Fermion: TMF8801 ToF Distance Ranging Sensor (20-2500mm) (Breakout)

Fermion: TMF8801 ToF Distance Ranging Sensor (20‑2500mm) is a compact time‑of‑flight distance measurement module designed for precise object detection across a wide range of lighting conditions. This optical ranging board measures distance by calculating the time difference between emitted and reflected light pulses, enabling reliable sensing from 20 mm up to 2500 mm. High dynamic range performance allows accurate measurement regardless of object color, reflectivity, or surface texture. Integrated processing and I2C communication make this ToF sensing module easy to integrate with development platforms such as Arduino, robotics controllers, and embedded systems requiring dependable proximity and distance data.

Reliable Time‑of‑Flight Distance Measurement

Advanced time‑of‑flight optical ranging technology enables precise measurement by calculating the travel time of emitted light pulses. This single‑zone distance detection module accurately identifies the object closest to the center of the sensing field with a 21° field of illumination. Measurement capability spans from short‑range proximity detection at 20 mm to long‑range sensing up to 2500 mm, making the compact ranging board suitable for robotics navigation, obstacle detection, and smart device interaction systems.

Stable Operation in Dark or Sunlight Conditions

High dynamic range sensing enables accurate measurements even under challenging lighting environments. The optical distance sensor maintains measurement accuracy within ±5% while operating in complete darkness or direct sunlight. Integrated sunlight rejection filters minimize interference from ambient light sources, ensuring consistent distance data in indoor automation systems, outdoor smart devices, and industrial detection scenarios where traditional optical sensors often struggle.

Built‑in Histogram Processing and Crosstalk Compensation

An integrated histogram engine enables dynamic cover‑glass calibration and automatic crosstalk compensation. This embedded processing capability allows reliable sensing even when protective windows, dust, or smudges are present on the sensor cover. On‑chip algorithms executed by the integrated microcontroller eliminate the need for external optics or complex signal processing, simplifying system design for engineers developing compact optical detection or human‑presence sensing systems.

Low‑Power Embedded Ranging Architecture

The optical sensing board integrates a 940 nm VCSEL Class 1 eye‑safe emitter together with an onboard microcontroller that handles ranging algorithms internally. Low power consumption supports energy‑efficient embedded designs, operating at approximately 940 μA in proximity mode and 26 mA during full distance measurement. Fast‑mode I2C communication through a standard 2.54 mm interface enables straightforward integration with microcontrollers, robotics controllers, and IoT hardware platforms.

Figure: Dimension

Figure: Connect Diagram

This compact ToF distance detection module supports applications including face recognition systems, presence sensing, obstacle avoidance, and accurate object distance measurement. Reliable operation across varying lighting environments combined with small form factor and low power consumption makes this optical ranging sensor well suited for robotics projects, smart appliances, and interactive embedded systems.