ML8511 UV Sensor Module – Ultraviolet Light Intensity Sensor
ML8511 UV Sensor Module – Analog Output, 3.0-5.5V
The ML8511 UV sensor module measures ultraviolet light intensity (UVA/UVB) and outputs an analog voltage proportional to UV exposure, making it ideal for sunlight monitoring in Arduino and ESP32 weather station projects.
Key Specifications
| Sensor IC | ML8511 |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 3.0V – 5.5V DC |
| Output Type | Analog voltage (0 – ~2.8V) |
| Peak Sensitivity Wavelength | 365 nm (UVA/UVB) |
| UV Range | 280 – 400 nm |
| Typical Sensitivity | 1.0 V per mW/cm² |
| Enable Pin | Active HIGH (pull up to VIN) |
| Dimensions | 15 mm × 12 mm |
What You Can Build With This
- UV Index Display: Arduino Uno reads sensor, shows real‑time UV index on a 16×2 LCD shield.
- Smart Sunscreen Reminder: ESP32 sends BLE alerts to a phone when UV exposure exceeds a safe threshold.
- Raspberry Pi Data Logger: Python script records UV readings to CSV for long‑term sun exposure analysis.
- CBSE Physics Practical: Study UV absorption by different materials; fits ATL Tinkering Lab environmental sensing.
- B.Tech Final Year Project: Solar UV monitoring drone for precision agriculture (Smart India Hackathon topic).
Compatibility
| Platform | Compatible | Connection | Library / Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | Yes | OUT → A0, EN → D2 | analogRead(); ML8511 library |
| Arduino Nano | Yes | OUT → A0, EN → D2 | analogRead(); ML8511 library |
| Arduino Mega 2560 | Yes | OUT → A0, EN → D2 | analogRead(); ML8511 library |
| ESP8266 NodeMCU | Yes | OUT → A0, EN → D1 | analogRead() (0–1V input) |
| ESP32 Dev Board | Yes | OUT → GPIO34, EN → GPIO25 | analogRead(); ML8511 library |
| Raspberry Pi Pico | Yes | OUT → ADC0, EN → GP2 | MicroPython analog read |
| Raspberry Pi 4 / 5 | Yes (with ADC) | OUT → MCP3008 CH0 | Python spidev; conversion formula |
Wiring and Interface Notes
Connect VIN to 3.3V or 5V (on‑board regulator accepts both), GND to ground, and OUT to any available analog input. Pull the EN pin HIGH to activate the sensor; leave it floating or drive LOW to enter low‑power standby. Use a 3.3V analog reference if your board supports it, because the output typically stays below 2.8V even under direct sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert the analog voltage to UV index?
The sensor outputs a voltage proportional to UV intensity in mW/cm² (1 V ≈ 1 mW/cm²). To estimate UV index, multiply the reading by 40, but real accuracy requires calibration with a known reference.
Can this sensor detect UV‑C for sterilization monitoring?
No. The ML8511 is sensitive only to UVA and UVB (280–400 nm). It does not respond to UV‑C (100–280 nm) used in germicidal lamps.
What you can build with this
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items