ARK Electronics has launched the ARK DIST SR and ARK DIST MR, two new distance sensor modules designed for high-performance short-range and mid-range rangefinding applications.
Both models are manufactured in the United States, meet NDAA compliance requirements, and feature CAN and UART interfaces.
The compact, low-SWaP rangefinders are equipped with DroneCAN and MAVLink connectivity options, provide ROS2 support, and are supplied with both a 4-pin Pixhawk Standard CAN cable and a 6-pin Pixhawk Standard UART cable for immediate integration.
ARK DIST SR
The ARK DIST SR is built around the Broadcom AFBR-S50LV85D Time-of-Flight distance sensor, delivering a typical measurement range of up to 30 meters. It integrates an 850 nm laser light source with a transmitter beam angle of 2° by 2°, illuminating between one and three pixels.
A dedicated reference pixel supports system health monitoring, while the sensor can operate in ambient light conditions up to 200,000 lux. The field of view measures 12.4° by 6.2° with 32 pixels, enabling precise detection across a wide scene.
Connection options include two Pixhawk Standard CAN connectors using 4-pin JST GH, a Pixhawk Standard UART connector with 6-pin JST GH, and a Pixhawk Standard debug connector with 6-pin JST SH. The lightweight unit measures 2.0 cm x 2.8 cm x 1.4 cm, weighs only 4 g, and features LED indicators. The sensor requires 5 V power with an average current draw of 84 mA and a maximum of 86 mA.
ARK DIST MR
The ARK DIST MR utilizes the Broadcom AFBR-S50LX85D Time-of-Flight distance sensor, extending the typical range to 50 meters. Like the short-range model, it operates in ambient light up to 200,000 lux and features a laser opening angle of 2° by 2° for focused and accurate measurements.
The rangefinder includes two Pixhawk Standard CAN connectors with 4-pin JST GH, a Pixhawk Standard UART connector with 6-pin JST GH, and a Pixhawk Standard debug connector with 6-pin JST SH. Matching the compact size of the SR version, the MR model also measures 2.0 cm x 2.8 cm x 1.4 cm and weighs 4 g.
LED indicators provide operational feedback, and the unit is built in the United States with NDAA compliance. Power requirements are 5 V, with an average consumption of 78 mA and a maximum of 84 mA.
Enhanced Integration & Performance
By combining high-quality USA manufacturing with compact dimensions, low power consumption, and multiple interface options, the ARK DIST SR and ARK DIST MR provide reliable and adaptable solutions for a range of unmanned and automated systems.
The modules’ compatibility with established UAV and robotics communication standards ensures smooth integration for developers seeking dependable short- and mid-range sensing performance.
