DFRobot - Gravity: 8x8 Matrix ToF 3D Distance Sensor (I2C&UART, 3.5m Range, 60° FOV)

The Gravity 8×8 Matrix ToF Distance Sensor combines a VL53L7CX ranging sensor with an onboard RP2040 running the module firmware. Instead of returning one distance, it provides a grid of measurements across 64 zones, helping a connected controller determine where nearby objects appear within the sensing field. Use the depth data to develop obstacle detection, zone-change monitoring and interactive projects. With support for Arduino, micro:bit, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and LattePanda, it enables the development of advanced applications such as intelligent obstacle avoidance, contactless gesture control, and immersive interactive installations.

Figure: DFRobot 8x8 64-Pixel Matrix ToF Sensor provides intelligent obstacle avoidance for robots

3D Depth Perception at the Perfect Balance Point

A single-point sensor reports distance in one direction. An 8×8 matrix shows how distance varies across the sensing field, providing spatial information for detecting nearby obstacles or changes in selected zones. The low-resolution depth map is useful for projects that need more spatial detail than a single distance reading. It is not a camera image or a ready-made object classification result.

Unmatched Compatibility for Maker Projects

This Matrix ToF proximity sensor was built for the way makers work, designed to connect to virtually anything in the workshop.

• Supported Platforms: Arduino, micro:bit, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, LattePanda, UNIHIKER K10.
• Supported Programming Methods: Whether using the Arduino IDE, or graphical editors like Mind+ and MakeCode, libraries and tutorials are available.
• Connection Options: Support Gravity-I2C / UART / USB-C.
• Cascading Support: The 4 switchable I2C addresses let you daisy-chain up to four sensors together for a massive field of view.

Figure: Supported Platforms of DFRobot 8x8 64-Pixel Matrix ToF Sensor

Expandable Platform for Advanced Development

In addition to plug-and-play use, the 64-Pixel Matrix ToF Vision Sensor can serve as a flexible development platform. Its onboard RP2040 processor allows developers to load custom firmware or run lightweight machine learning models (TinyML), making it possible to recognize specific gestures, detect movement patterns, or add new features directly on the sensor itself. With open-source schematics and comprehensive documentation, the module can be tailored for advanced robotics, IoT, and AI-driven applications, offering far more than a fixed-function sensor.

Figure: DFRobot 8x8 64-Pixel Matrix ToF Sensor onboard RP2040 processor

• Robotics Navigation: Smooth obstacle avoidance and drop-off detection.
• Gesture Control: Reliable contactless interaction for smart devices.
• Interactive Installations: Artistic displays such as “following eyes” or reactive lighting.
• Smart Automation: Directional entryway monitoring and intelligent room sensing.

Sensor Parameters

• Sensor Model: VL53L7CX
• Algorithm Processing MCU: RP2040
• Number of Matrices: 8×8, totaling 64 ranging points
• Ranging Mode: Continuous Ranging
• Ranging Speed: 15Hz - 60Hz
• Ranging Range: 20mm - 3500mm
• Ranging Accuracy:
• Within the range of 20 - 200mm: ±11mm for white targets, ±12mm for light gray targets, and ±12mm for gray targets;
• Within the range of 200 - 3500mm: ±5% for white targets, ±6% for light gray targets, and ±6% for gray targets.
• Ranging Angle: 60° horizontal, 60° vertical, 90° diagonal
• Laser Safety Class: Compliant with Class 1 laser safety standards

Power Supply Parameters

• Operating Voltage: 3.3V - 5V
• Operating Current: Less than 80mA

Data Interface

• Data Interface: I2C/UART/USB
• Interface Type: PH2.0-4P (Gravity Pinout)
• I2C Address: 4 adjustable options: 0x30/0x31/0x32/0x33
• UART Baud Rate: 115200bps (fixed value, non-modifiable)
• Firmware Update: TYPE-C, USB flash drive mode

• Gravity: Matrix Laser Ranging Sensor ×1
• PH2.0-4P Connection Cable ×1
• Aluminum Alloy Mounting Bracket ×1
• Aluminum Alloy Support Bracket ×1
• M3 Thumb Screw ×4
• M3 Sensor Fixing Screw ×2
• M3×35 Mounting Copper Spacer ×2