
Benewake TF-NOVA Line-Pattern LiDAR Sensor with VCSEL for Precision Detection and Application Versatility

The Benewake TF-NOVA is a compact line-pattern laser beam LiDAR designed for precise detection in both indoor and outdoor environments. It offers one-dimensional area detection, making it suitable for applications such as obstacle detection and presence activation triggers. The TF-NOVA supports customizable parameters, allowing it to adapt to various scenarios.
Key features include a compact design, a waterproof lens, and support for multiple interfaces, ensuring versatile deployment options. Its extensive command set enables seamless integration with existing systems. Built for challenging conditions, the TF-NOVA delivers reliable and accurate performance across a wide range of precision detection applications.
Previously, we covered other LiDAR sensor modules, such as the MappyDot and the SparkFun Garmin LIDAR-Lite v4. Feel free to check them out.
TF-NOVA LiDAR Sensor Technical Specifications:
- Detection Range:
- ≥3m @ 3% reflectivity, 0 Klux
- ≥7m @ 10% reflectivity, 0 Klux
- ≥2m @ 10% reflectivity, 100 Klux
- Blind Zone: ≤ 0.1m
- Accuracy: ±3cm @ 0.1-4m
- Repeatability: 1cm (1 sigma)
- Distance Resolution: 1cm
- Frame Rate:
- Default: 100Hz
- Customizable: 1-500Hz
- Laser Light Source: VCSEL
- Central Wavelength: 905nm
- Frequency: 1Hz~900Hz
- Field of View (FoV):
- Typical: 14°×1°
- Detects a 25×1.7 cm area at 1m for precise targeting
- Eye Safety: Class 1 Eye-safe [EN60825] (Design assured, third-party certification pending)
- Interfaces/Expansion:
- 1.25mm-5P Connector
- UART, IIC, I/O
- Power Supply: DC 5V ±10%
- Operating Temperature: -25℃ to +70℃
- Storage Temperature: -30℃ to +80℃
- Physical Dimensions: 26.5mm x 21.05mm x 12.0mm
- Weight: <5 grams
The TF-NOVA LiDAR features both IR and visible laser spots. The IR laser has a wavelength of 905nm and is classified as Class 1 according to IEC 60825-1:2014 and EN 60825-1:2014+A11:2021. The LiDAR operates based on the pulsed time-of-flight principle.

The TF-NOVA is a typical Pulse Time of Flight (PToF) sensor. It emits a narrow pulse laser, which is collimated by the transmitting lens. After being reflected by the measured target, the laser enters the receiving system and is focused on the detector by the receiving lens. The time difference between the transmitted and received signals is calculated through circuit amplification and filtering. Using the speed of light, the distance between the TF-NOVA and the target is then determined. The sensor’s field of view (FoV) is the angle it covers, with a horizontal FoV of 14° and a vertical FoV of 1°.

The TF-NOVA reliably detects a 5 cm target with 10% reflectivity at a range of 2 meters, performing well in both bright sunlight and low light conditions. In summer, it can detect black vehicles within 2 meters. The TF-NOVA supports both standalone and networked operations, and it can be configured for I/O output mode, which helps reduce the data processing workload.
The Benewake TF-NOVA Line Pattern Laser Beam LiDAR is ideal for a wide range of applications, including Assisted Focusing and Intrusion Detection. It is well-suited for delivery systems in last-mile logistics, obstacle avoidance for robotic systems such as pallet transport robots and fall prevention robots, volume and liquid level detection, highway monitoring, smart parking solutions, and space and crowd flow detection to enhance safety.
The Benewake TF-NOVA LiDAR Sensor is available for purchase online at ΑliExpress for $29.66 and at Youyeetoo for $34.71. For more details, visit the Benewake product page.