Pololu QTR-3RC Infrared Reflectance Sensor Array Pololu

This compact module packs three IR LED/phototransistor pairs onto a 1.25″ × 0.3″ board. The sensors are mounted on a 0.375″ pitch, allowing this array to be used as a minimal detector for a line-following robot. Each sensor provides a separate digital I/O-measurable voltage output.

The QTR-3RC reflectance sensor array requires digital I/O lines to take readings. The similar QTR-3A reflectance sensor array is available with analog outputs.

Functional Description

The QTR-3RC reflectance sensor array is intended as a line sensor, but it can be used as a general-purpose proximity or reflectance sensor. The module is a convenient carrier for three IR emitter and receiver (phototransistor) pairs. With sensors spaced at intervals of 0.375″ (9.525 mm) along of the board’s longer axis, this array works well as a minimal detector for line-following robots, as line-following courses are commonly made using 3/4″ (19 mm) black electrical tape. The middle sensor is slightly offset along the short axis of the board.

To use a sensor, you must first charge the output node by applying a voltage to its OUT pin. You can then read the reflectance by withdrawing the externally supplied voltage and timing how long it takes the output voltage to decay due to the integrated phototransistor. Shorter decay time is an indication of greater reflection. This measurement approach has several advantages, especially when multiple units are used:

• No analog-to-digital converter (ADC) is required
• Improved sensitivity over voltage-divider analog output
• Parallel reading of multiple sensors is possible with most microcontrollers

The LED current-limiting resistors are set to deliver approximately 17 mA to the LEDs when VCC is 5 V, making the total board consumption just over 50 mA. The schematic diagram of the module is shown below:

This schematic is also available as a downloadable pdf (117k pdf).

For an alternative array with eight sensors and the ability to turn off the IR LEDs to limit power consumption, consider our QTR-8RC reflectance sensor array. For individual reflectance sensors, consider our QTR-1RC and QTR-L-1RC.

QTR sensor size comparison. Clockwise from top left: QTR-3RC, QTR-1RC, QTR-L-1RC, QTR-8RC.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 1.25″ × 0.3″ × 0.1″ (32 mm × 8 mm × 3 mm) (without header pins installed)
• Operating voltage: 5.0 V
• Supply current: 50 mA
• Output format: 3 digital I/O-compatible signals that can be read as a timed high pulse
• Optimal sensing distance: 0.125″ (3 mm)
• Maximum recommended sensing distance: 0.25″ (6 mm)
• Weight without header pins: 0.02 oz (0.6 g)

Interfacing the QTR-3RC Outputs to Digital I/O Lines

The QTR-3RC module has three identical sensor outputs that, like the Parallax QTI, require a digital I/O line capable of driving the output line high and then measuring the time for the output voltage to decay. The typical sequence for reading a sensor is:

1. Set the I/O line to an output and drive it high.
2. Wait several microseconds to give the 2.2 nF capacitor node time to reach 5 V.
3. Make the I/O line an input (high impedance).
4. Measure the time for the capacitor node voltage to decay by waiting for the I/O line to go low.

These steps can typically be executed in parallel on multiple I/O lines.

With a strong reflectance, the decay time can be as low as several dozen microseconds; with no reflectance, the decay time can be up to a few milliseconds. The exact time of the decay depends on your microcontroller’s I/O line characteristics. Meaningful results can be available within 1 ms in typical cases (i.e. when not trying to measure subtle differences in low-reflectance scenarios), allowing up to 1 kHz sampling of all three sensors.

The Pololu AVR library provides functions that make it easy to use these sensors with the Orangutan robot controllers; please see the QTR Reflectance Sensors section of their library command reference for more information. They also have a Arduino library for these sensors.

Included Components

This module has two mounting holes intended for #2 screws (not included); if the mounting holes are not needed, the ends of the PCB can be ground off to make the unit even smaller (less than 1″ wide). The reflectance sensor array ships with a 1×5 straight male header strip and a1×5 right-angle male header strip as shown below. You can also solder wires, such as ribbon cable, directly to the pads for the smallest installation.

QTR-3A or QTR-3RC reflectance sensor array with included header pins.

QTR-3A and QTR-3RC reflectance sensor arrays soldered in different orientations.

How it works in detail

For more information about how this sensor works, see the “How it works in detail” section of the QTR-1RC product page.