Image credit: STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics has introduced the VL53L9, a direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) 3D LiDAR module that combines a SPAD sensor, illumination system, processing, and power management in a single package. The device is intended for applications including robotics, industrial automation, smart buildings, AR/VR systems, and healthcare equipment.
The VL53L9 is a 3D LiDAR module used for depth sensing and spatial awareness applications. ST states that the device provides 2,268 sensing zones, frame rates of up to 100 fps, and sensing distances from less than 5 cm to 9 m.
2,268-Zone Sensor Array
The VL53L9 incorporates a 54 × 42 sensing array, providing a total of 2,268 ranging zones across a 54° × 42° field of view. ST quotes ranging accuracy of up to 1%.
According to the company, the module is based on stacked back-side illuminated SPAD technology and incorporates metasurface optical elements. The company states that the sensor captures both 2D infrared and 3D depth information.
ST lists a number of target applications for the device, including obstacle avoidance and SLAM in robots, volume measurement in industrial systems, people counting, gesture recognition, body tracking, and fall detection.
Integrated Processing and Illumination
The VL53L9 uses a dual-scan flood illumination architecture. ST states that this approach replaces conventional dot scanning and captures complementary infrared and depth data.
The company also states that direct Time-of-Flight processing is integrated on-chip. A dedicated power-management IC is included within the module, and the device is supplied fully calibrated from the factory.
Compact Module Format
The VL53L9 measures 12.8 mm × 6.1 mm × 4.6 mm and is supplied as a reflowable single-component module. It supports operation from 1.2 V and 3.3 V power supplies and is compatible with a range of cover-glass materials. Data output is available through either MIPI or I3C interfaces. ST states that the device is certified as a Class 1 laser-safe product.
Samples and volume shipments are available globally, with mass production scheduled for early July 2026.
Learn more and read the original announcement at www.st.com
Technology Overview
The VL53L9 is a direct Time-of-Flight 3D LiDAR module that combines a SPAD sensor, illumination system, processing, and power management within a single package. The device provides 2,268 sensing zones across a 54 × 42 array, supports frame rates up to 100 fps, and measures distances from less than 5 cm to 9 m. MIPI and I3C interfaces are supported.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sensing range of the VL53L9?
ST specifies a sensing range from less than 5 cm to 9 m.
How many sensing zones does the VL53L9 provide?
The module provides 2,268 sensing zones using a 54 × 42 sensing array.
Which interfaces are supported?
The VL53L9 supports both MIPI and I3C interfaces.
You may also like
