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Product description: VCNL4200 - IR distance and light intensity sensor ALS - STEMMA QT / Qwiic - Adafruit 6064
A versatile module from Adafruit based on the Vishay VCNL4200 sensor, combining distance and illuminance measurement in a single chip. The sensor uses a 940nm infrared wavelength , ensuring effective detection of objects at distances from 0m to 1.5m . In practical applications, the most stable results are typically obtained in the range of 50cm to 100cm . In addition to proximity detection, the module offers precise ambient light measurement with characteristics similar to the sensitivity of the human eye. Thanks to a built-in logic level converter, it works with both 3.3V and 5V platforms. STEMMA QT/ Qwiic connectors enable quick connection to popular development boards without the need for soldering.
Main features of the sensor
- IR proximity measurement : detects objects at a distance of 0 m to 1.5 m
- ALS light sensor : measuring illuminance from 0.003 lx to 1573 lx
- I2C interface : fast communication with microcontrollers and single-board computers
- 3.3V and 5V compatible : built-in logic level matching circuitry
- STEMMA QT / Qwiic connectors : solderless connection
- Programmable interrupts : support for proximity and light intensity measurement thresholds
- Configurable operating parameters : adjustment of integration time, IR diode current, duty cycle and number of pulses
- Ambient light compensation : increased resistance to light interference
- Fluorescent Lighting Flicker Resistance : More Stable Light Intensity Measurements
VCNL4200 sensor pinout and I2C communication
The module communicates via an I2C bus with a default address of 0x51 . The board features standard VIN, GND, SDA, and SCL pins , as well as two STEMMA QT/Qwiic connectors , allowing for quick connection of modules on a single bus without the need for a soldering iron. An additional INT pin allows for generating interrupts when preset light intensity or proximity thresholds are exceeded. The module can be powered from 3.3V to 5V , making it compatible with popular platforms such as Arduino , Raspberry Pi , and ESP32 . RP2040 , Feather or other microcontrollers equipped with an I2C interface.
Programming and supported platforms
The manufacturer provides ready-made libraries for Arduino, CircuitPython, and Python . This makes integrating the sensor into a project quick and doesn't require developing drivers from scratch. The Adafruit_VCNL4200 library is available in the Arduino environment, allowing you to read data from proximity and light sensors, as well as configure operating parameters. CircuitPython and Python users can use the Adafruit_CircuitPython_VCNL4200 library, which allows you to easily read light intensity and proximity data on both microcontrollers and single-board computers like the Raspberry Pi. The module is also supported by the Adafruit IO WipperSnapper platform, allowing you to build IoT projects without writing any code.
Sensor technical specifications
- Integrated circuit: Vishay VCNL4200
- Communication interface: I2C
- Default I2C address: 0x51
- Supply voltage: 3.3 V to 5 V
- Distance sensor type: IR infrared
- IR emitter wavelength: 940 nm
- Proximity measurement range: 0 m to 1.5 m
- Typical usable working range: 50 cm to 100 cm
- Light intensity measurement range: from 0.003 lx to 1573 lx
- Minimum light measurement resolution: 0.003 lx
- Programmable interrupts: yes
- Integration time adjustment: yes
- IR diode current regulation: yes
- Adjustment of the number of measurement pulses: yes
- STEMMA QT / Qwiic connectors: 2 pcs.
- INT interrupt output: yes
- Dimensions: 25.6 x 17.7 x 4.8 mm
- Weight: 1.9 g
Contents of the set
- 1x Adafruit VCNL4200 Module - Long Range IR Proximity and Illumination Sensor - STEMMA QT / Qwiic




