The VL6180 is the latest product based on STMicroelectronics’ patented FlightSense technology. This is a ground-breaking technology allowing absolute distance to be measured independent of target reflectance. Instead of estimating the distance by measuring the amount of light reflected back from the object (which is significantly influenced by colour and surface), the VL6180 precisely measures the time the light takes to travel to the nearest object and reflect back to the sensor (time-of-flight).
Combining an IR emitter and a range sensor in a two-in-one, ready-to-use reflowable package, the VL6180 is easy to integrate and saves the end-product maker long and costly optical and mechanical design optimisations. The module is designed for low-power operation. Ranging measurements can be automatically performed at user defined intervals. Multiple threshold and interrupt schemes are supported to minimise host operations. Host control and result reading is performed using an I2C interface.
Optional additional functions, such as measurement ready and threshold interrupts, are provided by two programmable GPIO pins.A complete API is also associated with the device, which consists of a set of C functions controlling the VL6180 to enable fast development of end-user applications. This API is structured in a way that it can be compiled on any kind of platform through a well isolated platform layer (mainly for low-level I2C access).
Cost-effective microcontroller series Altron Arrow
DSP, Micros & Memory
The STM32C5 series from STMicroelectronics delivers an excellent balance of performance, efficiency, and affordability for embedded designs that require more capability without increasing bill of materials cost.
Read more...Understanding two key tools for cleaner serial data Altron Arrow
Editor's Choice Analogue, Mixed Signal, LSI
Understanding how pre-emphasis and equalisation works, and when to use one over the other, is critical when designing reliable high-speed systems.
Read more...Ultra-low jitter clocks Altron Arrow
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Skyworks has introduced a new family of ultra-low jitter programmable clocks designed to meet the increasing demands of next-gen connectivity.
Read more...Efficient Bluetooth SoC Altron Arrow
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The EFR32BG29 wireless SoC from Silicon Labs is a highly efficient, high memory, low-power, and ultra compact SoC designed for secure and high-performance wireless networking for IoT devices.
Read more...RTOS – The future of embedded systems Altron Arrow
Edge Computing & IIoT
At the heart of the next generation of embedded devices is efficient yet powerful system-level code, often based on an open-source real-time operating system.
Read more...Reference design for NB-IoT plus GNSS Altron Arrow
Design Automation
ST Microelectronics’ STDES-ST87M01IGN is a reference design for the ST87M01 NB-IoT + GNSS module, implemented on a 2-layer FR4 PCB (90 x 60 x 1,6 mm).
Read more...Gen5 Pro enhances power conversion Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
The Infineon Technologies CoolSET ICE501XD and ICE502XD PWM Fixed Frequency Gen5 Pro controllers are advanced solutions for auxiliary power supplies in demanding high-voltage applications.
Read more...Compact 6 A automotive buck converter Altron Arrow
Power Electronics / Power Management
Delivering up to 6 A of continuous output current, the DCP0606Y from STMicroelectronics enables efficient regulation of low-voltage rails commonly used in modern vehicle electronics and industrial systems.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.