ARK Electronics has introduced the ARK DIST SR and ARK DIST MR, two new distance sensor modules designed for mission-critical rangefinding in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), robotics platforms, and other defense-grade applications.
USA-manufactured and built to meet strict NDAA compliance requirements, the compact, low-SWaP sensors support CAN and UART interfaces, feature DroneCAN and MAVLink connectivity, and provide ROS2 compatibility for advanced autonomy frameworks.
Each unit ships with a 4-pin Pixhawk Standard CAN cable and a 6-pin Pixhawk Standard UART cable for rapid deployment.
ARK DIST SR
The ARK DIST SR is engineered around the Broadcom AFBR-S50LV85D Time-of-Flight distance sensor, achieving a typical range of up to 30 meters. Its 850 nm laser light source projects a 2° × 2° beam, illuminating one to three pixels, with a dedicated reference pixel for continuous system health monitoring. Capable of operating in ambient light levels up to 200,000 lux, the SR model offers a 12.4° × 6.2° field of view with 32 pixels for precise scene coverage.
Key specifications:
- Two Pixhawk Standard CAN connectors with 4-pin JST GH
- One Pixhawk Standard UART connector with 6-pin JST GH
- One Pixhawk Standard debug connector with 6-pin JST SH
- Dimensions: 2.0 cm × 2.8 cm × 1.4 cm, weight: 4 g
- Operating voltage: 5 V, average current draw: 84 mA, maximum: 86 mA
ARK DIST MR
The ARK DIST MR uses the Broadcom AFBR-S50LX85D Time-of-Flight distance sensor, extending the range capability to 50 meters while retaining the same operational resilience and environmental tolerance as the SR model. It also delivers focused 2° × 2° laser measurements, performs in light levels up to 200,000 lux, and maintains identical interface and connector options.
Key specifications:
- Two Pixhawk Standard CAN connectors with 4-pin JST GH
- One Pixhawk Standard UART connector with 6-pin JST GH
- One Pixhawk Standard debug connector with 6-pin JST SH
- Dimensions: 2.0 cm × 2.8 cm × 1.4 cm, weight: 4 g
- Operating voltage: 5 V, average current draw: 78 mA, maximum: 84 mA
Designed for Operational Reliability
Both ARK DIST SR and ARK DIST MR modules combine precision rangefinding with USA manufacturing quality, making them ideal for defense and government unmanned systems where dependable sensor performance is essential.
Their compact form factor, low-power profile, and multiple interface standards enable straightforward integration into a wide range of mission-critical platforms, from Blue UAS-qualified aerial vehicles to specialized robotics systems.
