This distance sensor breakout molecule utilizes the VL53L4CD Time of Flight sensor module to give you the highly accurate measurements at short ranges for its size. The VL53L4CD from ST uses a VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) to emit an infrared laser to time the reflection to the target. That means that you will be able to measure the distance to an object from 1mm to 1300mm. This sensor features a precision to be 1mm with an accuracy around +/-7mm (white target: 88%, indoor, no infrared) and a minimum read distance of this sensor is 1mm. The field of view for this breakout has a typical full field of view of 18° with a read rate of up to 100Hz. To power this board appropriately since it will need 2.6V-3.5V to operate.

VL53L4CD Time of Flight Sensor Breakout

Type: Adom Molecule (Breakout Board) Creator: adonis Version: v1 Category: sensor Availability: 100%, 24/7

Overview

This distance sensor breakout molecule utilizes the VL53L4CD Time of Flight sensor module to give you the highly accurate measurements at short ranges for its size. The VL53L4CD from ST uses a VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) to emit an infrared laser to time the reflection to the target. That means that you will be able to measure the distance to an object from 1mm to 1300mm. This sensor features a precision to be 1mm with an accuracy around +/-7mm (white target: 88%, indoor, no infrared) and a minimum read distance of this sensor is 1mm. The field of view for this breakout has a typical full field of view of 18° with a read rate of up to 100Hz. To power this board appropriately since it will need 2.6V-3.5V to operate.

Science Drivers

• component testing
• open source drone

NSF Relevance

This distance sensor breakout enables rapid experimentation with precise short-range distance measurements in compact systems. Its high-resolution, fast time-of-flight sensing allows researchers and developers to prototype applications such as object detection, proximity sensing, and small-scale robotic navigation.

Integration Guide

To use VL53L4CD Time of Flight Sensor Breakout in your design:

1. Download the schematic symbol and PCB footprint from the Files section
2. Import into your EDA tool (KiCad or Fusion 360 / EAGLE)
3. Place the molecule in your schematic and connect the interface pins
4. Use the 3D model (.glb) for mechanical fit verification

Design Notes

This is a breakout board molecule — it provides convenient access to the IC pins via standard headers or contacts. Board design files (.brd, .sch, .f3d) are available for modification and reference.