How to Use pzem-004t: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The PZEM-004T is a digital power meter designed for monitoring and measuring key electrical parameters in AC circuits. It provides real-time data on voltage, current, power, energy consumption, and frequency. This module communicates via UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), making it easy to integrate with microcontrollers such as the Arduino UNO.

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

The following table outlines the key technical details of the PZEM-004T module:

The PZEM-004T module has the following pinout:

Note: Ensure proper isolation and safety precautions when connecting the module to AC mains.

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC and GND pins of the PZEM-004T to a 5V DC power source.
2. Connect UART Pins:
   • Connect the TX pin of the PZEM-004T to the RX pin of the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the RX pin of the PZEM-004T to the TX pin of the Arduino UNO.
3. AC Input Connection:
   • Connect the live and neutral wires of the AC circuit to the module's AC input terminals.
   • Use the included current transformer (CT) to measure current by clamping it around the live wire.
4. Load the Arduino Code: Use the provided Arduino code to read data from the PZEM-004T.

• Safety First: The PZEM-004T is connected to high-voltage AC circuits. Ensure proper insulation and avoid direct contact with live wires.
• Current Transformer Placement: The CT should only clamp around the live wire, not both live and neutral wires.
• Baud Rate: The module communicates 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.

Below is an example Arduino sketch to interface the PZEM-004T with an Arduino UNO:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

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

// PZEM-004T communication commands
byte readCommand[] = {0xB0, 0xC0, 0xA8, 0x01, 0x01, 0x00, 0x1A};

// Function to send a command to the PZEM-004T
void sendCommand(byte *command, int length) {
  for (int i = 0; i < length; i++) {
    pzemSerial.write(command[i]);
  }
}

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);          // Initialize Serial Monitor
  pzemSerial.begin(9600);      // Initialize SoftwareSerial for PZEM-004T
  delay(100);                  // Allow time for initialization
}

void loop() {
  sendCommand(readCommand, sizeof(readCommand)); // Send read command
  delay(100);                                    // Wait for response

  // Check if data is available from the PZEM-004T
  if (pzemSerial.available()) {
    Serial.println("Data received:");
    while (pzemSerial.available()) {
      byte data = pzemSerial.read();
      Serial.print(data, HEX); // Print data in hexadecimal format
      Serial.print(" ");
    }
    Serial.println();
  } else {
    Serial.println("No data received.");
  }

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

Note: This code demonstrates basic communication with the PZEM-004T. For advanced functionality, consider using a dedicated library such as the PZEM004T library available in the Arduino IDE Library Manager.

1. Can the PZEM-004T measure DC circuits?

   • No, the PZEM-004T is designed specifically for AC circuits.

2. What is the maximum current the module can measure?

   • The module can measure up to 100A using the included current transformer.

3. Can I use multiple PZEM-004T modules with one Arduino?

   • Yes, but you will need to assign unique addresses to each module and use a multiplexer or additional UART ports.

4. Is the module safe to use with high-voltage circuits?

   • Yes, but always follow proper safety precautions and ensure adequate insulation.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the PZEM-004T into your energy monitoring projects.