Alcohol Sensor Module MQ-3

Alcohol Sensor Module MQ-3

Sensors
DET653
Part.No: MQ-3
€4.95
In Stock
Immediate Dispatch
MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Module – detects ethanol and alcohol vapors in the range of 10–1000 PPM with analog and digital output. Compatible with Arduino and 5V microcontroller platforms. Fast response, adjustable sensitivity.

 

The MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Module (MPN: MQ-3) is a gas detection module specifically designed to detect ethanol and alcohol vapors in the air. It uses the MQ-3 electrochemical sensing element, which changes its output voltage proportionally to the concentration of detected gas — making it ideal for building breathalyzers, car alcohol alarms, and safety monitoring systems. The module operates on a wide voltage range of 2.5V to 5V, with full functionality at 5V, and provides both a digital (DO) and analog (AO) output signal.

Key Features

  • Sensitive to Alcohol & Ethanol: Detects ethanol vapors reliably across a range of 10–1000 PPM → suitable for both low and high concentration monitoring
  • Analog Output (AO): Output voltage rises proportionally with gas concentration (0.1–0.3 V baseline, up to ~4 V at high concentration) → enables precise concentration readings
  • Digital Output (DO): TTL-compatible signal (0.1 V / 5 V) with adjustable threshold → easy on/off alarm triggering
  • Adjustable Sensitivity: On-board potentiometer allows threshold tuning → adaptable to different use cases
  • Fast Response & Recovery: Quickly reacts to gas presence and returns to baseline → reliable for real-time detection
  • Signal Output Indicator: Built-in LED indicator for digital output status → instant visual feedback without a microcontroller
  • Compact Form Factor: 40.0 × 21.0 mm with 2.0 mm mounting holes → easy integration into enclosures and PCBs

Pinout & Wiring

PINSymbolDescription
1VCCPower supply – connect to 5V
2GNDGround
3DODigital Output – TTL signal (0.1 V / 5 V), threshold set by on-board potentiometer
4AOAnalog Output – variable voltage proportional to gas concentration

Wiring note: Connect VCC to Arduino 5V, GND to GND. Read AO on any Arduino analog pin (A0–A5) for concentration values, or use DO on a digital pin for simple threshold-based alerts. No additional components required.

Compatibility

  • Arduino UNO / Nano / Mega: Fully compatible — 5V power supply matches the module's operating voltage; both AO and DO pins connect directly to Arduino I/O pins.
  • 5V-tolerant microcontrollers: Any 5V platform with analog or digital input can interface with this module directly.

Typical Applications

  • Car Alcohol Alarm: Detect driver intoxication and trigger an alert or disable ignition — the most common use case for the MQ-3.
  • Breathalyzer / BAC Meter: Build a portable alcohol breath tester using the analog output for concentration estimation.
  • Safety Monitoring Systems: Monitor alcohol vapor levels in industrial or laboratory environments where ethanol is handled.
  • Arduino Learning Projects: Ideal introductory sensor for learning analog/digital signal reading and gas detection with Arduino.
  • Smart Home / IoT Alerts: Integrate with an alarm system to detect accidental alcohol spills or vapors in enclosed spaces.

Technical Specifications

ParameterValue
InterfaceAnalog (AO) + Digital (DO)
Operating Voltage2.5V – 5.0V
Recommended Supply5V
Current Consumption150 mA
Digital Output (DO)TTL: 0.1V (LOW) / 5V (HIGH)
Analog Output (AO) – Baseline0.1 – 0.3 V
Analog Output (AO) – Max~4 V
Detection Range10 – 1000 PPM (alcohol/ethanol)
Target GasAlcohol, Ethanol
Dimensions40.0 × 21.0 mm
Mounting Hole Size2.0 mm
MPNMQ-3

FAQ

Q: Does the MQ-3 module need a warm-up time before use?
A: Yes — like all MQ-series sensors, the MQ-3 requires a preheat period (typically a few minutes) after power-on for the sensing element to stabilize and provide accurate readings.

Q: Can I use the MQ-3 with an ESP32 or Raspberry Pi?
A: The module operates at 5V and draws 150 mA, which exceeds the 3.3V GPIO capabilities of ESP32 and Raspberry Pi. Power the module from a 5V rail and use a voltage divider or logic level shifter on the AO/DO lines if connecting to 3.3V logic systems.

📦 Package Contents: 1 × MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Module

⚠️ Note: The MQ-3 sensor consumes 150 mA — ensure your power source can supply adequate current. This module is intended for experimental and educational use. It is not a certified medical or legal breathalyzer device.
16 other products in the same category:
Product added to wishlist
Product added to compare.