Using a few infra-red transmitting and receiving diodes, Ricardo Vina demonstrates how to emulate an infra-red distance sensor by making his own. It works by simple measuring the amount of infra-red light reflected from an object - the further away the object, the less light that can be measured and therefore the change in distance can be monitored. Considering the cost of true sensors can be over ten dollars this is an interesting experiment in saving money and making your own sensor. And it really works, for example:
For instructions on how to make your own and the Arduino sketch, click here. And for more, we're on twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.
When making your own proximity sensor or other project, increase reliability and project lifespan by using a protoshield for your final circuit. When doing so, consider our range of ProtoShields. From the tiny LeoStick to the Mega range, we offer a complete range for you to work with.