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

Introduction

The PZEM-004T V3, manufactured by Peacefair, is a multifunctional energy monitoring module designed for AC circuits. It is capable of measuring key electrical parameters such as voltage, current, power, energy, and frequency. The module communicates via UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), making it easy to integrate with microcontrollers, such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other embedded systems.

Explore Projects Built with PZEM-004T V3

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!

ESP32-Based Smart Environmental Monitoring System with Relay Control

This is a smart environmental monitoring and control system featuring an ESP32 microcontroller interfaced with a PZEM004T for power monitoring, relay modules for actuating bulbs and a fan, and an LCD for user interface. It includes flame, gas, and vibration sensors for safety monitoring purposes.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

ESP32-Based Smart Power Monitoring and Control System with Wi-Fi Connectivity

This circuit is a smart power monitoring and control system using an ESP32 microcontroller. It features multiple sensors and components, including PZEM-004T AC modules for voltage and current measurement, DS18B20 temperature sensors, an LCD for display, and solid-state relays for controlling power outlets. The system is integrated with Blynk for remote monitoring and control, and includes pushbuttons for local interaction.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

ESP8266 NodeMCU Based Energy Monitoring Display with PZEM004T and OLED Screen

This circuit is designed to monitor electrical parameters using the PZEM004t sensor and display the data on a 0.96" OLED screen. The esp8266 nodemcu serves as the central controller, interfacing with the PZEM004t sensor via serial communication (RX/TX) and with the OLED display through an I2C connection (SCK/SDA). A 5V adapter provides power to the circuit, with the nodemcu regulating down to 3.3V for the OLED display and the PZEM004t sensor receiving 5V directly.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

ESP32-Controlled AC Lighting System with Power Monitoring

This circuit features an ESP32 microcontroller interfaced with a PZEM004T power monitoring module and a 4-channel relay module controlling multiple AC LED bulbs. The ESP32 uses GPIO pins to control the relays, which in turn switch the LED bulbs on and off. The PZEM004T is connected to the ESP32 for communication and to a current sensor for monitoring power consumption of the connected load through the relay contacts.

Open Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

• Home energy monitoring systems
• Industrial power consumption analysis
• Smart energy meters
• Renewable energy systems (e.g., solar or wind power monitoring)
• IoT-based energy management solutions

Technical Specifications

The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the PZEM-004T V3:

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The PZEM-004T V3 module has a 4-pin interface for communication and power, as well as terminals for AC input and the current transformer (CT). The pin configuration is as follows:

UART and Power Pins

AC Input and CT Terminals

Usage Instructions

How to Use the PZEM-004T V3 in a Circuit

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC and GND pins to a 5V DC power source.
2. Connect the AC Circuit:
   • Attach the live (L) and neutral (N) wires of the AC circuit to the respective AC IN terminals.
   • Ensure proper insulation and safety precautions when working with high-voltage AC circuits.
3. Connect the Current Transformer (CT):
   • Place the CT around the live wire of the AC circuit.
   • Connect the CT wires to the S1 and S2 terminals on the module.
4. Establish UART Communication:
   • Connect the TX pin of the module to the RX pin of the microcontroller.
   • Connect the RX pin of the module to the TX pin of the microcontroller.
5. Program the Microcontroller:
   • Use the UART protocol to send commands and receive data from the module.
   • Refer to the manufacturer's communication protocol documentation for command details.

Important Considerations and Best Practices

• Safety First: Always ensure the AC circuit is powered off before making connections.
• Current Transformer Orientation: Ensure the CT is properly oriented around the live wire for accurate current measurement.
• Baud Rate: The module operates at a fixed baud rate of 9600. Ensure your microcontroller is configured accordingly.
• Power Supply: Use a stable 5V DC power source to avoid communication errors or inaccurate readings.
• Isolation: Avoid direct contact with the AC terminals to prevent electric shock.

Example: Using PZEM-004T V3 with Arduino UNO

Below is an example Arduino sketch to read data from the PZEM-004T V3 module:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for SoftwareSerial
SoftwareSerial pzemSerial(10, 11); // RX = Pin 10, TX = Pin 11

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize Serial Monitor
  pzemSerial.begin(9600); // Initialize communication with PZEM-004T V3

  Serial.println("PZEM-004T V3 Energy Monitor");
}

void loop() {
  // Send a command to request data (example command for voltage)
  byte request[] = {0xB0, 0xC0, 0xA8, 0x01, 0x01}; // Replace with actual command
  pzemSerial.write(request, sizeof(request));

  // Wait for response
  delay(100);

  // Read response from PZEM-004T V3
  while (pzemSerial.available()) {
    byte response = pzemSerial.read();
    Serial.print(response, HEX); // Print response in HEX format
    Serial.print(" ");
  }
  Serial.println();

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

Notes:

• Replace the request array with the appropriate command for the parameter you want to measure (e.g., voltage, current, power).
• Use a library like PZEM004T for easier integration and command handling.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

1. No Data Received from the Module:

   • Ensure the TX and RX pins are correctly connected (crossed: TX to RX, RX to TX).
   • Verify the baud rate is set to 9600 in your microcontroller code.
   • Check the power supply to ensure the module is receiving 5V DC.

2. Inaccurate Measurements:

   • Verify the current transformer (CT) is properly clamped around the live wire.
   • Ensure the AC IN terminals are securely connected to the live and neutral wires.

3. Communication Errors:

   • Use shorter wires for UART communication to reduce noise.
   • Add pull-up resistors to the TX and RX lines if necessary.

4. Module Not Powering On:

   • Check the VCC and GND connections.
   • Ensure the power supply provides a stable 5V DC output.

FAQs

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

Q: What is the maximum current the module can measure?
A: The module can measure up to 100A when used with the provided current transformer.

Q: Can I use multiple PZEM-004T V3 modules with a single microcontroller?
A: Yes, you can connect multiple modules by assigning unique addresses to each module using the manufacturer's protocol.

Q: Is the module compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers?
A: The module requires a 5V power supply, but the UART pins are 3.3V logic compatible. Use a level shifter if needed for reliable communication.

Q: How do I reset the energy counter?
A: Send the appropriate reset command via UART as specified in the manufacturer's protocol documentation.