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If you’re working on a robotics or automation project, distance measurement is often a key requirement. One of the most popular and budget-friendly components for accurate distance sensing is the HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into what the HC-SR04 sensor is, how it works, its types, real-world applications, and project ideas—all while showing you how you can get this reliable sensor from Elecsynergy.
👉 Buy Now: HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
What is the HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor?
The HC-SR04 is a low-cost ultrasonic sensor designed to measure distances between 2 cm and 400 cm with high accuracy and stability. It’s widely used in hobbyist, DIY, and industrial applications due to its affordability and ease of integration with microcontrollers like Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, etc.
It operates using ultrasonic sound waves, similar to how bats navigate—by emitting a sound pulse and listening for its echo.
How Does the HC-SR04 Work?
The sensor has four pins:
- VCC: Power supply (typically 5V)
- Trig: Trigger input
- Echo: Echo output
- GND: Ground
Working Principle:
- A 10µs pulse is sent to the
Trigpin. - The sensor emits an ultrasonic burst (40 kHz).
- If the wave hits an object, it reflects back.
- The
Echopin goes HIGH for the duration it takes the pulse to return. - Using the time and speed of sound (343 m/s), you can calculate the distance.
Formula:
Distance = (Time x Speed of Sound) / 2
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 5V DC |
| Operating Current | 15 mA |
| Measuring Angle | < 15 degrees |
| Ranging Distance | 2 cm – 400 cm |
| Accuracy | ±3 mm |
| Interface | Digital I/O |
Types of Ultrasonic Sensors
While HC-SR04 is the most popular for DIY applications, there are other types of ultrasonic sensors used in more complex systems:
- Waterproof Ultrasonic Sensors – Ideal for outdoor or harsh environments.
- Analog Output Ultrasonic Sensors – Provide continuous analog voltage proportional to distance.
- Serial/I2C Ultrasonic Sensors – Easier to interface in complex projects or multiple sensor arrays.
- High-Precision Industrial Ultrasonic Sensors – Used in automation, manufacturing, and robotics.
If you’re just getting started or building hobby projects, the HC-SR04 is the perfect choice.
👉 Grab Yours Today: HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
Real-World Applications
The HC-SR04 is versatile and finds use in many domains:
1. Obstacle Detection in Robotics
Robots can use the sensor to detect walls and avoid obstacles automatically.
2. Water Level Monitoring
Placed above a tank, it can measure the water level and trigger alerts when low or full.
3. Smart Parking Systems
Detects whether a parking space is occupied or not, allowing real-time monitoring.
4. Automated Doors
Opens doors when an object (like a hand or person) is detected nearby.
5. Security Systems
Used to detect intrusions by monitoring for unexpected movements.
Project Ideas Using HC-SR04
To inspire your next electronics build, here are a few fun and useful project ideas using the HC-SR04:
✅ 1. Ultrasonic Distance Meter with LCD
Measure and display distances in real-time on a 16×2 LCD screen.
✅ 2. Smart Dustbin (Auto Lid Open)
Use the sensor to detect when someone is near the bin and automatically open the lid.
✅ 3. Reverse Car Parking Sensor
Audibly warn the driver about nearby obstacles while parking.
✅ 4. Water Tank Level Monitor with IoT
Send water level data to your phone using NodeMCU/ESP32 and the HC-SR04.
✅ 5. Object Counter
Count the number of items passing through a point on a conveyor belt.
Why Buy from Elecsynergy?
At Elecsynergy, we provide quality components, fast delivery, and dedicated customer support to help makers, students, and engineers bring their ideas to life.
👉 Order the HC-SR04 Now: Click Here
Final Thoughts
The HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor is one of the best tools in a maker’s toolbox. Whether you’re building a simple automation project or diving into robotics and IoT, this sensor offers unmatched value and performance.
Have questions about using the sensor in your project? Contact our support or drop a comment—we’re here to help!
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