SparkFun Qwiic Mini dToF Imager - TMF8821

The SparkFun Qwiic Mini dToF TMF8821 Imager is a compact, high-performance sensor that uses direct time-of-flight (dToF) technology. This device incorporates a Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) from AMS and is based on Single Photon Avalanche Photodiode (SPAD), time-to-digital converter (TDC) and histogram technology. This combination allows for a remarkable 5000mm detection range. The sensor supports 3x3, 4x4, and 3x6 multizone output data and a wide, dynamically adjustable field of view, thanks to its lens on the SPAD. The onboard multi-lens-array (MLA) expands the field of illumination and all data processing is performed on-chip. The TMF8821 provides distance information along with confidence values via its I²C interface. It also features a high-performance on-chip optical filter that blocks most ambient light, enabling reliable distance measurements in various light conditions.

The TMF8821 operates exclusively via I²C, using the convenient Qwiic system, eliminating the need for soldering when connecting it to your system. However, if you prefer using a breadboard, 2.54mm-spaced pins are available. The TMF8821 features two configurable GPIO pins and one enable (EN) pin, broken out as PTH pads. The board includes a power LED and I²C pull-up resistors, each configurable via jumpers. This Mini version has a footprint of 1.27cm x 2.54cm, half the size of the standard Qwiic Mini dToF TMF8821 Imager board. The Qwiic connectors have been moved to the back of the board, making it ideal for mounting applications where the sensor faces outward from an enclosure or chassis, and keeps your Qwiic cables neatly tucked away.

The sensor is ideal for a variety of projects, including distance measurement for camera autofocus - Laser Detect Autofocus - LDAF (mobile phone), presence detection (computing and communication), object detection and collision avoidance (robotics), and light curtain (industrial). Please note, this is a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT CLASSIFIED IEC 60825-1 2014.

The SparkFun Qwiic Connect System is a comprehensive ecosystem of I²C sensors, actuators, shields and cables that streamline prototyping and reduce errors. All Qwiic-enabled boards use a common 1mm pitch, 4-pin JST connector. This design reduces the amount of required PCB space, and polarized connections mean you can’t connect it incorrectly.

Features:

• Operating Voltage: 2.7V to 3.6V (typically 3.3V via Qwiic cable)
• Current Consumption: 8µA (standby), 57mA (active)
• AMS TMF8821 Multi-zone Time-of-Flight Sensor
• Measurement Range: 10mm to 5000mm @ 30Hz
• Light Source: Class 1 940nm VCSEL
• Field of View: adjustable up to 63° diagonally
• Max Read Rate: up to 30Hz
• 2x Qwiic Connectors
• I²C Address: 0x41
• Operating Temperature Range: -30°C to +70°C
• Breakout Pads: 1x Ground, 1x Power, 1x I²C Port, 1x Interrupt, 2x GPIO, 1x Enable
• Power LED (configurable via jumper)
• I²C pull-ups (configurable via jumper)
• Board Dimensions: 1.27cm x 2.54cm

Documents:

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Board Dimensions
• Hookup Guide
• TMF882X Datasheet
• Driver User Guide
• Host Driver Communication
• What Distance Sensor is Right for You?
• Qwiic Info Page
• Arduino Library
• GitHub Hardware Repo