The STMicroelectronics VL6180 is the latest product based on ST’s patented Flight Sense™ technology. This is a ground-breaking technology allowing absolute distance to be measured independent of target reflectance. Instead of estimating the distance by measuring the amount of light reflected back from the object (which is significantly influenced by colour and surface), the VL6180 precisely measures the time the light takes to travel to the nearest object and reflect back to the sensor (Time-of-Flight). Combining an IR emitter and a range sensor in a two-in-one ready-to-use reflow able package, the VL6180 is easy to integrate and saves the end-product maker long and costly optical and mechanical design optimizations.

wo-in-one smart optical module
VCSEL light source
Proximity sensor
Fast, accurate distance ranging
Measures absolute range from 0 to 62 cm max (depending on conditions)
Independent of object reflectance
Ambient light rejection
Cross-talk compensation for cover glass