TCRT5000 Infrared Reflective Photoelectric Switch

The TCRT5000 IR sensor module that integrates both a photodiode and a phototransistor within a single package. The photodiode, featuring two pins (anode and cathode), generates an IR signal, while the phototransistor, with its collector and emitter pins, detects the reflected IR signal. This setup allows the sensor to sense the presence of objects based on the reflected infrared light.

The TCRT5000 IR sensor can provide both analog and digital output signals. It includes an LM393 comparator IC, which processes the signals and allows the threshold to be adjusted via an onboard potentiometer. This feature enables fine-tuning of the sensor’s sensitivity.

The module is equipped with four pins: two for power and two for output. It is particularly effective in detecting objects or reflective surfaces in its line of sight. Due to its ability to differentiate between reflective and non-reflective surfaces, it is commonly used in line-following robots, maze-solving robots, and obstacle detection and avoidance systems. It is compatible with various development boards such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, PIC, and ATMEL controllers, making it a valuable component for numerous robotics and automation projects.

TCRT5000 IR sensor Features:

• Working Voltage Range 3.5-5Vdc
• Both Analog and Digital Outputs
• Sensitivity Adjustment available in Digital Mode
• M4 Hole for mounting
• 1mm to 10mm measuring range

Package Includes:

• 1×TCRT5000 IR sensor module