Applicable scenarios
Suitable for 1500 m-class UAV inspection, engineering surveying and long-range positioning assistance.
Condition: Bounded by the range, accuracy and operating conditions in the product datasheet.
TFA1500-L1500m Ultra Long Range LiDAR for UAV
The TFA1500-L is a kilometer-level high-frequency single-point LiDAR with a range of 1500 m and a maximum frequency of 800 Hz, enabling precise and rapid measurement and positioning of distant targets. It is used for inspection drones, drone payloads, and engineering surveying for distance maintenance and auxiliary positioning functions.
Key specifications
- Measuring range
- 0.5 ~ 1500 m
- Frame rate
- 1 ~ 4 Hz (low-frequency, adaptive); 60 ~ 800 Hz (high-frequency, adaptive)
- Interface
- UART
- Protection
- Without enclosure
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Full specifications
| Parameter | Value | Parameter | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measuring range | 0.5 ~ 1500 m | Detecting accuracy | ± 0.5 m (≤ 80 m), ± 1.0 m (> 80 m), ±(0.2 + 0.0015 × D) (> 1000 m) |
| Frame rate | 1 ~ 4 Hz (low-frequency, adaptive); 60 ~ 800 Hz (high-frequency, adaptive) | Interface | UART |
| Protection | Without enclosure | Dimensions | ≤ 25 mm × 26 mm × 13 mm |
| Power consumption | ≤ 2.5 W (operating); ≤ 0.8 W (standby) | Weight | 11 g |
| Field of view | ~ 6 mrad | Output data | Single-point Distance Value |
| Operating voltage | DC 3.0 ～5.0 V |
Applicable scope and usage limits
Not applicable
TFA1500-L is not intended for measurements beyond this model's datasheet range, accuracy or interface limits, and is not a substitute for certified redundant safety systems.
Condition: If the target requirement exceeds the specification boundary, complete a selection review or contact technical support first.
FAQ
What is the measurement range of the TFA1500-L?
The TFA1500-L offers 0.5 to 1500 m range in low-frequency mode and 0.5 to 1300 m in high-frequency mode. The sensor achieves 1 cm distance resolution across both modes, allowing precise measurements for long-range applications like handheld rangefinders and drone altimetry.
What communication interfaces does the TFA1500-L support?
The TFA1500-L communicates via UART with TTL 3.3V logic levels at 500000 bps baud rate. It supports both single-shot and continuous ranging commands through a binary protocol, with separate output pins (Pin 3 and 4) for high-frequency and low-frequency data streams, enabling flexible integration with microcontrollers and embedded systems.
What are the best use cases for the TFA1500-L?
The TFA1500-L is optimized for handheld rangefinders, mini drones with altitude hold, rangefinding scopes, and applications requiring compact long-range distance sensing. Its lightweight design (11±0.5 g) and small footprint (≤25×26×13 mm) make it ideal for weight-constrained platforms while its 1500 m range suits surveying, outdoor ranging, and high-altitude drone operations.
What are the accuracy and precision specifications?
Accuracy is ±0.5 m (≤80 m), ±1.0 m (>80 m), and ±(0.2+0.0015*D) for distances >1000 m. The sensor delivers 1 cm distance resolution and maintains ≤1% false detection rate under specified conditions (visibility ≥10 km, humidity ≤70%, targets larger than laser spot size), providing reliable measurements across its full range.
What are the operating temperature and environmental requirements?
The TFA1500-L operates from -20 to +60°C with storage range of -45 to +70°C. Since the module is not hermetically sealed, it requires relative humidity below 80% for safe operation; fogging and contaminants can damage the optical surfaces. An anti-reflection coating (905±20 nm, >95% transmittance) on the front window is recommended to maintain performance.
What power supply does the TFA1500-L require?
The sensor requires DC 3.0 to 5.0 V input with operating power consumption ≤2.5 W and standby consumption ≤0.8 W. This low power draw makes it suitable for battery-powered platforms; correct polarity is critical as reversed polarity causes permanent damage. The Power_EN pin (Pin 6) allows TTL-level power control for dynamic sleep mode.
What are the physical dimensions and weight?
Dimensions are ≤25 mm (length) × 26 mm (width) × 13 mm (height), with total weight of 11±0.5 g. The compact form factor integrates into mini drones, handheld devices, and gimbal systems without significantly affecting payload capacity or balance. The connector is FWF08002-S06B13W5M with 6 pins for power, ground, data, and control signals.
What are the limitations and scenarios where the TFA1500-L should NOT be used?
Avoid use in high-humidity environments (>80% RH) due to non-hermetic sealing risk. Performance degrades severely in fog, rain, or sandstorms; adverse atmospheric conditions significantly reduce effective range. Targets at oblique angles or with low reflectivity (e.g., dark surfaces) reduce measurement distance. The device also cannot operate while plugged/unplugged under power, and direct eye exposure to the 905 nm laser is not recommended.
How does the TFA1500-L compare to competitive products like Lightware LW or Garmin LidarLite?
The TFA1500-L's 1500 m maximum range in low-frequency mode exceeds Garmin LidarLite V3 (40 m) and approaches Lightware SF45 (100+ m) in extended applications. However, it trades off measurement rate (1-4 Hz standard vs. 100+ Hz for competitors) and does not provide automotive-grade IP ratings. Its strength lies in extreme long-range capability at minimal size and power for drone and handheld platforms.
What platforms and systems can the TFA1500-L integrate with?
The UART TTL 3.3V interface integrates directly with Arduino, STM32, Pixhawk autopilots, and Linux-based flight controllers via USB-UART adapters. The 500 kbps baud rate supports both high-frequency streaming (800 Hz via Pin 3) and low-frequency polling (4 Hz via Pin 4). The binary command protocol enables integration with ROS nodes, PLC systems, and custom C/C++/Python firmware without requiring specialized drivers.