Hi All,

Hoping someone might be able top point me in the right direction. I got myself some IR avoidance sensors ( https://www.jaycar.com.au/arduino-compatible-ir-obstacle-avoidance-sensor-module/p/XC4524 ) and I can't get it to work for some reason and I know it's got to be some human error on my behalf as they are such a simple little thing.

My understanding of these are that they put out a constant voltage from the output pin until it senses something is within range. Whilst ultimately I want to use this on a raspberry pi ( it will be for a lap counter for a slot car set ) for now I've just set it up on a breadboard and power supply to get an understanding of it. I have plugged in the power, left the EN jumper on, and gone from the output to an LED, it works and it lights up, but no matter how close I get to the sensor and or what adjustments I do, the LED constantly stays on. I have 3 of the sensors brand new out of the box, and can't get any of them to work as I thought they should ( like this

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I have attached a couple of photos of the setup in the hope someone can help me know what I have done wrong. Please note I have also tried on a rasp pi and got the same results, I also tried with a multi meter and got the same as well.

Thanks in advance anyone who can point me in the right direction!

 

Does the output change if you block the IR source by wrapping a piece of opaque card around it? The type of sensor they are using looks like a standard IR receiver used in remote controllers. They are very sensitive and it may be picking up leaked IR and reflections from the source. You may have to use a card or plastic tubes to direct and shield the the source and detector from random signal leakage paths.

 

Heat-Shrink-Tubing may be another option.
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According to the "datasheet" your LED should be connected between the positive supply and the output.