The Sharp distance sensors are a popular choice for many projects that require accurate distance measurements. This IR sensor is more economical than sonar rangefinders, yet it provides much better performance than other IR alternatives. Interfacing to most microcontrollers is straightforward: the single analog output can be connected to an analog-to-digital converter for taking distance measurements, or the output can be connected to a comparator for threshold detection. The detection range of this version is approximately 4 cm to 30 cm (1.5″ to 12″).
SHARP GP2Y0A4 an infrared sensor that serves to measure the distance. The sensor consists of a combination of PSD (position sensitive detector), IR-LED (infrared emitting diode) and a signal processing circuit.
Features:
- Operating voltage: 4.5 V to 5.5 V
- Average current consumption: 12 mA (note: this sensor draws current in large, short bursts, and the manufacturer recommends putting a 10 µF capacitor or larger across power and ground close to the sensor to stabilize the power supply line)
- Distance measuring range: 4 cm to 30 cm (1.5″ to 12″)
- Output type: analog voltage
- Output voltage differential over distance range: 2.3 V (typical)
- Update period: 16.5 ± 4 ms
- Size: 44.5 mm × 18.9 mm × 13.5 mm (1.75″ × 0.75″ × 0.53″)
- Weight: 3.5 g (0.12 oz)
