How to Connect Maxbotix Ultrasonic Ranger Sensor

How to Connect Maxbotix Ultrasonic Ranger Sensor

Firmware version 27 introduces support for Maxbotix ultrasonic (sonar) range sensors on the GPI1 input for both LSMP-2103 and CSMP-4103 devices. This enhancement allows for precise distance measurement capabilities in various applications.

Compatible Maxbotix Sonar Sensors

The following Maxbotix ultrasonic sensor model numbers are supported with Zenseio devices:

MB7051

MB7052

MB7060

MB7062

MB7066

MB7067

MB7068

MB7070

MB7072

MB7076

MB7077

MB7078

MB7092

MB7334

MB7354

MB7364

MB7534

MB7554

MB7564

MB1000

MB1010

MB1020

MB1030

MB1040

MB1200

MB1210

MB1220

MB1230

MB1240

MB1260

MB1261

MB1300

MB1310

MB1320

MB1330

MB1340

MB1360

MB1361

MB1003

MB1013

MB1023

MB1033

MB1043

MB7850

MB7851

MB7853

MB7854

MB7844


These sensors operate using the RS232 or TTL interface mode, with communication occurring over pin 5 (TX). Custom cabled versions of these sensors can be obtained directly from Maxbotix or Zenseio to ensure ease of connection.

Sensor Connection Guide

To integrate the Maxbotix sonar sensor with your Zenseio device, follow these steps:
  1. Power Connection: Attach the Red wire (V+) from the sensor to the VAUX terminal on the Zenseio device for power.
  2. Ground Connection: Connect the Black wire (GND) from the sensor to the GND terminal on the Zenseio device to establish a common ground.
  3. Signal Connection: Attach the Blue wire (TX) from the sensor to the GPI1 terminal on the Zenseio device for data transmission.
Notes
Important: Avoid connecting any other wires from the sensor. Unused wires should be trimmed or insulated with electrical tape to prevent short circuits or accidental connections.

image showing how to connect Maxbotix ultrasonic sensor wires to Zenseio device header

Configuration via ZenConfig Mobile App

After physically connecting the sensor, use the ZenConfig mobile app to finalize the setup:
  1. Set GPI1 to Sonar Mode: This configures the GPI1 input to interpret signals from the ultrasonic sensor correctly.
  2. Enable Temperature Compensation (Optional): If using the Zenseio ambient temperature sensor connected to GPI3, activate the temperature compensation feature to enhance sensor accuracy across varying temperatures.
  3. Configure Low-Latency Threshold Alerts (Optional): Set up threshold alerts to receive quick notifications when the measured distance crosses predefined limits, either exceeding or falling below set values.
Alert
Note on VAUX Voltage Limitation: To safeguard the sensor from over-voltage damage, the VAUX terminal is automatically restricted to a maximum of 5V. It is crucial not to connect other sensors requiring more than 5V to the same device, as they may not operate correctly under this voltage constraint.

image showing how to configure Sonar mode via ZenConfig mobile app

These settings ensure your Maxbotix ultrasonic ranger sensor operates optimally with your Zenseio device, providing reliable and precise distance measurements for your applications.