Long-Range Distance Measurement in a Compact Sensor
The LS Lidar LS74A is a long-range single-point laser distance sensor developed for applications where equipment needs to determine the distance to an object along a fixed measurement direction. Instead of producing a 2D or 3D point cloud like a scanning LiDAR, the LS74A concentrates on one task: providing continuous distance measurements to a target in a compact and lightweight module.
Its combination of long measuring range, low power consumption and small dimensions makes the LS74A particularly useful for integration into UAVs, optoelectronic equipment, rangefinders, monitoring systems and custom measurement platforms. For engineers and system integrators, this provides a practical way to add long-range laser distance measurement without installing a complete scanning LiDAR system.
905 nm Time of Flight Distance Measurement
The LS74A uses Time of Flight (TOF) technology. The sensor emits a laser pulse towards the target and measures the time required for the reflected signal to return. Because the speed of light is known, this travel time can be converted into the distance between the sensor and the object.
In practical use, this allows equipment to monitor the distance to terrain, structures, obstacles or other targets without physical contact. The sensor operates at a 905 nm wavelength and provides a ranging accuracy of ±1 m (1σ). Measurement output can be configured from 1 to 10 Hz, allowing the update rate to be adapted to the application.
Long Measuring Range
The LS74A is designed specifically for long-distance measurements. Depending on target reflectivity and operating conditions, the sensor can measure over distances extending to approximately 1500 metres. As with any laser distance sensor, achievable range depends on factors including the reflectivity of the target, atmospheric conditions, installation and the measurement environment.
This long-range capability makes the sensor useful where conventional short-range proximity sensors cannot provide sufficient reach. Potential applications include terrain and structure distance measurement, UAV obstacle detection, optoelectronic systems and remote monitoring equipment.
Designed for UAV and Equipment Integration
At only a few centimetres in size and roughly 20 grams in weight depending on product revision, the LS74A can be integrated into systems where space and payload are limited. This is particularly relevant for drones and other airborne platforms, where every additional component affects payload capacity and flight performance.
The sensor is also suitable for fixed equipment and custom engineering projects. Applications can include electro-optical pods, laser rangefinders, infrared thermal imaging systems, scopes and other optical or monitoring equipment that needs an independent distance measurement input.
TTL Serial Communication
The LS74A communicates through a TTL serial interface. This enables the sensor to be connected to an external controller or embedded system for real-time measurement data and device control. The communication protocol provides access to ranging information, device information and operating modes, making the sensor suitable for OEM integration and custom hardware development.
Its adjustable 1–10 Hz output frequency means integrators can choose an update rate appropriate for the application rather than processing more measurements than the system requires.
Low Power Requirements
With power consumption of approximately 1.5 W or less, the LS74A is suitable for battery-powered and mobile platforms. Low power consumption is especially valuable on UAVs, portable measurement equipment and remotely deployed systems where available electrical power is limited.
The sensor is designed to operate across temperatures from approximately -20°C to +65°C, allowing integration into equipment intended for a wide variety of outdoor and industrial environments. The final installation should still provide appropriate mechanical and environmental protection for the intended working conditions.
Typical LS74A Applications
- UAV and aircraft distance or obstacle measurement
- Optoelectronic and electro-optical systems
- Laser rangefinder integration
- Infrared and thermal imaging equipment
- Terrain and structure distance measurement
- Environmental and remote monitoring systems
- Custom OEM measurement equipment
Single-Point LiDAR or Scanning LiDAR?
The LS74A should not be confused with a 3D laser scanner. A scanning LiDAR measures many points across an area to create profiles or point clouds. The LS74A measures distance along a single fixed direction. This makes it a more focused solution when an application needs to know how far away a particular surface or object is rather than capture its complete geometry.
For UAV developers, engineers and equipment manufacturers, that distinction can simplify both hardware and data processing. When only distance information is required, a compact single-point sensor can avoid the additional size, power consumption and processing requirements associated with a full scanning LiDAR system.
Buying the LS Lidar LS74A from Global GPS Systems
Global GPS Systems supplies professional positioning, surveying and LiDAR equipment to customers worldwide. Our team can help determine whether the LS74A is appropriate for your measurement application and assist with product selection and integration requirements. This is particularly useful when selecting a distance sensor for a UAV, surveying platform or custom engineering project where measurement range, target characteristics, communication and installation requirements need to be considered together.














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