SKU: SENS-2998
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DFRobot Gravity Tipping Bucket Rainfall Sensor (I2C & UART) - Signal Adapter & Connector

₹3,889.00 (Inclusive of all taxes)
Out of Stock

The DFRobot Gravity Tipping Bucket Rainfall Sensor is a precision meteorological instrument that outputs rainfall data via I2C or UART interfaces. It is designed for seamless integration with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and other 3.3V/5V microcontroller platforms using the Gravity connector system.

Features

  • Measures rainfall with a resolution of 0.28mm per tip.
  • Dual I2C and UART digital output for flexible system integration.
  • All-mechanical tipping bucket mechanism with no internal electronics for long-term outdoor reliability.
  • Hollow bottom design ensures automatic drainage and prevents water accumulation.
  • Wide operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C for harsh environments.

Out of stock

Description

This sensor employs a classic tipping bucket mechanism for accurate precipitation measurement. Rainfall is collected and funneled into a small bucket; when a calibrated volume (0.28mm) accumulates, the bucket tips, generating a digital pulse. The external signal adapter board converts this mechanical action into a clean digital signal readable via I2C or UART protocols.

The sensor body is a purely mechanical assembly, enhancing its durability against moisture and temperature extremes. The integrated Gravity interface simplifies wiring, while the provided libraries enable rapid deployment in data logging systems. Note that the signal adapter board is not waterproof and must be installed in a protected enclosure.

Key Features

  • High-Precision Measurement: Delivers rainfall data with a resolution of 0.28mm per tipping event for detailed meteorological analysis.
  • Dual Digital Interface: Offers both I2C and UART communication protocols, providing flexibility for integration with various microcontrollers and single-board computers.
  • Robust Mechanical Design: Features an all-mechanical tipping bucket with a hollow bottom for automatic water drainage, ensuring stable operation and longevity with no electronic components exposed to the elements.
  • Wide Environmental Tolerance: Operates reliably across an extensive temperature range from -40°C to +85°C, suitable for deployment in extreme weather conditions.
  • Gravity Ecosystem Compatibility: Utilizes the standard DFRobot Gravity 4-pin connector for plug-and-play connectivity, drastically reducing setup time and wiring complexity.
  • Comprehensive Software Support: Includes ready-to-use Arduino libraries and example code for immediate data acquisition and system integration.

Applications

  • Precision rainfall data collection for professional and amateur weather stations.
  • Environmental monitoring networks tracking precipitation patterns and stormwater runoff.
  • Smart agriculture systems for irrigation scheduling and crop management based on actual rainfall.
  • Hydrological research and educational projects requiring reliable, long-term precipitation measurement.
  • Urban infrastructure monitoring for flood warning and water management systems.

Technical Specifications

Working Voltage3.3 to 5.5V DC
Working Current< 3 mA
Output SignalI2C / UART
Resolution0.28 mm per tip
Operating Temperature-40°C to +85°C
Tipping Bucket Dimensions118 x 59 x 80 mm
Tipping Bucket Weight119 g
PCB Weight5.3 g
Mounting Hole Diameter3.1 mm

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the resolution of this rainfall sensor, and how is it calculated?

The sensor has a resolution of 0.28mm of rainfall per tipping event. Each time the internal bucket fills with 0.28mm of collected rain, it tips and sends a digital pulse to the adapter board. The total rainfall is calculated by multiplying the number of tips by 0.28mm.

How do I interface this sensor with an Arduino or Raspberry Pi?

Connect the sensor's mechanical output to the included signal adapter board. Then, use the provided Gravity 4-pin cable to connect the adapter's I2C or UART pins to your controller. For Arduino, utilize the supplied library to read rainfall data directly over I2C or serial. For Raspberry Pi, you can use the UART interface or an I2C GPIO expander.

Is the entire sensor assembly waterproof for outdoor use?

The tipping bucket mechanism itself is fully exposed and designed for outdoor installation. However, the critical signal adapter board is NOT waterproof. You must house the adapter board in a sealed, waterproof enclosure while allowing the sensor's funnel and bucket to remain exposed to rainfall.

What is the power requirement for this sensor system?

The system operates on a DC voltage range of 3.3V to 5.5V, with a very low operating current of less than 3mA. This makes it suitable for battery-powered, remote monitoring stations. Power is supplied to the signal adapter board via the Gravity connector's VCC and GND pins.

Package Includes

  • Gravity Tipping Bucket Rainfall Sensor x1
  • Signal Adapter Board x1
  • Gravity-4P I2C/UART Sensor Connector Cable x1

Additional Information

Weight 0.04 kg
Dimensions 7 × 6 × 4 cm