The ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) is one of the most popular sensors for beginner and advanced projects. It measures distance using sound waves, making it perfect for robotics, obstacle detection, and automation.
How Does It Work?
The HC-SR04 emits ultrasonic sound waves and calculates the time it takes for the sound to bounce back from an object. This time is then converted into a distance measurement.
Why Choose the HC-SR04?
- Compatible: Works with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32.
- Affordable: A budget-friendly option for many projects.
- Easy to Use: Requires only 4 pins (VCC, GND, Trig, Echo).
- Accurate: Measures distances from 2 cm to 400 cm with a resolution of 0.3 cm.
What Can You Build with an Ultrasonic Sensor?
Applications
- Automatic parking sensors for cars.
- Smart trash bins that open automatically.
- Object detection for robots or drones.
Project Ideas
- Obstacle-Avoiding Robot
Pair the sensor with a motor driver and a microcontroller to create a robot that navigates around obstacles. - Distance Measurement Tool
Build a simple tool to measure the distance to nearby objects, perfect for home improvement or DIY projects. - Water Level Monitor
Use the sensor to measure the water level in a tank and alert you when it’s low.
