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Soil Moisture Sensor
The Soil Moisture Sensor is an essential tool for anyone looking to measure the moisture levels in soil or similar materials accurately. This simple breakout sensor is designed to be easy to use and integrate into various projects, particularly those involving Arduino-based devices or other compatible development boards.
The sensor works by utilizing two large, exposed pads that function as probes. These probes act as a variable resistor where the resistance changes based on the moisture content of the soil. The higher the moisture content, the better the conductivity between the pads, resulting in lower resistance and a higher signal output (SIG).
- Simple to Use: Easy to integrate and requires minimal setup.
- Passive Component: No need for additional active components.
- Resistive Sensor: Measures soil moisture through changes in resistance.
- Dual Output Mode: Provides both analog and digital outputs for versatile applications.
- Indicators: Equipped with a red power indicator and a green digital switching output indicator.
- Operating Voltage: 3.3V to 5V
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Output Modes:
- Analog Output (AO) for accurate moisture level readings
- Digital Output (DO) for simple high/low signals
- Onboard Components: LM393 comparator chip for stable operation
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Dimensions:
- Panel PCB: Approx. 3cm x 1.5cm
- Soil Probe: Approx. 6cm x 3cm
- Cable Length: Approx. 21cm
- Power Indicators: Red for power and green for digital output
- Mounting: Fixed bolt hole for easy installation
How Does a Soil Moisture Sensor Work?
The soil moisture sensor operates using the fork-shaped probe with two exposed conductors, acting as a variable resistor. The resistance changes inversely with the soil's moisture content:
- Higher Moisture Content: Better conductivity, lower resistance, and higher SIG output.
- Lower Moisture Content: Lower conductivity, higher resistance, and lower SIG output.
By measuring the output voltage from the sensor, you can accurately determine the soil's moisture level.
Usage Guide
To use the Soil Moisture Sensor, connect the VCC and GND pins to your development board. The sensor will provide a signal output (SIG) that varies with the soil moisture level:
- VCC: 3.3V-5V
- GND: Ground
- DO: Digital output interface (0 and 1)
- AO: Analog output interface
- Gardening: Monitor soil moisture levels to optimize watering schedules.
- Agriculture: Ensure crops receive the right amount of water for optimal growth.
- DIY Projects: Integrate into automated watering systems for plants.
- Educational Projects: Learn about soil moisture measurement and environmental sensing.