Why does ST VL53L0X library always return RangeStatus non-zero

[michael239955]

We are using the VL53L0X sensors in their default configuration supplied out of the factory. We run VL53L0X_DataInit() on the sensors and then every 100ms call VL53L0X_PerformSingleRangingMeasurement(Device, &measure). Upon return, we check measure.RangeStatus for non zero values. VL53L0X_PerformSingleRangingMeasurement(Device, &measure) never returns measure.RangeStatus == 0. However, the RangeMilliMeter values are correct, meaning that is the distance of our detected object.

The value of RangeStatus is either Sigma fail or Min Range Fail.

any thoughts???

[John E KVAM]

Sigma fail indicates that the standard deviation of all the photon travel times is wider than what you have set up. This can be from a very complex scene or it can be that your setting of the sigma limit is just too small. You can INCREASE Sigma limit and the warning will go away.

The Min Range Fail says there are too few photons to get a good answer. You can DECREASE the number of photons you demand to receive and this warning will disappear as well.

Probably should not ignore them completely. They do provide information. You just need to find a limit you are happy with.