The US-016 Ultrasonic Distance Sensor Module is a unique and highly practical ranging sensor that stands apart from common digital ultrasonic modules by providing analog voltage output directly proportional to the measured distance . This makes it exceptionally easy to integrate with analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), microcontrollers, and any system that can read an analog voltage — without the need for complex timing calculations or pulse-width measurement.
At the heart of the module is a reliable ultrasonic transmitter and receiver pair operating at 40kHz . The sensor performs non-contact distance measurement from 2cm to 300cm (3 meters) with a detection accuracy of 0.3cm + 1% and a resolution of 1mm . The sensing angle is less than 15 degrees, providing a focused detection cone suitable for targeted ranging applications .
The US-016 is the only ultrasonic module on the market with analog output . After power-up, the system continuously measures distance and outputs an analog voltage through the Out pin, with the voltage being directly proportional to the measured distance . The output range is 0 to Vcc (the supply voltage), making the formula straightforward: Distance (mm) = 1024 × Vout / Vcc when the range is set to 1 meter, or Distance (mm) = 3096 × Vout / Vcc when the range is set to 3 meters .
The module supports dual selectable ranges via the Range pin. When the Range pin is left floating or connected to a high level, the maximum range is 3 meters (3072mm output span). When the Range pin is pulled to a low level (GND), the range is limited to 1 meter (1024mm output span) . This flexibility allows you to optimize the resolution for your specific application.
The US-016 operates from a wide supply voltage of 3.3V to 5V DC, consuming only 3.8mA of current . The low power consumption makes it suitable for battery-powered and portable applications. The compact 4-pin interface (VCC, Range, Out, GND) provides simple, straightforward wiring .
The module is widely used in obstacle detection, liquid level sensing, stacking height control, tank level detection, presence detection, and distance measurement applications regardless of an object’s shape, color, or surface texture . It is also popular in educational projects for teaching analog sensing, ADC conversion, and ultrasonic ranging principles.
Important Note: The US-016 requires an ADC on your microcontroller to read the analog output voltage. Ensure your ADC reference voltage (Vref) matches the module’s supply voltage (Vcc) for accurate calculations . The module is not waterproof and should not be submerged. Objects with soft, angled, or highly irregular surfaces may reflect poorly, reducing measurement reliability.
Whether you are building a liquid level monitor, a robotics obstacle avoidance system, or a precision distance measurement device, the US-016 Ultrasonic Distance Sensor Module provides a reliable, easy-to-integrate solution. It is suitable for individual makers, students, and businesses purchasing in bulk for product development or educational programs.
Features
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Analog voltage output — Output voltage directly proportional to measured distance, eliminating complex timing calculations
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Dual selectable ranges — 1m (Range pin LOW) or 3m (Range pin floating/HIGH) for optimized resolution
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High precision — 0.3cm + 1% detection accuracy with 1mm resolution
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Wide detection range — 2cm to 300cm non-contact measurement
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Wide supply voltage — 3.3V to 5V DC operation
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Low power consumption — Only 3.8mA operating current
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Compact 4-pin interface — VCC, Range, Out, GND for simple wiring
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Focused sensing angle — Less than 15 degrees for targeted detection
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Wide application range — Liquid level, stacking control, obstacle detection, presence sensing
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Easy integration — Works with any microcontroller that has an ADC
Technical Specifications
| # | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Operating Voltage | 3.3V – 5V DC |
| 2 | Operating Current | 3.8mA |
| 3 | Detection Range | 2cm – 300cm (3m) |
| 4 | Detection Accuracy | 0.3cm + 1% |
| 5 | Resolution | 1mm |
| 6 | Output Type | Analog voltage (0 – Vcc) |
| 7 | Sensing Angle | < 15 degrees |
| 8 | Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C |















