How to Use sct 013: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SCT-013 is a non-invasive current transformer (CT) sensor designed for measuring alternating current (AC). Manufactured by Arduino, this sensor allows for the measurement of current flowing through a conductor without the need for direct electrical contact. This makes it an ideal component for energy monitoring systems, where safety and ease of installation are paramount.

• Energy Monitoring Systems: Used to measure the current consumption of electrical appliances and systems.
• Smart Home Automation: Integrated into smart home systems to monitor and manage energy usage.
• Industrial Automation: Employed in industrial settings to monitor machinery and equipment for maintenance and efficiency.
• Renewable Energy Systems: Used in solar and wind energy systems to monitor the output and efficiency of the installations.

1. Connect the SCT-013 to the Conductor:

   • Open the clamp of the SCT-013 and place it around the conductor whose current you wish to measure. Ensure the clamp is securely closed.

2. Connect to Arduino UNO:

   • Connect the VCC pin of the SCT-013 to the 5V pin on the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the GND pin of the SCT-013 to the GND pin on the Arduino UNO.
   • Connect the Signal pin of the SCT-013 to an analog input pin (e.g., A0) on the Arduino UNO.

3. Load the Code:

   • Upload the following code to your Arduino UNO to read the current values from the SCT-013.

// SCT-013 Current Sensor Example Code
// This code reads the analog signal from the SCT-013 sensor and converts it
// to a current value.

const int sensorPin = A0; // Analog input pin for SCT-013
float calibrationFactor = 100.0; // Calibration factor for SCT-013

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

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read the analog input
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0); // Convert to voltage
  float current = voltage * calibrationFactor; // Convert to current

  Serial.print("Current: ");
  Serial.print(current);
  Serial.println(" A");

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

• Calibration: The calibration factor may need to be adjusted based on the specific SCT-013 model and the range of current being measured. Refer to the datasheet for precise calibration instructions.
• Safety: Ensure the SCT-013 is securely clamped around the conductor and that the conductor is insulated. Avoid placing the sensor around live wires without proper insulation.
• Noise Reduction: To reduce noise in the signal, consider using a low-pass filter or averaging multiple readings in your code.

1. No Signal Output:

   • Solution: Ensure the SCT-013 is properly clamped around the conductor and that the connections to the Arduino are secure.

2. Inaccurate Readings:

   • Solution: Check the calibration factor in the code. Adjust it based on the specific model and range of current being measured.

3. Fluctuating Readings:

   • Solution: Implement a low-pass filter in the code or average multiple readings to reduce noise.

Q: Can the SCT-013 measure DC current? A: No, the SCT-013 is designed to measure AC current only.

Q: What is the maximum current the SCT-013 can measure? A: The SCT-013 can measure up to 100A AC.

Q: How do I calibrate the SCT-013? A: Calibration involves adjusting the calibration factor in the code based on known current values. Refer to the datasheet for detailed calibration instructions.

Q: Can I use the SCT-013 with other microcontrollers? A: Yes, the SCT-013 can be used with other microcontrollers that have analog input pins, such as the ESP8266, ESP32, and others.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate the SCT-013 non-invasive current transformer sensor into their projects, ensuring accurate and reliable current measurements.