Features
 Two-in-one smart optical module
– VCSEL light source
– Proximity sensor
 Fast, accurate distance ranging
– Measures absolute range from 0 to 62 cm
max (depending on conditions)
– Independent of object reflectance
– Ambient light rejection
– Cross-talk compensation for cover glass
 Gesture recognition
– Distance and signal level can be used by
host system to implement gesture
recognition
– Demo systems (implemented on Android
smartphone platform) available.
 Easy integration
– Single reflowable component
– No additional optics
– Single power supply
– I2C interface for device control and data
– Provided with a documented C portable
API (Application Programming Interface)
 Two programmable GPIO
– Window and thresholding functions for
ranging

Description
The VL6180 is the latest product based on ST’s patented FlightSense™ technology. This is a ground-breaking technology allowing absolute distance to be measured independent of target reflectance. Instead of estimating the distance by measuring the amount of light reflected back from the object (which is significantly influenced by color and surface), the VL6180 precisely measures the time the light takes to travel to the nearest object and reflect back to the sensor (Time-of-Flight).
Combining an IR emitter and a range sensor in a two-in-one ready-to-use reflowable package, the VL6180 is easy to integrate and saves the end-product maker long and costly optical and mechanical design optimizations.
The module is designed for low power operation. Ranging measurements can be automatically performed at user defined intervals. Multiple threshold and interrupt schemes are supported to minimize host operations.
Host control and result reading is performed using an I2C interface. Optional additional functions, such as measurement ready and threshold interrupts, are provided by two programmable GPIO pins.
A complete API is also associated with the device which consists of a set of C functions controlling the VL6180 to enable fast development of end-user applications. This API is structured in a way that it can be compiled on any kind of platform through a well isolated platform layer (mainly for low level I2C access).

Applications
 Laser Assisted Auto Focus
 Smartphones/portable touchscreen devices
 Tablet/laptop/gaming devices
 Domestic appliances/industrial devices