Sharp GP2Y0A41SK0F Analog Distance Sensor 4-30cm

Overview

The Sharp distance sensors are a popular choice for many projects that require accurate distance measurements. This IR sensor is more economical than sonar rangefinders, yet it provides much better performance than other IR alternatives. Interfacing to most microcontrollers is straightforward: the single analog output can be connected to an analog-to-digital converter for taking distance measurements, or the output can be connected to a comparator for threshold detection. The detection range of this version is approximately 4cm to 30cm (1.5″ to 12″); a plot of distance versus output voltage is shown below.

The GP2Y0A41SK0F uses a 3-pin JST connector that works with our3-pin JST cables for Sharp distance sensors(included) as shown in the top picture on the right. It is also simple to solder three wires to the sensor where the connector pins are mounted (see the lower picture to the right). When looking at the back, the three connections from left to right are power, ground, and the output signal.

This product replaces the originalGP2D120XJ00F. The newer GP2Y0A41SK0F has a much higher update rate and much lower average current draw than the older GP2D120, but it is otherwise identical to the GP2D120 and can be used as a drop-in replacement for those modules.

Feature summary

• operating voltage: 4.5V to 5.5V
• average current consumption: 12mA (typical)
• distance measuring range: 4cm to 30cm (1.5″ to 12″)
• output type: analog voltage
• output voltage differential over distance range: 2.3V (typical)
• update period: 16±4ms
• package size: 29.5 × 13.0 × 13.5mm (1.16″ × 0.5″ × 0.53″)
• weight: 3.5g (0.12oz)

Linearizing the output

The relationship between the sensor’s output voltage and the inverse of the measured distance is approximately linear over the sensor’s usable range. TheGP2Y0A41SK0F datasheet(1MB pdf) contains a plot of analog output voltage as a function of the inverse of distance to a reflective object. You can use this plot to convert the sensor output voltage to an approximate distance by constructing a best-fit line that relates the inverse of the output voltage (V) to distance (cm).

Alternative Sharp Distance Sensors

We carry two longer-range versions of this sensor as well: theSharp GP2Y0A21YK0F analog distance sensor(10 – 80cm) and theSharp GP2Y0A02YK0F analog distance sensor(20 – 150cm). These analog distance sensors have similar packages and identical pin-outs, making it easy to swap one version for another should your application requirements change. We also carry two digital Sharp distance sensors that have lower minimum detection distances, quicker response times, lower current draws, and much smaller packages; they are available with a5cmor10cmrange and simply tell you if something is in their detection range, not how far away it is.

A variety of Sharp distance sensors.

Note:The GP2Y0A41SK0F model is a lead-free (RoHS-compliant) version of the Sharp GP2Y0A41 Distance Sensor. The manufacturer recommends you insert a bypass capacitor of 10uF or more between Vcc and GND near this sensor to stabilize your power supply line.