The Capacitive Non-Contact Liquid Level Sensor (Manufacturer Part ID: SEN0368) by DFRobot is a highly versatile sensor designed to detect the level of liquid in a container without requiring direct contact with the liquid. It uses capacitive sensing technology to measure changes in capacitance caused by the presence of liquid, making it ideal for applications where hygiene, safety, or non-invasive measurement is critical.
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This circuit is designed to monitor water levels using two non-contact water level sensors, with the ability to display the status on an LCD I2C display and alert through a buzzer and two green LEDs. The ESP32 microcontroller serves as the central processing unit, reading sensor signals and controlling the display and alert system. The circuit is likely intended for applications where water level monitoring is critical, such as in tanks or reservoirs, with visual and audible indicators for high or low water conditions.
This circuit is designed to monitor water levels using an HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor and display the information on a 20x4 LCD with I2C interface, controlled by an Arduino UNO. When the water level falls below a predefined threshold, the Arduino activates a relay module, which in turn powers a mini diaphragm water pump to refill the tank. The system aims to maintain water levels within set boundaries, automating the process of water level management.
This circuit is designed to monitor water levels using an HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor and display the information on an LCD I2C Display. An Arduino UNO controls the sensor to measure distance, calculates the water level as a percentage, and toggles a relay to control a pump based on the water level and manual input from a pushbutton. The system allows for manual override of the pump operation and stores the set water level threshold in EEPROM for persistent control across power cycles.
This circuit is a water level and proximity monitoring system using an Arduino UNO. It utilizes a water level sensor and an ultrasonic sensor to measure water levels and distance, respectively, displaying the results on an I2C LCD. The system also includes LEDs and a buzzer to provide visual and auditory alerts based on the sensor readings.
Liquid level detection in medical or laboratory equipment
Food and beverage industry for non-invasive liquid measurement
Industrial automation and fluid management systems
Smart home appliances, such as water dispensers or humidifiers
Technical Specifications
The following table outlines the key technical details of the SEN0368 sensor:
Parameter
Value
Operating Voltage
5V DC
Operating Current
≤ 5mA
Output Signal
High/Low (Digital)
Detection Range
0–12mm (distance from sensor to container)
Compatible Container Material
Non-metallic (e.g., glass, plastic)
Operating Temperature
-5°C to 105°C
Humidity Range
5%–100% RH
Dimensions
28mm x 28mm x 8mm
Cable Length
500mm
Pin Configuration and Descriptions
The SEN0368 sensor has a 3-pin interface. The pinout is as follows:
Pin
Name
Description
1
VCC
Power supply input (5V DC)
2
GND
Ground
3
OUT
Digital output signal (High when liquid detected)
Usage Instructions
How to Use the Sensor in a Circuit
Power the Sensor: Connect the VCC pin to a 5V DC power source and the GND pin to ground.
Connect the Output: Connect the OUT pin to a digital input pin on your microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO).
Mount the Sensor: Attach the sensor to the outside of a non-metallic container at the desired liquid level. Ensure the sensor is within the detection range (0–12mm) from the liquid.
Read the Output: When liquid is detected at the sensor's position, the OUT pin will output a HIGH signal (5V). Otherwise, it will output a LOW signal (0V).
Important Considerations and Best Practices
Container Material: The sensor works only with non-metallic containers such as glass or plastic. Avoid using it with metallic containers, as they interfere with capacitive sensing.
Mounting Surface: Ensure the sensor is mounted on a clean, flat surface for accurate detection.
Environmental Factors: The sensor is designed to operate in a wide temperature and humidity range, but avoid exposing it to extreme conditions beyond its specifications.
Power Supply: Use a stable 5V DC power source to ensure reliable operation.
Example Code for Arduino UNO
The following example demonstrates how to use the SEN0368 sensor with an Arduino UNO to detect liquid levels:
// Define the pin connected to the sensor's OUT pin
const int sensorPin = 2; // Digital pin 2
const int ledPin = 13; // Built-in LED for visual indication
void setup() {
pinMode(sensorPin, INPUT); // Set sensor pin as input
pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); // Set LED pin as output
Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
}
void loop() {
int sensorState = digitalRead(sensorPin); // Read the sensor output
if (sensorState == HIGH) {
// Liquid detected
digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn on LED
Serial.println("Liquid detected!");
} else {
// No liquid detected
digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW); // Turn off LED
Serial.println("No liquid detected.");
}
delay(500); // Wait for 500ms before the next reading
}
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Common Issues and Solutions
Sensor Not Detecting Liquid
Ensure the sensor is mounted within the detection range (0–12mm) from the liquid.
Verify that the container is made of a non-metallic material.
Check the power supply voltage (should be 5V DC).
False Positives or Erratic Readings
Clean the container surface where the sensor is mounted to remove dirt or moisture.
Ensure the sensor is securely attached to the container to prevent movement.
Avoid electrical noise or interference near the sensor.
No Output Signal
Verify the wiring connections, especially the VCC, GND, and OUT pins.
Check if the sensor is receiving power (measure voltage at the VCC pin).
FAQs
Q: Can the sensor detect all types of liquids?
A: The sensor can detect most liquids, but its performance may vary depending on the liquid's dielectric constant. It works best with water and other liquids with high dielectric constants.
Q: Can I use the sensor with a metallic container?
A: No, the sensor is designed for use with non-metallic containers only. Metallic containers interfere with the capacitive sensing mechanism.
Q: Is the sensor waterproof?
A: The sensor is designed for non-contact operation and should not be submerged in liquid. However, it can operate in high-humidity environments.
Q: Can I extend the sensor's cable?
A: Yes, but ensure the extension does not introduce significant resistance or noise, which could affect the sensor's performance.
By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the SEN0368 Capacitive Non-Contact Liquid Level Sensor into your projects for reliable and non-invasive liquid level detection.
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