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Parallax Laser Range Finder (#28044)
v2.0 10/31/2015 Page 1 of 23
Parallax Laser Range Finder (#28044)
Designed in conjunction with Grand Idea Studio (www.grandideastudio.com), the Parallax Laser Range
Finder (LRF) Module is a distance-measuring instrument that uses laser technology to calculate the
distance to a targeted object. The design uses a multicore Propeller microcontroller, CMOS camera, and
laser diode to create a low-cost laser range finder. Distance to a targeted object is calculated by optical
triangulation using simple trigonometry between the centroid of laser light, camera, and object.
Features
Optimal measurement range of 6–48
inches (15–122 cm) with an accuracy
error <5%, average 3%
Maximum object detection distance of
~8 feet (2.54 meters)
Range finding sample rate of 5 Hz
Compact module with integrated CMOS
camera and laser diode
Single row, 4-pin, 0.1” header for easy
connection to a host system
All engineering materials released as
open source under a Creative Commons
license; see page 23
Key Specifications
Power requirements: 5 VDC @ 150 mA
Communication: Asynchronous serial
300–115,200 baud with automatic baud
rate detection
Operating temperature: 32 to 122 °F
(0 to 50 °C)
Dimensions: 3.95" W x 1.55" H x 0.67" D
(10.05 W x 3.95 H x 1.7 D cm)
Application Ideas
Distance or liquid level measurements
Object detection and/or avoidance
Item counting
Table of Contents
Connections .................................................... 2
Usage ............................................................ 2
Command Set ................................................. 3
Range and Accuracy ...................................... 10
Error Modes .................................................. 10
Electrical Characteristics ................................ 11
LRF Image Viewer ......................................... 12
Hardware Design .......................................... 15
Theory of Operation ...................................... 16
Camera Interface .......................................... 19
Care and Handling ........................................ 22
Safety .......................................................... 22
Open Source Files and Example Code ............. 23
Revision History ............................................ 23
