Adafruit Laser Break Beam Sensor

This break beam sensor revolutionizes traditional setups with its all-in-one design, integrating a light sensor and lens beside the laser to instantly detect when the beam is disrupted. No need for a separate endpoint sensor; everything you need is in one compact unit.

Capable of projecting a robust laser up to 1 meter, this sensor adapts to various conditions. Depending on ambient light and surface color, it can surpass this range, easily detecting objects like hands, paper, or cardboard with precision. While soft textures may challenge detection, reflective or firm surfaces work excellently.

Installing this device is straightforward: connect 5VDC to the red wire (note that 3V won’t suffice), ground the black wire, and attach a pullup resistor to the output pin. This resistor can connect to practically any voltage you choose. When the beam is interrupted, the blue output wire grounds itself. Without obstructions, it remains high, signaling an unbroken beam. Although adjustable, the built-in potentiometer shows minimal impact on sensitivity.