KY-032 4pin IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor

An economical option for detecting avoidance in robotics and other electronic applications is the Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module.

KY-032 4pin IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor is delivered pre-assembled, as depicted in the image above, with a total of four pins: 5-volts, GND, output, and EN. The output pin operates on an active LOW signal and includes a built-in status LED. Connecting it to Arduino or other micro-controllers is a simple process. It is also compatible with the Raspberry Pi within a voltage range of 3-6 volts. Just make sure to link Vcc to 3-volts!

The “EN” pin can be used to disable or enable the device, depending on whether HI (Vcc) or LO (GND) is selected. The onboard jumper allows for external control of this function, but I personally do not find it necessary and would recommend leaving the jumper on and the pin disconnected. KY-032 4pin IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor features two potentiometers – one for controlling the operating frequency (set at 38 kHz) and the other for intensity. The detector was specifically designed for 38 kHz, with an onboard oscillator circuit using a 555 timer. While some minor adjustments may improve range, I suggest leaving it as is since the effective range is quite narrow. In my testing, I found that it worked well without any modifications, with a maximum reliable range of approximately 30-40 cm depending on the surface material. Smooth white surfaces yielded better results than black or rough surfaces.