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Temperature Sensor


This How-to is intended for: Any audience.

How to use a temperature sensor with the Make Controller Kit.

Problem

You want to connect and use a temperature sensor with the Make Controller.
Temp Sensor

Solution

The wiring is very straightforward.  The temperature sensor has 3 wires, which should be connected as follows:
  • 5V (red) to a VIn on the Make Controller - make sure to set the voltage jumper appropriately.
  • Ground (black) to a GND on the Make Controller.
  • Signal (yellow) to an Analog In on the Make Controller.

Temperature Sensor Connected
A temperature sensor connected to Analog In 0.

Discussion

The LM34 temperature sensor is a precision Fahrenheit sensor that can measure temperatures from 0 to 250 degrees F.

If you're wiring it up yourself, solder wires to the chip taking care to note which color is attached to which wire. Some heatshrink tubing, or electrical tape, will prevent the leads from touching.

One additional component - a 1uF capacitor - can help smooth out any unwanted signal noise. This is optional. It's usually a good idea to use a capacitor if your wire leads are getting longer than a foot or two.

If you've decided to use one, connect your capacitor, either as shown or solder the leads to the ends of the wire A0 and GND wires and insert them into the screw terminal. The positive (+) side of the capacitor should connect to the signal wire, the negative side (-) to the GND.

[image of a capacitor wired up]

It's worth keeping the leads as short as possible - the longer they are, the noisier the signal will be. We suggest not much longer than a foot.  Of course, if you want to make it longer, give it a shot and see if the results are satisfactory.