Adafruit 985 Ultrasonic HRLV-EZ4

- July 25, 2025

In industries where precision, durability, and reliability are non-negotiable, the Adafruit 985 Ultrasonic HRLV-EZ4 stands out as a go-to solution for distance measurement and level detection. From automated machinery to petrol tank monitoring systems, this high-resolution ultrasonic rangefinder is engineered to meet the growing demand for smart sensing solutions in modern industrial operations.

What Is the Adafruit 985 Ultrasonic HRLV-EZ4?

The HRLV-EZ4, developed by MaxBotix and distributed through Adafruit, is a compact ultrasonic sensor that emits high-frequency sound pulses to detect the distance of nearby objects. It delivers millimeter-level resolution, which allows for precise readings in a wide variety of applications. With a sensing range of 1 inch to 254 inches, it caters to both close-proximity and long-range measurement requirements.

Its narrow beam pattern makes it especially useful in environments with multiple reflective surfaces or moving equipment, where minimizing signal interference is essential. The sensor is easy to integrate into microcontroller-based systems (like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or STM32), making it ideal for both engineers and system integrators.

Technical Features and Performance

Let’s break down the key specifications that make the HRLV-EZ4 a standout choice:

Operating Voltage: 2.5V to 5.5V
Power Consumption: Less than 3 mA (very power-efficient)
Resolution: 1 mm
Output Options: Analog voltage, pulse width, and serial (RS232 or TTL)
Beam Pattern: Narrow, low side-lobe design — minimizes false readings
Max Range: Up to 254 inches (approximately 6.45 meters)
Operating Temperature: -40°C to +65°C

This rangefinder also features internal filtering and temperature compensation, enhancing accuracy in fluctuating industrial environments.

Use Cases Across Industries

The Adafruit HRLV-EZ4 is not limited to just one use-case. Its ruggedness and versatility make it a preferred sensor across multiple verticals:

1. Petrol and Gas Industry

It plays a vital role in tank level monitoring, ensuring that storage units are filled or emptied to the correct volume without human intervention. Its ultrasonic sensing capability makes it safe for explosive or volatile environments where direct contact is dangerous.

2. Industrial Automation

In manufacturing lines, the HRLV-EZ4 is used to detect the presence or absence of objects, align parts, or initiate specific machine processes based on proximity data.

3. Robotics

Mobile robots rely on sensors like the HRLV-EZ4 for obstacle avoidance, navigation, and mapping, especially in tight or crowded spaces where accurate detection is crucial.

4. Fluid and Water Tank Monitoring

This sensor excels in non-contact liquid level detection, making it suitable for agriculture, wastewater management, and chemical handling systems.

5. Security and Smart Infrastructure

It can be embedded into security systems to detect intrusion, monitor doors, or activate alarms based on motion within a set distance range.

Why Engineers Trust This Sensor

What truly sets the HRLV-EZ4 apart is its low noise, high consistency, and robust construction. Engineers and system designers appreciate the fact that:

It does not suffer from signal degradation in dusty or dirty environments.
It maintains stability even in vibration-heavy settings like workshops and drilling stations.
It works seamlessly with both analog and digital interfaces, making it plug-and-play for many platforms.

These features make it an industry-favorite for mission-critical operations that depend on zero downtime and high precision.

Zenka Europe: Trusted Supply Partner for the Adafruit 985 HRLV-EZ4

Zenka Europe has supplied the HRLV-EZ4 sensor to manufacturing, automation, and energy companies across Europe. As a reliable supplier of hard-to-find and industrial-grade components, Zenka ensures: