AS3935 lightning sensor - storm detection up to 40 km, I2C, SPI
AS3935 lightning sensor - storm detection up to 40 km, I2C, SPI
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Pay in 30 days
Pay in 30 days
Description
Product overview
- Lightning sensor module with AS3935 chip for thunderstorm detection
- Detects electromagnetic signals from lightning via an integrated antenna in the 500-kHz band
- Estimates the distance to the storm center up to 40 km with 1-km resolution
- I2C or SPI for communication with the microcontroller
- Supply voltage 3.3 to 5.5 V
- IRQ pin reports lightning events as an interrupt signal
- Multiple sensors can be operated on one bus via I2C address selection
Product description
The lightning sensor detects electromagnetic signals from lightning discharges and reports detected events to a connected microcontroller. An antenna integrated on the circuit board is designed for the typical thunderstorm frequency of 500 kHz. The AS3935 chip evaluates the coupled-in signals and distinguishes between actual lightning pulses and interference from other electrical devices.
A detected lightning signal is reported as an interrupt signal via the IRQ pin. At the same time, the internal evaluation estimates the distance to the storm center. The measurement range extends from a few kilometers to 40 km, with a distance resolution of approximately 1 km.
Communication takes place via I2C or 4-wire SPI. When using I2C, one of several bus addresses can be set via pins A0 and A1, allowing multiple sensors to be operated in parallel. Since the sensor responds to weak electromagnetic signals, it is sensitive to its surroundings and electrical sources of interference, which often makes it necessary to adjust the antenna characteristics.
Typical applications include weather stations for thunderstorm warnings, early warning systems with real-time notifications, and environmental monitoring projects. Operation requires a supply voltage between 3.3 and 5.5 V. For communication with common microcontroller boards, direct connection to the I2C or SPI interface is sufficient.
Safety information
The module is intended exclusively for detecting weather signals in prototypes, test, and development projects and is not a lightning protection device or intended to protect people from lightning strikes. Work on or near electrical installations must be carried out by qualified electricians. If you are unsure about integrating the sensor, consult a qualified electrician before commissioning it.
Scope of delivery
- 1x AS3935 - Lightning sensor for detecting thunderstorm fronts