Overview
The sensor consists of an IR LED and a photo sensor (phototransistor). The light emitted by the IR LED gets reflected by any object placed in front of the sensor and this reflection is detected by the photo sensor (phototransistor). Any white (or lighter) colored surface reflects more than black (or darker) colored surface.
When the reflected light is detected, it produces Digital HIGH (or Binary 1) output on the Sig pin. The on-board LED indicator will also glow. If no reflection is detected or if the object is too far from the sensor, the output on the SIG pin stays at Digital LOW (Binary 0). The on-board LED indicator will be off as well.
The detectable range of this sensor is 4–16 mm. The module incorporates a Rail-to-Rail Operational Amplifier to amplify the output of phototransistor. There is a potentiometer which can be used to adjust the gain of the amplifier, that is, sensitivity of detection.
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Team Ikaro is a vibrant group of high school students from the Pacinotti Archimede Institute in Rome, sharing a strong passion for electronics and turning heads in the world of robotics! Specializing in Soccer Lightweight games (where robot-soccer players compete to score goals on a miniature field), they clinched the first place at the Romecup 2024 and won Italy’s national Robocup in Verbania earlier this year – earning the right to compete in the world championships in Eindhoven, where they placed third in the SuperTeam competition. The brains behind the bots Utilizing the versatile Arduino Nano RP2040 Connect, the team has crafted highly efficient robots that feature ultrasound sensors, PCB boards, a camera, four motors, a solenoid kicker and omni-directional wheels, all meticulously assembled in the school’s FabLab. Mentored by professor Paolo Torda, Team Ikaro exemplifies the spirit of innovation and teamwork bringing together three talented students: Francesco D’Angelo, the team leader, focuses on system design and mechanics; Flavio Crocicchia, the software developer, ensures the robots’ brains are as sharp as possible; Lorenzo Addario specializes in camera software, making sure the robots can “see” and react swiftly on the field. Their combined efforts have led to a seamless integration of hardware and software, and established a foundation of passion and ambition for future success in their careers. Future goals After their first taste of global competition, Team Ikaro is determined to continue refining their robots, leveraging every bit of knowledge and experience they gain – whether in the classroom, lab, or live challenges. At Arduino, we are proud to sponsor such brilliant young minds and look forward to seeing what they will accomplish next!