> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.andymark.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.andymark.com/frc-electronics/can-sensors/can-color-sensor-am-5683.md).

# CAN Color Sensor (am-5683)

![AndyMark CAN Color Sensor (am-5683)](https://2060440806-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcQgnvayQud3Xf5sZi0wz%2Fuploads%2FHKgGuYe05TxfwB2fgmNV%2Fcan-color-sensor-am-5683-product.jpg?alt=media)

The **AndyMark CAN Color Sensor** is a compact CAN device that measures red, green, blue, clear, and proximity values. The clear channel provides a reference for overall light level. It can detect nearby objects, compare target colors, and monitor lighting conditions without requiring a camera.

See Specifications for electrical and optical details, Examples for code, and Device API for the complete library interface.

***

## At a glance

| Parameter                 | Value                                  |
| ------------------------- | -------------------------------------- |
| AndyMark part number      | am-5683                                |
| Communication             | CAN                                    |
| Sensing IC                | TMD3725                                |
| Measurement channels      | Red, green, blue, clear, and proximity |
| Published proximity range | Approximately 0 mm to 200 mm           |
| Field of view             | Approximately 46°                      |
| Default CAN ID            | 0                                      |
| Maximum input voltage     | 16 V                                   |

## When to use this sensor

* Confirm that a game piece is present near the sensing face.
* Compare the color of nearby game elements, indicators, or markings.
* Monitor an intake, chute, or feeder for flow and jams.
* Use the clear channel to adapt application-specific thresholds to changing light levels.

## Before installation

* Mount the sensor at a repeatable distance and angle from the target.
* Use a short shroud when practical to reduce glare and unwanted background light.
* Keep the sensing window clean and protect it from direct impacts.
* Decide whether the onboard illumination LED will be used, then test under realistic lighting.
* Support the cable with strain relief near the sensor.
* Assign a unique CAN ID before placing multiple default-ID devices on the same bus.

## Initial checks

1. Verify CAN discovery and the configured device ID.
2. Observe raw red, green, blue, clear, and proximity values with no target present.
3. Repeat with each intended target at the actual operating distance and angle.
4. Normalize color channels only when the clear value is greater than zero.
5. Establish thresholds from measured data rather than assuming fixed values will work in every installation.
6. Recheck performance after lighting, mounting, target material, or LED settings change.

## Resources

* [CAN Color Sensor product page](https://andymark.com/products/color-and-proximity-sensor-andymark-standard-sensors?variant=45224853930156)
* Examples
* Device API