Overview
The Yahboom TOF (time-of-flight) laser ranging sensor module (VL53L0X) is a laser ranging sensor module with a built-in ranging algorithm that calculates distance by measuring the time between laser emission and reception of the reflected signal. It is designed for higher ranging accuracy and faster response than typical infrared and ultrasonic modules, and supports three connection methods: PH2.0 cable, DuPont line, and alligator clips. It is compatible with Arduino, STM32, Raspberry Pi and other controllers for drone height sensing, robot obstacle avoidance, and general distance detection.
Support is available from the store at https://rcdrone.top/ or support@rcdrone.top for pre-purchase compatibility questions and basic wiring guidance.
Key Features
- Built-in controller and ranging algorithm.
- High precision: ±0.5 cm ranging accuracy; standard deviation < 5 mm (within 2 m).
- Low blind zone: blind area as low as 1.5 cm.
- Three interface methods: alligator clip connection, DuPont line connection, PH2.0 cable connection.
- Anti-interference description (laser ranging module): the program automatically calibrates the environment and has strong anti-interference ability.
- PCB workmanship is fine.
- Detailed driver codes and tutorials are provided.
- Default assembly note: the module has been soldered to the DuPont interface and PH2.0 cable interface by default.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Module / sensor | VL53L0X |
| Ranging principle | TOF (time of flight) |
| Detection distance (laser ranging module) | < 2 m |
| Blind spot / blind area (laser ranging module) | < 1.5 cm (as low as 1.5 cm) |
| Ranging accuracy | ±0.5 cm (within 2 m) |
| Standard deviation | < 5 mm (within 2 m) |
| Responding speed (laser ranging module) | 20 ms |
| Laser emission angle | 35° |
| Receiving angle | 20° |
| Header pin labels | VCC, SCL, SDA, GND |
Connection methods (three interface methods)
- Alligator clip connection
- DuPont line connection (recommended scenario: Raspberry Pi, Arduino and other common connection methods)
- PH2.0 cable connection (recommended scenario: common connection methods such as robot kits and sensor expansion boards)
Interface feature notes
-
Advantages of using side row female interface:
- It is not easy to short circuit when using alligator clips.
- The module is flat and beautiful, which is convenient for connection.
- Does not affect the user experience of the button module.
- Advantages of the four-corner alligator clip interface: Alligator clips are far apart at the four corners, not easy to short circuit, suitable for fast connection.
- Advantages of PH2.0 cable interface: Effectively prevent users from reverse connection, which is convenient for young people.
Typical wiring reference (as shown in provided diagrams)
- Raspberry Pi: VCC → 5V, SCL → SCL, SDA → SDA, GND → GND
- Arduino: VCC → 5V, SCL → SCL, SDA → SDA, GND → GND
- STM32 core board: VCC → 3.3V, SCL → PB6, SDA → PB7, GND → GND
Measurement accuracy (table values)
| Target reflectivity level (full fov) | Indoor (no infrared) | Outdoor | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | 33ms | 66ms | Distance | 33ms | 66ms | |
| White Target (88%) | at 120cm | 4% | 3% | at 60cm | 7% | 6% |
| Grey Target (88%) | at 70cm | 7% | 6% | at 40cm | 12% | 9% |
Measurement modes (table values)
| Mode selection | Estimated time for ranging | Typical performance | Typical application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Default selection | 30ms | 1.2Meter | standard |
| High-precision mode | 200ms | 1.2Meter, Precision <+/-3% | Precision measurement |
| Long distance mode | 33ms | 2Meter | Long range, only suitable for dark conditions (no ir) |
| High speed mode | 20ms | 1.2Meter, Precision+/-5% | High speed without priority on accuracy |
Applications
- Drone height
- Robot avoiding obstacles
- Detection and measurement
- Proximity detection / gesture sensing (as described for VL53L0X)
Manuals
- Yahboom LaserRange tutorial and learning materials (includes Arduino code, Raspberry Pi code, and module introduction documents)
Details

A compact VL53L0X time-of-flight module with onboard ranging algorithm for fast, accurate distance detection.

TOF laser ranging offers a longer working distance with a smaller blind area and quicker response than common IR or ultrasonic options.

High precision and a low blind zone make it a strong choice for obstacle avoidance and close-range detection.

The small form factor fits easily into drones, robots, and compact controller builds.

Multiple connector styles help reduce accidental shorts and make wiring easier across different project setups.

Choose alligator clips for quick testing, DuPont leads for Arduino/Raspberry Pi wiring, or PH2.0 for expansion boards and kits.



I2C wiring is straightforward on Raspberry Pi, using SDA/SCL plus power and ground.

Works with popular controllers like Arduino and STM32 using standard I2C connections.


Useful for drone height hold, mobile robot obstacle avoidance, and general ranging and measurement projects.

Select a measurement mode to balance speed and precision for the environment and target distance.



Clear pin labels help avoid wiring mistakes when connecting via DuPont header or PH2.0 cable.
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