STMicroelectronics SATEL-VL53L4ED

Overview

SATEL-VL53L4ED from STMicroelectronics is a breakout board embedding the VL53L4ED Time-of-Flight high-accuracy proximity sensor, supporting ranging from 0 to 1300 mm with full field of view, operation up to 100 klux ambient light, and effective temperature range of –40°C to +105°C. It features snap-off perforated mini-PCB design for flexible integration into robotics, industrial sensing, and STM32-based evaluation systems.

For engineers reviewing the SATEL-VL53L4ED datasheet, SATEL-VL53L4ED pinout, SATEL-VL53L4ED application, or SATEL-VL53L4ED equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual-board packaging, 3.3 V supply compatibility, flying-wire or direct connector (6-pin) interfacing with X-NUCLEO-53L4A3, and extended-temperature-rated sensor core.

Technical Context

The SATEL-VL53L4ED implements ST's FlightSense™ ToF technology with a 940 nm VCSEL emitter and SPAD array, enabling single-zone distance measurement independent of target reflectance. Its onboard VL53L4ED IC integrates internal timing control, histogram processing, and I²C communication (standard/fast-mode), with dedicated XSHUT and GPIO1 pins for reset and interrupt signaling.

Designed for plug-and-play evaluation, the board provides pre-routed signal paths for VDD, SDA, SCL, XSHUT, and GPIO1, plus solder bridges (SB1–SB4) and test points (TP1–TP12) for configuration and debugging. All power rails are decoupled with 4.7 µF and 100 nF capacitors per ST's layout recommendations.

Key Specifications

Availability

SATEL-VL53L4ED is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for robotics navigation, industrial object detection, STM32 Nucleo evaluation, and embedded proximity sensing applications requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping support.

Supply support for SATEL-VL53L4ED includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, sensors, power ICs, and analog/mixed-signal devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The SATEL-VL53L4ED belongs to ST's FlightSense™ evaluation and expansion board product line, engineered to accelerate development of high-accuracy, low-power proximity and ranging solutions using VL53L4ED sensor ICs.

FAQ

Is SATEL-VL53L4ED rated for high-temperature operation?

No. While the embedded VL53L4ED sensor supports –40°C to +105°C, the SATEL-VL53L4ED breakout board itself is intended for evaluation under normal temperature conditions only. Its PCB layout, passives, and connectors are not qualified for sustained operation above 85°C ambient.

How do I interface SATEL-VL53L4ED with an STM32 Nucleo board?

You can connect it directly via two 6-pin headers to the X-NUCLEO-53L4A3 expansion board, or use flying wires to link VDD, GND, SDA, SCL, XSHUT, and GPIO1 to compatible MCU pins. The board includes pull-up resistors (2.2 kΩ on SDA/SCL) and configurable solder bridges for signal routing.

What is the purpose of the perforations and snap-off design?

The perforations allow physical separation of the mini-PCB section containing the VL53L4ED sensor and essential circuitry. This enables compact integration into space-constrained prototypes or end products using flying-wire connections while retaining full electrical functionality at 3.3 V.

Does SATEL-VL53L4ED require external firmware or calibration?

No. The VL53L4ED IC on board includes factory-calibrated ranging algorithms and embedded firmware. Users access distance data via standard I²C commands using ST's X-CUBE-TOF1 software package or custom drivers compliant with VL53L4ED register map and timing requirements.