Miniature Single-Point LiDAR Distance Sensor

Relying on barometers and noisy acoustic sonar modules for low-altitude hover is a surefire way to turn expensive carbon fibre into lawn mulch. The Benewake TFS20-L Miniature Single-Point LiDAR Distance Sensor provides real-time digital rangefinder telemetry using direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) laser pulses, giving your flight controller exact ground-truth altitude hold without the drift. With our 10 years of experience in the manufacturing and delivery of commercial FPV systems across the UK, we know that optical distance sensing beats firmware guessing every single flight. Whether wired to an open UART on ArduPilot or routed through I2C on custom robotics, this micro sensor delivers rock-solid terrain following without the magic smoke.

Key Highlights

• Direct Time-of-Flight Ranging: Uses a high-sensitivity SPAD sensor and fast TDC architecture for precise optical distance telemetry up to 20 metres.
• Featherweight Footprint: Tipping the scales at just 1.35g, it mounts effortlessly inside tight drone frames, micro-gimbals, and autonomous rovers.
• Broad Protocol Support: Supports both UART and I2C interfaces for rapid serial telemetry integration with popular autopilots and microcontrollers.

Why You Want a Single-Point LiDAR Distance Sensor

Because barometric pressure fluctuates with every gust of wind and ultrasonic sensors get deafened by prop wash. This optical dToF laser rangefinder measures real elevation directly beneath your airframe, giving your ArduPilot or INAV autonomous quad precision terrain tracking, soft automated landings, and close-quarters obstacle detection without burning through your payload limits.

Specifications

• Model: Benewake TFS20-L Mini Single-Point LiDAR Module
• Operating Range: Up to 20 m (Reflectivity and ambient conditions dependent)
• Accuracy: ±6 cm within 0.2 m to 6 m range
• Ambient Light Resistance: Up to 15 m at 100 Klux
• Sensor Technology: SPAD chip with histogram statistical algorithm and fast TDC architecture
• Features: Built-in temperature compensation and reflectivity correction
• Operating Voltage: Integrated power module for 3.3V supply
• Communication Interfaces: I2C and UART
• Weight: 1.35g

FAQ

Does this miniature LiDAR sensor work outdoors in direct sunlight?

Yes. The TFS20-L features dedicated anti-ambient light filtering rated up to 100 Klux, maintaining accurate laser ranging up to 15 metres even in bright daylight conditions.

How do I wire this distance sensor to my flight controller?

Connect the module's power, ground, and communication leads to a 3.3V supply and an available UART (TX/RX) or I2C bus on your flight controller, then enable rangefinder telemetry in your autopilot firmware settings.

What’s in the Box*

• 1× Benewake TFS20-L Miniature Single-Point LiDAR Sensor Module

Disclaimer

While this sensor tracks distances down to centimetres, it will not cure poor PID tuning or prevent you from flying full-throttle into a brick wall. Solid mounting and correct firmware calibration remain entirely your responsibility.

Still Here?

You can keep trusting barometric drift to guess your hover height, or you can give our revenue metrics a boost, toss this 1.35g laser module into your basket, and finally stick automated landings properly.