Cytron Maker Line Simplifying Line Sensor For Beginner
The Cytron MAKER-LINE is an integrated sensor module designed to introduce beginners to the fundamental concepts of line detection and navigation in robotics. It simplifies the complex process of reading multiple infrared sensors by handling the signal processing internally, allowing users to focus on the higher-level logic of robot behavior without getting bogged down by analog signal complexities and calibration routines.
This sensor module provides two straightforward methods for reading data: a simple digital output for basic line detection and a calibrated analog output that translates the line’s position under the sensor into a single, easy-to-read voltage value. This analog output effectively tells the microcontroller not just if a line is present, but precisely where it is located relative to the sensor array, which is crucial for smooth line-following.
A key feature that makes the MAKER-LINE beginner-friendly is its one-touch calibration system. By pressing a button, the sensor enters a mode where it learns to differentiate between the specific line color and background surface it is being used on. This calibration data is stored permanently, ensuring the sensor is ready to use immediately every time it is powered on, eliminating the need for complex software-based calibration in the user’s code.
Features:
- Five integrated infrared (IR) sensors for accurate line detection.
- Dual output modes: Individual Digital (D1-D5) and Combined Analog (AN).
- One-touch calibration button with non-volatile memory (saves settings).
- Line color selection switch (for light or dark lines).
- Individual status LEDs for each sensor for visual feedback.
- Reverse polarity protection on the power input (VCC and GND).
- Provides a clear analog voltage output corresponding to line position.
Board Layout:
| Function | Description |
| I/O Connector | Input/Output Connector ● VCC: Power input for the Maker Line.* ● GND: Ground.* ● AN: Analog output. The voltage represents line position. ● CAL: Short to GND to enter/exit sensor calibration mode. ● D1: Sensor 1 digital output. High when the line is detected. ● D2: Sensor 2 digital output. High when the line is detected. ● D3: Sensor 3 digital output. High when the line is detected. ● D4: Sensor 4 digital output. High when the line is detected. ● D5: Sensor 5 digital output. High when the line is detected. * VCC and GND have reverse polarity protection. |
| Line Sensors (S1 – S5) | Infrared sensors for line detection |
| Power LED | Turn on when powered up. |
| Sensor LEDs (S1 – S5) | Turn on when the line is detected by the sensor. |
| Line Color Switch | Select the line colour (Light/Dark). |
| Calibration Button | Press and hold for 2 seconds to enter sensors calibration mode. Press again to exit calibration mode when done. |
Specifications:
| Parameters | Min | Max | Unit | |
| VCC Voltage | 3.0 | 5.5 | V | |
| Digital Output Voltage (D1 – D5) | Low Level | 0 | 0.5 | V |
| High Level | 0.7*VCC | VCC | V | |
| Analog Output Voltage (AN) | 0 | VCC | V | |
| Sensing Distance (VCC = 5V, Black line on white surface) |
4 | 40 | mm | |
| Sensor Refresh Rate | 200 | Hz | ||
| Recommended Line Width | 13 | 30 | mm | |
Dimension:
Interface:
Connection Diagram for Digital Output:
| Line Color Switch | Sensor (Sx) | LED (Sx) | Digital Output (Dx) |
| Light | Light Surface | On | High |
| Light | Dark Surface | Off | Low |
| Dark | Light Surface | Off | Low |
| Dark | Dark Surface | On | High |
Connection Diagram for Analog Output:
Applications:
- Line Following Robots.
- Sumo Robots.
- Automated Guided Carts (Small Scale).
- Edge Detection Systems.
- Position Feedback Mechanisms.
- Educational Robotics Kits.
- Maze Solving Robots.
- Automated Sorting Demos.
Package Contents:
- 1x MAKER-LINE
- 2x PCB Stand (Screw and Nut) 5mm
- 2x PCB Stand (Screw and Nut) 10mm
- 2x M3 Screw 4mm
- 2x M3 Nut
| Datasheet: | MAKER-LINE Datasheet |
| Certificate: | CofC |
| 3D CAD: | MAKER-LINE |
| Official Reseller: | Makers Electronics |
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