Rutronik has added a new direct Time-of-Flight sensor from ams Osram to its line-up, introducing what it says is one of the most capable compact depth-sensing modules on the market.
The TMF8829, now available via Rutronik’s e-commerce platform, offers a measurement range of up to 11 metres and an 80° diagonal field of view in a 4:3 format. The module integrates a VCSEL emitter, a SPAD array, and on-chip signal processing, targeting applications in robotics, depth mapping, and smartphone laser autofocus systems.
The sensor supports multiple depth-resolution modes, from 8×8 to 48×32, allowing developers to balance accuracy and processing load. A combination of SPAD optics and a multi-lens array broadens the field of illumination to improve performance in larger environments. According to the distributor, robust histogram and peak-detection algorithms maintain accuracy even when the device’s cover is contaminated or partially blocked, and the sensor can recognise several objects along a single line of sight. Distance readings are provided with a resolution of 0.25 mm.
For system integration, the TMF8829 includes I²C, I3C, and SPI interfaces and can stream raw and processed data, including histograms, to host processors, making it suitable for AI-assisted analysis. Flexible I/O supply options – 1.2 V, 1.8 V, and 3.0 V – support a range of hardware platforms. The module operates between −40 °C and +85 °C.
Rutronik sees opportunities for the device in robotics, people counting, gesture recognition, SLAM, and advanced smartphone camera functions such as LDAF and bokeh effects.
