DFRobot SEN0503 IR Break Beam Sensor (50cm) are infrared break-beam sensors that are a simple way to detect motion. This IR break beam sensor works up to 50cm with a fast and stable response of < 2ms. The module can be conveniently installed in a narrow space with a small 20mm x 10mm x 9mm size. It can also operate within a temperature of -25°C to 60°C. Power the sensor by a voltage of 3.0V to 5V DC. In smart robot competitions, it can be used with Arduino for some simple motion detection, speed detection, timing, etc.
The DFRobot SEN0503 works by having an emitter side that sends out a beam of human-invisible IR light, then a receiver across the way which is sensitive to that same light. When something passes between the two and is not transparent to IR, the beam is broken, and the receiver will output a signal to let the user know.