Gas Sensor Module MQ-2

Gas Sensor Module MQ-2

Sensors
DET652
Part.No: MQ-2
€4.95
In Stock
Immediate Dispatch
MQ-2 Gas Sensor Module (MPN: MQ-2) — detects LPG, propane, hydrogen, natural gas and other flammable vapors using tin oxide (SnO2) sensing material. Analog and digital output for easy integration with Arduino and other microcontrollers.

 

The MQ-2 Gas Sensor Module (MPN: MQ-2) is a low-cost, wide-range flammable gas detector built around a tin oxide (SnO2) sensitive element. In clean air, SnO2 exhibits low electrical conductivity; when combustible gases are present, conductivity rises in proportion to gas concentration — the onboard circuit converts this change into a readable output signal. The MQ-2 is widely used in safety, automation and DIY projects that require detection of LPG, propane, hydrogen, natural gas and other flammable vapors.

Key Features

  • SnO2 Sensing Element: Low conductivity in clean air, rises with combustible gas concentration → reliable proportional detection
  • Multi-Gas Sensitivity: Detects LPG, propane, hydrogen, natural gas and other flammable vapors → versatile single-sensor solution
  • Analog & Digital Output: Both AO (analog) and DO (digital/threshold) pins available → flexible interfacing with microcontrollers
  • Onboard Comparator: Adjustable potentiometer sets the alarm threshold for the digital output → no external comparator needed
  • Low Cost: Affordable entry point for gas detection projects → ideal for prototyping and hobbyist use

Pinout & Wiring

PINSymbolDescription
1VCCPower supply (5 V DC)
2GNDGround
3DODigital output — HIGH/LOW based on threshold set by potentiometer
4AOAnalog output — voltage proportional to gas concentration

Wiring note: Connect VCC → 5 V, GND → GND, AO → any analog input pin (e.g., A0 on Arduino UNO). Use DO for simple threshold-based alarm circuits. Allow a warm-up time of approximately 20 seconds after power-on before readings stabilize.

Compatibility

  • Arduino UNO / Nano / Mega: 5 V supply and analog input (AO) directly compatible — no level shifter required.
  • ESP32 / ESP8266 (3.3 V logic): Power the module from 5 V; use a voltage divider on the AO line to protect the 3.3 V ADC input.
  • Raspberry Pi: Requires an external ADC (e.g., MCP3008) for the analog output; DO pin can connect directly via a 3.3 V-tolerant GPIO.

Typical Applications

  • Home gas leak alarm: Detect LPG or natural gas leaks and trigger a buzzer or relay when concentration exceeds the safe threshold.
  • Industrial safety monitoring: Continuous flammable gas monitoring in workshops, labs or storage areas.
  • Arduino / ESP32 learning projects: A classic sensor for students learning analog signal reading and threshold-based control logic.
  • Smart home automation: Integrate with home-assistant platforms to send alerts when gas is detected.
  • Ventilation control: Automatically activate an exhaust fan when gas levels rise above a preset level.

Technical Specifications

SpecificationValue
Output InterfaceAnalog (AO) + Digital (DO)
Operating Voltage5 V DC
Sensing MaterialTin Oxide (SnO2)
Target GasesLPG, Propane, Hydrogen, Natural Gas, Flammable Vapors
Onboard Threshold AdjustYes (potentiometer)
MPNMQ-2

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the MQ-2 need to warm up before giving accurate readings?
A: Allow at least 20 seconds after powering on for the sensor heater to stabilize. For best accuracy in a new environment, a longer initial burn-in period is recommended.

Q: Can I use the MQ-2 with a 3.3 V microcontroller like the ESP32?
A: Yes — power the module from 5 V, but add a voltage divider on the AO line before connecting to a 3.3 V ADC to avoid damaging the MCU input.

Package Contents: 1 × MQ-2 Gas Sensor Module

⚠ Safety Warning: This module is intended for detection purposes only and must not be used as the sole safety device in life-critical gas alarm systems. Always comply with local safety regulations when deploying gas detection equipment.
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