Detect Alcohol Vapors with Arduino | MQ-3 Gas Sensor Tutorial

Gas sensors play a vital role in various applications, from breathalyzers to industrial gas detection systems. The MQ-3 gas sensor is widely used to detect alcohol vapors, making it ideal for breathalyzer projects and ethanol-based gas detection. In this blog, we will explore how to interface the MQ-3 gas sensor with an Arduino, covering wiring, coding, and real-time monitoring.

MQ-3 gas sensor with Arduino

What is the MQ-3 Gas Sensor?

The MQ-3 gas sensor is designed to detect alcohol vapors in the air. It has high sensitivity to ethanol and can be used for applications like breathalyzer systems and alcohol level detection in industrial environments. The sensor provides both analog and digital outputs, making it easy to integrate with Arduino and other microcontrollers.

MQ-3 gas sensor specifications

Components Required

To get started, you will need the following components:

Components required for this tutorial

✅ Arduino UNO board

✅ MQ-3 Gas Sensor Module

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ USB cable for Arduino

Components Required

Follow this simple connection guide:

Connection MQ-3 gas sensor

The connection between the MQ-2 gas sensor and Arduino

Wiring diagram

✅VCC → 5V (Arduino)

✅GND → GND (Arduino)

✅A0 → A0 (Arduino) (for analog readings)

✅D0 (Digital Output, optional) → Any digital pin on Arduino (not used in this example)

Components Required

Using the Arduino IDE, upload the following Arduino sketch to read sensor values and display them on the Serial Monitor or you can download the code HERE.

const int sensorPin = A0;  // Analog pin connected to MQ-3
int sensorValue = 0;       // Variable to store sensor readings

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);      // Start serial communication
}

void loop() {
  sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read alcohol concentration
  Serial.print("Alcohol Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.println(sensorValue);
  delay(1000); // Wait for a second before next reading
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code

Testing the Sensor

After uploading the code to your Arduino, open the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE.

Observe the sensor values. In clean air, the values will be relatively low.

Introduce a gas source near the sensor and observe the increase in values.

Conclusion

The MQ-3 gas sensor is a useful component for detecting alcohol vapors in the air, making it ideal for breathalyzer projects and ethanol monitoring. By integrating it with an Arduino, you can build a simple yet effective alcohol detection system. This project is great for learning about gas sensors and how they work in real-world applications.

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. MQ-3 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Lazada:

1. MQ-3 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Aliexpress:

1. MQ-3 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Video

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#arduino  #gassensor  #mq3  #arduinoprojects  #gasdetector

Arduino Gas Sensor Tutorial: Integrating MQ-2 for Gas Detection

Gas sensors play a crucial role in safety and environmental monitoring applications. One of the most popular sensors for detecting flammable gases and smoke is the MQ-2 gas sensor. In this blog, we will explore how to interface the MQ-2 gas sensor with an Arduino to detect gases like LPG, methane, hydrogen, and smoke. We will also cover the wiring, coding, and real-time monitoring of gas concentrations using the Serial Monitor in Arduino IDE.

MQ-2 gas sensor with Arduino

What is the MQ-2 Gas Sensor?

The MQ-2 gas sensor is a versatile electronic module designed to detect combustible gases. It has high sensitivity to LPG, propane, hydrogen, methane, carbon monoxide, and even alcohol fumes. The sensor provides both analog and digital outputs, making it easy to integrate with microcontrollers like Arduino.

MQ-2 gas sensor specifications

Components Required

To get started, you will need the following components:

Components required for this tutorial

✅ Arduino UNO board

✅ MQ-2 Gas Sensor Module

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ USB cable for Arduino

Components Required

Follow this simple connection guide:

Connection MQ-2 gas sensor

The connection between the MQ-2 gas sensor and Arduino

Wiring diagram

✅VCC → 5V (Arduino)

✅GND → GND (Arduino)

✅A0 → A0 (Arduino) (for analog readings)

✅D0 (Digital Output, optional) → Any digital pin on Arduino (not used in this example)

Components Required

Using the Arduino IDE, upload the following Arduino sketch to read sensor values and display them on the Serial Monitor or you can download the code HERE.

const int sensorPin = A0;  // Analog pin connected to MQ-2
int sensorValue = 0;       // Variable to store sensor readings

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);      // Start serial communication
}

void loop() {
  sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read gas concentration
  Serial.print("Gas Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.println(sensorValue);
  delay(1000); // Wait for a second before next reading
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code

Testing the Sensor

After uploading the code to your Arduino, open the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE.

Observe the sensor values. In clean air, the values will be relatively low.

Introduce a gas source near the sensor and observe the increase in values.

Conclusion

The MQ-2 gas sensor is a powerful tool for detecting various combustible gases, making it ideal for home safety and industrial applications. By integrating it with an Arduino, you can create a gas leakage detection system that provides real-time monitoring. This simple yet effective project is a great starting point for anyone interested in sensor technology and IoT applications.

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. MQ-2 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Lazada:

1. MQ-2 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Aliexpress:

1. MQ-2 Gas Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Video

🔔 If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow makers! For more tutorials, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media. 🚀

#arduino #gassensor #mq2 #arduinoprojects #gasdetector

Arduino Flame Sensor Tutorial | Simple Code & Wiring Explained!

Flame sensors are essential components in fire detection systems, making them useful for various DIY projects and safety applications. In this guide, we’ll show you how to test a 4-pin flame sensor module using an Arduino Uno with a simple code to monitor its output in the Serial Monitor.

Flame sensor with Arduino UNO

Understanding the 4-Pin Flame Sensor

The 4-pin flame sensor detects infrared light in the 760nm to 1100nm range, making it ideal for detecting fire or high-heat sources. It features:

Flame sensor specifications

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Components Required

To follow along with the tutorial, you'll need:

Components required for this tutorial

✅ Arduino UNO board

✅ 4-Pin Flame Sensor Module

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ USB cable for Arduino

Step 2: Setting Up the Circuit

Proper wiring is crucial for accurate readings. Follow these connections:

Connection flame sensor

The connection between the flame sensor and Arduino

Wiring diagram

✅VCC → 5V (Arduino)

✅GND → GND (Arduino)

✅A0 → A0 (Arduino) (for analog readings)

✅D0 → D2 (Arduino) (for digital output)

Once connected, plug in the USB cable to the Arduino. The PWR LED on the Arduino and flame sensor should light up, indicating power.

Step 3: Programming the Arduino

Using the Arduino IDE, you can write a simple program to control the servo motor or you can download the code HERE.

int flameAnalog = A0;
int flameDigital = 2;

void setup() {
    Serial.begin(9600);
    pinMode(flameDigital, INPUT);
}

void loop() {
    int analogValue = analogRead(flameAnalog);
    int digitalValue = digitalRead(flameDigital);
    
    Serial.print("Analog Value: ");
    Serial.print(analogValue);
    Serial.print(" | Digital Value: ");
    Serial.println(digitalValue);
    
    delay(500);
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code

Step 4: Expected Output

After uploading the code to your Arduino, open the Serial Monitor in the Arduino IDE. Bring a flame source, such as a lighter or matchstick, near the sensor. 

When no flame is detected, the sensor will produce high analog values and a digital output of 1. 

When a flame is near, the analog value decreases, and the digital output changes to 0.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the sensor doesn’t detect flames, adjust the potentiometer to fine-tune sensitivity.

• Ensure correct wiring and that the module is powered.

• Try using different flame sources like a candle or matchstick.

Conclusion

Testing a 4-pin flame sensor with Arduino is simple and useful for fire detection projects. By following this guide, you can integrate the sensor into alarms, security systems, or automated responses. Try it out and let us know your results! 🔥🚀

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. Flame Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Lazada:

1. Flame Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Aliexpress:

1. Flame Sensor
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3
4. USB Cable

Video

🔔 If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow makers! For more tutorials, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media. 🚀

#Arduino #FlameSensor #FireDetection #DIYTech #EmbeddedSystems

Beginner's Guide: Using SG90 and MG90 Servo Motors with Arduino

In our latest tutorial, we delve into the world of servo motors, focusing on the SG90 and MG90 models, and demonstrate how to control them using an Arduino board. This guide is perfect for beginners and electronics enthusiasts eager to enhance their projects with precise motor control.

SG90 and MG90 servo motors with Arduino

Understanding Servo Motors

Servo motors are essential components in robotics and automation, offering precise control over angular or linear positions. The SG90 and MG90S are popular micro servo motors, each with unique characteristics.

Specification of servo motors SG90 and MG90S

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Components Required

To follow along with the tutorial, you'll need:

Components required for this tutorial

✅ Arduino UNO board

✅ SG90 or MG90 servo motor

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ USB cable for Arduino

Step 2: Setting Up the Circuit

Connecting the servo motor to the Arduino is straightforward:

Connection servo motor

Connection between servo motor and Arduino

✅Brown Wire: Connects to GND on the Arduino

✅Red Wire: Connects to the 5V pin

✅Orange/Yellow Wire: Connects to a PWM-capable digital pin 9

Step 3: Programming the Arduino

Using the Arduino IDE, you can write a simple program to control the servo motor or you can download the code HERE.

#include <Servo.h>

Servo myServo;

void setup() {
  myServo.attach(9); // Attach servo to pin 9
}

void loop() {
  myServo.write(0);   // Move servo to 0 degrees
  delay(1000);        // Wait 1 second
  myServo.write(90);  // Move servo to 90 degrees
  delay(1000);        // Wait 1 second
  myServo.write(180); // Move servo to 180 degrees
  delay(1000);        // Wait 1 second
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code

Step 4: Expected Output

After uploading the code to your Arduino, observe the servo motor as it moves through the specified angles. If the servo doesn't respond as expected, double-check your wiring and ensure the motor receives adequate power.

Servo motor SG90 at 0°

Servo motor SG90 at 180°

Servo motor MG90S at 0°

Servo motor MG90S at 180°

Conclusion

By following this tutorial, you've learned how to control SG90 and MG90 servo motors using simple Arduino code. This foundational skill opens up possibilities for more complex projects involving precise motor control. For a visual walkthrough and additional insights, watch our full tutorial below:

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. Servo Motor SG90/MG90S
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Lazada:

1. Servo Motor SG90/MG90S
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Aliexpress:

1. Servo Motor SG90/MG90S
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Video

🔔 If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow makers! For more tutorials, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media. 🚀

Arduino Distance Measurement Tutorial Using HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor

Integrating the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor with an Arduino UNO allows for precise distance measurements, making it invaluable for projects like obstacle-avoiding robots and distance monitoring systems. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of setting up and programming the HC-SR04 sensor with your Arduino.

HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor with an Arduino UNO

Understanding the HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor

The HC-SR04 sensor determines distance by emitting ultrasonic waves at 40 kHz through its transmitter. When these waves encounter an object, they reflect back to the sensor's receiver. By calculating the time taken for the echo to return, the sensor can determine the distance to the object using the formula.

Dimension and specification of HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Components Required

To test the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor with an Arduino, you’ll need:

Components required for this project

✅ Arduino UNO board

✅ HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ Breadboard

✅ USB cable for Arduino

Step 2: Wiring the HC-SR04 to the Arduino UNO

Here’s how to connect the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor to your Arduino:

Connection between HC-SR04 to the Arduino UNO 

✅VCC to 5V: Connect the VCC pin of the HC-SR04 to the 5V pin on the Arduino.

✅GND to GND: Connect the GND pin of the sensor to the GND pin on the Arduino.

✅Trig to Digital Pin 9: Connect the Trig pin to Digital Pin 9 on the Arduino.

✅Echo to Digital Pin 10: Connect the Echo pin to Digital Pin 10 on the Arduino.

Step 3: Programming the Arduino

Now, Open the Arduino IDE and input the following code to measure distances using the HC-SR04 sensor or you can download the code HERE.

#define TRIG_PIN 9
#define ECHO_PIN 10

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode(TRIG_PIN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(ECHO_PIN, INPUT);
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(TRIG_PIN, LOW);
  delayMicroseconds(2);
  digitalWrite(TRIG_PIN, HIGH);
  delayMicroseconds(10);
  digitalWrite(TRIG_PIN, LOW);

  long duration = pulseIn(ECHO_PIN, HIGH);
  float distance_cm = duration * 0.034 / 2;

  Serial.print("Distance: ");
  Serial.print(distance_cm);
  Serial.println(" cm");

  delay(500);
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code

Step 4: Expected Output

After successfully uploading the code to your Arduino UNO, open the Serial Monitor to observe real-time distance readings in centimetres. To assess the sensor's accuracy, position objects at various distances from the HC-SR04 sensor and monitor the corresponding measurements displayed. This hands-on approach allows you to evaluate the sensor's performance across different ranges. 

Position objects at various distances from the HC-SR04 sensor

Conclusion

By following this guide, you've successfully integrated the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor with the Arduino UNO to measure distances. This foundational setup can be expanded for applications like obstacle avoidance in robotics, liquid-level detection, and more. Experiment with different objects and environments to fully explore the sensor's capabilities.

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. HC-SR04
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Lazada:

1. HC-SR04
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Aliexpress:

1. HC-SR04
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Video

🔔 If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow makers! For more tutorials, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media. 🚀

DHT11 Sensor with Arduino | Simple Code to Check Temperature & Humidity

Are you looking for an easy way to measure temperature and humidity using an Arduino? The DHT11 sensor is one of the most popular and affordable choices for beginners. In this blog, we’ll guide you through testing a DHT11 sensor with simple Arduino code, wiring diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.

DHT11 Sensor with Arduino

What is the DHT11 Sensor?

The DHT11 is a basic temperature and humidity sensor used in many DIY electronics projects. It operates on low power and provides reasonably accurate readings, making it ideal for home automation, weather stations, and IoT applications.

Dimension and specifications of DHT 11

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Components Required

To test the DHT11 sensor with an Arduino, you’ll need:

✅ Arduino Uno/Nano

✅ DHT11 Sensor

✅ Jumper Wires

✅ Breadboard

Components for Testing

Step 2: Wiring the DHT11 with Arduino

Here’s how to connect the DHT11 sensor to your Arduino:

Diagram Showing Wiring

💡 Note: Some DHT11 modules have a pull-up resistor built-in. If you’re using a raw sensor, connect a 10kΩ pull-up resistor between VCC and Data pin for stable readings.

Step 3: Arduino Code for Testing DHT11

Now, let’s upload a simple code to read temperature and humidity from the DHT11 sensor. You can DHT11 code HERE.

#include <DHT.h>

// Define sensor type
#define DHTPIN 8      // Data pin connected to pin 8
#define DHTTYPE DHT22 // Change to DHT22 if using it

DHT dht(DHTPIN, DHTTYPE);

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  Serial.println("Testing DHT sensor...");
  dht.begin();
}

void loop() {
  delay(500); // Wait 2 seconds between readings

  float temperature = dht.readTemperature(); // Celsius
  float humidity = dht.readHumidity();

  // Check if readings are valid
  if (isnan(temperature) || isnan(humidity)) {
    Serial.println("Failed to read from DHT sensor!");
    return;
  }

  Serial.print("Humidity: ");
  Serial.print(humidity);
  Serial.print(" %\t");
  Serial.print("Temperature: ");
  Serial.print(temperature);
  Serial.println(" °C");
}

Open Arduino IDE and copy-paste the code.

Step 4: Expected Output

Once uploaded successfully, you should see readings like this:

Temperature Increases When a Flame is Brought Near the DHT11 

Conclusion

Congratulations! 🎉 You’ve successfully tested the DHT11 sensor with Arduino. This setup is great for weather monitoring, home automation, and IoT projects.

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. DHT 11
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Lazada:

1. DHT 11
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Aliexpress:

1. DHT 11
2. Jumper Wire
3. UNO R3

Video

🔔 If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow makers! For more tutorials, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media. 🚀

Understanding 5mm RGB LEDs: Common Anode VS Common Cathode

RGB LEDs are a fundamental component in modern lighting and display applications, offering a vast array of colours by combining red, green, and blue light. Among the various types available, the 5mm RGB LED is one of the most popular due to its compact size and ease of use. This article explores its specifications, configurations, and applications, helping you understand the difference between Common Anode and Common Cathode RGB LEDs.

RGB LED Common Anode & Common Cathode

Physical Dimensions and Specifications

The 5mm RGB LED is a four-pin, through-hole LED that integrates three different LEDs in one package. Here are some key specifications:

Dimension and Specification of RGB LEDs

Common Anode vs. Common Cathode RGB LEDs

Common Anode RGB LED

In a Common Anode configuration, all three LEDs share a single positive (anode) connection. To control the colour output, each LED's cathode is connected to the ground through a current-limiting resistor.

Blue Colour Common Anode LED RGB

Red Colour Common Anode LED RGB

Green Colour Common Anode LED RGB

The brightness and colour of the LED are adjusted by varying the voltage applied to each cathode.

Common Cathode RGB LED

In a Common Cathode configuration, all three LEDs share a negative (cathode) connection. Instead of grounding the cathode, each LED's anode receives a positive voltage through a resistor. 

 Blue Colour Common Cathode LED RGB

Green Colour Common Cathode LED RGB

Red Colour Common Cathode LED RGB

Adjusting the applied voltage controls the brightness and color output.

Pin Configuration

A 4-pin RGB LED includes the following connections:

• Red: Controls the red LED
• Common Anode/Cathode: Shared positive or negative connection (typically the longest pin)
• Green: Controls the green LED
• Blue: Controls the blue LED

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Common Anode and Common Cathode RGB LEDs is crucial for choosing the right LED for your project. Whether you're working on decorative lighting, digital displays, or interactive electronics, the 5mm RGB LED offers an easy and effective way to implement full-color illumination.

Tools and components

Shopee:

1. RGB LED 5mm
2. Large Breadboard

Lazada:

1. RGB LED 5mm
2. Large Breadboard

Aliexpress:

1. RGB LED 5mm
2. Large Breadboard

Video

Would you like to learn more about how to integrate these LEDs into your projects? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more electronics tutorials! 🚀