Using a CJMCU VL53L0X Laser Distance Meter with Arduino

Using a CJMCU VL53L0X Laser Distance Meter with Arduino

This tutorial demonstrates how to use the CJMCU VL53L0X laser distance meter with an Arduino. This module, featuring a Texas Instruments VL53L0X time-of-flight sensor and a TXS0108E bidirectional level shifter (in video at 00:06), offers precise distance measurement up to two meters (in video at 00:52). Its compatibility with various logic levels (3.3V, 1.8V, 5V) simplifies integration with different microcontrollers (in video at 00:21). This project opens up a wide range of possibilities.

Project Ideas:

Robotics: Implement obstacle avoidance in robots.
Automation: Control machinery based on proximity.
Smart Home: Create automatic lighting based on distance.
Security: Develop a proximity-based alarm system.

Hardware/Components

To build this project, you will need the following components:

Arduino Board (any model will work)
CJMCU VL53L0X Laser Distance Meter Module
Jumper Wires

Wiring Guide

The VL53L0X module connects to the Arduino as follows:

Connect the VCC pin of the module to the 5V pin on the Arduino. The module's internal regulator handles the required 3.3V for the sensor. (in video at 01:50)

Connect the GND pin of the module to the GND pin on the Arduino.

Connect the SDA pin of the module to the A4 pin on the Arduino.

Connect the SCL pin of the module to the A5 pin on the Arduino.

Leave the XSHUT pin unconnected unless you need to use it for shutdown control. (in video at 03:50)

Code Explanation

The provided code utilizes the VL53L0X library. Here's an explanation of the key configurable parts:


#include <Wire.h>
#include <VL53L0X.h>

VL53L0X sensor;

void setup()
{
  Serial.begin(9600);
  // ... other setup code ...
  sensor.setTimeout(500); // Set timeout to 500ms (in video at 06:40)
  sensor.startContinuous(); // Start continuous measurement mode (in video at 06:50)
}

void loop()
{
  Serial.print(sensor.readRangeContinuousMillimeters()); // Read distance in mm (in video at 07:01)
  // ... other loop code ...
}

The sensor.setTimeout(500) line sets the timeout for distance measurements to 500 milliseconds. Adjust this value if needed for your application (in video at 06:40). The sensor.startContinuous() function initiates continuous ranging, providing distance readings as quickly as possible (in video at 06:50). The sensor.readRangeContinuousMillimeters() function returns the measured distance in millimeters (in video at 07:01).

Live Project/Demonstration

The video demonstrates the sensor's operation, showing how the distance readings change as the sensor's distance to the target changes. The readings are accurate within a few millimeters, especially at distances greater than 10mm (in video at 08:20). At very close ranges (less than 10mm), the accuracy decreases (in video at 09:50). The demonstration also shows that reflective surfaces can affect the readings, particularly if the laser isn't perpendicular to the surface (in video at 10:32).