How to Use 3 channel IR sensor: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The 3 Channel IR Sensor by Funduino is a versatile infrared sensor module designed to detect infrared light reflected from objects. It features three independent IR emitter-receiver pairs, enabling it to sense objects or motion in multiple directions simultaneously. This makes it ideal for applications such as line-following robots, obstacle detection, and proximity sensing.

• Line-following robots
• Obstacle detection in robotics
• Proximity sensing for automation
• Edge detection for autonomous vehicles
• Motion detection in security systems

The following table outlines the key technical details of the 3 Channel IR Sensor:

The 3 Channel IR Sensor has a total of 6 pins. The table below describes each pin:

1. Power the Sensor: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Connect Outputs: Connect the OUT1, OUT2, and OUT3 pins to the digital input pins of your microcontroller or logic circuit.
3. Adjust Sensitivity: Use the onboard potentiometers to adjust the detection range for each channel.
4. Enable the Sensor: If the EN pin is used, connect it to a HIGH signal to enable the sensor. Leave it unconnected or LOW to disable the module.

• Avoid Ambient IR Interference: Ensure the sensor is not exposed to strong ambient IR sources (e.g., sunlight) as this may affect accuracy.
• Mounting Distance: Maintain a proper distance between the sensor and the surface to avoid false detections.
• Power Supply Stability: Use a stable power supply to ensure consistent performance.
• Testing Before Deployment: Test the sensor in the actual environment to fine-tune the potentiometers for optimal performance.

Below is an example of how to connect and use the 3 Channel IR Sensor with an Arduino UNO:

• Connect VCC to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• Connect GND to the Arduino's GND pin.
• Connect OUT1, OUT2, and OUT3 to Arduino digital pins 2, 3, and 4, respectively.

// Define the pins for the 3 Channel IR Sensor
const int sensor1Pin = 2; // Channel 1 output connected to digital pin 2
const int sensor2Pin = 3; // Channel 2 output connected to digital pin 3
const int sensor3Pin = 4; // Channel 3 output connected to digital pin 4

void setup() {
  // Initialize serial communication for debugging
  Serial.begin(9600);

  // Set sensor pins as inputs
  pinMode(sensor1Pin, INPUT);
  pinMode(sensor2Pin, INPUT);
  pinMode(sensor3Pin, INPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Read the sensor outputs
  int sensor1State = digitalRead(sensor1Pin);
  int sensor2State = digitalRead(sensor2Pin);
  int sensor3State = digitalRead(sensor3Pin);

  // Print the sensor states to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Sensor 1: ");
  Serial.print(sensor1State);
  Serial.print(" | Sensor 2: ");
  Serial.print(sensor2State);
  Serial.print(" | Sensor 3: ");
  Serial.println(sensor3State);

  // Add a small delay for stability
  delay(100);
}

1. Sensor Not Detecting Objects

   • Cause: Incorrect power supply or loose connections.
   • Solution: Verify that the VCC and GND pins are properly connected and the power supply is within the specified range.

2. False Detections

   • Cause: Ambient IR interference or incorrect sensitivity settings.
   • Solution: Adjust the potentiometers to fine-tune the detection range and avoid strong IR sources.

3. No Output Signal

   • Cause: Faulty wiring or disabled sensor.
   • Solution: Check the connections to the OUT pins and ensure the EN pin is HIGH (if used).

4. Inconsistent Readings

   • Cause: Unstable power supply or reflective surfaces.
   • Solution: Use a stable power source and test the sensor on different surfaces.

Q: Can the sensor detect transparent objects?
A: The sensor may struggle to detect transparent objects as they reflect minimal IR light. Use opaque or reflective surfaces for best results.

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

Q: Can I use this sensor with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the sensor operates within a voltage range of 3.3V to 5V, making it compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers like the ESP32.

Q: What is the purpose of the EN pin?
A: The EN pin allows you to enable or disable the sensor module programmatically. If not used, the sensor remains enabled by default.