For a UAV, choose a laser rangefinder module when the requirement is a distance measurement along a defined line of sight. If the system needs spatial coverage, describe the required field of view and measurement pattern before selecting a LiDAR architecture. Compare exact devices, host processing and failure behavior against the aircraft task.
Define the output your aircraft needs
| System question | Ranging along a defined line of sight | Spatial sensing requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Required output | A valid distance for the observed direction. | Define the directions, angular sampling and distance output your host must receive. |
| Coverage | Review the exact module’s beam and receiver field of view. | Specify coverage, blind zones and measurement pattern before choosing the device. |
| Host integration | Confirm serial format, output timing and invalid-reading handling. | Confirm the device’s data interface, processing load and synchronization. |
| Acceptance test | Evaluate your target across its distances and surfaces. | Evaluate the complete coverage and timing required by your application. |
Product names overlap: some devices sold as LiDAR are also single-direction range sensors. The label alone does not establish scanning, point-cloud output, flight-controller support or a safe obstacle-response function. Ask for the actual output format and coverage.
Documented rangefinder examples to evaluate
| Model / wavelength | Published range and conditions | Module mass | Serial interface | Supply | Published power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPD1200N2 905 nm |
0.2–1,200 m; target and ambient conditions require confirmation | ≤ 5 g | UART-TTL | 3.3–5 V | Average ≈ 0.45 W · max ≤ 0.75 W |
| LRF3000A1 905 nm |
≥ 3,000 m @ 70% reflectivity, building target (clear weather, visibility ≥ 4 km) | 12 ± 0.5 g | UART (TTL 3.3 V) | DC 3.3–5 V | ≤1.8 W at +25 °C; check peak demand separately |
| LRF0306C 1535 nm |
≥ 4000m @60% Reflectivity, Building Target ≥3000m @30% Reflectivity, 2.3×2.3m Target ≥1500m @30% Reflectivity, 0.5×1.7m Target ≥800m @30% Reflectivity, 0.2×0.3m Target; visibility >8 km for these source test cases | ≤14 ±1 g (notation as printed in the module document) | UART(TTL 3.3V) | DC 3~5V | 5 V: ≤0.9 W at 1 Hz; <1.1 W at 3 Hz; peak ≤3W |
Read each range with its target conditions. Module mass excludes the host assembly. Average power does not define peak rail demand. Open the exact model for its controlled documents and interactive 3D view.
Separate ranging, height estimation and aircraft response
A module reports a measurement in its own viewing direction. Height estimation also depends on installation geometry and aircraft attitude. Obstacle response needs a system design, timing and failure handling; the catalog does not demonstrate that function. Read the UAV gimbal integration guide and sensor comparison for altitude measurements.
中文资料：无人机激光测高选型. This related reading is not a translation of this page.
Engineering and purchasing questions
Can a single rangefinder replace scanning LiDAR?
Only evaluate it against the required output and coverage. A defined line-of-sight distance does not establish spatial coverage or point-cloud output. Confirm the device’s measurement pattern, host interface, latency and invalid-reading behavior for the aircraft task.
Are these modules validated for altitude hold or obstacle avoidance?
The catalog is not a flight-validation record. Evaluate mounting geometry, aircraft attitude, useful output timing, target surfaces and system failure behavior. Compatibility and the aircraft response require application-specific verification.
Where can I get a datasheet or serial driver?
Open technical downloads for the exact model, driver resources and the ErdiTech driver repository for supported protocol families. Confirm the module, firmware, connector and logic voltage before using a driver. Documentation availability does not establish flight-controller compatibility.
What are the sample quantity and lead time?
Send your model, quantity, configuration and evaluation requirements. Sample terms, order quantity, pricing and lead time are confirmed in writing. An inquiry does not reserve stock or establish a delivery date.
Request a sample or an engineering review
Send the model or application, target and distance, host interface and quantity. We confirm the delivered configuration, sample terms and lead time in writing. Email tommy@erdimail.com or use the existing inquiry form below.
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