Fc 51 Ir Sensor Datasheet May 2026

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

Q6: What is the maximum refresh rate? A: Approximately 500 Hz (2 ms response time). You can read it reliably at intervals of 10 ms or more.

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 Fc 51 Ir Sensor Datasheet

Remember: Always test your specific module’s range with your target object before finalizing your design.

Proximity Sensing: Triggering actions when a user's hand or an object gets close. Quick Tips for Use The FC-51 is a popular infrared (IR) obstacle

10. Comparison with Other IR Sensors

| Feature | FC-51 | TCRT5000 (Reflective) | Sharp GP2Y0A21 (Analog) | |---------|-------|------------------------|---------------------------| | Output | Digital | Digital (needs comparator) | Analog voltage | | Range | 2–30 cm | 1–15 cm | 10–80 cm | | Distance measurement | No | No | Yes | | Cost | $1–2 | $0.5–1 (bare) | $10–15 |

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. A: Approximately 500 Hz (2 ms response time)

Note: These values assume a clean 5V supply with proper decoupling (a 100nF capacitor between VCC and GND near the module is recommended for noisy environments).

Whether you are building a line-following robot, a proximity-based alarm, or a contactless tachometer, you will likely encounter the FC-51 module. However, to harness its full potential, one must understand its technical specifications, pin configuration, working principle, and interfacing details—all of which are found in its official datasheet.