly connected.
   • Verify that pull-up resistors are present on the I²C lines.
   • Check the I²C address of the sensor (default is 0x52).

2. Inaccurate Distance Measurements

   • Avoid reflective or transparent surfaces in the sensor's field of view.
   • Ensure the sensor is not exposed to excessive ambient light.

3. Sensor Fails to Initialize

   • Verify the power supply voltage is 2.8 V.
   • Check the connection to the XSHUT pin (ensure it is not floating).

• Use an I²C scanner sketch to confirm the sensor's address.
• Test the sensor in a controlled environment to rule out external interference.
• Refer to the VL53L7CX datasheet for detailed electrical and timing requirements.

By following this documentation, you should be able to successfully integrate and use the VL53L7CX in your projects.