GY-2561 TSL2561 Light Sensor Module for Arduino – 1 or 2 Pack
GY-2561 TSL2561 Luminosity & Infrared Light Sensor Module for Arduino
Upgrade your electronics projects with the GY-2561 TSL2561 Luminosity Sensor Breakout Module — a compact, high-precision light-sensing solution designed for makers, engineers, and Arduino enthusiasts. Whether you're building smart lighting systems, ambient light detectors, or data-logging projects, this module delivers accurate lux readings across a wide dynamic range.
Key Features
- TSL2561 Chip: Industry-proven light-to-digital converter that measures both broadband (visible + infrared) and infrared light independently for true lux calculation.
- Wide Dynamic Range: Detects light levels from 0.1 to 40,000+ lux, making it ideal for both dimly lit and brightly lit environments.
- 3V Supply Voltage: Low-power design compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers and Arduino boards.
- I²C Interface: Simple two-wire communication (SDA/SCL) for easy integration with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other microcontroller platforms.
- SMD Package: Compact surface-mount design on a ready-to-use breakout board — no soldering of tiny components required.
- Operating Temperature: 0–120°C, suitable for a broad range of environments.
- No High-Concern Chemicals: Safe for hobbyist and professional use.
- Pack Options: Available as a 1-piece or 2-piece set — great value for prototyping and redundancy.
Specifications
- Model: GY-2561 / TSL2561
- Supply Voltage: 3V
- Interface: I²C
- Package Type: SMD Breakout Module
- Operating Temperature: 0–120°C
- Condition: Brand New
- Country of Origin: Made in Mainland China
What Can You Build With It?
The TSL2561 is perfect for a wide variety of DIY and professional electronics projects, including:
- Automatic screen brightness controllers
- Smart home ambient light systems
- Outdoor weather and environment stations
- Plant growth monitoring setups
- Security and motion-triggered lighting
- Data logging and IoT sensor networks
Compatible With
Arduino Uno, Nano, Mega, Leonardo, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, ESP32, and most I²C-capable microcontroller development boards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the GY-2561 TSL2561 sensor module compatible with Arduino?
A: Yes! The GY-2561 TSL2561 luminosity sensor uses the I²C communication protocol (SDA/SCL), making it fully compatible with Arduino Uno, Nano, Mega, and most other Arduino boards, as well as Raspberry Pi and ESP32/ESP8266 platforms. Many open-source libraries are available to get you started quickly.
Q: What is the difference between the 1-piece and 2-piece pack options?
A: Both packs include the same GY-2561 TSL2561 breakout module. The 2-piece option is ideal for projects that require redundancy, multiple sensor placements, or if you simply want a spare module for future builds — offering better value per unit.
Q: What voltage does the TSL2561 sensor module operate at?
A: The GY-2561 module operates at 3V supply voltage, making it compatible with 3.3V logic microcontrollers. Always verify your microcontroller's logic levels before connecting to avoid damage to the module.
Q: Can this sensor measure infrared light separately from visible light?
A: Yes. The TSL2561 chip features two photodiodes — one sensitive to broadband light (visible + infrared) and one sensitive to infrared only. This allows the module to calculate accurate lux values by compensating for infrared interference, giving you a more precise ambient light reading.