Ultrasonic Distance Sensor SparkFun TCT40 Qwiic 3.3V 1.75in x 0.85in

Description

Product Overview

The SparkFun TCT40 Qwiic Ultrasonic Distance Sensor is a compact, high‑performance module designed for developers who need reliable, non‑contact distance measurement in a small footprint. Measuring distances from 2 cm to 400 cm, the sensor operates at a low 3.3 V supply, making it compatible with a wide range of microcontrollers and development boards. Its core component is the HC‑SR04 ultrasonic transducer pair, which emits a short ultrasonic pulse and measures the echo return time to calculate distance with an accuracy of approximately 3 mm. The board incorporates an STM8L051F3 microcontroller that handles timing, conversion, and I²C communication, exposing a simple I²C interface at the default address 0x2F. Two Qwiic connectors provide plug‑and‑play connectivity, eliminating the need for soldering or breadboard wiring. The sensor’s 80° detection angle ensures a broad field of view, while the compact dimensions of 1.75 in × 0.85 in (44 mm × 22 mm) keep the overall profile low, allowing integration into tight spaces. The robust PCB is coated with a protective solder mask, and the component layout follows SparkFun’s quality standards for durability and reliability.

Usage

This sensor is ideal for a variety of applications where precise distance sensing is required without physical contact. In robotics, it can be used for obstacle detection, wall‑following, and autonomous navigation, providing real‑time feedback to avoid collisions. Hobbyists building drone altitude hold systems benefit from its fast response time and wide measurement range. In industrial settings, the sensor can monitor material levels in bins, detect the presence of objects on conveyor belts, or serve as a safety interlock in machinery. Its low voltage operation makes it suitable for battery‑powered projects, and the I²C interface allows multiple sensors to be daisy‑chained on the same bus, simplifying system architecture. The sensor’s small size enables mounting on mobile platforms, handheld devices, or inside enclosures where space is at a premium. Whether you are developing a prototype or a production‑grade system, the TCT40 integrates seamlessly with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other popular development ecosystems.

Why Choose Us

Choosing the SparkFun TCT40 means selecting a product backed by SparkFun’s reputation for quality, support, and community engagement. Each unit undergoes rigorous testing to ensure consistent performance across temperature ranges and supply variations. The inclusion of an on‑board STM8 microcontroller offloads timing and conversion tasks from the host MCU, reducing code complexity and freeing processing resources. SparkFun provides comprehensive documentation, including wiring diagrams, example code for Arduino and CircuitPython, and detailed datasheets, enabling rapid development. In addition, SparkFun’s customer support team offers responsive assistance, and the extensive online community shares projects, troubleshooting tips, and firmware updates. The sensor’s Qwiic ecosystem guarantees compatibility with a growing library of SparkFun modules, allowing you to expand your system with sensors, displays, and actuators without worrying about pin conflicts. Finally, the product’s competitive price point of $13.50 delivers excellent value for the performance and flexibility it offers.

Key Features

• Wide measurement range of 2 cm to 400 cm gives flexibility for both short‑range and long‑range applications.
• Built‑in STM8L051F3 MCU handles timing and I²C communication, simplifying host code.
• Two Qwiic connectors provide hassle‑free, solder‑free wiring and allow daisy‑chaining of multiple sensors.
• Compact 1.75 in × 0.85 in board fits into tight spaces and low‑profile designs.
• SparkFun’s dedicated support and extensive documentation ensure reliable integration and long‑term assistance.

FAQ

What is the maximum distance the sensor can accurately measure?

The sensor is calibrated to provide reliable readings up to 400 cm (approximately 13 feet). Accuracy remains within a few millimeters across the full range, though performance may slightly degrade at the extreme upper limit due to environmental factors.

Can I use the sensor with a 5 V microcontroller?

While the sensor operates at 3.3 V, it can be interfaced with a 5 V system using a level‑shifter or by powering the sensor from a 3.3 V regulator on the host board. The I²C lines are 3.3 V tolerant, so ensure proper voltage translation to avoid damage.

How many sensors can I connect on the same I²C bus?

Because each sensor uses the default address 0x2F, you can connect multiple units only if you change the address on each board. SparkFun provides a simple method to reprogram the address via I²C commands, allowing up to 8 sensors on a single bus without address conflicts.

Is the sensor suitable for outdoor use?

The sensor’s ultrasonic transducers work best in dry air. While it can operate outdoors, performance may be affected by rain, fog, or extreme temperatures. For harsh environments, consider adding a protective enclosure and calibrating the sensor for the specific conditions.

What development platforms are supported?

SparkFun supplies example libraries for Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and CircuitPython, making the sensor compatible with most popular hobbyist and professional platforms. The Qwiic connector also integrates directly with SparkFun’s Qwiic-compatible boards, streamlining hardware setup.