KY-018 Photoresistor Sensor Module for Arduino & ESP32
KY-018 Photoresistor Sensor Module for Arduino & ESP32
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Short Product Description
Short Product Description
Enable your electronics to "see" the light with the KY-018 Photoresistor Module. This compact, high-sensitivity analog sensor is essential for building smart day/night switches, solar trackers, and DIY home automation projects. Fully compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32.
Key Features
Key Features
- Analog Output Precision: Provides a continuous range of values, allowing for subtle light detection (e.g., distinguishing between "cloudy" and "night") rather than just a binary on/off.
- Wide Compatibility: Works seamlessly with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers (Arduino, ESP8266, Raspberry Pi with ADC).
- Integrated Voltage Divider: Built-in 10kΩ resistor simplifies wiring; only 3 pins (Signal, Power, Ground) are needed.
- Compact Footprint: Measuring just 3cm x 1.5cm, it fits easily into small enclosures or wearable tech projects.
- High Sensitivity: Rapid response time to changes in light intensity, perfect for security tripwires or solar tracking.
Full Product Description
Full Product Description
Give Your Projects the Gift of Sight
In the world of smart electronics, detecting environmental changes is key to automation. The KY-018 Photoresistor Sensor Module is the standard for reliable, low-cost light detection. Whether you are a STEM student learning the basics of analog signals or an engineer prototyping a smart garden system, this module provides the precision you need without the complexity.
How It Works
At its core, this module utilizes a high-quality Light Dependent Resistor (LDR). Its internal resistance changes drastically based on the ambient light hitting the sensor head.
- In Bright Light: Resistance drops, allowing more current to flow (higher signal voltage).
- In Darkness: Resistance increases, reducing current flow (lower signal voltage).
By reading these analog voltage changes with a microcontroller (like an Arduino), you can program triggers—such as turning on an LED when the room gets dark.
Why Choose the KY-018?
Unlike raw components that require breadboarding complex voltage dividers, the KY-018 comes pre-soldered on a durable PCB with a 10kΩ pull-down resistor included. This "Plug-and-Play" design saves you time and ensures a stable signal reading right out of the box.
Technical Specifications
Technical Specifications
- Model: KY-018
- Sensor Type: Photoresistor (LDR)
- Operating Voltage: DC 3.3V – 5V
- Output Type: Analog voltage signal
- Dimensions: ~30mm × 15mm
- Pinout: S (Signal), Middle (VCC), – (GND)
- Resistor: On-board 10kΩ resistor
Delivery Options
Delivery Options
- Local delivery within Hong Kong and in-store pickup.
- Free shipping for orders of HK$400 or above; HK$35 shipping fee for orders below HK$400.
- Shipped by SF Express, usually dispatched the same day for orders confirmed before 6:00 PM (Mon–Sat).
- Estimated delivery time: 1–3 business days after dispatch (Hong Kong).
- In-store pickup details (location and time) will be confirmed by email or phone message.
- Delivery times are estimates and may be affected by weather or unforeseen circumstances.
FAQ Section
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use this sensor with a Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, but since the Raspberry Pi does not have built-in analog pins, you will need an external Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) like the MCP3008, or you can use a capacitor charging method to estimate light levels.
Q: Does this module output a digital High/Low signal?
A: No, this is a purely analog module. However, you can easily convert the reading to digital logic in your code (e.g., if (sensorValue < 500) { turnLightOn(); }).
Q: What is the difference between this and the KY-008?
A: The KY-018 is a light sensor (input). The KY-008 is a Laser transmitter (output). They are often used together to create "laser tripwire" security systems.
Target Users / Applications
Target Users / Applications
- Hobbyists: Building automatic night-lights or alarm clocks.
- STEM Education: Teaching voltage dividers and analog inputs.
- Gardeners: DIY sunlight monitoring systems for plants.
- Home Automation: Triggering blinds or curtains based on sunlight intensity.
