SKU: SENS-2867
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SparkFun Proximity Sensor Breakout – VCNL4040 (Qwiic)

₹879.00 (Inclusive of all taxes)
Out of Stock

The SparkFun VCNL4040 Qwiic breakout integrates a proximity sensor (PS) and ambient light sensor (ALS) for contactless object detection up to 20cm with no dead zone. It communicates via I2C (address 0x60) at 3.3V logic, making it compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other Qwiic-enabled development platforms.

Features

  • Integrated VCNL4040 sensor with IR emitter, proximity, and ambient light sensing.
  • Qualitative proximity detection up to 20cm with no dead zone.
  • I2C interface (address 0x60) with SMBus compatibility and low power consumption.
  • Dual Qwiic connectors for solderless daisy-chaining plus standard 0.1″-spaced breakout pins.
  • Filtron technology for robust ambient and background light cancellation.

Out of stock

Description

The SparkFun Proximity Sensor Breakout leverages the VCNL4040 IC, a fully integrated solution combining an infrared emitter (IRED), a proximity sensor (PS), and an ambient light sensor (ALS). The PS operates on the principle of reflected infrared light, providing a qualitative measure of object distance without the dead zone common in analog IR sensors. The ALS provides digital ambient light level data, enabling light-sensitive system adjustments.

Designed for ease of integration, the board features the Qwiic connector system for plug-and-play I2C connectivity, eliminating the need for soldering. A parallel operational structure allows the ALS and PS to function simultaneously, providing concurrent environmental and proximity data for responsive system control in automated applications.

Key Features

  • VCNL4040-based integrated IR proximity and ambient light sensing module.
  • Qualitative detection range up to 20 cm with no front-face dead zone.
  • I2C digital interface (address 0x60) with SMBus compatibility for simplified wiring.
  • Filtron technology ensures stable operation by canceling ambient and background light interference.
  • Dual Qwiic connectors enable solderless daisy-chaining in I2C bus networks.
  • 0.1"-spaced breakout pins provided for traditional breadboard or soldered connections.
  • Low operating voltage range from 2.5V to 3.6V, optimized for 3.3V logic systems.
  • Compact form factor (20mm x 40mm) for space-constrained designs.

Applications

  • Touchless activation for automatic soap dispensers, faucets, and hand dryers.
  • Proximity detection and wake-up functions in battery-powered IoT devices.
  • Object presence sensing for robotics, inventory management, and security systems.
  • Ambient light-based display backlight dimming in kiosks and consumer electronics.
  • Gesture recognition and user interface control in interactive installations.

Technical Specifications

Manufacturer Part NumberSEN-15177
Sensor ICVCNL4040
Proximity Detection RangeUp to 20 cm (Qualitative)
Integrated SensorsInfrared Emitter (IRED), Proximity Sensor (PS), Ambient Light Sensor (ALS)
InterfaceI2C (SMBus Compatible)
I2C Address0x60
Operating Voltage2.5 VDC to 3.6 VDC
Logic Voltage3.3V
Key FeatureNo Dead Zone
Connectors2x Qwiic, 0.1"-spaced breakout pins
Dimensions (L x W)40 mm x 20 mm
Weight10 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative proximity detection on the VCNL4040?

The VCNL4040 provides qualitative proximity data, meaning the output value increases as an object gets closer and decreases as it moves away, but it is not calibrated for precise distance measurement in centimeters. It is ideal for presence detection, gesture recognition, and determining relative proximity changes rather than absolute range.

How do I connect multiple Qwiic sensors, including this one, to a single microcontroller?

The board features two Qwiic connectors, allowing you to daisy-chain multiple Qwiic devices using standard 4-pin JST SH cables. Connect one cable from your microcontroller's Qwiic port to the sensor's input, and then use a second cable from the sensor's output connector to the next device in the chain. Ensure the total bus capacitance does not exceed I2C specifications for reliable communication.

Can I use this sensor with 5V Arduino boards like the Uno?

Yes, but you must use a logic level converter for the I2C lines (SDA, SCL) as the VCNL4040 operates at 3.3V logic levels. The board's power supply (VCC) must be between 2.5V and 3.6V. You can power it from the Arduino's 3.3V pin, but ensure your board can supply adequate current for your entire sensor chain.

Does the sensor require any calibration or configuration out of the box?

The sensor works immediately upon power-up with default settings, providing basic proximity and ambient light readings. For optimized performance, you can configure parameters like IR LED current, integration time, and interrupt thresholds via the I2C registers using the provided SparkFun Arduino library or direct register writes.

Package Includes

  • 1x SparkFun Proximity Sensor Breakout - VCNL4040 (Qwiic)

Additional Information

Weight 0.01 kg
Dimensions 4 × 2 cm