The MQ-3 Alcohol Detector Sensor Module detects ethanol (alcohol vapor in the surrounding air) using a tin oxide (SnO2) sensing element (a material that changes electrical resistance when it absorbs target gas molecules). The mq3 sensor runs on 5V DC at 150mA and outputs both an analog voltage and a digital threshold signal. The module dimensions are 36 x 20 x 16 mm, which fits neatly inside small project enclosures.
The mq3 gas sensor module requires a warm-up period (a heating phase where the internal coil reaches operating temperature) before accurate readings are possible. One non-obvious detail — cold startup can take 24 to 48 hours of first-use burn-in before the sensor readings stabilise to consistent levels.
The MQ-3 also responds to benzene, hexane, and LPG vapour at high concentrations, so it is not suitable for precise gas identification. Students building breathalyser projects and alcohol detection systems use it. To start, connect, and read the analog pin after a 60-second warm-up. StemVolt provides this sensor with trusted quality, ensuring reliable performance and easy usability.
Related Products:
- Checkout The MQ-4 CNG Methane Natural Gas Sensor Module
Features:
- Operating voltage at 5V DC connects directly to Arduino and ESP32 supply pins without any regulator
- Current consumption at 150mA requires a dedicated 5V supply rather than drawing from Arduino 3.3V pin
- Load resistance at 200 kΩ sets the baseline sensitivity for alcohol vapour concentration thresholds
- Detectable gases include ethanol and alcohol vapor giving the module its primary breath alcohol sensing use
Technical specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | MQ-3 Sensor Module |
| Detectable Gases | Ethanol and Alcohol Vapor |
| Operating Voltage | 5V DC |
| Current Consumption | 150mA |
| Load Resistance | 200 kΩ |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 36 x 20 x 16 mm |
Applications:
- Breathalyser project uses this sensor to detect alcohol on a person’s breath and display a result
- mq3 gas sensor module reads analog vapour level and sends a real-time alert to a over Wi-Fi
- Factory safety monitor reads ethanol level above a set threshold and activates a ventilation fan relay
Package includes:
- 1 x MQ-3 Alcohol Detector Sensor Module
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