ams TMF8701 1D Time-of-Flight Sensor

The TMF8701 is a true direct time-of-flight (ToF) sensor system in a single modular package which offers highly accurate depth accuracy detection through a sub-nanosecond light pulse and an antialiasing “stop-watch” method to measure round-trip time of pulse. It provides single zone detection of an object irrespective of the color, reflectivity and texture of the object.

The single module with VCSEL emitter offers high dynamic range and operates in either a proximity mode (0 – 10 cm) or a ranging mode (10 – 60 cm) for detection sensing. The device utilizes highly sensitive SPAD detection with fast compact time-to digital converters to make high accurate distance measurement within ±5% and is capable of operation in dark environments.

A built-in histogram is featured to detect cover glass and objects behind glass to select object with highest SNR while compensating for dirt and smudges on cover glass to produce artifact free measurement of multiple objects. The histogram enables greater distance between cover glass, delivers dynamic cover glass calibration and crosstalk compensation. Class 1 eye safety is also featured through the narrow sub-nanosecond (<500 ps) fast pulse 940 nm VCSEL driver. Background light noise is minimized through on-chip superior sunlight rejection filter. Data output is through a 1.8V I²C fast-mode communications interface and an integrated micro controller is featured with all algorithms included on-chip with no need for external optics.


The TMF8701 wins the Innovative Product of the Year Award at Sensors Expo 2019