How to Use TGS2611-E00: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TGS2611-E00, manufactured by FIGARO USA, INC., is a highly reliable gas sensor designed to detect combustible gases such as methane and propane. It operates on the principle of conductivity change in its sensing element when exposed to target gases. This sensor is widely used in applications requiring gas detection, such as gas leak detectors, air quality monitors, and industrial safety systems.

• Gas leak detection in residential and industrial environments
• Air quality monitoring systems
• Combustible gas alarms
• HVAC systems for safety and efficiency
• Portable gas detection devices

The TGS2611-E00 is designed for low power consumption and high sensitivity to methane and propane gases. Below are its key technical details:

The TGS2611-E00 has a simple pin layout with four pins. The table below describes each pin:

1. Power the Heater: Connect the heater pins (Pin 1 and Pin 2) to a 5V DC power source. Ensure the voltage is stable and within the specified range (5.0 V ± 0.2 V).
2. Connect the Sensor Output: Use a load resistor (typically 10 kΩ) between the sensor output pin (Pin 3) and ground (Pin 4). The sensor's resistance will vary based on the gas concentration.
3. Read the Output: Measure the voltage across the load resistor to determine the gas concentration. The output voltage decreases as the gas concentration increases.
4. Calibrate the Sensor: For accurate readings, calibrate the sensor in a known gas concentration environment.

• Preheat Time: Allow the sensor to preheat for at least 24 hours before initial use to stabilize its performance.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the sensor to avoid saturation or delayed response.
• Avoid Contaminants: Protect the sensor from exposure to silicone vapors, corrosive gases, or high humidity, as these can degrade its performance.
• Load Resistor Selection: Use a load resistor value that matches your application requirements. A typical value is 10 kΩ.
• Arduino Compatibility: The TGS2611-E00 can be easily interfaced with an Arduino UNO for gas detection projects.

Below is an example of how to interface the TGS2611-E00 with an Arduino UNO to measure gas concentration:

// TGS2611-E00 Gas Sensor Example Code
// Connect the sensor output to Arduino analog pin A0
// Ensure the heater is powered with 5V DC

const int sensorPin = A0;  // Analog pin connected to sensor output
const int loadResistor = 10000;  // Load resistor value in ohms (10 kΩ)

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);  // Initialize serial communication
  Serial.println("TGS2611-E00 Gas Sensor Test");
}

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin);  // Read analog value from sensor
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);  // Convert to voltage
  float resistance = (5.0 - voltage) * loadResistor / voltage;  // Calculate sensor resistance

  Serial.print("Sensor Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.println(" V");

  Serial.print("Sensor Resistance: ");
  Serial.print(resistance);
  Serial.println(" ohms");

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

1. No Output Signal:

   • Cause: Heater not powered or incorrect wiring.
   • Solution: Verify the heater connections and ensure a stable 5V DC supply.

2. Unstable Readings:

   • Cause: Insufficient preheat time or environmental interference.
   • Solution: Allow the sensor to preheat for at least 24 hours and ensure proper ventilation.

3. Low Sensitivity:

   • Cause: Contamination or aging of the sensor.
   • Solution: Avoid exposure to contaminants and replace the sensor if performance degrades over time.

4. High Sensor Resistance in Clean Air:

   • Cause: Incorrect load resistor value or damaged sensor.
   • Solution: Check the load resistor and replace the sensor if necessary.

Q: Can the TGS2611-E00 detect gases other than methane and propane?
A: While the sensor is optimized for methane and propane, it may respond to other combustible gases. However, sensitivity and accuracy may vary.

Q: How long does the sensor last?
A: The typical lifespan of the TGS2611-E00 is over 5 years under normal operating conditions.

Q: Can I use a different heater voltage?
A: No, the heater voltage must be 5.0 V ± 0.2 V to ensure proper operation and avoid damaging the sensor.

Q: Is the sensor waterproof?
A: No, the TGS2611-E00 is not waterproof. Avoid exposure to water or high humidity environments.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate the TGS2611-E00 gas sensor into their projects and ensure reliable performance.