How to Use VEML6070: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The VEML6070 is a high-precision UV light sensor manufactured by MODUL MOD, with the part ID GY-VEML6070. This sensor is designed to measure UVA and UVB radiation, providing a digital output via the I2C interface. Its compact design and low power consumption make it ideal for applications such as UV exposure monitoring, environmental sensing, and wearable devices.

• UV index monitoring for weather stations
• Wearable devices for UV exposure tracking
• Environmental sensing in IoT systems
• Smart agriculture for UV radiation measurement
• Consumer electronics for skin protection alerts

The following table outlines the key technical details of the VEML6070:

The VEML6070 module has the following pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. I2C Communication: Connect the SDA and SCL pins to the corresponding I2C pins on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO).
3. Address Selection: Use the ADDR pin to set the I2C address:
   • Connect ADDR to GND for address 0x38.
   • Connect ADDR to VCC for address 0x39.
4. Pull-Up Resistors: Ensure that the SDA and SCL lines have pull-up resistors (typically 4.7 kΩ) for proper I2C communication.

• UV Index Calculation: The raw digital output from the VEML6070 corresponds to UV intensity. Use the manufacturer's formula or library to convert this value into a UV index.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may degrade the sensor's performance over time.
• I2C Bus Speed: Operate the I2C bus at a standard speed of 100 kHz for reliable communication.
• Temperature Effects: Ensure the sensor operates within its specified temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) for accurate readings.

Below is an example of how to interface the VEML6070 with an Arduino UNO:

#include <Wire.h>
#include <Adafruit_VEML6070.h>

// Create an instance of the VEML6070 library
Adafruit_VEML6070 uv = Adafruit_VEML6070();

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
  Serial.println("VEML6070 UV Sensor Test");

  // Initialize the VEML6070 sensor
  if (!uv.begin(Adafruit_VEML6070::VEML6070_1_T)) {
    Serial.println("Failed to initialize VEML6070. Check connections!");
    while (1); // Halt execution if initialization fails
  }
  Serial.println("VEML6070 initialized successfully.");
}

void loop() {
  // Read the UV intensity from the sensor
  uint16_t uvReading = uv.readUV();

  // Print the UV reading to the serial monitor
  Serial.print("UV Reading: ");
  Serial.println(uvReading);

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

• The Adafruit_VEML6070 library is used for simplified communication with the sensor. Install it via the Arduino Library Manager.
• The VEML6070_1_T parameter sets the integration time for UV measurements. Adjust this based on your application.

1. No Response from the Sensor

   • Cause: Incorrect I2C address or wiring.
   • Solution: Verify the ADDR pin connection and ensure proper SDA/SCL wiring.

2. Inconsistent UV Readings

   • Cause: Electrical noise or improper pull-up resistors.
   • Solution: Add pull-up resistors (4.7 kΩ) to the SDA and SCL lines and ensure a stable power supply.

3. Sensor Overheating

   • Cause: Operating outside the specified voltage or temperature range.
   • Solution: Ensure the supply voltage is between 2.7V and 5.5V and the temperature is within -40°C to +85°C.

4. Library Not Found

   • Cause: Missing or outdated library.
   • Solution: Install the latest version of the Adafruit_VEML6070 library from the Arduino Library Manager.

Q1: Can the VEML6070 measure UV-C radiation?
A1: No, the VEML6070 is designed to measure UVA and UVB radiation in the 320 nm to 400 nm range.

Q2: What is the maximum I2C bus length for the VEML6070?
A2: The maximum bus length depends on the pull-up resistor values and the capacitance of the bus. For reliable communication, keep the bus length under 1 meter.

Q3: Can I use the VEML6070 with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A3: Yes, the VEML6070 operates at 2.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems.

Q4: How do I calculate the UV index from the sensor's output?
A4: Use the manufacturer's formula or a library like Adafruit_VEML6070 to convert the raw digital output into a UV index value.