STMicroelectronics introduces new ToF ranging sensor

     STMicroelectronics, a leading global supplier of semiconductors across multiple electronic applications, has announced the second generation of laser ranging sensors. Based on the successful FlightSense technology, the new sensor VL53L0 enables faster, farther, and more accurate distance measurement, significantly improving the photo performance of mobile phones and tablets, and opening up new application opportunities in the robotics, user detection, drones, Internet of Things and wearables markets.

     The exterior dimensions of 4.4 x 2.4 x 1mm make the VL53L0 the world's smallest ToF(Time-of-Flight) module, It is also the first ranging sensor to integrate a 940nm VCSEL[1] light source, a SPAD[2] photon detector, and an advanced microcontroller to manage the entire ranging function. The first module in the market to apply 940nm emission light, combined with advanced infrared filters, the VL53L0 has the best ambient light anti-interference performance in the industry, minimizing the impact of ambient light. In end-product applications, embedded microcontrollers and digital algorithms minimize host processing load and system power consumption.

     Eric Aussedat, General Manager of STMicroelectronics Imaging Products, said: "ST's technological advances in ToF sensors are bringing a better user experience to tens of thousands of consumers, revolutionizing the way they take pictures and videos with their smartphones and tablets. St introduced the first fully integrated ToF ranging sensor in 2014, which has since been successfully used in laser-assisted autofocus by several of the world's leading Oems. Today, with the arrival of the VL53L0, ST is setting a new benchmark for ranging product performance, opening up new opportunities for developers to develop new applications in the robotics and iot markets."

     VL53L0 can complete all measurement operations in one frame, usually less than 30ms, and the distance is less than 2 meters. Such ranging performance allows the camera system to focus instantaneously in camera and continuous shooting mode, even in low light or low contrast scenes to maintain the same performance, and for camera systems without ToF technology, low light or low contrast scenes are a huge challenge.

     Due to its excellent ranging accuracy, the VL53L0 can also improve smartphone application performance, including dual-camera-based depth-mapping, and open up exciting application opportunities for developers of robotics, user detection, drones, iot and wearables. STMicroelectronics VL53L0 module is easy to use (6 effective pins), provides an I2C interface, comes with a full set of API drivers and technical documentation, and makes system integration fast and easy. The module package supports reflow soldering process, complies with RoHS hazardous material restrictions, and is fully compatible with various glass covers and designs.