VL53L1X strongest / nearest reflector

[mf101]

Is there any way to configure the VL53L1X sensor to deliver either the strongest or nearest reflector (reflector at closest distance) ? The latter case would be preferrable for our application scenario.

[John E KVAM]

The VL53L1X averages all the photons returns a single target. You really cannot look for multiple targets.

But the VL53L1CB fixes this issue. (Same footprint, same shape - in fact it a super-set of the VL53L1X)

This chip uses "histograms' where we bin the number of photons returned during each clock cycle.

Then we send this raw data to your MCU and give you the software to process it.

Using Histograms you get the ability to 'see' multiple targets - up to 4 - assuming they are 80cm apart.

(Closer than that the targets blur together, but we give you values min/max to give you some idea of what is going on.)

These targets are returned from nearest to farthest, but you get the signal strengths, so you can identify the strongest signal.

If you already have your hardware built you can download the VL53L1CB code and run it on your VL53L1X. But please don't go into production like this. The L1X is NOT guaranteed to run the CB code (but must of them will.)

P-NUCLEO-53L1A2 VL53L1CB is the evaluation kit. Or you can use the P-NUCLEO-53L1A1 VL53L1X with the CB code. The chances are very good it will run.

• john

[mf101]

Thanks for the explanation John.