The ACS712 is a popular
hall-effect-based current sensor module that can measure both AC and DC
currents. It is widely used in electrical applications to monitor and
control current flow. The specific version ACS712 5A, is
designed to measure currents up to ±5A with high accuracy.
Key
Features of ACS712 5A Current Sensor
- Current Range:
The ACS712 5A module can measure AC or DC current in the range of -5A
to +5A.
- Output Signal:
The sensor provides an analog voltage output that is proportional
to the current it senses. The output is typically centered at 2.5V
(for 0A), and it increases or decreases based on the direction of the
current.
- Hall-Effect Sensor:
The ACS712 uses the Hall-effect principle to measure current. It detects
the magnetic field produced by the current passing through the sensor and
converts it into a proportional voltage.
- Isolation:
It provides electrical isolation between the high-current path and the
low-voltage electronics (such as microcontrollers), making it safe for
interfacing with digital systems.
- Sensitivity:
For the 5A version, the sensitivity is 185 mV/A. This means
that for every 1A of current, the output voltage changes by 185 mV.
- Supply Voltage:
The sensor operates on a 5V DC supply, which makes it compatible
with most microcontroller platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, etc.
Pin
Configuration of ACS712 5A Module
- VCC:
Connects to the 5V power supply.
- GND:
Connects to the ground of the system.
- OUT: The
analog output voltage representing the current measurement.
Applications of ACS712 Current Sensor
1. Power
Monitoring: Used in systems to monitor the power consumption of
devices by measuring the current drawn by them.
2. Overcurrent
Protection: In circuits where overcurrent can cause damage, ACS712 can
be used to detect current levels and trigger protective measures like shutting
off the circuit.
3. Battery
Management Systems: Used to monitor current in battery-powered
systems, such as electric vehicles, to track charging and discharging currents.
4. Inverters
and Power Converters: ACS712 can measure the current flow in inverters
and power supplies to monitor performance.
5. Motor
Control: In motor control applications, ACS712 is used to monitor the
current drawn by motors to prevent overloads.
6. Home
Automation: For applications like smart energy meters or home
automation systems to monitor electrical appliance current consumption.