TCRT5000 5-Channel IR Line Tracking Module with Limit Switch

Overview

The TCRT5000 5-Channel IR Line Tracking Module with Limit Switch is a compact, versatile sensor board designed for robotics and automation projects. Combining five TCRT5000 infrared reflectance sensors with a mechanical limit switch, this module provides optical line following, edge detection, and physical end-stop sensing in a single package.

Key Features

• Five independent TCRT5000 IR reflectance sensors for accurate multi-point line detection
• Built-in limit switch for mechanical end-stop or collision detection
• Onboard comparator circuitry produces stable digital outputs to reduce noise
• Adjustable sensitivity using an onboard potentiometer for tuning to different surfaces
• Compact, low-profile board suitable for 2WD, 4WD, and custom mobile robot chassis
• Compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and most microcontrollers

How It Works

Each TCRT5000 sensor contains an infrared emitter and phototransistor. The emitter projects IR light onto the surface and the phototransistor measures reflected light. Light reflection varies between dark and light surfaces, allowing the module to output a digital HIGH or LOW based on the comparator threshold. The onboard potentiometer adjusts sensitivity so the module can be tuned for different floor and line colors.

Limit Switch Functionality

The integrated mechanical limit switch provides a separate digital signal when triggered. This is useful for physical boundary detection, bump sensing, or mechanical end-stop feedback in robotic arms and moving platforms.

Wiring and Integration

• Power: VCC 5V, GND
• Outputs: DO1, DO2, DO3, DO4, DO5 (digital outputs for each IR sensor)
• Limit switch: SW (digital output when the switch is actuated)

Typical Arduino connection example:

• VCC -> 5V
• GND -> GND
• DO1-DO5 -> Digital input pins (e.g., D2 to D6)
• SW -> Digital input pin with pull-up or pull-down as required

For Raspberry Pi, use the Pi GPIO inputs and a suitable logic level if necessary. The digital outputs are TTL compatible but confirm voltage levels for your host controller.

Specifications

• Sensors: 5 x TCRT5000 IR reflectance sensors
• Additional sensor: 1 x mechanical limit switch
• Outputs: 5 digital outputs + limit switch digital output
• Power supply: 5V typical
• Adjustable sensitivity: onboard potentiometer
• Board size: compact and lightweight (suitable for mobile platforms)

Applications

• Line follower robots (2WD, 4WD, and custom chassis)
• Edge detection on tables and platforms
• Collision detection and bump sensing using the limit switch
• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and small automation systems
• Educational robotics kits and DIY projects

Tips and Best Practices

• Calibrate the onboard potentiometer for your surface and lighting conditions before running the robot at speed.
• Use pull-up or pull-down resistors on microcontroller inputs as needed to avoid floating states.
• Protect the IR sensors from direct sunlight or strong ambient IR sources that can reduce reliability.
• Combine readings from multiple sensors in software to filter noise and improve line-centering algorithms.

Why Choose the TCRT5000 5-Channel Module

This module combines optical and mechanical sensing for a flexible, cost-effective solution in robotics. The five-channel sensor array gives precise path detection while the limit switch adds physical feedback for safer, more reliable systems. It is ideal for hobbyists, students, and developers building line followers, AGVs, and automation prototypes.

Note: Images are for illustration purposes only.