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Hello peeps! I hope you are having a good day. We all know carbon monoxide is a dangerous and harmful gas that can even be fatal. It is a colorless and odorless gas so it is difficult to sense its presence therefore, different types of sensors and indicators are required to make the places safe especially those where there is a chance for carbon monoxide gas production as a byproduct. Here, one of the most promising detectors is the MQ-7 carbon monoxide sensor which instantly detects and indicates the presence so the users may save their lives. This is the most popular choice for this purpose because of its low cost, high performance, and instant response. 

This article will commence by introducing the MQ-7 carbon monoxide sensor. Subsequently, we will delve into essential details from its datasheet, exploring its structure, pinout configuration, and performance-related graphs. Additionally, we will examine alternatives and package details, providing a comprehensive understanding. A detailed exploration of the working principle will follow. Towards the conclusion, notable examples highlighting the significant role of this sensor will be discussed. Let's embark on the exploration of the initial topic:

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor Introduction

The sensitive material of the MQ-7 carbon monoxide gas sensor is tin dioxide (SnO2). This is a reactive material to carbon monoxide and the basic working of this sensor depends on the heating process of this sensing element. Carbon monoxide (CO) is not usually present in fresh air therefore, the sensor does not provide any signal until it senses any leakage or danger.

This sensor consists of the following parts:

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Gas Sensitive Layer

Just like other MQ sensors, this one also has a sensitive element made of ceramic that has a layer outside it. This layer consists of tin dioxide (SnO2) and has the feature of absorbing the target gas. In the case of MQ7, the tin dioxide absorbs the carbon monoxide and indicates its presence as soon as it comes in contact.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Gas Electrodes

The MQ-7 has electrodes that facilitate electrical contact with the sensitive material. Usually, it is made with the gold for the best performance. These allow the measurement of the electrical resistance.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Heater Coil

There is a coil in the heart of this sensor. This is made of alloy like Ni-Cr and provides heat to the sensitive layer to enhance its reaction and sensitivity.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Tubular Ceramics

The censor has a tubular structure of ceramic material such as alumina (Al2O3) and it provides support and strength to other components so that they may be at their place.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Anti-explosion Network

There is a network of double stainless steel mesh that performs two functions:

1. It allows the gases to pass through it and retains the presence of any unwanted particles outside the network.
2. It protects the internal structure because that is very reactive and delicate therefore, with the help of this network, all the internal structure remains in its place.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensor’s Resin Base

To create the whole system of the gas sensor, there is a firm base made with bakelite or other materials that provide the strength and the pin structure that ensure the working of the whole sensor.

Moreover, there are tube pins and clamp rings that provide extra strength to the circuit of the MQ-7 monoxide gas sensor. 

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Datasheet

Before using any electrical component, it is important to understand the technical specifications. Here are some points to know before using the MQ-7 carbon monoxide sensor:

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Features

• This sensor has an analog pin that shows the presence of carbon monoxide through the analog values

• The digital pin is responsible for showing the presence or absence of the gas through a single value. 

• It has a simple structure therefore, it is a less power-consuming component. 

• It has a long life and is considered ideal to use in circuit-like IoT projects.

• It is continuously in power so whenever it senses carbon monoxide in its surroundings, it shows a rapid response. 

• The typical detection range of this sensor is 10 ppm to 1000 ppm but it may vary depending on the model. 

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Specification

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Pinout Configuration

Just like structure and other features, the pinout configuration of the MQ-7 carbon monoxide sensor has four pins and a simple structure. Here is the table that shows the pin number, names, and a brief description:

The details of each pin will be clear when we study the working of this sensor in the communing section.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Packages

For the convenience of the users, the MQ-7 carbon monoxide is available in different packages. Here is the detail of the most common packages:

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Through-Hole Package (DIP)

• This is the most common package that usually has four pins for connection to a PCB through the soldering process.

• It's readily available for use and the advantage is, that it has easy integration into existing circuits.

• The negative point is, that it requires manual soldering and has a larger footprint compared to other packages.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Surface Mount Package (SMD)

• This package is relatively smaller and is designed for surface mounting on PCBs.

• It offers easier integration into printed circuit boards and therefore is used by beginners as well. 

• The negative point is, that it requires specialised soldering equipment that is not always available for all the users and may be more sensitive to environmental factors.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Module Package

• It includes the sensor itself along with additional components for better working such as the voltage regulators and filtering capacitors.

• It's easier to use as compared to the other options in the list and provides plug-and-play functionality.

• The negative point is, that it has a larger footprint and can be more expensive compared to basic packages.

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Alternatives

Some other fellows of the MQ family also can detect carbon monoxide to some extent but it is advisable to use the most sensitive and particular devices to detect such types of toxic gases. Here are noteworthy alternatives that can substitute for the MQ-7 carbon monoxide gas sensor:

• MQ-9 is another sensor from the MQ series and it can detect multiple gases including carbon monoxide and methane. 

• MiCS-5524 is the sensor that can detect gases like Carbon Monoxide, Methane, and LPG Gas Sensor. It's a small sensor and is used in multiple projects in different domains. 

• An important alternative for this sensor is the Figaro TGS Series that have multiple gas sensors for gas detection. 

• The SGX Sensortech MICS-5524 is another sensor that can detect carbon monoxide, methane, and LPG gas and shows high sensitivity towards multiple gases. 

Where to Buy MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor

Buying the electrical component is a big responsibility because every member of the circuit affects the overall accuracy. You must buy sensors like MQ-7 without facing technical issues:

• eBay

• AliExpress

• Amazon

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Working Principle

• The basic working principle of this sensor is similar to the other MQ series compoeents. In the heart of this sensor, the tin oxide (SnO2) is present in a tubular shape. The circuit of this sensor is designed in such a way that as soon as the circuit is powered on, the tin oxide is heated to stimulate its absorption process at a high rate. 

• Once the tin oxide is stimulated, it absorbs the oxygen from its surroundings and the ions are created at a high rate. As a result, a depletion region forms around the sensing element that enhances the electrical resistance. 

• Now, the electric current passing through the sensor is very small and this indicates that there is no toxic carbon monoxide present in the surroundings. 

• As soon as there is an amount of CO in the air and it reaches the sensor, the depletion region starts reacting with it and as a result, the smaller number of ions contributes to less resistance. 

• In the end, the low resistance results in the high electrical conductance that is indicated in the sensor. 

• The output on the analog pin is directly proportional to the amount of carbon monoxide present in the air. 

• MQ-7 has a potentiometer in it through which the threshold values are set. Once the analogue values reach the threshold value, the sensor shows the signal through the digital pin. A comparator is used in the module that is responsible for comparing the values on these pins. 

• These pins are connected to the output devices which may be any buzzer, screen, or anything else based on the project. 

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Physical Dimensions

Before using MQ-7 in the circuit, the physical dimensions will help you to understand its size and other specifications. This table will show the details of each parameter with the unit:

MQ-7 Carbon Monoxide Sensor Applications

Carbon monoxide is used in different industries in such places, so using the sensing system is a must. Here are some general examples where the MQ-7 carbon monoxide can be integrated for the detection:

• Air quality monitoring

• Industrial safety

• Home and office safety systems

• Environmental monitoring

• Combustible gas detection

• Automotive emissions monitoring

• Gas leak detection systems

• Portable gas detectors

• Agricultural and greenhouse applications

• HVAC systems

Hence, today we have read the details of a life-saving sensor that is MQ-7 carbon monoxide sensor. It is used in multiple projects and we started learning through its introductions and details of its internal components. After that, we saw the datasheet elements like its specifications, features, and some important information about its structure. just after that, we read about its working principle, physical dimensions and some important applications where this sensor can be used. I hope all the points are clear to you but if you want in-depth information then you can ask in the comment section.

You may worry about your privacy since the online world has become widespread. You want to feel more authoritative and safer while surfing on social media platforms. Maybe, learning how to hide likes on YouTube can help you in the circumstances. You can change your settings with simple steps to make your Facebook page secure.

Continue and find out hiding your likes.

How to Hide Likes on Facebook for Privacy?

Hiding your likes on Facebook content might improve your privacy while also lessening the impact of social media.

1. How to Hide Likes on Facebook (Desktop Version)

For your desktop, here are the steps:

1. Go to the website of Facebook and log in.

2. In the top-right-hand corner, you’ll see your profile picture which you need to click on.

3. Later, the “Setting & privacy” section will appear.

4. Finally, you reach “Settings”. 

5. Select “Privacy”, next, find “Reaction preferences”. 

6. In this section, you can conceal the number of your post likes. 

2. How to Hide Likes on Facebook (Android Version) 

Android users can benefit from these steps;

1. Find the Facebook app on your phone.

2. Your profile image is in the top-right corner, click it.

3. Tap “Settings & Privacy”.

4. And go to “Settings”.

5. To hide your likes, you need to go to “Reaction preferences” and activate “On your posts”.

How to Hide Likes on Facebook (iOS Version)

You prefer to use an iPad or iPhone, it doesn’t matter. The procedure is the same.

1. Go to the Facebook app and select Menu in the bottom-right corner. 

2. Open “Settings & Privacy”.

3. Pick the “Settings”. 

4. To alter the visibility of your likes, dab “Reaction preferences”.

Steps for Hiding Pages that You Liked 

After you learn how to hide likes on Facebook for your posts, you may wonder about concealing pages that you liked. Here are the steps:

1. Visit your page and find your profile pic.

2. Under your photo, you’ll see “More”. 

3. After clicking it, pick “Likes”.

4. Utilize the triple-dot button to select “Edit the Privacy of Your Likes” or “Hide Section” for specific categories.

5. Then, modify them to “Only me”. 

This visibility option is primarily applicable to personal pages. If you have a brand page, you can conceal all of the liked pages.

You may customize Facebook to suit your requirements with these simple steps. Depending on your preferences, you have the option to either make your likes public or hidden. 

By following this route, we’re not just concealing likes but also altering our Facebook interactions with one another to suit our personal narratives. Now, we can ensure that our digital experience remains authentically us, filled with decisions that reflect our identity rather than becoming a means of obtaining online validation.

Why Would You Want to Hide Facebook Likes?

I want to share a few good reasons to think about disabling Facebook likes on your posts.

Improve Privacy

It can be surprising that a person can learn more about you from hobbies, preferences, and personal choices which Facebook likes reveal easily. By concealing your likes, you may give your page an additional degree of privacy by preventing those who are merely perusing your profile from monitoring these data right away. 

Concentrate on the Quality of Your Content

You, as a content creator, and your viewers can concentrate more on the caliber of the shared posts than their popularity if the number of likes isn’t apparent. Without the effect of like counts, this change may promote deeper exchanges and conversations. 

Although likes are a helpful indicator for determining audience preferences, hiding them directs attention toward content quality rather than popularity. Well-balanced tactics can increase participation while encouraging deep connections and talks about excellent material. Or you can just use Views4You to purchase likes!

Take Charge of Your Digital Legacy

Each like on Facebook helps build your digital footprint. It is possible to manage this by hiding your likes, which lets you publish just the information you’ve decided to make public.

Encourage Metal Wellness

Mental health may be impacted by ongoing exposure to social approval measurement. You could discover a happier, less hectic social media atmosphere where well-being is valued above metrics if likes are hidden.

Promote Genuine Interaction

The incentive to interact with information changes from obtaining likes to expressing real emotions and ideas when likes are concealed. By making this adjustment, a more genuine community may be created where interactions are motivated by shared interests and affinities rather than by the need to get more likes.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have liked a post; is it possible to conceal my likes?

Yes, you may use your activity log to change how visible your previous likes are. This gives you control over who sees your likes, even on older postings.

How will seeing the likes of other posts change if I hide my own?

Hiding your own likes doesn’t affect the likes on other posts. As usual, you can view the likes on other people’s posts, based on their privacy settings.

Why would someone want to think about concealing their Facebook likes?

This engagement rate may be hidden to increase privacy, lessen social pressure, and manage your digital presence. By not disclosing every preference, it enables people to preserve a certain amount of privacy, making the digital realm feel less public and more intimate. This approach can give individuals the freedom to curate their online identities so that it is a true reflection of themselves rather than a compilation of endorsements from the public.

Can applying these steps conceal my likes on posts?

Yes, definitely. Facebook handles likes similarly in terms of privacy, concealing your likes also hides other emotions you’ve used on posts such as wow, sad, love, furious, and more.

Does concealing likes have an impact on the content I view on my feed?

No, algorithms and your interactions are used to filter the content that appears in your news feed. Hiding your likes has no bearing on what Facebook shows you; it’s just a privacy setting.

Hello seekers! I hope you all are doing great. Today, we are interested to learn about a basic and one of the most crucial topics in the field of electronics that is, the difference between active and passive components. Knowing the difference between these two is not only fruitful for beginners but also helps to understand the output and nature of electrical and electronic devices throughout the circuit design process.

While designing electrical or electronic circuits, it is crucial to get the best components. There are different features that affect the performance of these tiny components, including material, type, manufacturing techniques, etc. It's a good practice to get the components from a trusted source, and I suggest you buy them from PCBWay. This is one of the most trusted sources not only for buying the components, but it helps the customer from designing the PCB to prototyping as well. It is the one-stop for almost all the circuit manufacturing and assembly.

The buyer simply has to visit the website, where thousands of quality products, including active and passive components, are listed with all the details. The buyer can see and select the best match for the project. They can see the raw material, packaging, product number, description, and other details so that even a person with no technical knowledge can choose the best product. So, I recommend you visit PCBWay Fabrication House online, and you can order your components from anywhere.

These two categories are differentiated by different parameters, and we’ll discuss them in detail. We’ll start with a simple comparison between the active and passive components and after that, we’ll discuss each and every point in detail to gain a grip on the concept. We’ll study the introduction, features, and examples of these components and in the end, we’ll see where we can get the best components in the most convenient way. Let’s start with the difference:

Difference Between Active and Passive Components

A circuit is made of different types of components, and it is not completed unless all the necessary components are properly designed. It requires the components, the wires to create the connection between them, and the external source as well. Before designing any circuit, the most important step is to know the nature of its components. On a border scale, the electrical components are classified into two categories:

1. Active Components
2. Passive Components

There are different ways to differentiate these two and we’ll discuss these in detail. The structure, features, material, and other basic features decide the category. At a higher level, the circuit is not complete until it uses both these types. The details of these components will be  shared with you in just a bit but before this, have a look at this chart that summarizes the difference between these two types:

The details of this table are explained here in the form of a basic introduction of active and passive components. I’ve tried to show the introduction in such a way that you can compare it easily. 

Active Components Introduction

The active components provide an active influence when electricity is applied to the circuit. These are the semiconductor materials that possess features like an amplification of the output, electrical current flow, electrical signal generation, etc. In simple words, active components work with the external power source and actively contribute to signal manipulation. The following are the fundamental features that help to understand the basics of active components:

Active Components Require External Source

As mentioned before, these components always require an external power or electricity source to start working. Therefore, these are the semiconductor components that are useless when there is no external power source. 

Active Components have the Signal Control

Active components can amplify, switch, or manipulate the electrical signals of the circuits. These are also referred to as master conductors because they direct the current with great precision. 

Active Components Have Active Gain

The superpower of the active components for which these are recognized is the amplification of the signals. A weak or low-frequency signal can be amplified with these components, and these can crank into a more audible or usable form. 

Active Components are Switching Devices

Another feature that is associated with the active components is the lighting speed of these components to switch the electrical signals on and off. These are considered the digital traffic signals that control the electrical flow in the circuit. 

Active Components are Material Marvels

These are usually semiconductors, and the scope of these components is not just limited to simple electronic circuits; complex circuits, such as solar cells, have the implementation of active components. 

Examples of Active Components

Some important examples of the active components will help us understand them thoroughly.

• A transistor is a three-leg semiconductor device that is used to amplify or switch the electrical signals in a circuit.
• Diodes are another active component in the circuit that allows the current to flow in only one direction; therefore, these are referred to as one-way electrical valves.
• Integrated circuits are also active components that are the complex combination of the active and passive components together.

• The operational amplifiers are also active components and require external energy to amplify or enhance the values in the signals.
• The vacuum tubes were the early active components, and now they are replaced by transistors, but the trend of these tubes is still important to understand the features of the active components.

Passive Components in Circuits

The passive components are entitled to be the workhorses of the electric circuit world. These are the fundamental components that are essentially required in circuits. These are different from the active component because they generate their energy to work. The following features of these components will help you understand why they are called "passive" components:

Passive Components Don’t Require Power

The main feature of a passive component is its ability to interact with the circuit using the present electrical signal or the energy of the circuit.

Passive Components are Manipulators

The passive components have different ways in which they can affect the flow of electrical current, voltage, or the frequency of the circuit. Some of these ways are:

• Controlling the electrical flow

• Filter the energy

• Store the power and electricity

• Distribute electrical energy in the circuit

These features result in the shaping of the electrical circuit's performance according to the requirements.

Passive Components Make Complex Circuits

These components are present in different sizes and shapes, and they are the basic building blocks when complex circuits are designed. Collectively, these components can create the circuits that perform the variations in the tasks. 

Examples of Passive Components

• The most common example of a passive component is a resistor. These regulate the flow of electricity and are considered tiny dams in the circuit. There is a large variety of resistors therefore, these are usable in almost all types of circuits and are the most crucial part of these circuits. 

• The capacitors are also passive components of the circuit. These can store electrical energy in the form of electrical fields because of their internal structure. These are the tiny batteries that help in the voltage regulation of the circuits. The main use of capacitors is in circuits where the direct current (DC) of the current has to be blocked and the circuit only allows the alternative current (AC).

• Inductors are the passive components that deal with the magnetic field around them. These act like mini electromagnets and oppose the change in the current. As a result, these smooth the electrical fluctuations and can be used to filter unwanted signals as well. 

Hence, in this way, you know the difference between the active and passive components. These are the fundamental concepts of electrical circuits, and if these are clear, the user can design, learn, and understand the complex concept in no time. We started with a chart of the differences between these components and then explained each point in detail. We saw the definitions, features, and examples of both types in the end. Moreover, we also understood the best way to easily buy any type of electrical component from PCBWay. I hope I have discussed all the things in detail, but if you want to know more, you can ask in the comment section.

Hey pals! Welcome to the next article where we're studying a gas sensor from the MQ sensor series. Today, we’ll understand the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor and will know the basic information about this product. This sensor has sensitivity for gases like LPG, isobutane propane etc and it is widely used to check any leakage of these gases. These are the commonly used gases but any leakage or excessive use may be harmful and even life-threatening. In such cases, sensors like MQ-6 are proved one of the most important devices. 

In this article, we’ll start the discussion with the introduction of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor. After that, we’ll move towards the datasheet of this product in which we’ll study the specifications, features, and some graphs that will show its working. After that, we’ll work on the working principle and physical dimensions of this sensor and in the end, we’ll see some common examples of the applications in which this sensor is widely used.

Let’s move towards the first topic:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Introduction

Butane gas is not only used in houses but has a major role in multiple industries where it is used as a fuel. It is a common source of energy for factories but using safety precautions is the most important point to keep in mind and here, the duty of the sensor like MQ-6 starts. The MQ-6 LPG butane sensor detects the presence of leakage in the gases and provides the information in the form of analog values so that the user may know the amount of the gas present in the surroundings. 

At the core of this gas sensor, there is a small and sensitive structure of different components that allow it to detect the LPG butane gas from the surroundings with the help of a change in the electrical conductivity. The basic components of this sensor are:

• Micro AL2O3 ceramic tube

• Sno2 (tin dioxide) layer

• Measuring electrode

• Heater

• plastic and stainless steel net

• Base

These components collectively prepare a small sensor compatible with different types of circuits. The following are the gases that can be detected using the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor:

• Butane (C4H10)

• Propane (C3H8)

• Methane (CH4)

• Alcohol vapors

• Benzene

• Carbon monoxide (CO)

• Hydrogen (H2)

• LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

The sensitivity of the MQ-6 sensor varies according to the type of the gas. 

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Datasheet

Before using any electrical component, always check the datasheet for detailed information on the product. In the case of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor, here are the important points that one must know:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Features

• As mentioned before, this sensor has a high sensitivity to LPG, iso-butane, propane and other similar gases. 

• It has a small sensitivity to gases like alcohol, and smoke but is not suitable to be used as only a sensor for these gases.

• This sensor shows a fast response so is a reliable choice.

• It works continuously therefore providing stable results and having a long life.

• This sensor runs on the simple drive circuit

• As soon as it is turned on, it takes only 20 seconds to preheat and starts working.

• It can be used as a Digital or analogue sensor because it has both pins

• The user can vary the Sensitivity of the digital pin using the potentiometer in its structure

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Specifications

The following table is the evidence of its different specifications regarding different types of parameters:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Basic Structure

The basic compoeents of the MQ-6 LPG butane sensor have been discussed before but now, let’s have a look at the internal structure of this sensor to understand its working. Here is the circuit diagram for this purpose:

The detail of each label and its description is written here in the table below:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Sensitivity Characteristics

The MQ-6 LPG butane gas can detect multiple gases but the sensitivity varies according to the type of the gas. With the help of continuous experimentation, the sensitivity of this detector can be examined using the graph given below:

Here, other parameters such as temperature and humidity are kept constant. The above image shows the sensitivity of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor in the range of 100-1000 ppm. Here, 

Rs:

• It stands for sensing resistance.

• It represents the actual resistance of the sensor in the presence of a specific gas concentration.

• It changes based on the gas concentration which decreases as the concentration increases.

Ro:

• It stands for Reference Resistance.

• It represents the sensor's resistance in clean air (absence of target gases).

• It is usually measured when the sensor is powered on and heated to operating temperature in a gas-free environment.

Rs/Ro:

• It represents the ratio of sensing resistance (Rs) to reference resistance (Ro).

• This ratio provides a normalized value to compare the sensor's response across different gas concentrations and environmental conditions.

• The higher Rs/Ro values generally indicate the presence of higher gas concentrations.

If you want to have more detail about its datasheet you can visit the link below and get all the information:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Pinout Configuration

The four-pin MQ-6 butane gas sensor is easy to install and has the simple pin configuration that is mentioned in the table below:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Packages

For the convenience of the users, the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is present in different types of packages. Here is a brief introduction of these:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Alternatives

The butane is a widely used gas, therefore, there are different alternatives present in the market that have the same good performance as the MQ-6 LPG butane. Some of these belong to the MQ family and others are from different classes. Here are some alternatives:

Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Sensors

• MQ-2

• MQ-3

• MQ-4

• MQ-5

• MQ-7

• MQ-8

• MQ-9

• MQ135

Electrochemical Sensors

• MiCS-5525/5526

• SGX Sensortech MiniMOS

• CityTech SEN5X

Infrared (IR) Sensors

• Senseair NDIR sensors

• SGX Sensortech IR sensors

Where to Buy MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor?

The electrical components are delicate and the performance varies because of different parameters. Here are some platforms where you can have the best quality MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensors:

• eBay

• AliExpress

• Amazon

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Working Principle

The working of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is similar to the other MQ sensors. I have divided the working principle into different steps and will understand the basic flow:

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Heating Process

When the sensor is turned on, the circuit starts heating the core of this sensor that has the sensitive element SnO2 layer. This process is done to maintain a temperature of around 300°C (572°F) which activates the sensing element and it starts absorbing the oxygen from the surrounding air. 

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Ion Creation

The result of the reaction in the previous step creates the depletion region around the sensing element. As a result, the electrical conductivity of the circuit decreases because of the high resistance.

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Gas Absorption

Once the MQ-6 LPG sensor comes into contact with the target gas, the oxygen ions from the depletion region start reacting with the gas molecules and as a result, the depletion region starts adsorbing. This causes the reduction in the number of oxygen ions and the overall conductivity increase.

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Resistance Measurement

The circuit of the sensor measures the change in the resistance and the electrical current as well. The change in the current is directly proportional to the amount of the target gas in the environment. In this way, the analog values are sent to the output device through the analog output pin.

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Digital Output

The MQ-6 provides the feature of digital output as well. The analog values, when exceeding the threshold value set through the potentiometer, are converted into the digital output and the sensor sends the signal through the digital pin. This is useful because usually, this pin is connected to the alarm and in the systems like an automatic alarm that shows the signal of the LPT butane gas presence.

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Physical Dimensions

MQ-6 LPG Butane Gas Sensor Applications

Here is a list of simple and basic examples that show the applications where the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is extensively used:

Gas Leak Detection

• Homes
• Industries
• Vehicles

Air Quality Monitoring

• Indoor environments
• Industrial settings

Combustible Gas Safety Systems

• Appliances
• Furnaces
• Leak detection alarms

Environmental Monitoring

• Landfill gas detection
• VOC monitoring

Portable Gas Detection Devices

• Personal safety monitoring
• Industrial inspections

Research and Development

• Flammable gas sensing experiments
• Sensor evaluation and comparison

So, we have studied the MQ-6 LPG butane sensor in detail. We have started our discussion with the basic introduction of this sensor. We’ve seen the gases it can detect, the details of the datasheet, its pinout configuration, working graphs, its internal features, and the working principle in detail. After that, we saw the alternatives and package details along with the physical dimension of this sensor. In the end, we saw examples of different domains where this sensor is widely used. I hope I have covered all the points and you like the content. 

The LCD technology is probably one of the ones with the longest-standing history. The LCD display managed to survive for so many years in the market because it’s versatile and flexible. And those are the main qualities a piece of technology should have. Today, consumers are constantly searching for the next gadget to provide them with a completely new experience. And color LCD screens definitely took that assignment seriously.

They’ve definitely come a long way since the initial models. It’s almost impossible to even make a comparison between the robust models of the past and the elegant displays we have now.

Initially, LCD technology started out with large and heavy monochrome screens. And don’t get us wrong, these black and white screens were very popular back then and are even now. But color LCDs brought something new to the scene. Monochrome screens started the long history of LCDs and they marked the first important milestone.

Back then, the black and white screens were the most modern LCD model you can find. And they provided their users with an enjoyable visual experience . Today, you can still see how widespread the use of monochrome displays is. You can still find them in calculators, digital wristwatches and devices used outdoors. They are even used in more complex applications such as industrial settings. So, there’s no denying their simplicity and quality.

But what do color screens have to offer? What kind of experience can they offer? To find out more, keep reading as we try to dig a bit deeper and see what makes these displays so special.

Color LCDs and the technology behind them

The fascinating technology behind color LCD screens includes several different components that all blend together. First of all, we have the liquid crystals that are at the very center of the display technology. They were first used back in 1970. And behind the liquid crystals, there is a layer of backlight that serves to illuminate the display. They contain different components and help produce images on the screen.

There are also color filters included. They are usually red, green and blue(RGB). They help create the desired color output you see on the screen. TFT or thin-film-transistors are another crucial component. They allow precise control over the liquid crystals. And finally, color LCDs also have polarizers that control light polarization.

Color LCDs and their use wide use across different industries 

As mentioned, color LCD screens are used across different industries thanks to their versatility. These vibrant displays have found their purpose in many different types of applications and are used to improve communication, productivity and user experience. Some of the industries where this technology has found its place are listed below.

Consumer electronics

Color LCD screens are widely used in consumer electronics. Anyone who owns a smartphone, laptop or a modern television system, knows what we’re talking about. These displays offer vibrant colors and high resolutions that give users a high-quality viewing experience. With color LCDs you can easily enjoy your favorite entertaining content.

Automotive industry and motor vehicles

The automotive industry is quickly changing and each new motor vehicle has new handy features. Most of the displays used in motor vehicles are in fact color LCD screens. They display all the important information to drivers and make sure the drivers have a safe driving experience.

Also, all the entertainment devices within a motor vehicle, especially the ones found in the latest car models, also use color LCDs to provide easy access to drivers. 

Healthcare and medical industry

Healthcare professionals need to be able to quickly read information on medical devices for a quick diagnostic process. That’s where color displays enter the stage. These displays allow medical staff to get detailed images on their X-ray machines and MRI scanners. They are also used in ultrasound machines and other medical imaging equipment. 

Gaming and entertainment 

A passionate gamer knows the importance of having a high-quality and sharp image. A high-quality color LCD can offer high refresh rates and low response times, everything a gamer needs to smoothly play their favorite games. Color LCDs are used in consoles and other handheld gaming devices . 

Industrial automation

Color LCDs are used in industrial control panels and in digital signage in industrial settings. They provide operators with exact data and give clear visual feedback for improved monitoring. 

Aviation and aerospace

Color displays have also found their place in aircraft cockpits. They are used to display flight information, navigation data and engine performance metrics. They are highly-readable and are efficient in all lighting conditions. They are also a great option for applications in direct sunlight

Education and training

Multimedia displays and interactive whiteboards also employ color screens to provide learners with an engaging learning experience. They make learning more engaging and allow access to interactive content.

The final word

Color LCDs are definitely a piece of technology that keeps improving and developing to satisfy the needs of modern consumers. As you can see, the vibrant screen is used across different industries to display sharp and high-resolution content. From automotive and aircraft industries to healthcare and gaming, color LCDs serve to show information in a clear way and allow users to quickly decipher the information displayed.

We have yet to see what these screens have in store for the future but we can safely assume that they’ll continue to surprise and keep providing an immersive viewing experience.

Industrial valves have been an integral part of various industries for centuries, enabling the control and regulation of fluid and gas flow. However, the environmental impact of these valves, particularly in relation to leakage and waste generation, has become a growing concern. Let’s explore the significance of addressing the environmental impact of industrial valves and discuss strategies to mitigate leakage and reduce waste. By adopting advanced technologies and implementing effective leak prevention measures, businesses can minimize their ecological footprint while also benefiting economically.

Technological Advancements in Valve Design and Usage

Over the years, valve designs have evolved significantly, adapting to the needs of various industries. From simple designs to complex mechanisms, manufacturers have focused on improving valve performance and efficiency. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in this evolution, allowing for more accurate control of fluid and gas flow. Modern valve technologies also feature enhanced sealing and leak prevention mechanisms, reducing the likelihood of leakage and waste generation. The integration of digital systems has further facilitated remote monitoring and control, enabling prompt detection and response to potential issues.

Importance of Modern Valve Technologies

The adoption of modern valve technologies offers various benefits for businesses and the environment alike. One significant advantage is increased efficiency and accuracy in controlling fluid and gas flow. By ensuring precise regulation, industries can minimize energy consumption and reduce their environmental impact. Advanced sealing mechanisms significantly reduce the risk of valve leakage. The prevention of leaks not only preserves valuable resources, but also prevents environmental contamination caused by the release of harmful substances into soil, water, and air. The integration of digital systems also enables remote monitoring, which facilitates early detection of anomalies and prompt rectification, reducing the risk of extensive damage and waste generation.

Economic Impact of Valve Leakage

Valve leakage can have substantial financial implications for businesses and industries. The costs associated with repair, replacement, and the resulting product loss can quickly accumulate. The loss of valuable resources due to leakage can also lead to increased operational expenses. However, by implementing effective leak prevention measures, such as proper maintenance and regular inspections, businesses can minimize these financial burdens. Investing in technologies and practices that prevent leakage and extend the lifespan of valves can result in significant cost savings in the long run.

Understanding Valve Leakage

Valve leakage can occur internally or externally, and both types have detrimental consequences for the environment. Internal leakage refers to leaks that occur within the valve, while external leakage involves leaks in the surrounding piping system. Valve leakage contributes to environmental contamination and resource wastage, thereby exacerbating the ecological impact. Addressing and preventing valve leakage is paramount for industries committed to sustainable practices.

Environmental Contamination

Valve leakage poses a considerable threat to the environment, particularly in terms of soil, water, and air contamination. When valves leak, pollutants can seep into the soil, compromising its quality and potential for agricultural use. This contamination can also affect natural water sources, leading to water pollution and ecosystem disruption. Moreover, when gasses or vapors escape through valve leaks, they contribute to air pollution. Preventing valve leakage is crucial for safeguarding these vital environmental resources and minimizing the impact on both human and ecological health.

Resource Wastage

In addition to the environmental consequences, valve leakage also results in significant resource wastage. Every drop or unit of fluid that is leaked represents a loss of valuable resources. This wastage directly affects industries, as it translates into increased costs and reduced operational efficiency. By implementing effective strategies for leak prevention, industries can minimize resource wastage and optimize their operations.

Strategies for Leak Prevention

To mitigate valve leakage and reduce waste generation, businesses should follow several key strategies. First, installation best practices should be adhered to, ensuring proper sealing, connection, and alignment of valves within the piping system. Regular maintenance and inspections play a crucial role in identifying early signs of valve degradation and potential leakage. Partnering with reputable valve manufacturers can ensure the use of high-quality valves that are less prone to leakage. The versatile Chaoda valves (cast carbon and stainless steel gate, globe, and swing check valves), known for their reliability and innovative designs, offer a range of products that prioritize leak prevention and durability. By choosing trusted manufacturers, businesses can enhance their leak-prevention efforts.

Extending Valve Lifespan

Maximizing the lifespan of valves not only contributes to leak prevention but also offers various benefits for businesses and the environment . Proper maintenance practices, such as regular lubrication and cleaning, can significantly extend the lifespan of valves. Additionally, providing adequate training to personnel involved in valve operation and maintenance ensures the correct handling and care of these critical components. By investing in the proper training and maintenance of valves, businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements, minimize waste generation, and enhance their operational efficiency.

Final Words

Industrial valves have been a critical component in various industries for centuries, enabling the control and regulation of fluid and gas flow. However, their environmental impact, particularly in terms of leakage and waste generation, has become a pressing concern. By adopting advanced technologies, implementing effective leak prevention measures, and partnering with reputable valve manufacturers, businesses can significantly reduce their ecological footprint while also benefiting economically.

Preventing valve leakage is not only essential for preserving the environment but also for minimizing resource wastage. Each drop or unit of fluid that escapes through leaks represents a loss of valuable resources. By implementing effective strategies for leak prevention, businesses can minimize this resource wastage and optimize their operations. Proper installation practices, regular maintenance, and thorough inspections play key roles in identifying and addressing potential leakage issues. By extending the lifespan of valves, businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements, ultimately reducing waste generation and operational expenses.

Addressing the environmental impact of industrial valves requires a proactive approach. By embracing advanced valve technologies, businesses not only reduce their ecological footprint but also reap economic benefits through increased efficiency and cost savings. Preventing valve leakage preserves valuable resources and prevents environmental contamination. By following proper maintenance practices and partnering with reputable manufacturers, businesses can achieve sustainable practices and minimize waste generation, and contribute to a greener, more efficient industrial landscape, ensuring a sustainable and responsible future for all.

Hi readers! Welcome to another article where we are discussing the MQ family members. Today, our motto is to learn about the MQ-5 natural liquified petroleum gas (LPG) sensor. The gas sensing material used in this sensor is known as tin dioxide(SnO2). It detects the natural LPG in the surroundings as soon as the core material of this sensor comes in contact with the LPG. This will be explained in simple words in this article.

Today, we’ll start learning about the basic introduction of the MQ-5 natural LPG sensor. After that, we’ll move towards its datasheet element, where we are going to see the specifications and features of the sensor, along with the pinout configuration and internal structure. We’ll also see the working principle and applications of the MQ-5 natural LPG sensor, and all the information will be shown by using tables, descriptions, and images for the best concepts.

So, let’s dive into the first topic to move forward:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Introduction

The MQ-5 natural LPG sensor belongs to the class of sensors that are used for the detection of different gases. The MQ-5 natural LPG sensor can detect multiple gases with the help of the semiconductor material tin dioxide (SnO2) present in its basic structure. This material has low conductance in pure gas (with no natural LPG), but as soon as it comes into contact with the natural LPG, the electrical conductance decreases, which is indicated through the output pin of this sensor. The simple circuit of this sensor converts this change in conductivity into a voltage change, and as a result, these sensors can send the signal to other components of the circuit to stimulate the system.

Here is a simple list of the detectable gases using an MQ-5 natural LPG sensor:

• Propane (C3H8): MQ-5 has the highest sensitivity for propane gas, making it suitable for propane leak detection. This is the primary gas for MQ-5 natural LPG sensor detection.
• Methane (CH4): The sensor has some sensitivity for methane as well, but not as precise as dedicated methane sensors. If the user wants to have a highly precise sensor for methane, then MQ-4 is a better option.
• Butane (C4H10): The butane gas is also detected using this sensor if the gas includes Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
• Alcohol (C2H5OH): For alcohol gas, this sensor has limited sensitivity. It is not ideal for precise alcohol measurements, but if the user wants a precise result, they can use the MQ-3 sensor.
• Hydrogen (H2): The MQ-5 has some sensitivity for hydrogen presence as well, but potential interference from other gases.

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Datasheet

Before going into the details of its external structure, it is better to know about the internal features and specifications of this product. Here are some important features of the MQ-5 sensor that make it a good choice for natural LPG detection:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Features 

• The first and most obvious feature of this sensor is, that it is highly sensitive to propane (C3H8); therefore, the primary goal of this sensor is to detect any liquified petroleum gas (LPG). 

• The internal structure is designed in such a way that it responds to the LPG as soon as the sensitive internal material comes into contact. 

• It requires simple additional circuitry to create the whole system, and its design is easy to integrate with other components. 

• It has low power consumption and, therefore, is a suitable component of projects like the Internet of Things (IoT). Here, it can work continuously, and the simple structure is the reason behind its long life. 

• It provides stable results and readings over time and, therefore, is a reliable component. 

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Specifications

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Structure

Before going into the details of the external structure, let’s have a look at the internal structure of this sensor:

The image shown above displays the structure of the dimension from different angles of the sensor. The unit here is a millimeter, and all the readings have a tolerance:±0.1mm. We’ll learn the detailed dimensions soon in this article. 

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Basic Circuit

An important feature of this sensor is its simple circuit, which not only makes it less power-consuming but also allows the user to install it without any complications. Here is the basic structure of this LPG sensor:

The labeling of the image will be clarified in the next section when we study its structure in detail.

If you want to study the datasheet in more detail then I suggest you visit the following link:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Pinout Configuration

Just like most of the gas sensors of this class, MQ-5 has four pins. In some models, the additional two pins are also present. It has a simple structure, and the detail of each pin is given in the table below:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Packages

A plus point of this series is, the gas sensors come in different packages so that the user may choose MQ-5 natural LPG sensor according to the type of circuit. Each package has its own pros and cons.  Here are some important packages in which this sensor is available:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Alternatives

Some other gas sensors from the MQ series can be used in place of the MQ-5 natural LPG sensor, but these may not be that efficient. Here are some popular gas sensors that can be used in place of MQ-5 natural LPG sensors:

• Semiconductor sensors (propane, butane, and carbon monoxide)
• Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors (ammonia, hydrogen sulfide)
• NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensors (methane, CO2)
• Catalytic bead sensors (combustible gases)

Where to Buy MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor

The electronic components are sensitive, and the performance depends on the circuit and the manufacturing features. If you want to get the best MQ-5 natural LPG sensor, you must buy it from the following platforms:

• eBay

• AliExpress

• Amazon

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Working Principle

The MQ-5 sensor has a similar working as other gas sensors from the MQ series. The sensor detects LPG and methane gases through the semiconductor metal oxide sensing layer. Here is the breakdown of the work into different steps:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Heating Process

The MQ-5 has a heating element in its core that is constantly powered. Typically, it is done on the 5V and this heating enables the sensing layer to absorb more gas molecules from its surrounding air. Usually, the sensing element is tin dioxide (SnO2) because it is an excellent receptor of flammable gases.

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Ion Creation

The constant heating allows the reactive material to absorb oxygen and create oxygen ions on its surface. In this way, these ions are readily available for the flammable gases needed for the reaction. As a result, a depletion region is formed around the tin oxide so that the electrical resistance of the circuit increases. 

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Gas Adsorption

As soon as the reactive gases (LPG) come into contact with the oxygen ions, these start reacting with the liquified petroleum gas. This results in a decreasing number of ions and a decrease in electrical resistance. We know that the electric current is inversely proportional to the resistance so the overall electrical conductivity of the circuit is affected, which causes the sensing of the gas.

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Analogue Values

The circuit is designed in such a way that the change in the current values stimulates the analog output that can be detected at the analog pin as an output.

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Digital Output

Some models of MQ-5 have a digital output as well. The change in the electrical current causes a change in the voltage difference between the diodes of the circuit. This voltage change is detected on the digital pin of the MQ-5 natural LPG sensor. This happens because the circuit has an analog to a digital converter.

The voltage change typically ranges from 2.5V to 4.0V. As the concentration of the LPG and other reactive gases increases, it causes a change in the electrical conductance and as a result, less voltage change is seen.

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Physical Dimensions

A feature of this sensor is its small and compatible size, which can fit in different circuits. Here are the dimensions of the MQ-5 natural gas sensor that will help you work with it in a circuit:

MQ-5 Natural LPG Sensor Applications

There are different ways to use this sensor in applications. This is a common gas sensor in different domains of daily life. The basic and most common examples of its applications are given here:

• Industrial flammable gas alarm

• Portable gas detector

• Domestic gas leakage alarm

• Air quality monitor

• Educational projects

• Smart home devices

• Robotics

• Automotive

• Agriculture

• Healthcare

Hence, in this way, we have studied the mQ-5 natural LPG sensor in detail. We started this learning through the basic introduction of this sensor. We saw that it can detect multiple gases but it is most precise for the MQ-5 natural LPG. We studied the basic features and specifications through its datasheet and saw different graphs to understand its working. Just after that, we understood the pin configuration and working principle of this sensor. In the end, we saw the table for the physical dimension and the applications of this gas sensor. I hope I have covered all the topics but if you want to learn more, you can ask us.

Hello readers! I hope you are doing great. Today we are discussing the features and details of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor, which belongs to the popular gas sensor MQ family. We have been working on other gas sensors as well, but MQ-4 is particularly suitable for detecting the presence of methane gas. This sensor is more popular because methane gas and compressed natural gas (CNG) are widely used for cooking and other related purposes. MQ-4 methane gas sensor is an important part of the home safety system.  Some other advantages of this sensor are, that it responds instantly and has a potentiometer that adds versatility to its functions. 

In this article, we are going to study the MQ-4 methane sensor from scratch. We’ll go through its introduction and will study the basic components of its datasheet. We’ll see some performance graphs and study the internal structure of this sensor. After that, we’ll move towards the external circuit and its working features. In the end, there will be a study of its applications. This is going to be an easy and informative article, so let’s move on to the first point:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Introduction

Methane gas is widely used everywhere, and we’ve seen multiple cases of gas leakage. Therefore, the MQ-4 methane gas sensor has a special place in different applications in almost every domain of life. The MQ-4 methane gas sensor is a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) that detects the presence of methane gases and then provides the result in the form of analog values. In this way, it provides information about the gas concentration, and its range is 300 ppm–10,000 ppm which is enough to detect leakage.

The basic structure of this gas sensor includes the following:

• A double mesh network
• Detecting element
• Pins
• Firm base

The sensitivity of this detector for different gases may vary but overall, it is a good choice for detecting any gas leakage. This sensor can detect gases like:

• Methane (CH4)
• Ethanol (C2H5OH)
• Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
• Benzene (C6H6)
• Smoke

The ignition of these gases is extremely exothermal, so these produce a large amount of what. Therefore, the MQ-4 methane sensor is a life-saving element. 

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Datasheet

Till now, we have seen the basic features of this sensor but now, we are going to discuss the details of its functions. Here are some important points that will highlight the importance of this sensor:

• The primary function of the sensor is to detect methane (CH4 ) gas. It is highly sensitive to methane and other natural gases; therefore, it is widely used to detect gas leakage.
• It has some sensitivity for gases like ethanol (C2H5OH) but is not an ideal choice for it. For the best precision of such gases, the MQ-3 alcohol sensor is used.
• Another gas that MQ-4 can detect is liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It also includes propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10).
• Other gases detected by this sensor are benzene (C6H6), which is an aromatic hydrocarbon with potential health risks, and smoke (which may trigger incomplete combustion products).
• This sensor has a fast response time with a very small recovery time.
• It has a long life, and it provides suitable performance all the time.
• It has a compact size and an easy-to-integrate design.
  

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Specifications 

There are multiple types of specifications, and I’ve divided them into different groups for clarification. Here is the table that shows the standard work condition parameters and their details:

Now, here are some important environmental parameters for the MQ-4 methane sensor:

The sensitivity characteristics of this sensor, along with important parameters, are given below:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Structure

The internal structure of the MQ-4 methane sensor is similar to that of its other daily members. Here is the detailed internal structure diagram that will help you understand the information we’ll discuss in the next section:

As discussed before, the MQ-4 methane sensor has different sensitivity levels for different gases. Based on multiple experiments, here is the graph that describes the sensitivity results:

The temperature and humidity around the MQ-4 methane sensor play a crucial role in the performance scale. Here is the graph that shows the change in the sensor’s behavior with varying temperatures and humidity:

Here, 

Rs = The sensing resistance that depends on the concentration of the target gas. In the case of MQ-4, the target gas is methane. 

R0 = The resistance of the sensor in clean air. It is the baseline resistance of the sensor when there is no methane present in the air. 

Rs/R0 = It is the ratio of sensing resistance to the resistance in clean air. It is calculated to understand the relative change in the resistance of the sensor, and it depends on the target gas concentration.

If you want to see the detailed datasheet of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor, then you can visit the link MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor.

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Pinout Configuration

Now, it is time to discuss the external structure of this sensor. Just like most of the members of the MQ sensors, this sensor has four pins. The name of each pin and its function are given in the table below:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Packages

For the convenience of the user, the MQ-4 methane sensor comes in different packages. Here is the table that will show a brief introduction to the available packages:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Alternatives

Here is a list of some other alternatives that are used in place of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor, along with the types of gases these can sense:

• Electrochemical sensors
• Photoionization detectors (PIDs)
• Tunable diode laser (TDL) sensors
• Semiconductor sensors (propane, butane, and carbon monoxide)
• Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors (ammonia, hydrogen sulfide)
• Semiconductor sensors (propane, butane, and carbon monoxide)
• Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors (ammonia, hydrogen sulfide)
• NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensors (methane, CO2)
• Catalytic bead sensors (combustible gases)

Where to Buy MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor

The MQ-4 methane gas sensor is a common instrument available on multiple platforms, but one must always choose reliable sources. These sensors are proven to be life saviors, so I would suggest you buy them from the options given below:

• eBay

• AliExpress

• Amazon

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Working Principle

The working principle of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor is similar to that of the other MQ sensors. Let's discuss each component of this sensor and its role in the final result:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Basic Working

The basic workings of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor depend on the electrical conductivity of the metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) material used in the structure of this sensor.

The MOS is also known as the chemiresistors, which means the electrical conductivity changes when these come into contact with the gas vapors. 

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Heating Element

The sensor has a heating element at its core, the duty of which is to maintain a constant heating temperature of around 300°C. This is a crucial process for the right response of the sensor. 

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Methane Adsorption

As soon as the methane gas comes into contact with the metal oxide semiconductor (MOS), it is absorbed onto its surface. The surface already has oxygen ions, and when these ions contact the vapors, they start reacting with them.

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Conductivity Change

The reaction between the oxygen ions and methane results in a decrease in the conductivity of the MOS layer. This change is directly proportional to the amount of methane present in the surrounding air of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor.

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Output 

The change in conductivity resulting from the previous step is measured as the change in voltage across the sensor electrodes. The greater the resistivity change, the greater the voltage change across the electrodes. 

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Physical Dimensions

Here is the table that shows the physical dimensions, their values, and additional notes of these parameters:

MQ-4 Methane Gas Sensor Applications

Till now, we have been discussing the basic output of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor but now, we’ll understand how this small instrument can be used in different ways to get the required output. Here are some important examples of applications where an MQ-4 methane gas sensor is used as the heart of the circuit:

• Natural gas leak detection (home and industrial)
• Ethanol detection
• Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) detection
• Benzene detection
• Smoke detection
• Air quality monitoring (broad VOC/combustible gas detection)
• Educational projects (learning gas sensing, basic electronics)

So, today we have seen the details of the MQ-4 methane gas sensor. We started with the basic introduction of this sensor and then saw the basic points of its datasheet. After that, we’ve seen the pin configuration and workings of this sensor. We understood every step of its operation and saw the physical dimensions of this methane gas sensor. In the end, we give some important examples where the MQ-4 methane gas sensor is used as the base. I hope you have understood each point, but if something is confusing, you can ask questions in the comment section.

Hey readers! I hope you are having a good day. Today, we are learning the basics of another MQ sensor family, the MQ-3. This sensor is designed for the detection of alcoholic gases in the air surrounding it. Gas sensors are widely used in multiple applications, and they provide information to the other components of the circuit. In the air, it can detect the 25-500ppm alcohol gas concentration and is a highly sensitive detector. We are going to study it thoroughly from scratch. 

In this article, we are going to start the discussion with the basic introduction of this sensor. We’ll understand its datasheet and will know the basic details about its internal and external structure. After that, we’ll move towards the features, specifications, and best platform to buy these sensors. Then, we’ll see the circuit diagram and working principles, and in the end, we’ll go through the applications of this sensor. All of this is going to be very simple, and we will try to make it useful and uncomplicated. Let’s move on to the first topic:

 MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Introduction

The MQ-3 is an alcohol gas sensor that belongs to the MQ gas sensor family and is particularly designed using SnO2 to detect the gas using lower electrical conductivity in the air. When fresh air enters the sensor’s structure, this semiconductor gas sensor can detect the presence or absence of alcohol gases. If the target gas is present in the air, the resistance of the semiconductor material is enhanced with the rise in gas concentration. The structure is designed in such a way that it has a high sensitivity to alcohol. Moreover, it has good resistance to gasoline, smoke, and vapors.

The following gases are possible to detect using an MQ-3 alcohol sensor:

• Ethanol (primary target gas)
• Aromatic hydrocarbons:
• Toluene
• Benzene
• Xylene
• Chlorinated hydrocarbons:
• Trichloroethylene
• Dichloromethane
• Amines

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Datasheet

The MQ-3 alcohol sensor is studied in different ways. Here are the three tables that will define the specifications of this sensor depending on different sets of parameters:

Standard Work Conditions

In the standard work condition, the characteristics given in the table below are considered:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Environmental Conditions

The following parameters are considered when checking the environmental characteristics of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Sensitivity Characteristics

Moreover, here is the table related to the sensitivity characteristics of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Structure

Before learning the structure diagram, it is important to understand the configuration of the sensor. It contains three sets of pins (collectively six pins):

The above images show the 2D configurations of the MQ-3 alcohol gas sensor. The details of these pins will be discussed in the table below:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Sensitivity Curve

The core material in these gas detectors is highly sensitive to heat which plays an important role in gas detection. Before using any sensor, it is crucial to check its sensitivity graph. Here is the graph for the MQ-3 alcohol  sensor:

In the figure above, the parameters used are understood by the following explanation:

1. The Rs is the sensor’s resistance when it is exposed to a particular alcohol vapor concentration. The increase in concentration results in a decrease in Rs, and vice versa.
2. The R0 determines the sensor’s resistance in clean air when no alcohol is present in it. Hence, it is used as the baseline reference when dealing with the comparison between conditions.
3. The ratio of both of these is an estimation of the relative change in resistance. It is proportional to the alcoholic concentration in the air and, therefore, is helpful for the sensor’s working.

So it was the information about the datasheet, and if you require more details, then you visit the following link:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Pinout Configuration

The MQ-3 alcohol sensor has four external pins, and its pin diagram is given here:

A brief description of each of them is given in the table:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Packages

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Alternatives

The MQ gas sensor family works on the detection of different gases. In some cases, these can be used alternatively. But if we talk about the other classes of gas sensors, some other detectors can be used in place of the MQ-3 sensor, and these are listed below:

• Electrochemical Sensors
• Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Sensors: MQ-135, MQ-303A
• Photoionization Detectors (PIDs): MiniPID 2, ppbRAE 3000
• Infrared (IR) Sensors: Figaro TGS822, Sensirion SENSPAIR SFK-D8
• Tunable Diode Laser (TDL) Sensors: Gasmet Dx4340, Aerodyne QCL-32

Where to Buy MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor

There are different ways to buy electronic components like MQ-3 but the most promising platforms to buy these products online are:

• eBay
• AliExpress
• Amazon

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Working Principle

The working principle of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor can easily be understood by learning its internal structure. It is a heat-driven sensor and, therefore, is covered under the mesh known as the anti-explosion network. This network is the double layer of the stainless steel material that ensures the heat-sensitive material inside the sensor remains safe from the outside’s flammable gases. The special feature of its structure is the presence of a plastic cover that we don't see in models like MQ-2. This cover not only protects the sensor but is also responsible for filtering unwanted materials.

• Inside this mesh, there is a simple star-like structure of the sensing material surrounded by the size elements. These are called the connecting legs and consist of three pairs of leads. The two H leads are connected to the Nickel-Chromium coil. It is a popular conductive alloy that helps to maintain the connection between the star-structured elements. 

The remaining leads (A and B) are connected with the sensing element. All of these are connected together with the help of platinum wires that make the structure more protected and provide conductance as well. 

In the case of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor, aluminum oxide (AL2O3) ceramic with a tin dioxide coating (SnO2). is used in the form of a tubular structure and is known as the sensing element. It is important to notice that tin oxide is the most important element here because it is sensitive to alcohol, which is the basic purpose of this sensor. The role of aluminum oxide is to improve efficiency and heat sensitivity. It maintains the continuous heating of the system and, as a result, helps in efficient results. 

Now, that you know the basic structure, you can understand the flow of the MQ-3 sensor:

• When the MQ-3 alcohol sensor is turned on, the circuit heats the internal structure of the sensor. As a result, the SnO2 layer is at a high temperature. It results in the absorption of oxygen from the surrounding air.
• This results in a depletion region around the sensing element that creates a potential barrier. This barrier makes the sensitive element more resistive, so the electric flow is affected.
• When the alcohol gas is present surrounding the sensor, the electrical resistance decreases because alcohol reacts with the sensing element’s depletion region.
• The change in the electrical resistance is inversely proportional to the current flow; therefore, the change in current results in the detection of alcohol gas.
• The higher the alcohol concentration in the air, the higher the values obtained at the analog pin.
• The analog values can be converted into digital output using the LM393. It is a high-precision comparator that converts the values, and, as a result, the digital values are present at the D0 pin.
• This module also has a built-in potentiometer that has the feature of setting threshold values. As a result, the module will show a low output unless the values reach the threshold.

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Physical Dimensions

The physical dimension of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor is similar to that of its other companion sensors. These are mentioned in the table below:

MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Applications

The MQ-3 is designed to test the presence of alcohol-related gases. It is usually the part of the project that is designed for safety purposes. Here are some common applications for which MQ-3 is a popular choice:

• Basic breathalyzer (informative, not legal/professional)
• Air quality monitoring (broad VOC/combustible gas detection)
• Home gas leak detection (limited, not specific)
• Educational projects (learning gas sensing, basic electronics)
• Non-critical industrial gas detection (budget option)

One must keep in mind before using this sensor that it is not an accurate sensor and certain limitations are tied to it. Therefore, it is not suitable for critical applications that require precise measurements.

Hence, today we have learned a lot about the MQ-3 alcohol sensor. It is a sensitive alcohol detector that is used to detect multiple gases. We have seen the data sheet of this sensor, where we have seen the pin configuration, working conditions, and internal structure of the MQ-3 alcohol sensor. After that, we saw the working principle in detail, and after knowing the physical dimensions, we saw the applications of this sensor. I hope I have conveyed all the points, but still, if you want to know more, you can ask in the comment section.

Hello learners! I hope you are doing good. Today, we are learning about an important member of the gas sensor family, which is the MQ-2. When it comes to detecting or measuring smoke or gas, the MQ series gas sensors are widely used components in circuits. These sensors come with an operational amplitude comparator and a digital output pin therefore, they have applications in multiple fields of life. Mostly, it is used in Arduino projects where it senses the gas and the information is fed into the Arduino to allow the circuit to work according to its digital output. 

In this article, we are going to discuss the basic introduction of this sensor in detail, along with the datasheet. Moreover, we’ll know its pinouts in detail and will see some important circuit diagrams. Moreover, we’ll try to figure out the workings and applications of this sensor in different domains to understand the core concept. This is going to be a detailed article on the MQ-2 sensor, so let’s get started.

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Introduction

The MQ-2 is a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) gas sensor and one of the most widely used sensors in the MQ series. We know that MOS sensors are known as Chemiresistors because there is a sensing material in them that works based on the change in its resistance when it is exposed to the reactive gas. Hence, when using the MQ-2 in the circuit, it can detect multiple gases and provide the digital values of change in the gases at its output pin. The list of gases this sensor can detect is given next:

• Liquified petroleum gas (LPG)
• Smoke
• Alcohol
• Propane
• Hydrogen
• Methane
• Carbon Monoxide

This sensor is particularly suitable to detect combustible gases, smoke, and other pollutants. Basically, it consists of the tin dioxide (SnO2) semiconductor gas sensor, a comparator (using the op-amp), and necessary supporting components.

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Datasheet

Before using any electrical component, it is important to study its datasheet. The datasheet has multiple characteristics, and some of these are mentioned below:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Basic Parameters

Here is a table that provides the basic details of the MQ-2 smoke/gas sensor:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Sensitivity Graph

The sensors can detect multiple gases, and the sensitivity of the resistive material is different for all of them. Based on the multiple experiments and the specification, here is the sensitivity graph for the MQ-2 smoke/gas sensor:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Sensitivity Graph

The sensitivity material is affected not only by the type of gas but also by other parameters such as humidity and temperature. Here is the graph that shows the details:

If you want to know more details about the datasheet, then here is the link to it:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Pinout Configuration

The MQ-2 smoke/gas sensor has four pins, as shown below in the image:

The pin arrangement may vary depending on the model. Here, one must know that the DOUT pin is not always present, but some models do not have it, and in such cases, the analogue pin AO is the output pin. The details of each pin are given next:

The internal structure is shown below to add more detail in this discussion:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Packages

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Alternatives

In addition to all these, the MQ series has multiple members that are widely used in place of MQ-2. These may include 

Where to Buy MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor 

Along with millions of other products, sensors like MQ-2 smoke/gas sensors are available at the following platforms:

1. eBay

2. Amazon

3. AliExpress

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Working Principle

The working principle and characteristics of the MQ-2 are easily understood by studying the internal structure in detail. Here is the detail of each part, and we’ll discuss the working principal using the following structure:

As mentioned before, the MQ-2 smoke/gas detector works on the principle of chemisorption. It is defined as:

"Chemisorption is the process by which the molecules of the material adhere to the solid surface because of the chemical bonding."

In the case of MQ-2, chemisorption is the process in which the gas molecules surrounding the sensor interact with its surface material and cause a change in the electrical resistance. 

It is a heat-driven sensor, therefore it is covered with two layers of steel mesh. These layers are referred to as the anti-explosion network. This sensor is designed to detect combustible gases; therefore, the anti-explosion network is responsible for the protection of the heater element from the surrounding gases.

This network is in the form of a mesh so that it filters the suspended articles and allows only gases to reach the internal sensitive circuit. A copper plating is used to secure the mesh at its place.

When the mesh is removed, the following structure is seen:

This star-shaped structure is responsible for the detection of the gas. Here is the explanation of each element:

• The sensing element lies in between all the other elements. It has a coating of tin oxide (SnO2), which is heated to 200-300 °C. This temperature activates the sensing element so that it may absorb the oxygen from the surrounding air. As a result, a depletion region is formed that increases the overall sensor resistance.
• The H indicated the sensing element heaters. Usually, it is a Nickel-Chrominum coil (conductive alloy).
• The A and B are the signal-carrying leads that are connected with the platinum wires. Through these wires, the A and B connect with the sensor element body. These are responsible for the small changes in the current values.

Once the gas enters this internal chamber, it reacts with the depletion region of the sensing element. As a result, the amount of oxygen decreases depending on the amount of the external gas, and as a result, there is a change in the resistance. The magnitude of this change determines the amount of combustible gas surrounding the gas sensor.

The sensor has a voltage divider circuit that converts the change in resistance into the output voltage, which is then sent as an output through the pin.

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Features

Most features of this sensor have been discussed so far in this article, but here is a quick revision of these features:

• It detects the combustion gases around it, and the structure is protected through an anti-explosion network. The other gases surrounding the sensor do not have any effect on its working in normal conditions.
• In most of the models, there is only the analogue pin, whose value is potentially related to the detectable gas concentrations.
• Some modules have a digital output as well, which is indicated by DOUT.
• The calculation of the resistance in this case is followed by the formula given next:

This is a simple-to-use sensor that is compatible with multiple circuits. Another feature that supports its importance is its low cost and high-quality performance.

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Physical Dimensions

The following table shows the dimensions of this sensor:

MQ-2 Smoke/Gas Sensor Applications

The smoke and gas detector sensors are used in different ways in the project and are one of the most important parts of such circuits. Here are some basic examples of MQ-2 smoke/gas sensor applications:

• Residential gas leak detection (homes)

• Industrial gas leak detection (factories)

• Basic fire alarm systems (buildings)

• General air quality monitoring (sensor network)

• Portable gas detectors (personal safety)

• Educational electronics projects

Hence, today we have learned the basic information and its detailed specifications. We started with the basic introduction of the MQ-2 sensor and how it works. We understood its features, and workings and read the datasheets. In the end, we see some simple applications in different domains of life. I hope this was an informative guide for you, and if you want to add more information in it, you can comment to us.