How to Use VL53L1X: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The VL53L1X is a state-of-the-art, Time-of-Flight (ToF) laser-ranging sensor, enhancing the STMicroelectronics FlightSense™ product family. It is a fast and accurate sensor that measures the distance to a target by timing the flight of a very short pulse of laser light. This component is widely used in robotics, user detection, drones, IoT devices, and many other applications where accurate distance measurement is required.

• Autonomous navigation (robots, drones)
• User detection for power-saving
• Object detection and avoidance
• Gesture recognition
• Indoor mapping

• Type: ToF (Time-of-Flight) ranging sensor
• Operating Voltage: 2.6V to 3.5V
• Peak Current: 20 mA
• Maximum Ranging Distance: Up to 4 meters
• Ranging Accuracy: ±25 mm
• Interface: I2C
• Field of View: 27°

1. Power Supply: Connect the VDD pin to a 2.6V to 3.5V power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. I2C Communication: Connect the SCL and SDA pins to the I2C clock and data lines, respectively.
3. Interrupts (Optional): The GPIO1 can be used for interrupt-driven measurements.
4. Shutdown Control (Optional): The XSHUT pin can be driven low to put the sensor into a hardware shutdown state.

• Ensure that the power supply is stable and within the specified voltage range.
• Use pull-up resistors on the I2C lines as required by your microcontroller's I2C interface.
• Avoid exposing the sensor to direct sunlight or strong infrared sources to prevent measurement errors.
• For accurate measurements, ensure that the path between the sensor and the target is unobstructed.

#include <Wire.h>
#include <VL53L1X.h>

VL53L1X sensor;

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  Wire.begin();

  sensor.setTimeout(500);
  if (!sensor.init()) {
    Serial.println("Failed to detect and initialize sensor!");
    while (1);
  }

  sensor.startContinuous(50);
}

void loop() {
  Serial.print("Distance: ");
  Serial.print(sensor.read());
  if (sensor.timeoutOccurred()) { Serial.print(" TIMEOUT"); }

  Serial.println();
}

• No Data from Sensor: Ensure that the I2C connections are correct and that the sensor is properly powered.
• Inaccurate Readings: Check for obstructions or reflective surfaces near the sensor that may cause incorrect readings.
• Sensor Not Detected: Verify that the XSHUT pin is not being held low, preventing the sensor from starting up.

• Double-check wiring, especially the I2C lines and pull-up resistors.
• Use the sensor.setTimeout() function to handle cases where the sensor does not respond.
• Ensure that the sensor is not facing any bright light sources directly.

Q: What is the maximum range of the VL53L1X sensor? A: The VL53L1X can measure distances up to 4 meters.

Q: Can the VL53L1X sensor measure distances through glass or transparent objects? A: The sensor may not work reliably through transparent materials as the light pulse may not reflect back correctly.

Q: Is the VL53L1X sensor waterproof? A: No, the VL53L1X is not waterproof and should be protected from moisture and water exposure.

Q: How can I reduce the power consumption of the sensor? A: You can reduce the measurement frequency or use the XSHUT pin to put the sensor into a low-power state when not in use.

Q: Can I use multiple VL53L1X sensors on the same I2C bus? A: Yes, you can use multiple sensors on the same I2C bus by changing their I2C addresses or using the XSHUT pin to selectively activate them.