Parallax 28044 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 Propeller processor, 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 (2.4 meters)

Compact module with integrated CMOS
camera and laser system

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 11

Table of Contents

Connections ..................................................2
Usage ...........................................................2
Command Set................................................3
Range and Accuracy.......................................8
Error Modes...................................................9
Electrical Characteristics ............................... 10
Hardware Design ......................................... 10
Open Source Files ........................................ 11
Copyright © Parallax Inc.
Web Site: www.parallax.com
Forums: forums.parallax.com
Sales: sales@parallax.com
Technical: support@parallax.com
Key Specifications
Application Ideas
Additional Resources.................................... 11
LRF Image Viewer ....................................... 12
Theory of Operation..................................... 14
Camera Interface......................................... 17
Care and Handling ....................................... 20
Safety......................................................... 20
Example Code ............................................. 21
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
v1.0 9/16/2011 Page 1 of 24