The VL53L3CX Laser Ranging Sensor Module is an advanced, high-precision Time-of-Flight (ToF) distance sensor built on STMicroelectronics’ third-generation FlightSense™ technology. Compared to the previous VL53L0X and VL53L1X, the VL53L3CX’s core advantage is its multi-target detection capability — it can simultaneously detect multiple objects within its field of view (FoV) and output distance data for each object, not just the nearest one.
The module uses a 940nm invisible laser (VCSEL) emitter and a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array receiver, combined with ST’s patented histogram algorithm, to achieve the following breakthrough features:
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Multi-target detection — Simultaneously detects multiple objects (up to 4) within the field of view, outputting distance information for each target, enabling robots to “understand” scene depth rather than merely sensing the nearest obstacle.
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Cover glass crosstalk immunity — The patented algorithm makes the sensor immune to crosstalk caused by cover glass at distances above 80cm, meaning accurate long-range ranging performance is maintained even when the sensor is mounted behind a glass or acrylic panel.
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Dynamic smudge compensation — Automatically compensates for signal attenuation caused by fingerprints, dust, and other smudges on the cover glass, maintaining stable ranging accuracy over time.
The module’s optical cover measures 25×13.3mm, a compact design that allows it to be easily embedded into various device enclosures while protecting the internal precision optical components. The sensor itself has a package size of only 4.4×2.4×1mm and is pin-compatible with the VL53L0X and VL53L1X, facilitating upgrades and replacements in existing designs.
The VL53L3CX has a ranging range of up to 3m (up to 5m under good conditions), a field of view of 25°, and ranging results are unaffected by target color or reflectivity. The module communicates via an I²C interface (up to 1MHz) and supports interrupt and Xshutdown reset pins to optimize power consumption.
Important Note: The VL53L3CX API has high memory and processing requirements for the host processor (requiring a 32-bit MCU such as STM32). 8-bit Arduinos struggle to run the full multi-target detection algorithm. For resource-constrained applications, the VL53L1X or VL53L0X is recommended.
The module is widely used in service robots, vacuum cleaners, smart buildings, smart lighting, IoT devices, laser autofocus, and other scenarios.
Features
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Third-generation FlightSense™ technology — ST’s latest ToF sensor with exceptional performance
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Multi-target detection capability — Simultaneously detects up to 4 objects and their distances within the field of view
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3m ranging range — Up to 5m under good conditions
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940nm invisible laser — Class 1 eye-safe VCSEL emitter
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Cover glass crosstalk immunity — Immune to cover glass crosstalk above 80cm
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Dynamic smudge compensation — Automatically compensates for fingerprints and dust
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25° field of view — Typical full field of view
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I²C interface — Up to 1MHz communication rate
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Optical cover dimensions — 25×13.3mm for easy integration
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Pin compatible — Compatible with VL53L0X / VL53L1X pins
Technical Specifications
| # | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sensor IC | STMicroelectronics VL53L3CX |
| 2 | Ranging Range | Up to 3m (up to 5m under good conditions) |
| 3 | Laser Wavelength | 940nm (invisible infrared VCSEL) |
| 4 | Field of View (FoV) | 25° (typical) |
| 5 | Communication Interface | I²C (up to 1MHz) |
| 6 | Supply Voltage | 2.6V – 3.5V |
| 7 | Package Size | 4.4×2.4×1mm (sensor); optical cover 25×13.3mm |
| 8 | Power Consumption | 6µA hardware standby; <1mW ranging |
