Description

GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor Recognition Module

The GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor Recognition Module is a powerful and versatile sensor designed for accurate color detection and recognition. Built around the TCS3200 programmable color light-to-frequency converter chip, this module is widely used in robotics, industrial automation, and DIY electronics projects. It can detect and distinguish colors like red, green, blue, and white light intensity, making it an essential component for smart devices, robotics, and machine vision applications.

With its high precision, fast response time, and wide operating range, the GY-31 color sensor is a popular choice among electronics hobbyists, engineering students, and IoT developers.

Key Features of the GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor

• 🎨 Accurate Color Recognition – Detects red, green, blue, and white light intensity.

• ⚡ Fast Frequency Output – Converts light intensity into square wave output for quick data processing.

• 🔌 Wide Voltage Compatibility – Works with 3V to 5V systems, suitable for Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and STM32.

• 🔧 Programmable Frequency Scaling – Adjustable output frequency (2%, 20%, 100%) for better integration and flexibility.

• 🌐 Compact & Lightweight Design – Easy to mount in robotics and embedded systems.

• 📡 High Sensitivity – Stable performance even in varying light conditions.

Technical Specifications

• Operating Voltage: 3V – 5V

• Chipset: TCS3200

• Light Detection: Red, Green, Blue, White

• Output: Frequency signal (square wave)

• Programmable Frequency Scaling: 2%, 20%, 100%

• Sensor Array: 8 × 8 (64 photodiodes with RGB filters)

• Dimensions: Compact module with standard pin headers

How the GY-31 Color Sensor Works

The TCS3200 sensor chip on the GY-31 module uses an array of photodiodes with filters for red, green, and blue light detection. The light intensity detected by these photodiodes is converted into a frequency output signal. This output can then be read by a microcontroller (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, etc.), allowing your project to recognize and classify colors.

With programmable frequency scaling, the sensor’s sensitivity can be adjusted for different lighting conditions and accuracy requirements. This makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Applications of the GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor

The versatility of this module makes it a key component in many electronics and industrial projects:

1. Robotics and Automation

   • Line-following robots that detect colored paths.

   • Automated sorting systems that categorize objects by color.

2. Industrial Quality Control

   • Color matching in packaging and printing industries.

   • Detecting product defects based on color differences.

3. IoT & Smart Systems

   • Smart lighting systems that adapt based on detected colors.

   • Environmental monitoring devices for detecting light changes.

4. DIY & Academic Projects

   • Educational kits for learning about color sensing and machine vision.

   • Projects for students in electronics and computer science.

5. Consumer Electronics

   • Used in some display calibration systems and color-sensitive devices.

Why Choose the GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor?

• ✅ High Accuracy – Detects colors precisely with consistent results.

• ✅ Flexibility – Programmable frequency scaling adapts to multiple project needs.

• ✅ Wide Compatibility – Works with most popular microcontrollers.

• ✅ Cost-Effective – Affordable solution for advanced projects.

• ✅ Educational Value – Great tool for learning embedded systems and computer vision.

Integration with Arduino and Raspberry Pi

The GY-31 module is plug-and-play friendly with popular development boards. With just a few lines of code, you can connect it to an Arduino or Raspberry Pi and start detecting colors. Libraries and tutorials are readily available, making it beginner-friendly while still offering advanced features for professionals.

Conclusion

The GY-31 TCS3200 Color Sensor Recognition Module is a powerful yet affordable tool for detecting and analyzing colors in real time. With its high accuracy, wide voltage compatibility, and easy integration with Arduino and Raspberry Pi, this sensor is suitable for everything from simple DIY experiments to advanced industrial automation systems. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and cost-effective color sensor, the GY-31 module is the perfect choice for your next project.

Data Sheet