The Sharp distance sensors are a popular choice for many projects that require accurate distance measurements. This IR sensor is more economical than sonar rangefinders, yet it provides much better performance than other IR alternatives. Interfacing to most microcontrollers is straightforward: the single analog output can be connected to an analog-to-digital converter for taking distance measurements, or the output can be connected to a comparator for threshold detection. The detection range of this version is approximately 20 cm to 150 cm (8" to 60"); a plot of distance versus output voltage is shown below.
The GP2Y0A02 uses a 3-pin JST connector that we do not carry; however, it is simple to solder three wires to the sensor where the connector pins are mounted (see the picture above and to the right). When looking at the back, the three connections from left to right are power, ground, and the output signal.
