Sharp GP2D120XJ00F Analog Distance Sensor 4-30cm

Discontinuation Notice:This sensor has been replaced by the newerGP2Y0A41SK0F Analog Distance Sensor, which has the same detection range of 1.5″ to 12″ (4cm to 30cm) but a much lower average current draw and much higher update rate. The GP2Y0A41SK0F is a drop-in replacement for the older GP2D120XJ00F.

Overview

 

 

The Sharp distance sensors are a popular choice for many projects that require accurate distance measurements. This IR sensor is more economical than sonar rangefinders, yet it provides much better performance than other IR alternatives. Interfacing to most microcontrollers is straightforward: the single analog output can be connected to an analog-to-digital converter for taking distance measurements, or the output can be connected to a comparator for threshold detection. The detection range of this version is approximately 4cm to 30cm (1.5" to 12"); a plot of distance versus output voltage is shown below.

The GP2D120 uses a 3-pin JST connector that works with our3-pin JST cables for Sharp distance sensors(not included) as shown in the top picture on the right. It is also simple to solder three wires to the sensor where the connector pins are mounted (see the lower picture to the right). When looking at the back, the three connections from left to right are power, ground, and the output signal.

 

 

Feature summary

• operating voltage: 4.5V to 5.5V
• average current consumption: 33mA (typical)
• distance measuring range: 4cm to 30cm (1.5" to 12")
• output type: analog voltage
• output voltage differential over distance range: 2.3V (typical)
• response time: 38±10ms
• package size: 29.5×13.0×13.5mm (1.16×0.5×0.53")
• weight: 3.5g (0.12oz)

 

 

Linearizing the output

The relationship between the sensor’s output voltage and the inverse of the measured distance is approximately linear over the sensor’s usable range. TheGP2D120 data sheet(293k pdf) contains a plot of analog output voltage as a function of the inverse of distance to a reflective object. You can use this plot to convert the sensor output voltage to an approximate distance by constructing a best-fit line that relates the inverse of the output voltage (V) to distance (cm).

Alternative Sharp Distance Sensors

We carry two longer-range versions of this sensor as well: theSharp GP2Y0A02YK0F analog distance sensor(20 – 150cm) and theSharp GP2Y0A21YK0F analog distance sensor(10 – 80cm). These analog distance sensors all have identical packages and pin-outs, making it easy to swap one version for another should your application requirements change. We also sell adigital Sharp distance sensor, which has a lower minimum detection distance, quicker response time, lower current draw, and a much smaller package.

 

A variety of Sharp distance sensors.

 

Note:The manufacturer recommends you insert a bypass capacitor of 10uF or more between Vcc and GND near this sensor to stabilize your power supply line.

General specifications

Maximum range:	30 cm
Minimum range:	4 cm

File downloads

GP2D120 datasheet(293k pdf)