STMicroelectronics VL53L1X-SATEL

Overview

VL53L1X-SATEL from STMicroelectronics is a dual-breakout evaluation board built around the VL53L1X Time-of-Flight (ToF) ranging sensor, integrating a 5 V to 2.8 V regulator (XC6222B281MR-G), bidirectional I²C level shifter (TXS0108EPWR), and breakable PCB design for miniaturized integration. It delivers true distance measurement up to 4 m independent of target reflectance or size, with 2.8 V operation enabled via physical separation along perforated lines.

For engineers reviewing the VL53L1X-SATEL datasheet, VL53L1X-SATEL pinout, VL53L1X-SATEL application, or VL53L1X-SATEL equivalent, this breakout board supports rapid prototyping in low-voltage embedded systems, optical sensing validation, and compact ToF sensor integration where supply flexibility (2.8–5 V), I²C voltage translation, and mechanical modularity are critical selection criteria.

Technical Context

The VL53L1X-SATEL implements ST's FlightSense™ technology, measuring absolute distance via time-of-flight of modulated 940 nm VCSEL light-eliminating dependence on surface reflectivity. Its onboard XC6222B281MR-G LDO provides stable 2.8 V output from 2.8–5 V input, while the TXS0108EPWR translates I²C signals between host (e.g., 3.3 V/5 V) and VL53L1X (2.8 V).

The board features two physically separable sections: full board (for 5 V systems with level shifting) and mini PCB (for direct 2.8 V integration using flying leads). All signal routing-including SDA, SCL, XSHUT, GPIO1, and INT-is routed through the level shifter or directly to the sensor depending on configuration.

Key Specifications

Availability

VL53L1X-SATEL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial proximity sensing, robotics navigation, and consumer electronics gesture detection requiring stable component supply, quick-turn evaluation, and flexible voltage integration.

Supply support for VL53L1X-SATEL 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 components for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The VL53L1X-SATEL belongs to ST's FlightSense™ evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of high-accuracy, low-power, reflectance-independent distance sensing in space- and power-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What voltage rails does the VL53L1X-SATEL support?

The board accepts 2.8 V to 5.0 V input. When powered at 5 V, the onboard XC6222B281MR-G LDO supplies clean 2.8 V to the VL53L1X sensor and level shifter. At 2.8 V input, the regulator operates in pass-through mode, and the board can be broken into a mini PCB for direct 2.8 V integration without level shifting.

How do I configure the board for use with a 3.3 V microcontroller?

Connect 3.3 V to VIN and ground. The TXS0108EPWR automatically translates I²C signals between the 3.3 V host and the 2.8 V VL53L1X. Ensure SDA/SCL pull-ups on the host side are set to 3.3 V, and confirm XSHUT is asserted high and INT is configured as an open-drain input per VL53L1X requirements.

Can the mini PCB section operate standalone after breaking?

Yes-the mini PCB (15.5 × 11 mm) retains all essential connections: VDD, GND, SDA, SCL, XSHUT, GPIO1, and INT. It requires only 2.8 V power and I²C interface; no regulator or level shifter is needed. Flying leads must be soldered to its edge pads, and mechanical stability during operation must be ensured by the user.

Does the VL53L1X-SATEL include firmware or require calibration?

No-the board is hardware-only and ships with the VL53L1X pre-programmed with factory calibration data. Users must load ST's official API (e.g., STM32Cube expansion package X-CUBE-TOF1) onto their host MCU to configure ranging modes, thresholds, and interrupts. No user calibration is required for basic operation.