What it is
The ShillehTek TCRT5000 IR Reflective Line Follower Sensor for Arduino Robot is a short-range optical reflectance sensor module that emits IR light and measures reflections to detect lines, objects, and surface contrast—commonly used for Arduino/Raspberry Pi robotics, AGVs, limit sensing, and counting tasks.
Pins
This module provides both a digital output (DO) and analog output (AO), plus power and ground connections. Refer to the silkscreen labels on the board/module and the listing photos for exact pin names and their order (pinout), as layouts can vary by module revision.
Technical Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor type | IR reflective optical sensor (TCRT5000-based) |
| Detection principle | Emits IR and measures reflected light to detect surface contrast/objects |
| Outputs | Digital DO and Analog AO |
| Comparator | LM393 comparator for clean, noise-resistant digital switching |
| Calibration | Multi-turn potentiometer to adjust sensitivity/threshold |
| Typical sensing distance | Typically 1–25 mm (depends on surface and calibration) |
| On-board indicators | Status LED for quick visual feedback |
| Pin labels / header order | See listing photos / varies by module revision |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use a TCRT5000 line follower sensor with Arduino?
Power the module, then read AO with an analog input for reflectance levels or read DO with a digital input for a thresholded on/off signal. Adjust the on-board potentiometer to calibrate the switching point for your track surface.
What is the difference between AO and DO on the TCRT5000 module?
AO provides an analog signal that changes with surface reflectivity, useful for tuning and gradient readings. DO is a comparator-based digital output (LM393) that acts like a switch after you set the threshold with the potentiometer.
How do I calibrate the potentiometer on a reflective IR sensor for line following?
Place the sensor over the background and the line (or light/dark surfaces) at your working height, then turn the multi-turn potentiometer until the DO LED/output changes reliably at the boundary. Recheck after mounting because distance and angle affect reflections.
What sensing distance should I expect from the ShillehTek TCRT5000 sensor?
It is designed for short-range use and is typically calibrated around 1–25 mm, depending on the surface, ambient light, and your potentiometer setting. For best results, mount it close to the surface and test on your actual track material.