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Ultrasonic Module HC-SR04 3.5-5v Distance Measuring Transducer Sensor for arduino Ultrasonic Wave Detector Ranging Module


 


Introduction


The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor is a low-cost, high-precision distance measuring device that operates on the principle of ultrasonic waves. It is widely used in various applications, including robotics, obstacle avoidance, liquid level measurement, and more. In this article, we will dive into the intriguing world of the HC-SR04 sensor, exploring its features, working principle, applications, and how to use it with Arduino.


Features and Specifications


The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor is a compact and lightweight device, measuring only 45mm x 20mm x 15mm. It operates at a voltage range of 3.5V to 5V, making it compatible with most microcontrollers, including Arduino. The sensor has a detection range of 2cm to 4 meters, with a resolution of 0.3cm. It also features a wide beam angle of 30 degrees, enabling it to detect objects within a conical field of view.


Working Principle


The HC-SR04 sensor operates on the time-of-flight principle. It consists of two main components: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter emits a burst of ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 40kHz. These waves travel through the air and bounce off any objects in their path. The reflected waves are then detected by the receiver, which measures the time taken for the waves to complete the round trip. Using the speed of sound in air(approximately 343 meters per second), the sensor calculates the distance to the object.


Applications


The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor has a wide range of applications due to its versatility and accuracy. Some of the common uses include:



  • Robotics: The sensor is used for obstacle avoidance, navigation, and mapping in autonomous robots.

  • Obstacle Avoidance: It can be used in security systems, parking assistance, and automated machinery to detect obstacles and prevent collisions.

  • Liquid Level Measurement: The sensor can measure the level of liquids in tanks or containers, making it suitable for industrial applications and home automation.

  • Distance Measurement: The sensor is used in surveying, construction, and other applications where precise distance measurements are required.

Using the HC-SR04 with Arduino


Interfacing the HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor with Arduino is straightforward. The sensor requires two digital pins: one for sending the trigger signal(TRIG) and one for receiving the echo signal(ECHO). The following steps outline how to connect and use the sensor with Arduino:



  1. Connect the VCC pin of the sensor to the 5V pin of the Arduino.

  2. Connect the GND pin of the sensor to the ground pin of the Arduino.

  3. Connect the TRIG pin of the sensor to a digital output pin on the Arduino (e.g., pin 12).

  4. Connect the ECHO pin of the sensor to a digital input pin on the Arduino (e.g., pin 13).

Once the sensor is connected, you can use the following code to measure distance:



The HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor is a versatile and accurate distance measuring device that offers numerous possibilities in various applications. Its ease of use and affordable price make it an ideal choice for hobbyists, students, and professionals alike. Whether you are building a robot, designing a security system, or simply experimenting with distance measurement, the HC-SR04 sensor is a valuable tool to have in your toolkit. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more exciting applications and innovations using ultrasonic technology in the future.