DS18B20, the waterproof temperature sensor that you’re looking for
Looking for a temperature sensor? Try out our DS18B20! We will be using Seeed’s DS18B20 to show you why you should choose it over the other options. Stick around to find out why what’s so special about it!
Let’s start off by talking about what exactly is a DS18B20.
What is DS18B20?
DS18B20 is a semiconductor temperature sensor by Maxim Integrated that provides 9-bit to 12-bit Celsius temperature measurements. This small temperature sensor provides can be easily connected to an Arduino digital input or your raspberry pie through an ADC.
Features:
- Unique 1-wire interface requires only one port pin for communication
- Integrated Temperature Sensor and EEPROM
- Measures temperatures from -55°C to +125°C. Celcius to Fahrenheit being -67°F to +257°F
- Parasitic Power Mode that only requires DQ and GND pins for operation
- Multidrop Capability that simplifies distributed temperature-sensing applications
- Alarm search command for identification of devices whose temperature is outside of programmed limits
What’s so special about it?
Cost savings:
- Able to operate without an external power supply as power is derived from the data line, saving the need for additional electrical cost
Pure convenience:
- No external components needed to allow for usage convenience
Scalable for bigger usages:
- Thanks to its 1-wire bus functionality and each product having its unique 64-bit serial code, it only takes one microprocessor to control it all. This allows for bigger scale usages such as temperature monitoring systems in buildings, equipment, machinery, HVAC environmental controls, etc.
Application
- Thermostatic controls
- Industrial systems
- Consumer products
- Thermometers
- Thermally sensitive systems
How does the DS18B20 fair among its competitors (LM35, DHT22)?
| Key Indicators | LM35 | DS18B20 | DHT22 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Measurement Error | ±0.5 | ±0.5 | ±0.5 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -55 to +150°C | -55 to +125°C | -40 to +80°C |
| Voltage Level | 4-30V | 3-5.5V | 3.3-6V |
| Waterproofing | No | Yes | No |
As you can see, the LM35 sensor operates within the widest temperature range (-55 to +150°C ). However, it’s voltage output ranges from 4-30V, making photon chips not acceptable (minimum requirement of 3.3V).
Verdict: DSIB20. The compatibility of photon chips and waterproofing allows for better integration into solutions that require working with more extreme conditions.
Recommended pairings
If you’ve decided to get our DS18B20, then definitely check out some of our products that would go well with it!
Seeeduino Nano
Since Arduino boards such as Arduino nano is compatible with DS18B20, the Seeeduino Nano is a great alternative! Seeeduino Nano is a compact board similar to the Arduino UNO, though similar, there are quite a few reasons why you should get it along with our DS18B20:
- Price point: Seeeduino nano is much cheaper than Arduino nano
- USB: Seeeduino nano use Type-c which makes it more reversible and symmetrical than Arduino nano’s mini-USB.
- Additional Grove I2C connector: The additional grove connectors allow you to connect it with multiple Grove system to play with more projects.
Apart from our Seeeduino Nano, DS18B20 can be connected to the following items:
Feel free to check them out as we do offer all of them here at Seeed as well!
Summary
And that’s why you should pick up our DS18B20 if you were to consider its compatibility with Arduino boards! Furthermore, the convenience and usability that the 1-wire feature brings unravel its competition. What are you waiting for, get our DS18B20 now!
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