The MLX90614 Remote Infrared Thermometer with Arduino

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Arduino and temperature sensing! In this guide, we’ll explore The MLX90614 Remote Infrared Thermometer with Arduino, how to measure the temperature of an object from a distance using Arduino and the MLX90614 infrared temperature sensor. The MLX90614 offers a non-contact method for measuring temperature remotely, making it suitable for various applications such as temperature monitoring, thermal imaging, and industrial process control. Let’s delve into the details of the MLX90614 infrared temperature sensor and learn how to integrate it with Arduino for precise temperature measurements.

Hardware Required

You will require the following Hardware Components for How to Interfacing the MLX90614 Remote Infrared Thermometer with Arduino.

What is MLX90614 Temperature Sensor?

The MLX90614 is a non-contact infrared temperature sensor manufactured by Melexis. It utilizes infrared technology to measure the temperature of objects without making physical contact. The MLX90614 sensor consists of an infrared thermopile detector and a signal processing unit, which converts the detected infrared radiation into temperature readings. With its compact size, high accuracy, and wide temperature range, the MLX90614 sensor is ideal for applications requiring non-contact temperature sensing.

Pinout

Pin Configuration

Features

1. Non-Contact Measurement: Allows for non-contact temperature measurement, eliminating the need for physical contact with the object being measured.
2. Compact Design: Compact and lightweight design for easy integration into various electronic projects.
3. High Accuracy: Provides accurate temperature measurements for precise monitoring and control.
4. Wide Temperature Range: Offers a wide temperature measurement range, making it suitable for both low and high-temperature applications.
5. Digital Output: Provides digital temperature readings for easy integration with microcontrollers like Arduino.

Specifications

1. Temperature Measurement Range:
   • Wide temperature measurement range suitable for various applications.
2. Measurement Resolution:
   • High resolution for accurate temperature readings.
3. Accuracy:
   • Precise temperature measurement accuracy for reliable results.
4. Field of View (FOV):
   • Adjustable field of view for targeting specific areas or objects.
5. Communication Interface:
   • I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) interface for communication with Arduino.

How does the MLX90614 work?

As per the Stefan-Boltzmann law, objects above absolute zero emit radiation proportionate to their temperature. The MLX90614 sensor gathers this radiation and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of all objects within its field of view.

The MLX90614 comprises a silicon chip featuring a thin micromachined membrane sensitive to infrared radiation. It also contains the required electronics for signal amplification, digitization, and temperature calculation.

The package incorporates a low-noise amplifier, a 17-bit ADC converter, a DSP (digital signal processor), and ambient temperature compensation.

The MLX90614 undergoes factory calibration across a broad temperature range: -40 to 85°C for ambient temperature and -70 to 382°C for object temperature. Standard precision is 0.5°C relative to room temperature, though medical versions provide a resolution of 0.1°C within the range of 35-38°C.

The MLX90614 offers two output modes: SMBus (I2C) with a resolution of 0.02ºC and a 10-bit PWM output for continuous measurements with a resolution of 0.14ºC. It’s crucial to ensure the sensor reaches thermal equilibrium with its surroundings for stable readings. Dirt on the sensor window can affect accuracy.

The sensor is sensitive to all objects within its field of view, which varies from 5º to 80º. A wider angle is suitable for detecting temperature changes over a larger area, while smaller angles are ideal for precise measurements in front of the sensor.

Circuit Diagram

The following circuit shows you the connection of How to Interfacing the MLX90614 Remote Infrared Thermometer with Arduino. Please make the connection carefully

Circuit Connections

Installing Arduino IDE Software

First, you will require to Download the updated version of Arduino IDE Software and Install it on your PC or laptop. if you Learn How to install the Arduino step-by-step guide then click on how to install Arduino Button given Blow

Installing Libraries

Now when you are Ready to upload the code, to the Arduino Board you will need first to add the Following Libraries in Arduino, If you Learn How to add the library in the Arduino step-by-step guide click on how to install the library Button given Blow

• Wire.h Library
• Adafruit_MLX90614 Library

Code

//For more Projects: www.arduinocircuit.com

#include <Wire.h>
#include <Adafruit_MLX90614.h>

Adafruit_MLX90614 mlx = Adafruit_MLX90614();

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);

  mlx.begin();  
}

void loop() {
  Serial.print("Ambiente = ");
  Serial.print(mlx.readAmbientTempC()); 
  Serial.print("ºC\tObjeto = "); 
  Serial.print(mlx.readObjectTempC()); 
  Serial.println("ºC");
  delay(500);
}

Applications

1. Temperature Monitoring: Use the MLX90614 sensor for temperature monitoring applications in environments such as industrial processes, HVAC systems, and electronic devices.
2. Thermal Imaging: Integrate the MLX90614 sensor into thermal imaging systems for capturing temperature profiles and detecting anomalies in machinery, buildings, or electronic components.
3. Medical Devices: Incorporate the MLX90614 sensor into medical devices for non-contact temperature measurement in applications such as fever detection and patient monitoring.
4. Automotive: Utilize the MLX90614 sensor in automotive applications for measuring temperature in engine components, exhaust systems, and HVAC controls.
5. Home Automation: Integrate the MLX90614 sensor into home automation systems for temperature control and monitoring in smart thermostats, climate control systems, and energy management systems.

Conclusion

With its advanced features and versatile applications, the MLX90614 infrared temperature sensor offers endless possibilities for temperature sensing in Arduino projects. Whether you’re monitoring temperatures in industrial processes, conducting thermal imaging, measuring body temperatures, or controlling HVAC systems, the MLX90614 provides accurate and reliable temperature readings for enhanced functionality and performance. Let’s embark on the journey of measuring temperature with Arduino and unlock the potential of infrared temperature sensing technology!