BEST Robotics IR Sensor System Manual

Test & Adjustment of the IR Sensor System

To conduct simple tests for correct operation of the assembled BEST IR Sensor Kit

and to make adjustments for sensitivity.

Goal:

• BEST IR Sensor System (Assembled PCBs)

• 5V Power Supply

• Mini test hook probes (recommended)

• 3-wire cables (2)

• Solderless breadboard (optional)

• Oscilloscope or frequency counter (optional)

This document will walk you through testing the BEST IR Sensor System's operation and adjusting its

sensitivity.

Transmitter

Receiver

In the kit the two PC boards are manufactured as a single board to make it a little larger for

easier assembly. After soldering on all the components, the two boards will be cut apart. If you have

not already done so, cut the board as described in the final step of the assembly instructions.

Educational Revision

Carefully Cut Boards Apart Here

Test and Adjustment of IR Sensor System

Page 1

Table of Contents

Do you have a question about the IR Sensor System and is the answer not in the manual?

Page 1 • Mini test hook probes (recommended) • 3-wire cables (2) • Solderless breadboard (optional) • Oscilloscope or frequency counter (optional) This document will walk you through testing the BEST IR Sensor System’s operation and adjusting its sensitivity. Step 1: Separate the PC Boards Transmitter...
Page 2 Test and Adjustment of IR Sensor System IR Detecting IC IR Emitting Diode The board that emits the IR light is the transmitter and is the larger of the two boards. The IR emitting diode is the clear one, located on one edge of the board. Note that as supplied it emits light in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the board.
Page 3 Test and Adjustment of IR Sensor System Step 2: Setup and Test Beam Breaking Operation This is the simplest testing option, needing only a +5V power supply. The IR emitter runs continuously. It is suitable for a “beam break” application.
Page 4 Test and Adjustment of IR Sensor System Step 3: Adjust the System’s Sensitivity For help in debugging, the transmitter board has a red LED that will be on when the IR emitter is on. The receiver board has a red LED that will be on when an IR signal is detected. Due to the limited power available, the receiver LED is fairly dim.