Adafruit Garmin LIDAR-Lite Optical Distance LED Sensor

Garmin's LIDAR-Lite LED V4 offers a compact and high-performance solution for precise distance measurement in robotics, IoT, and unmanned vehicle applications. This optical sensor excels where ultrasonic sensors might otherwise be considered, delivering accurate readings up to 10 meters.

Featuring an LED optics sensor that consumes only 85 mA, the device allows for adjustments in accuracy, range, and measurement time through the I2C command set. Although branded with "LIDAR," it utilizes safe, lensed LED light rather than lasers for measurements.

The sensor is equipped with Garmin's ANT technology, enabling wireless communication with ANT-enabled devices, or it can be seamlessly integrated using the I2C interface. For enhanced customizability, developers can leverage the built-in nRF52840 processor to create bespoke applications, with example library code available for Arduino.

The device operates efficiently as a stand-alone unit using a preloaded application or can connect to external micro-controllers for more complex setups. Capable of measurements at up to 200 Hz, it stands as a versatile choice in projects prioritizing wireless features, compact size, low power consumption, and robust performance.

Note the requirement for a 5V power supply and potential need for level shifting on 5V logic devices.