32×24 Thermal IR Array MLX90640 – RAKwireless RAK12052

The RAKwireless RAK12052 is a compact thermal IR array module for the WisBlock ecosystem built around the Melexis MLX90640. It outputs a 32×24 pixel thermal grid (a total of 768 IR pixels) and comes factory calibrated, making it straightforward to integrate thermal sensing into prototypes and products without building a full thermal camera stack. The resolution is intentionally low but practical—often ideal for detection and control use cases rather than detailed imaging.

In addition to the IR pixel data, the MLX90640 includes an integrated ambient temperature sensor (Ta) and a supply sensor (VDD). All outputs (IR, Ta, VDD) are stored in internal RAM and accessed through an I2C-compatible digital interface. With a stated NETD of 0.1 K RMS at 1 Hz, the module can detect small temperature differences that matter for occupancy, hot-spot detection, and thermal trend monitoring. The provided 55° × 35° field of view works well for room-zone coverage and localized detection.

Practical use cases include:

High-precision non-contact temperature sensing: surface temperature monitoring and hotspot detection

Presence detection / person localization: occupancy and zone-based detection using a thermal grid

Intrusion or motion detection: thermal motion against background

Building HVAC control: thermal input for smarter air-conditioning and comfort control

Industrial monitoring: temperature control of moving parts and thermal anomaly detection

The module runs on 3.3 V, draws < 23 mA, and is specified for -40 °C to 80 °C operation.