How to Use PZEM-004T V3: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The PZEM-004T V3, manufactured by Peacefair, is a versatile and compact energy meter designed for monitoring and measuring key electrical parameters in AC circuits. This module can measure voltage, current, power, energy, and frequency, making it an essential tool for energy management and monitoring systems. It features a UART interface for seamless communication with microcontrollers, enabling integration into IoT and automation projects.

• Home energy monitoring systems
• Industrial equipment monitoring
• IoT-based energy management solutions
• Power consumption analysis for appliances
• Renewable energy systems (e.g., solar inverters)

Below are the key technical details of the PZEM-004T V3:

The PZEM-004T V3 has a 4-pin interface for communication and power connections. The pinout is as follows:

1. Connect the Current Transformer (CT):

   • Attach the included CT sensor to the PZEM-004T V3 module.
   • Place the CT sensor around the live wire of the AC circuit to measure current.

2. Connect the Module to a Microcontroller:

   • Use the UART interface to connect the PZEM-004T V3 to a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO).
   • Connect the VCC and GND pins to the 5V and GND pins of the microcontroller.
   • Connect the RX pin of the PZEM-004T V3 to the TX pin of the microcontroller.
   • Connect the TX pin of the PZEM-004T V3 to the RX pin of the microcontroller.

3. Power the Module:

   • The PZEM-004T V3 is self-powered from the AC line it measures. Ensure the AC voltage is within the specified range (80V - 260V AC).

4. Read Data via UART:

   • Use the UART interface to send commands and receive measurement data from the module.

• Safety First: The PZEM-004T V3 is designed for high-voltage AC circuits. Ensure proper insulation and avoid direct contact with live wires.
• CT Orientation: Ensure the CT sensor is correctly oriented around the live wire for accurate current measurement.
• Baud Rate: The UART communication operates at a fixed baud rate of 9600. Configure your microcontroller accordingly.
• Isolation: For added safety, consider using an optocoupler or isolation circuit between the PZEM-004T V3 and your microcontroller.

Below is an example Arduino sketch to interface with the PZEM-004T V3 and read voltage, current, and power data:

#include <PZEM004Tv30.h> // Include the PZEM-004T V3 library

// Define the RX and TX pins for UART communication
#define RX_PIN 10
#define TX_PIN 11

// Create a PZEM object with the specified RX and TX pins
PZEM004Tv30 pzem(RX_PIN, TX_PIN);

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication for debugging
  Serial.println("PZEM-004T V3 Energy Meter Example");
}

void loop() {
  // Read voltage, current, and power from the PZEM-004T V3
  float voltage = pzem.voltage();
  float current = pzem.current();
  float power = pzem.power();

  // Check if the readings are valid
  if (isnan(voltage) || isnan(current) || isnan(power)) {
    Serial.println("Error reading data from PZEM-004T V3!");
  } else {
    // Print the readings to the Serial Monitor
    Serial.print("Voltage: ");
    Serial.print(voltage);
    Serial.println(" V");

    Serial.print("Current: ");
    Serial.print(current);
    Serial.println(" A");

    Serial.print("Power: ");
    Serial.print(power);
    Serial.println(" W");

    Serial.println("-----------------------------");
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before the next reading
}

1. No Data Received from the Module:

   • Ensure the UART connections (RX and TX) are correctly wired.
   • Verify that the baud rate is set to 9600 in your microcontroller code.
   • Check that the module is powered and the AC voltage is within the specified range.

2. Incorrect Current or Power Readings:

   • Ensure the CT sensor is properly clamped around the live wire.
   • Verify that the CT sensor is not damaged or improperly connected.

3. Module Not Responding to Commands:

   • Check the wiring and ensure the microcontroller's UART pins are functioning.
   • Ensure the PZEM-004T V3 library is correctly installed and included in your code.

Q: Can the PZEM-004T V3 measure DC circuits?
A: No, the PZEM-004T V3 is designed specifically for AC circuits and cannot measure DC voltage or current.

Q: Can I use the module with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the UART interface supports both 3.3V and 5V logic levels.

Q: How do I reset the energy counter?
A: The energy counter can be reset by sending a specific command via UART. Refer to the module's command set documentation for details.

Q: Is the module safe for high-power applications?
A: Yes, the PZEM-004T V3 can measure up to 100A and 22kW, but ensure proper insulation and safety precautions when working with high-power circuits.