Water Flow Sensor YF-S201

The YF-S201 is a type of water flow sensor that is often used in various projects to measure the flow rate of liquids, such as water. It uses a Hall effect sensor to detect the flow of water through the pipe and generates pulses corresponding to the flow rate.

Features of YF-S201:

1. Working Principle: It uses a rotor inside the sensor to spin as water flows through it. A Hall effect sensor detects the movement of the rotor and generates electrical pulses based on the speed of the rotor.
2. Output: The sensor outputs a digital pulse signal, where the frequency of the pulses correlates to the flow rate. More pulses per unit of time indicate a higher flow rate.
3. Flow Rate: The typical flow rate range for the YF-S201 is 1-30 L/min (liters per minute).
4. Operating Voltage: The sensor typically operates with a voltage of 5V DC.
5. Accuracy: It generally provides accurate readings for low to moderate flow rates but may not be as precise for very high or very low flow rates.
6. Material: The sensor housing is made of durable plastic, often food-grade, making it suitable for use with potable water and other non-corrosive liquids.
7. Temperature Range: It is often used in applications that involve water temperatures between 0°C and 80°C (32°F to 176°F).

Pinout (for connection):

1. Red: VCC (typically 5V)
2. Black: Ground (GND)
3. Yellow/White: Signal output (digital output, pulse signal)

How to Use YF-S201:

• Arduino/Controller: The sensor can easily be interfaced with an Arduino or other microcontrollers by reading the digital pulse output. By measuring the time between pulses, the flow rate can be determined.

Example Code for Arduino:

Here’s a simple example to measure flow rate using Arduino:

int flowPin = 2;  // Pin where the signal wire is connected
volatile int flowCount = 0;
float flowRate = 0.0;
unsigned long lastTime = 0;

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  pinMode(flowPin, INPUT);
  attachInterrupt(digitalPinToInterrupt(flowPin), countPulse, RISING);
}

void loop() {
  unsigned long currentTime = millis();
  
  if (currentTime - lastTime >= 1000) {  // Update every second
    flowRate = flowCount;  // Flow rate in pulses per second (Hz)
    Serial.print("Flow rate: ");
    Serial.print(flowRate);
    Serial.println(" pulses/second");
    flowCount = 0;
    lastTime = currentTime;
  }
}

void countPulse() {
  flowCount++;
}

This code counts the pulses from the flow sensor, which is connected to a digital pin of the Arduino. The flow rate in pulses per second is then printed every second.

Applications:

• Water flow monitoring: Used in smart water meters or irrigation systems.
• Aquarium monitoring: Ensures proper water circulation and flow.
• Home brewing: Measures the flow of liquids in brewing processes.
• Water consumption tracking: Used in various industries to monitor water usage.

Origin:- China

Brand:- Generic