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SparkFun Lightning Detector Sensor - AS3935 SPI Module

₹4,879.00 (Inclusive of all taxes)
Out of Stock

The SparkFun AS3935 Lightning Detector Sensor is a compact SPI module for detecting and estimating the distance to lightning strikes up to 40 km away. It operates from 2.4V to 5.5V, making it compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other 3.3V/5V microcontroller platforms for weather monitoring and safety applications.

Features

  • Detects cloud-to-ground and intra-cloud lightning up to 40 km away.
  • Estimates distance to storm front in 15 programmable steps.
  • Built-in algorithm rejects man-made electrical noise for reliable detection.
  • SPI digital interface for easy integration with microcontrollers.
  • Wide 2.4V to 5.5V supply voltage range supports 3.3V and 5V logic systems.

Out of stock

Description

The SparkFun Lightning Detector is built around the AS3935 Franklin Lightning Sensor IC, which uses a tuned 500 kHz antenna to detect the electromagnetic pulses (sferics) emitted by lightning discharges. It differentiates between actual lightning events and electrical noise from appliances or motors using an integrated disturber rejection algorithm, significantly reducing false positives.

The module features programmable detection sensitivity levels and selectable operating modes (power-down, listening, active) to optimize performance for indoor or outdoor environments and conserve power in portable applications. Its robust design operates across an industrial temperature range from -40°C to 85°C, suitable for field-deployed weather stations.

Key Features

  • Franklin Lightning Sensor IC: Core AS3935 chip provides precise lightning detection and distance estimation.
  • Advanced Noise Rejection: Integrated algorithm filters out common man-made electrical disturbances.
  • Configurable Sensitivity: Programmable detection levels allow tuning for specific environmental conditions.
  • Flexible Power Management: Three operating modes (power-down, listening, active) enable low-power designs.
  • Robust Communication: SPI interface supports clock speeds up to 2 MHz for reliable data transfer.
  • Extended Operational Range: Functions reliably from -40°C to 85°C for outdoor and industrial use.
  • Compact Footprint: Small 25 x 25 mm form factor ideal for integration into portable equipment.
  • Wide Voltage Compatibility: 2.4V to 5.5V input range ensures compatibility with both 3.3V and 5V systems.

Applications

  • Portable weather stations and personal lightning warning systems.
  • Integration into sports event and outdoor activity safety equipment.
  • GPS and marine navigation systems for storm front awareness.
  • Industrial site monitoring for worker safety during electrical storms.
  • Research and data logging projects for meteorological studies.

Technical Specifications

Lightning Detection RangeUp to 40 km
Distance Estimation Resolution15 steps
Detectable Lightning TypesCloud-to-ground, Intra-cloud
Disturber RejectionBuilt-in man-made electrical noise algorithm
Detection LevelsProgrammable
Communication InterfaceSPI (up to 2 MHz)
Supply Voltage Range2.4 V – 5.5 V
Power ModesPower-down, Listening, Active
Operating Temperature-40°C to 85°C
Antenna Resonant Frequency500 kHz
Core Sensor ICAS3935
Noise MonitoringNoise floor measurement and evaluation
Module Dimensions25 x 25 x 3 mm
Module Weight4 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the communication protocol for the SparkFun AS3935 Lightning Detector?

The module uses a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for communication with a host microcontroller. The SPI clock can run up to 2 MHz. While the underlying AS3935 IC is hardware-compatible with I²C, SparkFun's specific breakout board implementation and library are designed for SPI use only.

How does the sensor estimate the distance to a lightning storm?

The AS3935 IC estimates distance by analyzing the electromagnetic signature of detected lightning strikes. It provides the distance to the storm front in 15 discrete steps, with each step representing an approximate range. The actual kilometer distance per step is configurable and depends on the sensor's calibration and environmental settings.

Can this sensor differentiate between lightning and electrical noise?

Yes, the AS3935 features a built-in disturber rejection algorithm specifically designed to filter out common man-made electrical noise from sources like appliances and motors. It also continuously monitors the noise floor and allows you to program detection sensitivity levels to minimize false positives in noisy environments.

What is the operating voltage range, and is it 5V tolerant?

The module operates from 2.4V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems. You can power it directly from a 5V Arduino pin or a 3.3V Raspberry Pi GPIO header. The SPI data lines are also within this voltage range.

What are the main applications for this lightning detector?

Primary applications include integration into personal weather stations, portable safety devices for outdoor sports, marine and aviation GPS systems for storm warning, and industrial site monitoring for personnel safety. Its programmable modes also make it suitable for low-power, battery-operated field data loggers in meteorological research.

Package Includes

  • 1 x SparkFun Lightning Detector Sensor Module (AS3935)

Additional Information

Weight 0.004 kg
Dimensions 2.5 × 2.5 × 0.3 cm