Generic 8-Channel IR Sensor Array Line Follower Module - 3.3V-5V Digital I/O

The module is designed to operate from a 3.3V to 5V DC power supply. This wide range ensures direct compatibility with both 3.3V logic microcontrollers like ESP32 and 5V systems like standard Arduino boards without requiring a level shifter.

Each of the eight sensors provides a separate digital output pin. Simply connect these pins to digital input pins on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi GPIO). The module outputs a logic HIGH or LOW signal based on the reflectivity of the surface detected, requiring no additional analog-to-digital conversion.

The optimal sensing distance is approximately 3.0mm, with a maximum range up to 9.5mm under ideal conditions. Each channel works on the principle of reflective infrared sensing: an IR LED emits light, and the paired phototransistor detects the amount reflected. Dark surfaces absorb more light, resulting in a low output, while light surfaces reflect more, triggering a high output.

No, this is a reflective infrared sensor, not a color sensor. It detects the intensity of reflected IR light, which correlates broadly with surface lightness/darkness (reflectivity) in the infrared spectrum. It reliably distinguishes high-contrast patterns like black lines on a white background but cannot differentiate between specific colors visible to the human eye.