Optical Flow & Lidar Sensor 3901-L0X
1. Product Overview
1.1. Product Description
The Matek 3901-L0X Optical Flow Lidar Sensor is a compact, lightweight dual-sensor module designed for drones, UAVs, and robotics applications requiring accurate position hold and altitude measurement. It integrates a PMW3901 optical flow sensor and a VL53L0X Time-of-Flight (ToF) Lidar, offering precise horizontal and vertical motion detection for GPS-denied or indoor environments.
1.2. Key Features
- Dual-sensor integration: Optical Flow (PMW3901) + Lidar (VL53L0X).
- Optical flow detects horizontal movement; Lidar measures height up to 2m.
- Compact and lightweight: 36×12mm, ~2g.
- Wide field of view: Optical flow ~42°, Lidar ~27°.
- Operating voltage: 4.5–5.5V.
- Low power consumption: ~40mA typical.
- Communication interface: UART (MSP protocol).
- Supports ArduPilot and other flight control firmware for optical flow and rangefinder functions.
- Best performance under good lighting conditions (60lux).
- Ideal for indoor or low-altitude stabilization.
2. Technical Specifications
Table 2-1. 3901-L0X Sensor Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Optical Flow Sensor | PMW3901 |
| Lidar Sensor | VL53L0X (Time-of-Flight) |
| Operating Range (Lidar) | 8cm – 200cm (max range ≈2m) |
| Field of View | Optical Flow: 42°|Lidar: 27° |
| Interface | UART (MSP protocol) |
| Input Voltage | 4.5–5.5VDC |
| Current Consumption | ≈ 40mA |
| Dimensions | 36×12mm |
| Weight | ≈ 2g |
| Minimum Illumination | 60lux |
| Supported Firmware | ArduPilot, PX4 (via MSP protocol) |
3. Applications
- Multirotor Drones: Enables stable position hold without GPS.
- Indoor UAVs: Provides precise optical flow navigation and height estimation.
- Robotics: Short-range movement tracking and altitude detection.
- Landing Systems: Assists in smooth autonomous landings with Lidar data.
- Educational and Research Platforms: Ideal for testing optical navigation algorithms.
4. Setup Integration
- Mount the module facing downward; arrow mark points to the drone’s front.
- Connect the sensor via UART to the flight controller (TX–RX, RX–TX, 5V, GND).
- In ArduPilot:
- Set
FLOW_TYPE = 7(MSP). - Set
SERIALn_PROTOCOL = 32for the port used. - Set
RNGFND1_TYPE = 32to enable the rangefinder (Lidar).
- Set
- Ensure at least 2cm clearance from the ground during startup.
- Use under good lighting and with textured surfaces for accurate optical flow readings.
- The Lidar range is short (~2m); suitable for low-altitude operation only.
5. LED Indicators
| Indicator | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Blue LED | Solid | Power On |
| Green LED | Blinking | Communication Active (UART data output) |
| Red LED | Blinking Fast | Sensor Error or Invalid Data |
6. Notes Limitations
- The Lidar sensor is short-range only and performs best indoors or at low altitude.
- Optical flow accuracy depends on lighting and surface texture.
- Ensure correct orientation and stable mounting for reliable measurements.
- When using outdoors, avoid direct sunlight on the Lidar lens to prevent interference.
- Ensure firmware and MSP configuration are updated to the latest ArduPilot release.
7. Practical Summary
The Matek 3901-L0X Optical Flow Lidar Sensor offers precise position and altitude sensing for GPS-less environments. Combining PMW3901 optical flow and VL53L0X Lidar technology, it provides accurate horizontal motion tracking and altitude measurement within a compact, low-power module. Perfect for small UAVs, robotics, and indoor drones requiring reliable position hold and height stabilization.
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