How to Use MS5611-01BA03 GY-63 Atmospheric Pressure Sensor Module [Bill Ludwig]: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The MS5611-01BA03 GY-63 is a high-resolution barometric pressure sensor module designed for precise atmospheric pressure and temperature measurements. It integrates the MS5611-01BA03 sensor with additional circuitry to simplify interfacing with microcontrollers. The module is widely used in applications such as:

• Weather monitoring systems
• Altitude measurement for aviation and hiking devices
• Drone navigation and control
• Environmental data logging

The GY-63 module provides I²C and SPI communication interfaces, making it versatile and easy to integrate into various projects.

The GY-63 module has 6 pins, as described in the table below:

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Communication Protocol:
   • For I²C mode (default):
     • Connect the SCL pin to the I²C clock line of your microcontroller.
     • Connect the SDA pin to the I²C data line of your microcontroller.
     • Tie the CSB and PS pins to VCC.
   • For SPI mode:
     • Connect the SCL pin to the SPI clock (SCK) of your microcontroller.
     • Connect the SDA pin to the SPI data line (MOSI/MISO).
     • Connect the CSB pin to a GPIO pin on your microcontroller for chip select.
     • Tie the PS pin to GND.
3. Pull-Up Resistors: If using I²C, ensure pull-up resistors (typically 4.7kΩ) are connected to the SCL and SDA lines.
4. Initialization: Configure the microcontroller to communicate with the sensor using the chosen protocol. The default I²C address is 0x76 or 0x77 (depending on the module configuration).

• Voltage Compatibility: Ensure the microcontroller's logic levels are compatible with the module's operating voltage.
• Noise Reduction: Use decoupling capacitors (e.g., 0.1µF) near the power pins to reduce noise.
• Altitude Calculation: To calculate altitude, use the pressure readings and the barometric formula.
• Temperature Compensation: The sensor provides raw pressure and temperature data. Use the manufacturer's compensation formulas for accurate results.

#include <Wire.h>

// I2C address of the MS5611 sensor
#define MS5611_ADDRESS 0x76

void setup() {
  Wire.begin(); // Initialize I2C communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Start serial communication for debugging

  // Reset the sensor
  Wire.beginTransmission(MS5611_ADDRESS);
  Wire.write(0x1E); // Reset command
  Wire.endTransmission();
  delay(10); // Wait for reset to complete
}

void loop() {
  // Request pressure data
  Wire.beginTransmission(MS5611_ADDRESS);
  Wire.write(0x48); // Command to start pressure conversion (OSR=4096)
  Wire.endTransmission();
  delay(10); // Wait for conversion to complete

  // Read pressure data
  Wire.beginTransmission(MS5611_ADDRESS);
  Wire.write(0x00); // Command to read ADC result
  Wire.endTransmission();
  Wire.requestFrom(MS5611_ADDRESS, 3); // Request 3 bytes of data

  if (Wire.available() == 3) {
    uint32_t pressure = 0;
    pressure = Wire.read(); // MSB
    pressure = (pressure << 8) | Wire.read(); // LSB
    pressure = (pressure << 8) | Wire.read(); // XLSB
    pressure = pressure >> 4; // 20-bit result

    Serial.print("Pressure (raw): ");
    Serial.println(pressure);
  }

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

1. No Data from the Sensor:

   • Ensure the VCC and GND pins are properly connected.
   • Verify the I²C address (0x76 or 0x77) matches the module's configuration.
   • Check for proper pull-up resistors on the SCL and SDA lines.

2. Incorrect Pressure or Temperature Readings:

   • Ensure the sensor is not exposed to rapid temperature changes or vibrations.
   • Use the manufacturer's compensation formulas for accurate readings.

3. Communication Errors:

   • Verify the protocol selection (PS pin) and wiring.
   • Check for loose connections or damaged wires.

Q: Can the GY-63 module operate at 5V logic levels?
A: Yes, the module includes a voltage regulator and level shifters, allowing it to work with 3.3V and 5V systems.

Q: How do I switch between I²C and SPI modes?
A: Set the PS pin to VCC for I²C mode (default) or GND for SPI mode. Ensure the CSB pin is configured accordingly.

Q: What is the maximum altitude the sensor can measure?
A: The sensor can measure up to approximately 9,000 meters above sea level, depending on atmospheric conditions.

Q: Can I use the GY-63 module outdoors?
A: Yes, but ensure the module is protected from moisture and extreme environmental conditions.