GY-31 TCS3200 RGB Color Sensor Module – TCS230 Color Detection Sensor
Product Description
The GY-31 TCS3200 RGB Color Sensor Module is an optical sensor designed to detect and distinguish colors by converting light intensity into a frequency signal. It uses an array of photodiodes with red, green, blue, and clear filters to measure the color components of an object.
The module features programmable color selection and output frequency scaling, making it suitable for Arduino, ESP32, and other microcontroller-based projects. Its onboard white LED illumination helps detect colors on non-luminous objects, while the LED can be switched on or off as required.
This sensor is ideal for robotics, color-sorting systems, educational electronics projects, and DIY automation applications.
Key Features
RGB Color Detection: Detects red, green, and blue color components.
TCS3200 Sensor IC: Converts light intensity into a frequency output.
64 Photodiodes: Includes 16 red-filtered, 16 green-filtered, 16 blue-filtered, and 16 clear photodiodes.
Programmable Color Selection: Selects the desired photodiode filter through control pins.
Adjustable Frequency Scaling: Supports 2%, 20%, and 100% output scaling.
Built-in White LEDs: Provides illumination for detecting colors on non-luminous objects.
Microcontroller Compatible: Suitable for Arduino, ESP32, and other compatible controllers.
Compact Design: PCB module with standard 2.54 mm pin spacing.
Wide Supply Range: Operates from a 3–5 V supply, according to the supplied product specifications.
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
Product Model | GY-31 |
Sensor IC | TCS3200 / TCS230-compatible module |
Sensor Type | RGB color detection sensor |
Detection Method | Light intensity to frequency conversion |
Photodiode Array | 64 photodiodes |
Red Photodiodes | 16 |
Green Photodiodes | 16 |
Blue Photodiodes | 16 |
Clear Photodiodes | 16 |
Output Signal | Square-wave frequency |
Typical Frequency Range | 2 Hz–500 kHz, sensor-dependent |
Frequency Scaling | 2%, 20%, 100% |
Operating Voltage | 3–5 V, as specified for this module |
Illumination | Onboard white LEDs |
LED Control | Switchable via module control, depending on board design |
Interface | Digital control pins and frequency output |
Pin Spacing | 2.54 mm |
Applications | Color recognition, sorting, robotics, and automation |
Applications
Arduino and ESP32 color detection projects
Automatic color-sorting machines
Robot navigation and object identification
Color-based product counting and classification
Industrial and DIY automation prototypes
Educational STEM and electronics experiments
Detecting colored objects on conveyor belts
Light and color measurement experiments
How It Works
The TCS3200 sensor uses filtered photodiodes to measure the intensity of red, green, blue, or unfiltered light. The selected photodiode group converts the detected light into a square-wave output signal.
A microcontroller measures the output frequency for each color channel and processes the readings to estimate the object's color. Detection accuracy depends on illumination, distance, surface properties, calibration, and ambient light.
Package Includes
1 × GY-31 TCS3200 RGB Color Sensor Module
Important Notes
This module measures reflected light and is intended for detecting the colors of illuminated objects; it does not directly identify every color without software processing.
For more consistent readings, maintain a stable sensor-to-object distance and control ambient lighting.
Check the module's pin labels and supply requirements before connecting it to your controller.
Verify the exact board revision and sensor IC if you require a specific TCS3200 or TCS230 variant.
