The SparkFun Qwiic dToF TMF8821 Imager is a high-performance direct time-of-flight (dToF) sensor designed for precise distance and object detection applications. Housed in a compact modular package, this sensor integrates a Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and Single Photon Avalanche Photodiode (SPAD) technology to achieve remarkable accuracy and sensitivity in distance measurements. It also utilizes a time-to-digital converter (TDC) and histogram technology, making it capable of detecting objects up to 5000mm away. The TMF8821 supports multizone output, providing flexible configurations such as 3x3, 4x4, and 3x6 zones, which allows the sensor to track multiple objects across different areas. It also features a dynamically adjustable field of view (FoV) thanks to its integrated multi-lens array (MLA), which expands the sensor's field of illumination (FoI). All data processing, including raw signal analysis and filtering, is performed on-chip, delivering accurate distance information and confidence values via the I2C interface. One of the standout features of the TMF8821 is its ability to perform well in diverse lighting conditions, from complete darkness to bright sunlight. The on-chip optical filter effectively blocks most ambient light, ensuring reliable distance measurements across a wide range of environments. The sensor is easily integrated into systems using the Qwiic interface, allowing for solderless connections, or via traditional pins for breadboard compatibility. This sensor is ideal for applications, including camera autofocus systems, presence detection, robotic object avoidance, and industrial safety systems.

Features:

• Long-Range Detection: Measures distances up to 5000mm with high accuracy.
• SPAD & TDC Technology: Uses Single Photon Avalanche Diodes and time-to-digital converters for precise object detection.
• Multizone Configuration: Supports flexible 3x3, 4x4, and 3x6 zone output, ideal for multi-object tracking.
• Wide Field of View: Adjustable field of view, up to 63° diagonally, with expanded field of illumination through the multi-lens array.
• Ambient Light Resistance: Integrated optical filter and algorithm to block ambient light, ensuring reliable measurements in various lighting conditions.
• On-Chip Processing: All data processing is performed internally, delivering accurate distance data and confidence values.
• I2C Communication: Seamless communication via the Qwiic interface, making it easy to connect without soldering.
• Power Efficiency: Low power consumption, making it suitable for battery-powered devices and portable systems.

Specifications:

• Operating Voltage: 2.7V to 3.6V (typically 3.3V via Qwiic cable)
• Current Consumption:
  • 8µA (standby)
  • 57mA (active)
• Time-of-Flight Sensor: AMS TMF8821 Multi-zone
• Technology: Direct ToF with high-sensitivity SPAD detection
• Measurement Range: 10mm to 5000mm @ 30Hz
• Light Source: Class 1 940nm VCSEL
• Field of View: Adjustable up to 63° diagonally
• Max Read Rate: 30Hz
• Temperature Range: -30°C to +70°C
• I2C Address: 0x41
• Breakout Pads:
  • 1x Ground
  • 1x Power
  • 1x I2C Port
  • 1x Interrupt
  • 2x GPIO
  • 1x Enable
• Power LED: Configurable via jumper
• I2C Pull-ups: Configurable via jumper
• Board Dimensions: 1.0" x 1.0" (2.54cm x 2.54cm)

Pinout:

Applications:

• Laser Detect Autofocus (LDAF) for camera systems
• Presence Detection for communication devices and smart systems
• Object Detection & Collision Avoidance for robots and autonomous vehicles
• Industrial Light Curtains for safety systems and automation

Documents:

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Board Dimensions
• Hookup Guide
• TMF882X
  • Datasheet
  • Driver User Guide
  • Host Driver Communication
• What Distance Sensor is Right for You?
• Qwiic Info Page
• Arduino Library
• GitHub Hardware Repo

Package Includes:

• 1x SparkFun Qwiic dToF Imager - TMF8821