Average rainfall 2001-2016, global tropics

Map: Average rainfall 2001-2016, global tropics

Sensor Module Project Nano Project Uno

project: AMS AS726X spectrometer (nano)

Introduction

This small “project” post covers how to wire an integrated module with the AMS AS72Sx 6 channel broad band spectrometer to an Arduino UNO nano. The project post on Arduino UNO contains more information.

The I2C communication bus

The spectrometer sends data for 6 (12 or 18) spectral bands using the I2C communication bus.

Preparing the Arduino IDE

Arduino nano uses A4 and A5 for I2C connections as outlined in this GitHub repo,

Adafruit or sparkfun

Breakout boards with the AMD AS72Sx sensor(s) are offered both by Adafruit and Sparkfun. Sparkfun is easier to work with if you use their Qwiic connect system for I2C devices. You can then use the Qwiic Cable - Breadboard Jumper (4-pin) for connecting the spectrometer to the board. If you use the Adafruit spectrometer you have to solder the breakout board.

Wiring

The wiring is (almost) the same regardless if you use the Adafruit or Sparkfun breakout boards. The Adafruit manual is here.

The difference between Adafruit and Sparkfun is that the Sparkfun breakout board requires 3.3 v power, whereas the Adafruit breakout board can be powered with either 3.3 or 5 v. The Adafruit breakout board also has an additional light source that must be individually wired.

Wiring an AS726x 6-channel spectrometer. The Adafruit breakout board can be powered with either 3.3 or 5 v (as shown), whereas the Sparkfun board only have a connection for 3.3 v.

Sketch

The sketch below works both with the Adafruit and Sparkfun breakout boards.

Sensor Module Project Nano Project Uno