Introduction
A Digital Thermometer is an electronic device used to measure and display temperature in digital form. Unlike analog thermometers, digital thermometers provide faster, more accurate, and easy-to-read temperature measurements.
This project demonstrates how temperature can be measured using electronic sensors and microcontrollers.
Objective of the Project
The main objectives of this project are:
- To measure ambient temperature accurately.
- To display temperature in digital format.
- To understand temperature sensing techniques.
- To interface sensors with a microcontroller.
Working Principle
The digital thermometer works on the principle of temperature sensing and analog-to-digital conversion.
Basic Operation
- A temperature sensor (LM35) senses ambient temperature.
- The sensor outputs voltage proportional to temperature.
- Arduino converts the analog voltage into digital data.
- Temperature value is calculated and displayed.
Components Required
- Arduino Uno
- LM35 Temperature Sensor
- 16×2 LCD Display (optional)
- Potentiometer (10kΩ)
- Jumper Wires
- Breadboard
- Power Supply (5V)
Circuit Diagram
Connections
LM35:
VCC -> 5V
GND -> GND
OUT -> A0
LCD (16x2):
RS -> D7
EN -> D6
D4 -> D5
D5 -> D4
D6 -> D3
D7 -> D2
VSS -> GND
VDD -> 5V
Arduino Code for Digital Thermometer
#include <LiquidCrystal.h>
LiquidCrystal lcd(7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2);
int tempPin = A0;
void setup() {
lcd.begin(16, 2);
lcd.print("Digital Thermo");
}
void loop() {
int sensorValue = analogRead(tempPin);
float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);
float temperature = voltage * 100; // LM35
lcd.setCursor(0, 1);
lcd.print("Temp: ");
lcd.print(temperature);
lcd.print(" C");
delay(1000);
}
Code Explanation
- Arduino reads analog value from LM35.
- Voltage is converted to temperature.
- Temperature is displayed on LCD.
- Display updates every second.
Advantages
- Accurate temperature measurement
- Fast response time
- Easy to read
- Compact and portable
Applications
- Medical thermometers
- Weather stations
- Home automation
- Industrial monitoring
- Electronic devices
Future Enhancements
- IoT-based temperature monitoring
- Mobile app display
- Data logging
- Temperature alerts
Conclusion
The Digital Thermometer is a practical and educational electronics project that demonstrates how sensors and microcontrollers work together to measure real-world parameters. It is a perfect intermediate-level project with real-life applications.
