Fc 51 Ir Sensor Datasheet ^hot^ May 2026

The FC-51 IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor is a popular and cost-effective module used widely in robotics for proximity detection and obstacle avoidance. It operates on the principle of infrared (IR) light reflection, utilizing an IR emitter and receiver pair alongside an LM393 comparator to provide a simple digital output. FC-51 IR Sensor Technical Specifications

The following technical data is derived from standard FC-51 datasheets:

Operating Voltage: 3.0V to 6.0V DC (Typically used at 3.3V or 5V). Current Consumption: ~23 mA at 3.3V. ~43 mA at 5.0V.

Detection Range: 2cm to 30cm (adjustable via onboard potentiometer). Detection Angle: ~35°.

Output Type: Digital (Logic 0 when an obstacle is detected, Logic 1 when clear). Dimensions: PCB Size: 3.1 cm x 1.4 cm. Overall: 4.5 cm x 1.4 cm x 0.7 cm. Pinout and Interface

The module typically features a 3-pin male header for easy connection to microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi: Description VCC Power Supply 3.3V - 5V DC input. GND Common ground connection. OUT Digital Output Goes LOW when an object reflects IR light. Working Principle

The FC-51 sensor contains two primary optical components: an IR Transmitter (LED) and an IR Receiver (Photodiode). FC-51 IR Proximity Sensor - am I doing it wrong?

The FC-51 is a popular infrared (IR) obstacle avoidance sensor module commonly used in Arduino and robotics projects. It uses an IR transmitter (LED) and receiver (phototransistor) to detect objects within a specific range by measuring the reflection of infrared light. Technical Specifications

Based on the FC-51 IR Sensor Overview, the core technical data is as follows: Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V DC.

Detection Range: Adjustable from 2cm to 30cm (some variants reach up to 80cm). Detection Angle: Approximately 35°.

Output Signal: Digital signal (LOW when an obstacle is detected, HIGH when the path is clear).

Comparator Chip: Typically utilizes an LM393 voltage comparator for stable digital switching. Fc 51 Ir Sensor Datasheet

Potentiometer: Includes an onboard "blue trim pot" used to adjust the sensor's sensitivity/range. Pin Configuration

The module typically features a 3-pin header for easy interfacing: VCC: Connect to 3.3V - 5V power source. GND: Connect to the circuit ground.

OUT: Digital output pin to be connected to an Arduino digital I/O. Working Principle Emission: The IR LED constantly emits infrared light.

Reflection: When an object enters the detection range, the IR light reflects back.

Detection: The phototransistor receives the reflected light, and the onboard comparator compares this signal against the threshold set by the potentiometer.

Action: If the reflected intensity is high enough, the OUT pin goes LOW and the onboard "Status LED" lights up. Infrared Sensors Specs, Operation, Types and Applications

The FC-51 is a low-cost infrared (IR) obstacle avoidance sensor module commonly used in robotics for short-range detection. It functions by emitting an IR signal from a transmitter LED; if an object is within range, the IR light reflects back and is detected by a receiver phototransistor, triggering a digital signal. Core Technical Specifications Specification Operating Voltage 3.0V – 6.0V DC Detection Range 2cm – 30cm (Adjustable via onboard potentiometer) Detection Angle Approximately 35° Current Consumption ~23 mA at 3.3V / ~43 mA at 5.0V Output Type

Digital signal (LOW when obstacle detected, HIGH when clear) Dimensions PCB: 3.1 cm x 1.4 cm; Overall: 4.5 cm x 1.4 cm x 0.7 cm Interface and Components Pinout: VCC: Power input (3.3V - 5V). GND: Ground connection. OUT: Digital output pin. Onboard Indicators: Power LED: Remains lit while the module is powered.

Obstacle LED: Lights up only when an object is detected within the set range.

Adjustment: A multi-turn potentiometer (blue trim pot) is used to increase (clockwise) or decrease (counter-clockwise) the sensitivity and detection distance. Operational Notes

Overview

The FC-51 IR sensor is a reflective infrared sensor that can detect the presence of objects within a certain range. It is commonly used for obstacle detection, line following, and other applications.

Datasheet Analysis

The datasheet for the FC-51 IR sensor provides the following key specifications:

1. Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V
2. Current Consumption: 20mA to 30mA
3. Detection Range: 2cm to 30cm (adjustable)
4. Output: Digital output ( HIGH/LOW)
5. Sensing Angle: approximately 30 degrees

Features

The FC-51 IR sensor has the following features:

1. Easy to use: The sensor has a simple digital output that can be easily interfaced with microcontrollers.
2. Adjustable sensitivity: The detection range can be adjusted using a potentiometer.
3. Low power consumption: The sensor consumes relatively low power, making it suitable for battery-powered projects.

Applications

The FC-51 IR sensor can be used in various applications, including:

1. Robotics: obstacle detection, line following, and wall detection.
2. Automation: presence detection, distance measurement, and object detection.
3. Proximity sensing: detecting the presence of objects within a certain range.

Limitations

The FC-51 IR sensor has some limitations:

1. Limited range: The detection range is limited to 2cm to 30cm.
2. Interference: The sensor may be affected by ambient light, dust, and other environmental factors.

Conclusion

The FC-51 IR sensor is a reliable and easy-to-use infrared sensor module suitable for various robotics and automation projects. Its simple digital output and adjustable sensitivity make it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals. However, its limited range and potential interference from environmental factors should be considered when designing applications. The FC-51 IR Obstacle Avoidance Sensor is a

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommendation: The FC-51 IR sensor is recommended for projects that require simple proximity sensing, obstacle detection, or line following. However, for more complex applications or longer detection ranges, alternative sensors may be more suitable.

The FC-51 IR sensor is a versatile and low-cost infrared obstacle avoidance module widely used in robotics, security systems, and DIY electronics. This module, often referred to as the "Flying Fish" sensor, uses a pair of infrared emitting and receiving tubes to detect obstacles within a range of approximately 2 cm to 30 cm. FC-51 Technical Specifications

The FC-51 module is designed for ease of integration with microcontrollers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP8266. Specification Operating Voltage 3.0V – 6.0V DC (Typical: 3.3V or 5V) Current Consumption ~23 mA at 3.3V; ~43 mA at 5.0V Detection Range 2 cm to 30 cm (Adjustable via potentiometer) Detection Angle Output Type Digital (HIGH/LOW logic) Active Output Level LOW when an obstacle is detected PCB Dimensions 3.1 cm (L) x 1.4 cm (W) Pinout Configuration

The FC-51 features a simple 3-pin male header for quick connections. VCC: Power input pin (connects to 3.3V - 5V). GND: Ground pin (0V).

OUT: Digital output pin that provides a signal based on detection status. Working Principle

The module operates based on infrared reflection. An onboard IR LED (the transparent transmitter) continuously emits infrared light. When an object enters the detection range, the light bounces off the object's surface and is captured by the IR receiver (the black photodiode). Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Googlehttps://www.google.com

IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module | FC-51 for Arduino

Based on your request, here is the technical information and specification summary for the FC-51 Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module.

This module is widely used in robotics (for line following or obstacle avoidance) and is based on the TCRT5000 IR sensor.

Alternate Pinout (Version B – Less Common)

| Pin Number | Name | Function | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 1 | GND | Ground | | 2 | OUT | Digital output | | 3 | VCC | Power | Operating Voltage : 3

How to identify: Look at the silkscreen on the PCB. Most modules are labeled "FC-51" and have pins marked as +, OUT, - or similar. Use a continuity tester to confirm ground connections.

Practical tips & troubleshooting

• Adjust sensitivity: Turn the onboard potentiometer while testing with the target object at expected distance.
• Ambient IR / sunlight: Strong sunlight or IR sources can cause false readings; add shielding or use modulated IR (more advanced).
• Noise: Add simple RC filtering or sample averaging if output flickers.
• Mounting: Ensure emitter and receiver are aligned and avoid obstructions; use black matte surroundings to reduce stray reflections.
• Voting / hysteresis: If toggling occurs near threshold, add hysteresis (some modules include it) or implement software debounce.
• If no output change: check wiring, supply voltage, and whether the indicator LED lights (emitter power). Swap module or test emitter/receiver with multimeter if needed.

Limitations:

• Ambient IR Interference: Sunlight or incandescent bulbs contain strong IR. This can cause false triggering. Use the sensor indoors or shield it.
• Color Sensitivity: Black or dark blue objects are nearly invisible to the sensor at longer ranges.
• No Distance Measurement: The digital output only says "object present" or "not present" at a set threshold. For analog distance, use an analog IR sensor.
• Cross-Talk: When using multiple FC-51 sensors close together, their IR beams can interfere. Stagger them or use different modulation frequencies.