Sensing and controlling current flow is crucial in many applications such as over - current protection circuits, battery chargers, switching mode power supplies, digital watt meters, and programmable current sources. This ACS712 current module, based on the ACS712 sensor, can accurately detect both AC and DC current. It can detect a maximum of 5A of AC or DC current, and you can read the current signal via the analog I/O port of Arduino. There are also 20A and 30A versions available for your selection. Specification: Supply Voltage is 4.5V - 5.5V DC. Measure Current Range is from - 5A to 5A. Sensitivity is 180mV/A - 190mV/A, with a typical value of 185mV/A. External Link & Download: ACS712 Datasheet, ACS712 Arduino Program, Useful Introduction_1 from embedded - lab, Useful Introduction_2 from embedded - lab, Wiki link.
Using this ACS712 current sensor is quite easy. First, make sure the supply voltage is between 4.5V and 5.5V DC. Then, connect it to the analog I/O port of your Arduino. Once it's connected, it will start detecting the AC or DC current, up to a maximum of 5A. When using, avoid exposing it to excessive current beyond its rated range, as this may damage the sensor. Also, keep it away from strong magnetic fields, as they can affect the accuracy of the current measurement. For maintenance, just keep it clean and dry. If you need more information, you can refer to the ACS712 Datasheet or the Arduino Program available for download.
