Parallax 28044 User Manual

Parallax Laser Range Finder (#28044)
Designed in conjunction with Grand Idea Studio (www.grandideastudio.com), the Parallax Laser Range
Finder (LRF) Module is a distance-measuring instrument that uses laser technology to calculate the
distance to a targeted object. The design uses a multicore Propeller microcontroller, CMOS camera, and
laser diode to create a low-cost laser range finder. Distance to a targeted object is calculated by optical
triangulation using simple trigonometry between the centroid of laser light, camera, and object.
Features

Optimal measurement range of 6-48
inches (15-122 cm) with an accuracy
error <5%, average 3%

Maximum object detection distance of
~8 feet (2.54 meters)

Range finding sample rate of 5 Hz

Compact module with integrated CMOS
camera and laser diode

Single row, 4-pin, 0.1" header for easy
connection to a host system

All engineering materials released as
open source under a Creative Commons
license; see page 23

Table of Contents

Connections .................................................... 2
Usage ............................................................ 2
Command Set ................................................. 3
Range and Accuracy ...................................... 10
Error Modes .................................................. 10
Electrical Characteristics ................................ 11
LRF Image Viewer ......................................... 12
Copyright © Parallax Inc.
Web Site: www.parallax.com
Forums: forums.parallax.com
Sales: sales@parallax.com
Technical: support@parallax.com
Key Specifications
Application Ideas
Hardware Design .......................................... 15
Theory of Operation ...................................... 16
Camera Interface .......................................... 19
Care and Handling ........................................ 22
Safety .......................................................... 22
Open Source Files and Example Code ............. 23
Revision History ............................................ 23
Parallax Laser Range Finder (#28044)
Office: (916) 624-8333
Fax: (916) 624-8003
Sales: (888) 512-1024
Tech Support: (888) 997-8267

Power requirements: 5 VDC @ 150 mA

Communication: Asynchronous serial
300-115,200 baud with automatic baud
rate detection

Operating temperature: 32 to 122 °F
(0 to 50 °C)

Dimensions: 3.95" W x 1.55" H x 0.67" D
(10.05 W x 3.95 H x 1.7 D cm)

Distance or liquid level measurements

Object detection and/or avoidance

Item counting
v2.0 10/31/2015 Page 1 of 23