🚀 Build Your Own Smart Project with an ESP32 Laser Distance Sensor
Looking to build a smart robot, obstacle avoidance system, or an IoT device that measures distance precisely?
An ESP32 laser distance sensor setup is one of the most powerful and affordable solutions to achieve real-time, non-contact distance measurement. In this guide, we’ll show you how to combine the ESP32 development board with a Meskernel laser distance sensor and create your own embedded distance-measuring project.
🔧 Why Use a Laser Sensor with ESP32?
Using an ESP32 laser distance sensor offers a perfect blend of affordability, flexibility, and performance for developers and engineers. Here’s why this combination is ideal:
- Wireless-ready: ESP32 supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it perfect for IoT-based distance sensing applications.
- Compact & powerful: The ESP32 laser distance sensor works seamlessly with both mini ToF sensors and long-range modules.
- Real-time performance: Fast UART communication ensures stable, high-frequency measurement data flow.
- Versatile usage: Ideal for robots, AGVs, automated gates, industrial safety, or level detection systems.
Whether you’re building a robot or a distance-tracking IoT device, the esp32 laser distance sensor solution delivers precision, flexibility, and ease of integration.
🧩 Recommended ESP32-Compatible Laser Distance Sensors from Meskernel
To help you get started, we recommend two proven modules from the Meskernel sensor lineup, both compatible with ESP32 laser distance sensor applications:
✅ LDLL Laser Distance Module
- Measuring Range: 0.03–10 m
- Accuracy: ±1 mm
- Interface: TTL/UART, optional RS232/RS485
- Use Case: Perfect for compact ESP32 laser distance sensor projects in robotics and home automation.
✅ TS1224 Long-Range Laser Sensor
- Measuring Range: Up to 2000 m
- Interface: UART (3.3V TTL) — fully compatible with ESP32
- Use Case: Best for long-distance ESP32 laser sensor applications such as perimeter monitoring, terrain detection, or drone navigation.
👉 Need something custom? Meskernel’s engineers can provide custom firmware and tailored data formats for your ESP32 laser sensor integration.
🛠️ Wiring the ESP32 Laser Distance Sensor
Wiring your esp32 laser distance sensor (UART/TTL version) is simple:
| Sensor Pin | ESP32 Pin |
|---|
| VCC (5V) | VIN or 5V |
| GND | GND |
| TX | GPIO16 (RX) |
| RX | GPIO17 (TX) |
🔒 Important: If your laser sensor outputs 5V signals, and your ESP32 operates at 3.3V logic, use a logic level shifter to avoid damaging the ESP32.
✅ Summary
The ESP32 laser distance sensor platform is ideal for makers, automation engineers, and developers looking for a reliable and scalable solution for distance measurement. With Meskernel’s modules like LDLL and TS1224, you can easily build high-performance distance sensing into your next robotics or IoT project.
📩 Contact Meskernel for free integration advice
📥 Download datasheets and code examples
💻 Sample Arduino Code
#include <HardwareSerial.h>
HardwareSerial LidarSerial(2); // Use UART2
void setup() {
Serial.begin(115200);
LidarSerial.begin(115200, SERIAL_8N1, 16, 17); // RX=16, TX=17
}
void loop() {
if (LidarSerial.available()) {
String data = LidarSerial.readStringUntil('\n');
Serial.println("Distance: " + data + " mm");
}
}
📦 Meskernel provides protocol documentation upon request (e.g. for TS1224 or LDLL series).
🤖 Use Cases for ESP32 + Laser Sensor Projects
- ✅ DIY robot with obstacle avoidance
- ✅ Distance-based smart lighting
- ✅ IoT monitoring system for tank levels
- ✅ AGV/AMR localization and zone mapping
- ✅ Touchless access control and auto door systems
ToF Distance Sensor
Arduino Laser Distance Sensors
Laser Sensing Technology
Non-Contact Measurement
📈 Why Choose Meskernel Sensors?
- ✔️ Industrial-grade precision in a developer-friendly module
- ✔️ Support for UART, RS485, analog output – all ESP32-compatible
- ✔️ Custom output formats, response frequencies, and filtering
- ✔️ Direct engineer-to-engineer support from meskernel.net
📞 Ready to Start Your Laser Sensor Project?
Meskernel offers both developer kits and OEM integration support for laser distance sensors. Whether you’re prototyping with ESP32 or building scalable IoT solutions, we’re here to help.
🔧 Need help choosing a module?
📩 Contact our engineers for a free consultation
📥 Download datasheets and integration guides
🧠 Bonus Resources
FAQ: Can I connect a 5V TTL laser sensor directly to a 3.3V ESP32?
Can I connect a 5V TTL laser sensor directly to a 3.3V ESP32?
No — you need a level shifter to ensure safe communication.
This is a common issue when working with laser distance modules and ESP32 boards. The ESP32’s GPIO pins operate at 3.3V, but many laser distance sensors (especially TTL/UART versions) output 5V logic signals. If connected directly:
⚠️ You risk damaging the ESP32 RX pin
⚠️ It may cause unstable readings or sensor malfunction
✅ Solution: Use a Logic Level Converter (Level Shifter)
A logic level converter safely shifts signals between 5V and 3.3V devices, ensuring compatibility for UART communication.
Wiring example with a level shifter:
| Device | Connection |
|---|
| Sensor TX (5V) | → Level Shifter → ESP32 RX (3.3V) |
| ESP32 TX (3.3V) | → Level Shifter → Sensor RX (5V) |
🔧 Recommended modules:
- Bi-directional logic level converter (I2C/UART compatible)
- 4-channel or 8-channel TTL level shifter
- Easily found on Amazon, AliExpress, or local electronics stores
These are inexpensive (usually under $2) and crucial for safe and stable communication in ESP32 projects.
📌 Summary:
| Sensor Signal | Level Shifter Needed? |
|---|
| TX = 3.3V | ❌ No |
| TX = 5V | ✅ Yes – Required |
If you’re unsure about your sensor’s logic level, feel free to contact our engineers to confirm and get a wiring recommendation.
