SKU: SENS-0948
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MQ-3 Alcohol Gas Detector Sensor Module - Analog & Digital Output

₹109.00 (Inclusive of all taxes)
Out of Stock

The MQ-3 Alcohol Gas Detector Sensor Module provides a simple interface for detecting ethanol vapor concentrations from 0.05 to 10 mg/L. Operating at 5V DC, it delivers both analog and digital TTL-level outputs for direct integration with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and other microcontroller ADCs.

Features

  • Semiconductor-based alcohol (ethanol) vapor detection with 0.05–10 mg/L range.
  • Provides dual analog (0.1–4V) and digital TTL output signals for flexible interfacing.
  • Onboard comparator with adjustable potentiometer for setting digital trigger threshold.
  • 5V DC operation with ~165 mA heater current for optimal sensor response.
  • Compact PCB module with standard 0.1″ header pins for rapid prototyping.

Out of stock

Description

The MQ-3 module utilizes a tin dioxide (SnO2) semiconductor gas sensor, whose conductivity changes in the presence of reducing gases like alcohol. The onboard circuitry provides power conditioning for the sensor’s heater element and signal conditioning for the analog output, simplifying integration compared to the raw sensor’s odd pin spacing.

Designed for breathalyzer and environmental monitoring applications, the module operates effectively within a -10°C to +70°C temperature range. The analog output voltage is proportional to gas concentration, while the digital output provides a clean, threshold-triggered TTL signal for alarms or digital logic inputs, indicated by an onboard LED.

Key Features

  • MQ-3 semiconductor gas sensor core for reliable alcohol vapor detection.
  • Dual-output interface: Analog voltage (0.1–4V) and digital TTL (active-low).
  • Onboard potentiometer for precise adjustment of the digital output trigger threshold.
  • Power and signal output status indicated by dual onboard LEDs.
  • Stable performance with a long service life and rapid response/recovery characteristics.
  • Standard 4-pin 0.1" header for easy connection to breadboards and microcontroller shields.
  • Optimized performance-to-cost ratio for educational and prototyping projects.

Applications

  • Breathalyzer and alcohol detection prototypes for educational or safety demonstrations.
  • Environmental monitoring for ethanol vapor in laboratories or fermentation processes.
  • Smart home or IoT systems for detecting alcohol-based solvent spills or leaks.
  • Embedded system projects requiring a simple, threshold-based alcohol vapor alarm.

Technical Specifications

Detected GasAlcohol (Ethanol)
Detection Concentration Range0.05 mg/L – 10 mg/L
Operating Voltage5 VDC
Heater Current (approx.)~165 mA (on)
Analog Output Voltage0.1 V – 4 V (relative to concentration)
Digital OutputTTL (Active Low)
Load Resistance200 kΩ
Operating Temperature-10°C to +70°C
Module Dimensions (L x W)36 mm x 20 mm
Module Weight5 g
Model NumberMQ-3

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the operating voltage and current requirement for the MQ-3 module?

The module requires a stable 5V DC power supply. The sensor's heater element draws approximately 165 mA when active, so ensure your power source or regulator can supply this current. The total module current consumption is around 150-165 mA during normal operation.

How do I interface the analog and digital outputs with a microcontroller like Arduino?

Connect the module's VCC and GND to 5V and GND on your Arduino. The analog output (AO) pin connects to an analog input pin (e.g., A0) to read concentration-varying voltage (0.1-4V). The digital output (DO) pin connects to any digital input pin; it outputs a LOW signal when the gas concentration exceeds the threshold set by the onboard potentiometer.

How do I calibrate or set the detection threshold?

Calibration for precise ppm values requires exposure to known gas concentrations. For a simple alarm threshold, power the module in clean air and adjust the onboard potentiometer until the digital output LED turns off. Then, introduce the target gas concentration and adjust the pot until the LED triggers at your desired sensitivity level.

What gases does the MQ-3 sensor primarily detect?

The MQ-3 semiconductor sensor is highly sensitive to alcohol vapors (ethanol). It can also respond to other reducing gases, but its sensitivity is optimized for ethanol, making it suitable for breathalyzer applications and alcohol vapor detection. It is not selective for specific gases like methane or LPG.

Does the sensor require a pre-heating period before use?

Yes, like most metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensors, the MQ-3 requires a pre-heating period after initial power-on for stable readings. Allow approximately 1-2 minutes for the internal heater to bring the sensing element to its optimal operating temperature before taking measurements for consistent results.

Package Includes

  • 1 x MQ-3 Alcohol Gas Detector Sensor Module

Additional Information

Weight 0.005 kg
Dimensions 3.6 × 2 cm