The IR Photoelectric Motor Speed Encoder Sensor Module 4-Pin is a slot-type optical sensor built around an LM393 comparator that detects each interruption of its infrared beam by a rotating encoder disc or motor shaft. It is a standard building block for measuring wheel speed, motor RPM, and rotation counting in robotics projects.
Key features:
- Slot-Type Design: A U-shaped infrared emitter-receiver pair detects any object or encoder disc that passes through the gap.
- LM393 Comparator: Converts the analog photo-interrupter signal into a clean digital pulse for reliable counting.
- Adjustable Sensitivity: An onboard potentiometer tunes the detection threshold for different disc materials.
- Dual Indicator LEDs: Power and digital-output LEDs make wiring and debugging straightforward.
- TTL Digital Output: Outputs a clean high/low pulse train that can be read directly by microcontroller interrupts.
- Wide Voltage Range: Operates from 3.3V to 5V logic supplies.
Pair it with a slotted encoder disc on a motor shaft to calculate RPM, or mount it at a wheel edge for basic speed and distance measurement.