def read_ambient(self, timeout_sec=1):
        """Read the ambient light sensor and return it as an unsigned 16-bit value.
        """
        # Clear any interrupts.
        self._clear_interrupt(VCNL4010_INT_ALS_READY)
        # Call base class read_ambient and return result.
        return super(VCNL4010, self).read_ambient(timeout_sec)