How to Use MPX5050DP: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MPX5050DP is a piezoresistive pressure sensor that delivers a linear voltage output proportional to the applied pressure. It is designed to measure pressures in the range of 0 to 50 kPa with high accuracy and reliability. This sensor is commonly used in automotive systems (e.g., manifold air pressure sensing), industrial equipment, and medical devices (e.g., respiratory systems). Its dual-port design allows for differential pressure measurements, making it versatile for a wide range of applications.

• Pressure Range: 0 to 50 kPa
• Output Voltage: 0.2 V to 4.7 V (proportional to pressure)
• Supply Voltage: 4.75 V to 5.25 V
• Accuracy: ±2.5% Full Scale Span (FSS)
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +125°C
• Response Time: 1 ms
• Port Configuration: Dual port (differential pressure measurement)
• Package Type: Standard plastic package with barbed ports

The MPX5050DP has a 6-pin configuration. The table below describes each pin:

1. Power Supply: Connect the Vcc pin to a regulated 5 V power supply and the GND pin to the ground of the circuit.
2. Output Signal: The Vout pin provides an analog voltage output proportional to the applied pressure. This output can be read using an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) on a microcontroller.
3. Pressure Ports:
   • The MPX5050DP has two ports: a high-pressure port (P1) and a low-pressure port (P2).
   • For absolute pressure measurement, leave P2 open to the atmosphere and apply pressure to P1.
   • For differential pressure measurement, apply pressure to both P1 and P2 as needed.
4. Filtering: Add a decoupling capacitor (e.g., 0.1 µF) between Vcc and GND to reduce noise.

• Ensure the supply voltage is stable and within the specified range (4.75 V to 5.25 V).
• Avoid exposing the sensor to pressures beyond its maximum rating (50 kPa) to prevent damage.
• Use proper tubing and fittings to connect the pressure ports securely.
• If using the sensor in a noisy environment, consider additional filtering on the output signal.

Below is an example of how to connect the MPX5050DP to an Arduino UNO and read the pressure data:

• Vcc: Connect to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• GND: Connect to the Arduino's GND pin.
• Vout: Connect to an analog input pin on the Arduino (e.g., A0).

// Define the analog input pin connected to the MPX5050DP Vout
const int pressurePin = A0;

// Define the supply voltage and sensor output range
const float Vcc = 5.0; // Arduino supply voltage (5V)
const float VoutMin = 0.2; // Minimum output voltage of MPX5050DP (0.2V)
const float VoutMax = 4.7; // Maximum output voltage of MPX5050DP (4.7V)
const float pressureMax = 50.0; // Maximum pressure in kPa

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  // Read the analog value from the sensor
  int sensorValue = analogRead(pressurePin);

  // Convert the analog value to a voltage
  float voltage = (sensorValue / 1023.0) * Vcc;

  // Calculate the pressure in kPa
  float pressure = ((voltage - VoutMin) / (VoutMax - VoutMin)) * pressureMax;

  // Print the pressure value to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Pressure: ");
  Serial.print(pressure);
  Serial.println(" kPa");

  delay(500); // Wait for 500 ms before the next reading
}

1. No Output Voltage:

   • Ensure the sensor is powered correctly (check Vcc and GND connections).
   • Verify that the pressure ports are not blocked or improperly connected.

2. Inaccurate Readings:

   • Check for noise in the power supply and add a decoupling capacitor if necessary.
   • Ensure the sensor is not exposed to temperatures or pressures outside its operating range.

3. Fluctuating Output:

   • Verify that the tubing and fittings are secure and free of leaks.
   • Add additional filtering to the output signal if the environment is noisy.

Q: Can the MPX5050DP measure negative pressures?
A: Yes, the MPX5050DP can measure negative differential pressures when the pressure at P2 is higher than the pressure at P1.

Q: What type of tubing should I use with the MPX5050DP?
A: Use flexible tubing with an inner diameter that matches the barbed ports of the sensor for a secure fit.

Q: Can I use the MPX5050DP with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: The MPX5050DP requires a 5V supply for proper operation. If using a 3.3V microcontroller, you may need a level shifter to interface with the sensor's output.