The TCRT5000 Reflective Optical IR Sensor is an ideal choice for DIY line-following robot cars and similar projects. It combines an infrared emitter and a phototransistor in a compact package that effectively blocks visible light, ensuring accurate detection.

When the sensor emits IR light onto a surface, a white surface reflects the light back to the detector, triggering a LOW signal on the output pin (S). If the surface is black, the IR light is absorbed, and the detector receives no signal—resulting in a HIGH output. This makes the sensor function like a switch that reacts to different surface colors. The onboard potentiometer allows you to fine-tune sensitivity for better performance.

Features:

• Built-in infrared emitter and phototransistor

• Effective daylight-blocking filter

• Compact and reliable design

• Lead-free (RoHS compliant)

• Adjustable sensitivity via onboard potentiometer

• Detects objects through IR reflection