IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module (LM393) | robetix

"Don't let your robot crash into walls. The LM393 IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor acts as the 'eyes' for your mobile robot. Designed for Arduino and ESP32 projects, this module uses infrared reflection to detect nearby objects, making it the industry standard for Obstacle Avoiding Robots, Smart Trash Cans, and Production Line Counters.

Why this module is essential: It features an onboard potentiometer (the blue dial) that allows you to fine tune the detection distance from 2cm to 30cm. This is critical for calibrating your robot to stop exactly where you want it to. The sensor provides a clean Digital Output (HIGH or LOW), meaning no complex coding is required, simply use digitalRead(). A built-in Status LED lights up instantly when an object is detected, which makes debugging your code much faster.

Technical Details & Wiring: The module operates reliably on 3.3V to 5V DC using the stable LM393 comparator chip. It covers a detection angle of 35°, and the output pin goes LOW (0V) actively when an obstacle is found. Wiring is straightforward: connect VCC to 5V, GND to Ground, and the OUT pin to any digital pin on your microcontroller.

Applications: Ideally suited for Obstacle Avoiding Cars, Smart Parking Systems, and Object Counters on conveyor belts.

Note: This sensor works best indoors, as direct sunlight can sometimes interfere with infrared signals."