Quick and simple start guide for using and exploring the Flame Sensor module with an Arduino.

The model in the example is a single sensor module from my store, you can find it at Cipher Computer and Robotics.

(The instructable for the Rain Sensor is now available!)

Materials needed:

Flame Sensor (model with an analog out)
Male to Female jumper wires
An Arduino, any flavor.
Lighter or another flame source for testing.

Step 1: Getting to Know Your Flame Sensor:

Usage:
These types of sensors are used for short range fire detection and can be used to monitor projects or as a safety precaution to cut devices off / on.

Range:

I have found this unit is mostly accurate up to about 3 feet.

How it works:

The flame sensor is very sensitive to IR wavelength at 760 nm ~ 1100 nm light.

Analog output (A0): Real-time output voltage signal on the thermal resistance.

Digital output (D0): When the temperature reaches a certain threshold, the output high and low signal threshold adjustable via potentiometer.

Pins:

VCC...... Positive voltage input: 5v for analog 3.3v for Digital.

A0.......... Analog output

D0......... Digital output

GND..... Ground

Dimensions:

1.18 in x 0.59 in x 0.20 in (3.0 cm x 1.5 cm x 0.5 cm)

Weight:

0.28 oz (8 g)

Step 2: Testing and Troubleshooting:

Testing:
To test the Flame Sensor and ensure that it is working correctly connect the VCC to a 5v power source and GND. Move a flame source with in a foot of the front of the Ir sensor and the D0-LED should light up.

Troubleshooting:

If the D0-LED does not light up check the following:

Is the power source 5v?
Is the ground hooked up?
Is the flame with in 1 foot and in Line of Sight?

If none of the previous makes the D0-LED light up, your sensor may be defective.

Step 3: Wiring to an Arduino:

To wire the Flame Sensor to the Arduino simply connect the following as shown:

Flame sensor ............... Arduino

VCC............................... 5v

GND...............................GND

A0.................................. Analog in 0

Step 4: Arduino Sketch Example:

The following code maps and reads the analog values given by the flame sensor (0-1024). The stock flame sensor will have the following reaction with this code:

If holding a flame within 1.5 feet in front of the sensor; "case 0" will be activated and " ** Close Fire ** " will be sent to the serial monitor.
If holding a flame between 1.5 feet and 3 feet in front of the sensor; "case 1" will be activated and " **Distant Fire** " will be sent to the serial monitor.
If no flame is detected in front of the sensor; "case 2" will be activated and " No Fire " will be sent to the serial monitor.

* To view the output, point a serial monitor such as Putty at your Arduino.

* This code is constantly updating in order to provide a real time feedback of the flame sensor.

Code: