How to Use MKE-S10 CNY70 Line Follower Sensor: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MKE-S10 CNY70 is a compact line follower sensor designed for robotics and automation applications. It utilizes an infrared LED and a phototransistor to detect the contrast between a line (typically black) and the surrounding surface (typically white). This sensor is widely used in educational robots, maze solvers, and industrial line following vehicles.

• Educational robotics kits
• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
• Line following robots for competitions
• Position sensing in industrial automation

• Operating Voltage: 4.5V to 5.5V
• Current Consumption: 50mA (typical)
• Output Type: Analog voltage
• Peak Operating Distance: 0.5mm to 15mm
• Wavelength: 950nm (Infrared)

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 5V power supply and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Output Signal: Connect the VO pin to an analog input on your microcontroller to read the sensor's output.
3. Mounting: Position the sensor close to the surface to ensure accurate detection. The recommended distance is within the peak operating range of 0.5mm to 15mm.

• Surface Contrast: Ensure a high contrast between the line and the surrounding surface for optimal performance.
• Ambient Light: Shield the sensor from direct sunlight and other sources of infrared light to prevent interference.
• Calibration: Calibrate the sensor for the specific surface and line color used in your application.
• Voltage Levels: When interfacing with microcontrollers operating at lower voltages (e.g., 3.3V), use a voltage divider or level shifter for the sensor's output.

// Define the pin connected to the sensor's output
const int sensorPin = A0;

void setup() {
  // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud rate
  Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the analog value from the sensor
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin);
  
  // Convert the analog value to a voltage (0-5V)
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);
  
  // Print the voltage to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.println(voltage);
  
  // Delay for a short period to avoid spamming the Serial Monitor
  delay(100);
}

• Inconsistent Readings: If the sensor provides inconsistent readings, check for proper alignment and distance from the surface. Also, verify that the surface contrast is sufficient.
• No Output: Ensure that the sensor is correctly powered and that all connections are secure. Check the VCC and GND pins for proper voltage levels.
• Interference from Ambient Light: If ambient light is affecting the sensor's performance, try adding a physical shield around the sensor to block out extraneous light.

• Calibration: Adjust the threshold in your code to match the specific reflectivity of the line and surface.
• Wiring Check: Double-check all connections, especially if the sensor is not responding or behaving erratically.
• Sensor Cleaning: Keep the sensor clean and free from dust or debris that could obstruct the infrared signal.

Q: Can the MKE-S10 CNY70 sensor detect colors other than black and white? A: The sensor is designed to detect reflectivity differences. While optimized for black and white, it can detect other colors if there is sufficient contrast.

Q: What is the maximum operating distance of the sensor? A: The sensor operates best within a range of 0.5mm to 15mm from the surface.

Q: How can I adjust the sensitivity of the sensor? A: Sensitivity can be adjusted by calibrating the threshold value in your code based on the analog voltage readings from the sensor.

Q: Is it possible to use multiple MKE-S10 CNY70 sensors on a single robot? A: Yes, you can use multiple sensors to improve line detection and navigation accuracy. Ensure each sensor is connected to a separate analog input pin on your microcontroller.