Fc 51 Ir Sensor Datasheet Hot May 2026

The FC-51 IR sensor is a popular, low-cost infrared proximity module widely used for obstacle avoidance in robotics and automated systems. It operates by emitting infrared light and measuring the reflection from nearby objects. Technical Specifications

According to manufacturers like Handson Technology and ArtofCircuits, the core technical parameters for the FC-51 include: Operating Voltage: Current Consumption: Approximately Detection Range: Adjustable from using the onboard potentiometer. Detection Angle: Approximately 35∘35 raised to the composed with power

Output Type: Digital signal (High/Low). It outputs a LOW signal when an obstacle is detected.

Core Components: Features an IR transmitter (LED), an IR receiver (photodiode), and an LM393 voltage comparator for stable digital switching. Pinout and Connectivity fc 51 ir sensor datasheet hot

The module typically features a 3-pin male header for easy interfacing with microcontrollers like Arduino or Raspberry Pi. Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

IR Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor Module | FC-51 for Arduino

Here are a few options for a post about the FC-51 IR Sensor, tailored to different platforms. The FC-51 IR sensor is a popular, low-cost

Why the FC-51 Over a PIR (Motion) Sensor?

| Feature | FC-51 (IR) | PIR (Passive IR) | |--------|-----------|------------------| | Detection | Short range, precise | Wide angle, up to 7m | | Sensitivity to small objects | Yes (finger, card) | No (needs body heat) | | Works in complete darkness | Yes (active IR) | Yes (thermal) | | Best for | Gesture, proximity, line | Occupancy, intruder alerts |

For lifestyle and entertainment, the FC-51 wins when you need to detect a hand, not a person.

Onboard Voltage Regulator (often AMS1117 or similar)

Input: up to 15V
Output: 5V or 3.3V
Dropout voltage + current = heat.

Part 8: Where to Find a “Real” Datasheet for FC 51 (Hot Temperature Addendum)

Most sellers provide a minimal datasheet. For engineering use, you need to supplement it with: Input: up to 15V Output: 5V or 3

LM393 Texas Instruments Datasheet (sections on thermal hysteresis and offset voltage).
Application Note AN-113 (IR phototransistor temperature compensation).
Community Test Results – Search GitHub for “FC 51 thermal drift” for raw data logs.

Pro tip: Download the generic “FC-51 Infrared Obstacle Avoidance Sensor User Manual” from LCSC or Mouser. Then print this article and attach it as a thermal performance addendum to your lab notebook.

5. Fixing the Heat Problem

If your FC-51 is uncomfortably hot:

Lower the supply voltage – Run at 5V directly (skip the regulator’s heat).
Reduce IR LED current – Add a series resistor (e.g., 150Ω to 220Ω) between the comparator output and LED anode.
Pulse the LED – For non-continuous sensing, use code to enable the sensor only when reading.
Heat sinking – Unlikely for this tiny PCB, but better airflow helps.

Typical applications

Line-following robots (detect black vs. white surfaces)
Edge or cliff detection (short-range)
Object presence detection (short-range)
Simple proximity sensors in DIY projects
Count/triggering events for small moving objects

Calibration and best practices

Adjust the potentiometer while testing the expected target and background to set a stable threshold.
Shield the sensor from direct ambient light when possible; use enclosures or baffles.
Use consistent mounting distance and angle for predictable readings.
For line following, test with the actual surface materials and lighting conditions you expect to encounter.
Use smoothing or simple debounce logic in software to reduce false triggers.

Lifestyle Integration: Making Everyday Life Smarter

The FC-51’s simplicity makes it ideal for non-technical upgrades to your living space.

Mechanical / connection

Module size: Small PCB (varies by manufacturer; common ~3×1.5 cm)
Connector: 3-pin header (VCC, GND, DO) — sometimes 4-pin including AO
Mounting: Through-hole or solder pads; no standardized enclosure