TCRT5000 IR Sensor Module Line Tracking Line Following

The TCRT5000 IR Sensor Module is a compact, reliable infrared reflection sensor designed for line tracking, line following, and obstacle detection applications. It combines an IR LED emitter and a phototransistor detector in a single module, providing clean analog and digital outputs for easy integration with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontroller platforms.

Key Benefits

• Accurate black & white surface detection for line-following robots
• Fast and stable obstacle detection for motion control and safety
• Clean comparator output for noise-resistant digital signaling
• Strong driving capability (over 15mA) to directly drive indicators or logic inputs
• Adjustable sensitivity via multi-turn potentiometer for fine-tuning detection range
• Fixed mounting hole for secure and repeatable installation

Typical Applications

• Line tracking and line following robots
• Black/white surface detection in conveyor systems
• Paper presence detection (printers, fax machines, paper shredders)
• Pulse/data sampling in watt-hour meters and counters
• General obstacle sensing and proximity detection

How It Works?

The IR LED continuously emits infrared light. When the target surface reflects enough IR back to the phototransistor, the detector conducts and the module output switches state. Use the analog output (AO) to read varying reflection levels (useful for calibration or sensor fusion), or use the digital output (DO) — a comparator-based signal — to get a clean high/low threshold output for microcontroller inputs.

Specifications

• Detection distance: 1 mm – 8 mm (typical)
• Focus distance: ~2.5 mm
• Outputs: AO (analog), DO (digital comparator)
• Driving capability: > 15 mA
• Sensitivity: Adjustable with multi-turn precision potentiometer
• Working voltage: 3.3V – 5V
• Mounting: Fixed bolt hole for easy installation

Installation & Usage Tips

• Mount the sensor close to the surface (within 1–8 mm) and perpendicular to the track for best line detection.
• Use AO to calibrate sensitivity in software or to implement analog filtering; use DO for a direct digital trigger to your microcontroller.
• Adjust the onboard potentiometer while observing AO or DO to set the proper detection threshold for your surface (black vs white) and ambient lighting conditions.
• Ensure the sensor and track are clean — dust and dirt reduce reflectivity and may affect performance.

Package Includes

• 1 × TCRT5000 Infrared Reflection / Line Tracking Sensor Module

This TCRT5000 IR reflection sensor is an affordable, easy-to-use solution for robotics, automation, and sensing projects. Its adjustable threshold, robust digital output, and compact footprint make it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.