Common Sensors Used with Arduino
Boards
1. Temperature and Humidity Sensor (DHT11)
Primary Function: Measures temperature and humidity in the environment.
Key Specifications:
- Temperature Range: 0–50°C
- Humidity Range: 20–90% RH
- Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V
- Digital signal output
Connection to Arduino: Connect VCC to 5V, GND to GND, and DATA to a digital pin (e.g.,
D2) on the Arduino.
Example Projects: Weather monitoring systems, greenhouse automation, smart thermostats.
2. Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04)
Primary Function: Measures distance to an object using ultrasonic waves.
Key Specifications:
- Range: 2cm to 400cm
- Operating Voltage: 5V
- Accuracy: ±3mm
Connection to Arduino: Connect VCC to 5V, GND to GND, TRIG to a digital pin (e.g., D9), and
ECHO to another digital pin (e.g., D10).
Example Projects: Obstacle detection, parking sensors, distance measurement devices.
3. Light Dependent Resistor (LDR)
Primary Function: Measures light intensity.
Key Specifications:
- Analog sensor
- Resistance changes with light intensity
- Typically used with a voltage divider circuit
Connection to Arduino: Connect one leg to 5V and the other to an analog pin (e.g., A0) with a
resistor to GND.
Example Projects: Automatic street lights, light meters, solar trackers.
4. Passive Infrared (PIR) Motion Sensor
Primary Function: Detects motion based on infrared radiation changes.
Key Specifications:
- Detection Range: 3–7 meters
- Operating Voltage: 5V
- Digital output
Connection to Arduino: Connect VCC to 5V, GND to GND, and OUT to a digital pin (e.g., D7).
Example Projects: Motion-activated lights, security alarms, occupancy detection systems.
5. Gas Sensor (MQ-2)
Primary Function: Detects gas concentrations like LPG, CO, and smoke.
Key Specifications:
- Operating Voltage: 5V
- Analog and digital output
- Preheat time: 20 seconds
Connection to Arduino: Connect VCC to 5V, GND to GND, and AOUT to an analog pin (e.g.,
A0).
Example Projects: Gas leakage detectors, air quality monitors, safety systems.
References
1. Arduino. (n.d.). https://www.arduino.cc/
2. DHT11 datasheet. (n.d.).
3. HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor datasheet. (n.d.).
4. LDR sensor basics. (n.d.).
5. PIR Motion Sensor datasheet. (n.d.).
6. MQ-2 Gas Sensor datasheet. (n.d.).