Our new QTR-3A and QTR-3RC reflectance sensor arrays pack three IR emitter and receiver (phototransistor) pairs onto a board measuring just 1.25″ × 0.3″ (32 mm × 8 mm). With the sensors mounted on a 0.375″ pitch, these sensor arrays are great for sensing 3/4″ black electrical tape when used as minimal detectors on line-following robots!

Two versions of these sensor modules are available: the QTR-3A provides three analog voltage outputs, while the QTR-3RC provides three digital pulse signals that can be read with digital I/O lines.

The SparkFun Starter Kit for RedBoard is an easy way to get started building entertaining and educational circuits with SparkFun’s RedBoard, an Arduino clone that is compatible with the Uno R3. The kit includes a RedBoard along with various types of sensors and indicators. A downloadable guide features example projects to introduce you to the world of embedded electronics.

We have released three new step-up regulators that can boost input voltages as low as 0.5 V and have typical efficiencies between 70 and 90%. Unlike most boost regulators, these offer a true shutdown option that turns off power to the load. They also automatically switch to a linear down-regulation mode when the input voltage exceeds the output, making them great for powering electronics projects from 1 – 3 NiMH, NiCd, or alkaline cells or from a single lithium-ion cell.

These regulators are available with a 3.3 V or 5 V fixed output voltage or an adjustable output voltage (2 V – 5.25 V).