How to Use Nova PM Sensor : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Nova PM Sensor SDS011 by Nova Fitness is a high-precision air quality detection sensor module designed to measure the concentration of particulate matter (PM) in the air. It can differentiate between fine particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) and 10 micrometers (PM10), making it an essential tool for environmental monitoring, air purification systems, and indoor air quality assessment.

• Air quality monitoring stations
• Environmental monitoring equipment
• HVAC systems and air purifiers
• Smart home devices
• Health monitoring and preventive measures in urban areas

• Measuring Principle: Laser scattering
• Particle Detection Range: 0.3 to 10 µm
• Operating Voltage: 5V DC
• Maximum Current: 100mA during measurement, 2mA in standby
• Output Method: Digital (Serial data)
• Response Time: ≤10s
• Working Temperature Range: -10 to +50°C
• Working Humidity Range: 0 to 95% RH, non-condensing

Note: The SDS011 sensor also includes a 4-pin connector with the following pinout:

1. Power Supply: Connect the 5V and GND pins to a stable 5V power source.
2. Data Connection: Connect the TX pin of the SDS011 to the RX pin of your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO).
3. Serial Communication: Set up the microcontroller to communicate with the SDS011 using a baud rate of 9600 bps.

• Ensure that the sensor is placed in an environment with good airflow.
• Avoid exposure to high concentrations of dust and other particulate matter that could clog the sensor.
• Do not expose the sensor to corrosive gases.
• For accurate readings, allow the sensor to preheat for at least 30 seconds.

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

SoftwareSerial mySerial(10, 11); // RX, TX

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  mySerial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
  if (mySerial.available() > 0) {
    // Read the data from the sensor
    int pm25 = 0, pm10 = 0;
    if (readPMData(&pm25, &pm10)) {
      Serial.print("PM2.5: ");
      Serial.print(pm25);
      Serial.print(" µg/m³, PM10: ");
      Serial.print(pm10);
      Serial.println(" µg/m³");
    }
  }
}

bool readPMData(int *pm25, int *pm10) {
  byte dataBuf[10];
  if (mySerial.readBytes(dataBuf, 10) == 10) {
    // Check data packet
    if (dataBuf[0] == 0xAA && dataBuf[1] == 0xC0 && dataBuf[9] == 0xAB) {
      *pm25 = (dataBuf[3] << 8) + dataBuf[2];
      *pm10 = (dataBuf[5] << 8) + dataBuf[4];
      return true;
    }
  }
  return false;
}

Note: The example code above uses a SoftwareSerial library to create a serial communication channel on pins 10 and 11 of the Arduino UNO. The readPMData function reads the data from the sensor and outputs the PM2.5 and PM10 values.

• Inaccurate Readings: Ensure that the sensor is not placed near sources of dust or smoke and that it has had sufficient time to preheat.
• No Data Output: Check the wiring and connections, and ensure that the correct baud rate is set for the serial communication.

• Sensor Cleaning: Periodically use a small air pump to blow air through the sensor to remove any trapped particles.
• Serial Communication: Verify that the TX and RX pins are correctly connected and that there are no loose connections.

Q: How often should the sensor be calibrated? A: The SDS011 sensor comes factory-calibrated. However, if you notice significant deviations in readings, you may need to recalibrate the sensor using a known reference.

Q: Can the sensor be used outdoors? A: Yes, but it should be protected from direct sunlight, rain, and extreme humidity to prevent damage.

Q: What is the lifespan of the sensor? A: The SDS011 sensor has a lifespan of approximately 8000 hours of continuous operation, after which its accuracy may degrade.

For further assistance, please refer to the manufacturer's official documentation or contact their technical support team.