STMicroelectronics VL53L3CX-SATEL

Overview

VL53L3CX-SATEL from STMicroelectronics is a dual-board breakout module for the VL53L3CX Time-of-Flight (ToF) ranging sensor, enabling multi-target distance measurement up to 3 m independent of target reflectance or color, with integrated voltage regulator (5 V to 2.8 V), I²C level shifter (TXS0108EPWR), and breakable mini-PCB design for compact integration.

For engineers reviewing the VL53L3CX-SATEL datasheet, VL53L3CX-SATEL pinout, VL53L3CX-SATEL application, or VL53L3CX-SATEL equivalent, this breakout board supports rapid prototyping in 2.8–5 V systems, offers flying-lead integration via perforated PCB segmentation, and delivers production-ready ToF functionality without custom layout or power/level-shifting design effort.

Technical Context

The VL53L3CX-SATEL implements ST's third-generation FlightSense technology using a SPAD array and integrated infrared filters to achieve robust ranging under varying ambient light and cover-glass conditions. It embeds histogram-based algorithms for crosstalk immunity beyond 80 cm and dynamic smudge compensation below 80 cm.

This breakout board integrates the XC6222B281MR-G LDO (input 2.8–5 V, output 2.8 V) and TXS0108EPWR bidirectional level shifter to support direct connection to 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers while maintaining full VL53L3CX functionality including XSHUT, GPIO1, and interrupt signaling.

Key Specifications

Availability

VL53L3CX-SATEL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial proximity sensing, robotics obstacle detection, and consumer electronics gesture interface development requiring stable component supply and rapid evaluation-to-production transition.

Supply support for VL53L3CX-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, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, sensors, power ICs, and analog devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The VL53L3CX-SATEL belongs to ST's FlightSense™ ToF sensor ecosystem, engineered specifically to simplify high-accuracy, low-power distance measurement in space- and power-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

Is the VL53L3CX-SATEL compatible with 5 V microcontrollers?

Yes. The onboard TXS0108EPWR level shifter supports bidirectional I²C communication between 5 V hosts and the 2.8 V VL53L3CX sensor. SDA/SCL lines are translated, and all control signals (XSHUT, GPIO1, INT) are routed through the shifter or pulled appropriately for 5 V logic compatibility.

What is the purpose of the breakable PCB feature?

The perforated board allows physical separation into a 14.5 × 10.5 mm mini-PCB containing only the VL53L3CX, its decoupling capacitors, and essential pull-ups. This enables direct flying-lead integration into 2.8 V systems without external regulators or level shifters, reducing footprint and BOM count.

Does VL53L3CX-SATEL include firmware or require calibration?

No. The VL53L3CX-SATEL is a hardware-only breakout board. The VL53L3CX sensor ships pre-programmed with factory calibration data. Users must load ST's official API (e.g., STM32Cube Expansion Package) and perform system-level calibration only if integrating behind non-standard cover glass or in high-precision applications.

Can both boards in the VL53L3CX-SATEL kit be used simultaneously on one I²C bus?

Yes, but address conflict must be resolved. The default I²C address is 0x29. One board's XSHUT pin must be asserted low during power-up to reset its address, then toggled high to assign an alternate address (e.g., 0x2A) using ST's API - enabling dual-sensor operation on a shared bus with independent ranging control.