Optimizing Laser Sensor Performance:

Calibration and Implementation in Arduino

1st John Carlos Arivado 2nd Lorenz Gerard Batusin 3rd Kent Joseph Cloma
Electrical Engineering Department Electrical Engineering Department Electrical Engineering Department
Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University
johncarlos.arivado@ctu.edu.ph lorenzgerard.batusin@ctu.edu.ph kentjoseph.cloma@ctu.edu.ph

4th Mathew Donor 5th Niña Leizyl Mendez 6th Ranilo Zata
Electrical Engineering Department Electrical Engineering Department Electrical Engineering Department
Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University Cebu Technological University
mathew.donor@ctu.edu.ph niñaleizyl.mendez@ctu.edu.ph ranilo.zata@ctu.edu.ph

I. I NTRODUCTION lacking the necessary understanding of laser safety

Calibrating the laser diode module in the Arduino
Uno results in a well-functioning system that provides
accurate and reliable laser output for various applica-
tions. Calibration allows the laser diode module to be
fine-tuned to meet specific requirements, optimizing its
performance according to desired parameters (Haitjema,
2020). Furthermore, calibration enhances the credibility
of data collected using the laser diode module, making
it suitable for scientific research, industrial processes,
and other precision applications (Agrawaal et al., 2020).
Successful calibration leads to improved performance,
increased accuracy, and enhanced usability of the Ar-
duino Uno system across various fields of technology
and science.
The 100mW laser module is designed to emit a
small, yet intense beam of visible red light, making it
suitable for a variety of applications. When paired with
an Arduino and a photoresistor module, this versatile
module enables basic remote signaling functionalities,
providing an efficient solution for projects requiring
precise light-based communication.
It’s essential to exercise caution when handling this
laser module, despite its low power rating. Direct
exposure to the emitted beam can pose a significant
risk of eye injury or permanent damage. Therefore, it
is imperative to avoid looking directly into the beam
or pointing the laser at anyone, as even momentary
exposure can have severe consequences.
To ensure safe usage, it’s recommended to adhere to
strict safety protocols and guidelines when operating
the laser module. Additionally, it’s crucial to store the
module in a secure location inaccessible to children, as
it is not suitable for unsupervised use by individuals
precautions. By prioritizing safety and responsible
handling practices, users can harness the full potential
of the 100mW laser module while minimizing the
associated risks.
A. Significance of the Study
Calibrating a laser sensor within an Arduino Uno
project represents a pivotal step toward ensuring
dependable and accurate measurements. Consider the
scenario of a line-following robot equipped with an
uncalibrated laser sensor. In this instance, the sensor
may yield inaccurate readings, leading the robot off
course instead of precisely detecting the line’s position.
Calibration serves to fine-tune the sensor, guaranteeing
pinpoint accuracy in detecting the line.
In the context of this study, the focus lies specifically
on activating the laser sensor module with the assistance
of the Arduino Uno. The objective is to evaluate the
precision of the laser sensor module in conjunction with
the Arduino setup while scrutinizing the effectiveness
of the provided code in achieving optimal performance.
Through meticulous calibration and assessment, the aim
is to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the project,
paving the way for successful implementation and oper-
ation.
II. M ETHODOLOGY
This section will discuss the process of calibrating the
sound sensor and deliberate the materials used during the
experiment. The set-up of of the experiment will take
place at Cebu Technological University-Main Campus,
College of Engineering room 405 under the supervision
of Engr. Jayson C. Jueco. Moreover, the students will
understand this activity comprehensively through collab- professionals, thereby promoting experimentation and
orative learning of the members. innovation in a broad range of sensor-based applications.

A. Software Utilization C. Experimental Setup

This activity cannot be accomplished without using The experiment was conducted in room 609 on the
software applications to calibrate the sensor. Therefore, 6th floor, utilizing the following materials:
the students established useful software to operate and • Laser Sensor Module

run the experiment cost-effectively. The significance of • Arduino

utilizing software for this activity lies in programming • Jumper wires

activities like Arduino IDE software. In the next section • Laptop running the Arduino Integrated Develop-

we will discuss the useful impact of Arduino software ment Environment (IDE)
in calibrating the ultrasonic sensor.

B. Arduino IDE
Arduino software refers to the integrated development
environment (IDE) used for programming Arduino mi-
crocontroller boards. It is a platform that allows users to
write code, compile it, and upload it to Arduino boards.
The Arduino IDE provides a simple interface for writing
code in the Arduino programming language, which is a
simplified version of C/C++. It includes features such
as syntax highlighting, code completion, and a serial
monitor for debugging purposes. Additionally, the IDE Fig. 2.2: Laser Sensor Module
comes with a vast library of pre-written code examples
and libraries that users can leverage to quickly get started
with their projects.

Fig. 2.3: Arduino UNO

Fig. 2.1: Arduino IDE Software

The compatibility of Arduino with sensors arises from

its adaptable hardware and user-friendly software. Ar-
duino boards are equipped with a vast array of digital and
analog input/output pins, facilitating seamless interfacing
with various sensors that support diverse signal types
and communication protocols. The Arduino IDE pro-
vides a simple environment for writing, compiling, and Fig. 2.4: Jumper Wires
uploading code, which is complemented by a vast library
ecosystem that simplifies the integration of sensors. By
being an open-source platform, Additionally, Arduino’s D. Preparation of Materials
affordability and accessibility make it an appealing Before setting up the experiment, all materials were
choice for individuals interested in hobbies, students, and gathered and inspected for any damage or defects. The
ultrasonic sensor, Arduino Uno, jumper wires, and bread-
board were arranged on a clean, stable surface in room
609.
E. Connection of Ultrasonic Sensor to Arduino Uno
The ultrasonic sensor was connected to the Arduino
Uno according to the following wiring configuration:
• VCC pin of the ultrasonic sensor to the 5V pin on
the Arduino Uno.
• GND pin of the ultrasonic sensor to any GND pin
on the Arduino Uno.
• Trig pin of the ultrasonic sensor to digital pin 2 on
the Arduino Uno.
• Echo pin of the ultrasonic sensor to digital pin 3 on
the Arduino Uno.
F. Powering Up the Arduino Uno
The Arduino Uno was powered up by connecting it
to the laptop via USB cable. The laptop was turned on,
and the Arduino IDE was launched to facilitate code
uploading and data monitoring.
G. Upload of Calibration Code to Arduino Uno
A pre-written calibration code for the ultrasonic sensor
was opened in the Arduino IDE. The code was verified
for correctness and uploaded to the Arduino Uno micro-
controller. The code facilitated the calibration process
and data collection.
H. Positioning of Ultrasonic Sensor
The ultrasonic sensor was positioned in room 609,
facing the area of interest for distance measurement.
Care was taken to ensure that no obstructions were
obstructing the sensor’s field of view.
I. Initiation of Calibration Process
The calibration process was initiated according to the
instructions provided in the code. Parameters such as cal-
ibration points and measurement intervals were adjusted
as necessary based on experimental requirements.
J. Data Collection and Analysis
Distance measurements were obtained through the Ar-
duino Uno’s serial monitor interface, displaying sensor
readings for various calibration points. Data collected
included both sensor readings and corresponding actual
distances. Analysis of collected data allowed for the
establishment of a calibration curve, relating sensor
readings to actual distances.
K. Documentation and Cleanup
The experimental setup, calibration process, and re-
sults obtained were documented for future reference.
Any observations or issues encountered during the ex-
periment were noted. Finally, the workspace was cleaned
up by safely disconnecting the Arduino Uno from the
laptop and power source, and organizing the materials
and equipment used in the experiment.
III. R ESULT AND D ISCUSSION
The experimental findings validate the functionality
and consistency of the laser sensor module within the Ar-
duino Uno project. Through a systematic calibration and
assessment process, the sensor’s operation in accordance
with programmed specifications has been successfully
demonstrated, consistently illuminating and fading out
the laser diode with precision.
The provided source code offers clear directives for
controlling the laser diode module, stipulating durations
for both illumination and fading out of the laser diode.
Our observations closely correspond to the anticipated
outcomes outlined in the code, with the laser diode
consistently lighting up for 1 second before gradually
fading out over an equivalent duration. This cyclic pat-
tern persists until the voltage supply to the laser diode
module ceases.
Moreover, the successful execution of the calibration
procedure underscores the necessity of fine-tuning the
sensor to ensure precise measurements and consistent
performance. Absence of calibration may lead to fluc-
tuations in sensor readings, resulting in erratic project
behavior. By calibrating the sensor, potential risks have
been mitigated, ensuring uniform and foreseeable oper-
ation of the Arduino Uno project.
IV. P RACTICAL I MPLICATION
Laser sensors have profound practical implications
across diverse industries and applications. In industrial
automation, they are indispensable for tasks such as
object detection, precise positioning, and quality control
on production lines, boosting productivity and cost-
effectiveness. Robotics heavily rely on laser sensors for
navigation, obstacle avoidance, and object manipulation,
enabling robots to interact with their environment ac-
curately, from assembly lines to logistics operations.
Construction and civil engineering benefit from laser
sensors for surveying, leveling, and alignment tasks,
ensuring accuracy and safety on construction sites. In the
transportation and automotive sectors, laser sensors con-
tribute to speed measurement, collision avoidance, and
autonomous driving technologies, enhancing safety and
efficiency in vehicles and traffic management systems.
Overall, the practical implications of laser sensors extend
across a wide spectrum of industries, driving innovation,
efficiency, and safety in diverse applications.
V. C ONCLUSION
In conclusion, the activity centered on calibrating the
laser sensor module within the Arduino Uno project
has provided invaluable insights into its functionality
and performance. As emphasized in the introduction, the
calibration of the sensor was deemed crucial for achiev-
ing precise and reliable measurements. This calibration
process aimed to ensure accurate detection and consistent
performance, addressing the challenges outlined in the
significance of the study.
The practical implementation involved utilizing the
Arduino Uno platform to interface with the laser sensor
module. Through meticulous calibration and assessment,
the sensor’s capability to respond accurately to pro-
grammed commands was demonstrated, illuminating and
fading out the laser diode with precision. These results
underline the significance of clear and concise program-
ming instructions in controlling the sensor’s behavior, as
highlighted in the introduction.
Furthermore, the successful execution of the calibra-
tion process underscores its importance in guaranteeing
dependable and predictable operation of the Arduino
Uno project. By fine-tuning the sensor, potential fluc-
tuations in readings were mitigated, thereby enhancing
the reliability of measurements. This emphasizes the
critical role of calibration in real-world applications,
where precise data is imperative for informed decision-
making.
In summary, the activity has illustrated the practical
implementation and importance of calibrating the laser
sensor module within the Arduino Uno project. By
integrating insights from the introduction, significance
of the study, practical implementation, and experimental
results, the value of calibration in achieving reliable and
accurate measurements has been demonstrated. Moving
forward, future endeavors may concentrate on further op-
timization and exploration of additional functionalities to
enhance the sensor’s performance in diverse application
scenarios.