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Distance dToF Imager - TMF8820 (SparkFun Qwiic)

The SparkFun Qwiic dToF TMF8820 Imager is an advanced direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) distance measurement sensor designed for accurate and reliable object detection applications. Based on the AMS TMF8820/TMF8821 sensor technology, it uses Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) arrays, a high-resolution Time-to-Digital Converter (TDC), and onboard histogram processing to achieve precise distance measurements up to 5 meters. Unlike traditional infrared proximity sensors, the TMF8820 measures the actual flight time of emitted photons from its integrated 940nm VCSEL laser, providing improved accuracy and reliability in different lighting conditions, including bright sunlight and complete darkness. The integrated optical filter and advanced processing algorithms help reject ambient light interference and maintain stable performance. The module features SparkFun's Qwiic I2C interface, allowing quick connection with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other compatible platforms without soldering. Its compact design and low-power operation make it suitable for robotics, autofocus systems, presence detection, industrial sensing, and portable devices.

Package Includes

  • 1 x SparkFun Qwiic dToF Imager - TMF8820


Distance Laser Measuring
155.00 AED 155.00 AED (Tax included)

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Features

  • Direct Time-of-Flight Technology: Provides accurate distance measurement by calculating photon flight time.
  • Long Range Detection: Measures distances from approximately 10mm up to 5000mm.
  • SPAD Sensor Architecture: Uses Single Photon Avalanche Diode technology for high sensitivity.
  • Integrated TDC Processing: Provides sub-nanosecond timing accuracy for precise measurements.
  • 3 × 3 Multizone Detection: Supports nine independent measurement zones for detecting multiple objects.
  • On-Chip Histogram Processing: Reduces processing requirements for the host microcontroller.
  • Ambient Light Rejection: Built-in optical filtering improves performance under different lighting conditions.
  • 940nm VCSEL Laser: Provides stable Class 1 infrared illumination.
  • Qwiic I2C Interface: Enables easy plug-and-play connection without soldering.
  • Adjustable Field of View: Supports up to 63° diagonal viewing angle.
  • Low Power Operation: Suitable for battery-powered and portable applications.

Principle of Operation

The TMF8820 operates using direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) measurement technology. The onboard VCSEL laser emits short pulses of 940nm infrared light toward the target object. When the reflected photons return to the sensor, the SPAD array detects them and the TDC calculates the exact travel time.

The distance is calculated based on the speed of light and the measured time delay between emission and reception. The sensor internally processes the received photon data using histogram algorithms to improve accuracy, reject noise, and provide reliable distance readings.

The sensor communicates with the host controller through the I2C interface, allowing the microcontroller to read distance measurements, configure detection parameters, and process sensor data for different applications.

Applications

  • Camera autofocus and laser distance autofocus (LDAF) systems
  • Robotic obstacle detection and collision avoidance
  • Presence and proximity detection systems
  • Industrial automation sensing
  • Safety light curtain systems
  • Smart home devices
  • Gesture and user interaction systems
  • Portable measurement instruments
  • Object detection systems

Pinout

TMF8820 Pinout Diagram

Pin Function Direction
GND Ground Power
3.3V Power supply input Power
SDA I2C Data Line Input / Output
SCL I2C Clock Line Input / Output
INT Data ready interrupt signal Output
GP0/SYNC General purpose GPIO or synchronization input Input / Output
GP1 General purpose GPIO Input / Output
EN Enable control (active high) Input

Wiring

The TMF8820 communicates using the I2C interface and can be connected directly to compatible development boards.

TMF8820 Arduino / ESP32
3.3V 3.3V
GND GND
SDA I2C SDA
SCL I2C SCL

First Time Setup

  1. Connect the TMF8820 module using the Qwiic I2C connector or breakout pins.
  2. Install the required TMF8820 Arduino library.
  3. Connect the sensor to a 3.3V compatible development board.
  4. Run an example sketch to initialize the sensor.
  5. Read distance values through the I2C interface.
  6. Adjust field of view and measurement settings according to the application.

Specifications

Parameter Specification
Product Type dToF Distance Imager Module
Sensor AMS TMF8820 / TMF8821
Technology Direct Time-of-Flight (dToF)
Measurement Range 10mm to 5000mm
Detection Zones 3 × 3 Multizone (9 zones)
Light Source 940nm Class 1 VCSEL Laser
Maximum Update Rate 30Hz
Communication Interface I2C
I2C Address 0x41
Operating Voltage 2.7V – 3.6V (3.3V Typical)
Standby Current 8µA
Active Current 57mA
Field of View Up to 63° diagonal
Operating Temperature -30°C to +70°C
Board Dimensions 25.4mm × 25.4mm

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