TCRT5000 3-Channel Infrared Line Tracking Sensor Module

Product Description

The TCRT5000 3-Channel Line Tracking Sensor Module is an infrared reflective sensing board designed for line-following robots, autonomous vehicles, and robotics applications. It integrates three independent infrared detection channels arranged to monitor the left, center, and right positions, allowing a robot controller to identify the position of a line and adjust its movement accordingly.

Each channel uses a TCRT5000 reflective infrared sensor, which combines an infrared emitter and a phototransistor receiver. The emitter sends infrared light toward the surface, while the receiver detects the reflected signal. Differences in infrared reflection between light and dark surfaces allow the module to distinguish between a black line and a lighter background without physical contact.

The three detection channels provide separate digital output signals, enabling a microcontroller to determine whether the line is positioned beneath the left, center, or right sensor. This arrangement supports basic line-following logic and directional correction without requiring three separate sensor modules.

The board operates with a 3.3–5V DC power supply and features a five-pin interface for straightforward connection to Arduino boards and other compatible microcontrollers. Its output signals can be read through digital input pins, making integration into robotics projects simple.

An onboard adjustable potentiometer allows the detection sensitivity to be calibrated according to the surface, sensor height, and lighting conditions. Three indicator LEDs, labeled L, C, and R, provide visual feedback for the corresponding detection channels, helping users monitor sensor activity and troubleshoot their robot during development.

The compact PCB includes mounting holes for installation on robot chassis and other mechanical assemblies. The TCRT5000 3-Channel Line Tracking Sensor Module is suitable for educational robotics, Arduino projects, autonomous navigation experiments, and small mobile robots that require reliable surface-contrast detection.

Features

• Three Detection Channels

• TCRT5000 Infrared Sensors

• Adjustable Detection Sensitivity

• Digital Signal Outputs

• 3.3–5V DC Operation

• Left / Center / Right Detection

• Three Status Indicators

• Five-Pin Interface

• Compact PCB Design

• Robot Mounting Holes

Specifications

Detection height depends on surface reflectivity, sensor alignment, and ambient lighting. The digital output logic for black and white surfaces should be checked on the actual module before programming the controller.

Applications

• Line-following robots

• Arduino robotics projects

• Autonomous mobile robots

• Educational robotics kits

• Robot navigation systems

• Black and white line detection

• Sumo and mini-sumo robots

• Surface contrast detection

• Embedded control systems

• DIY robotic vehicles