STMicroelectronics VL6180-SATEL

Overview

VL6180-SATEL from STMicroelectronics is a breakout board hosting the VL6180 Time-of-Flight proximity and ambient-light-immune ranging module, integrating an 850 nm VCSEL emitter and SPAD-based sensor in a single LGA12 package. It delivers absolute distance measurement up to 62 cm independent of target reflectance, supports I²C (400 kHz, address 0x29), operates from 2.6–3.0 V, and features two programmable GPIOs for windowing and interrupt thresholding - deployed in smart faucets and touchscreen gesture detection.

For engineers reviewing the VL6180-SATEL datasheet, VL6180-SATEL pinout, VL6180-SATEL application, or VL6180-SATEL equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world ranging performance under ambient light, GPIO configuration options, power consumption at 10 Hz sampling, and breakout-specific integration guidance for rapid prototyping on STM32 or Arduino platforms.

Technical Context

The VL6180-SATEL implements ST's FlightSense™ time-of-flight architecture, measuring round-trip IR pulse duration rather than reflected intensity - enabling reflectance-independent ranging. Its integrated VCSEL driver and low-noise analog front-end support operation under >100 klux ambient light with crosstalk compensation for cover glass.

System-level control is handled via I²C interface with configurable ranging periods, histogram-based signal processing, and dual GPIOs supporting level-triggered or edge-triggered interrupts. The onboard module uses AVDD (2.8 V) for analog supply and shares ground with host logic, requiring no external optics or mechanical alignment.

Key Specifications

Availability

VL6180-SATEL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart faucet activation, tablet proximity wake-up, robotic obstacle avoidance, and portable touchscreen gesture sensing requiring stable component supply and rapid evaluation capability.

Supply support for VL6180-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 applications.

The VL6180 product line targets low-power, reflectance-agnostic proximity sensing in space-constrained human-interface devices - emphasizing ease of optical integration, ambient-light robustness, and minimal host firmware overhead.

FAQ

What is the difference between VL6180-SATEL and the bare VL6180V1NR/1 IC?

VL6180-SATEL is a pre-soldered breakout board containing the VL6180V1NR/1 IC in LGA12 packaging, with all required decoupling capacitors, pull-up resistors for I²C and GPIO lines, and castellated pads for breadboard or PCB mounting. It eliminates layout complexity and reflow challenges associated with the bare die, enabling immediate functional validation without optical calibration or voltage translation.

Does VL6180-SATEL require external optics or lens alignment?

No. The VL6180-SATEL integrates the VL6180 silicon with its built-in VCSEL and SPAD array in a factory-aligned, cover-glass-compensated optical path. No external lenses, filters, or mechanical shrouds are needed - the module is designed for direct placement behind black polymer or glass overlays in final products.

Can VL6180-SATEL operate under strong ambient light such as sunlight?

Yes. The VL6180 core uses time-of-flight measurement and active ambient light cancellation circuitry, enabling reliable operation under ambient illumination up to 100 klux. Real-world testing confirms consistent 0–50 cm ranging performance near windows or under LED ceiling lights without signal saturation or drift.

How are the two GPIO pins used in practical applications?

GPIO0 and GPIO1 can be configured independently as interrupt outputs for proximity thresholds (e.g., "object within 10 cm") or windowed ranges (e.g., "object between 5–25 cm"). They support both level- and edge-triggered modes, allowing host MCUs to enter deep sleep until an event occurs - reducing system power by >90% in smart appliance standby states.