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Gravity: AS3935 Lightning Sensor

Gravity: AS3935 Lightning Sensor

MPN: SEN0290
DFRobot
AS3935 Lightning Detector Sensor Gravity Platform Evaluation Expansion Board
Active64 in stock

Overview

The SEN0290 is a specialized lightning detection module based on the AMS AS3935 Franklin Lightning Sensor IC. It is designed to detect the electromagnetic signature of lightning strikes within a 40km range, providing estimated distances in 15 discrete steps. This Gravity-compatible board includes an integrated antenna and a built-in algorithm to distinguish between actual lightning and man-made electrical noise.

Why Choose This Part

The module operates over a wide voltage range of 3.3V to 5.5V, making it compatible with both low-power MCUs and standard 5V systems. It features a robust rejection algorithm for man-made disturbers and provides digital I2C communication, simplifying the integration of sophisticated atmospheric sensing into existing embedded projects.

Applications

Weather Stations
Integrate real-time storm tracking into remote or local weather monitoring systems for early warning alerts.
Outdoor Safety Equipment
Use in portable devices for hikers, climbers, or outdoor workers to provide notification of approaching storm fronts.
Automated Protection Systems
Trigger the disconnect of sensitive electronics or the deployment of lightning protection hardware when strikes are detected nearby.
Photography Triggers
Synchronize high-speed camera shutters with lightning events for specialized storm photography.

Key Specifications

Type Sensor
Contents Board(s)
Function Lightning Detector
Platform Gravity
Utilized IC / Part AS3935

Getting Started

Connect the sensor to an Arduino or compatible microcontroller using the Gravity 4-pin I2C cable. Use the DFRobot_AS3935 library to initialize the sensor, calibrate the resonance frequency for optimal sensitivity, and set the noise floor levels. The IRQ pin must be connected to an external interrupt-capable GPIO to capture real-time detection events without polling.