How to Use TCS3200 Color sensor : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TCS3200 Color Sensor is a versatile and precise device designed to detect the color of an object. It operates by using an array of photodiodes, each equipped with red, green, and blue filters, to measure the intensity of light in these color bands. The sensor outputs a frequency signal proportional to the intensity of the detected colors, making it easy to interface with microcontrollers and other digital systems.

• Color recognition: Identifying the color of objects in robotics and automation.
• Color sorting: Sorting objects based on their color in industrial systems.
• Ambient light sensing: Measuring light intensity in specific color bands.
• Educational projects: Teaching color detection and sensor interfacing with microcontrollers.

The TCS3200 Color Sensor is built on the TCS3200 chip and includes an array of photodiodes, a current-to-frequency converter, and configurable output scaling.

1. Power the Sensor: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Configure the Output Frequency Scaling:
   • Use the S0 and S1 pins to set the output frequency scaling:
     • S0 = LOW, S1 = LOW: Power down.
     • S0 = LOW, S1 = HIGH: 2% scaling.
     • S0 = HIGH, S1 = LOW: 20% scaling.
     • S0 = HIGH, S1 = HIGH: 100% scaling.
3. Select the Color Filter:
   • Use the S2 and S3 pins to select the active photodiode filter:
     • S2 = LOW, S3 = LOW: Red filter.
     • S2 = LOW, S3 = HIGH: Blue filter.
     • S2 = HIGH, S3 = LOW: Clear (no filter).
     • S2 = HIGH, S3 = HIGH: Green filter.
4. Read the Output:
   • Connect the OUT pin to a microcontroller or frequency counter to measure the output frequency.
   • The frequency corresponds to the intensity of the selected color.

• Output Enable (OE): The OE pin is active low. Pull it LOW to enable the output or HIGH to disable it.
• Scaling Selection: Use the appropriate scaling factor to match the light intensity in your application.
• Ambient Light: Minimize ambient light interference by enclosing the sensor or using it in controlled lighting conditions.
• Calibration: Calibrate the sensor for your specific application to improve accuracy.

The following code demonstrates how to interface the TCS3200 with an Arduino UNO to measure the intensity of red, green, and blue light.

// Pin definitions for TCS3200
#define S0 2  // Connect to S0 pin of TCS3200
#define S1 3  // Connect to S1 pin of TCS3200
#define S2 4  // Connect to S2 pin of TCS3200
#define S3 5  // Connect to S3 pin of TCS3200
#define OUT 6 // Connect to OUT pin of TCS3200

void setup() {
  // Set pin modes
  pinMode(S0, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(S1, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(S2, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(S3, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(OUT, INPUT);

  // Set frequency scaling to 20%
  digitalWrite(S0, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(S1, LOW);

  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  int red, green, blue;

  // Measure red light intensity
  digitalWrite(S2, LOW);
  digitalWrite(S3, LOW);
  red = pulseIn(OUT, LOW); // Measure frequency for red filter

  // Measure green light intensity
  digitalWrite(S2, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(S3, HIGH);
  green = pulseIn(OUT, LOW); // Measure frequency for green filter

  // Measure blue light intensity
  digitalWrite(S2, LOW);
  digitalWrite(S3, HIGH);
  blue = pulseIn(OUT, LOW); // Measure frequency for blue filter

  // Print the results
  Serial.print("Red: ");
  Serial.print(red);
  Serial.print(" Green: ");
  Serial.print(green);
  Serial.print(" Blue: ");
  Serial.println(blue);

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

1. No Output Signal:

   • Ensure the OE pin is pulled LOW to enable the output.
   • Verify the power supply voltage is within the specified range (2.7V to 5.5V).

2. Inconsistent Readings:

   • Check for ambient light interference and minimize it.
   • Ensure proper calibration for your specific application.

3. Incorrect Color Detection:

   • Verify the S2 and S3 pin configurations for the selected color filter.
   • Ensure the object is placed at an appropriate distance from the sensor.

Q: Can the TCS3200 detect colors in complete darkness?
A: No, the TCS3200 requires a light source to detect colors. Use an external light source for accurate readings.

Q: How do I improve the accuracy of the sensor?
A: Calibrate the sensor for your specific application and minimize ambient light interference.

Q: Can I use the TCS3200 with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the TCS3200 operates within a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with 3.3V systems.