Selection Guide for DFRobot pH Sensors

DFRobot offers a range of pH sensors tailored for various applications from Arduino enthusiasts to industrial monitoring. Here's a comprehensive comparison of these sensors:

Features:

• Laboratory Electrode: Fast response speed, high measurement accuracy
• Connection: BNC connector and PH2.0 sensor interface, plug-and-play setup.
• Intended Use: Designed for periodic measurements, suitable for hobby and education projects.
• Durability: Not suitable for long-term immersion in liquid.
• Calibration: Manual calibration required.

Considerations: This sensor is excellent for intermittent testing and short-term measurements. It's affordable and user-friendly. For optimal performance and longevity, wash clean after each use and store properly.

Features:

• Voltage Compatibility: 3.3~5.5V, compatible with both 5V and 3.3V main control boards.
• Precision: Improved over V1 with hardware-filtered output for low jitter.
• Calibration: Two-point calibration with automatic identification of buffer solutions (4.0 and 7.0).

Considerations: This sensor has been designed for improved precision and user convenience. It's a good choice for projects requiring frequent, accurate measurements without sophisticated setup.

Features:

• Industrial Electrode: 24/7 continuous measuring, high stability, high pressure resistance
• Connection: BNC connector and PH2.0 sensor interface, plug-and-play setup.
• Calibration: Manual calibration required.

Considerations: Ideal for 24/7 continuous monitoring and unattended operation. Its industrial-grade electrode delivers long-term stability and reliable measurements in demanding environments. Ideal for applications such as wastewater treatment, aquaculture systems, and environmental water monitoring.

Features:

• Voltage Compatibility: 3.3~5.5V, compatible with both 5V and 3.3V main control boards.
• Durability: Supports 7/24-hour monitoring
• Precision: Improved over V1 with hardware-filtered output for low jitter.
• Calibration: Two-point calibration, automatic buffer solution identification.

Considerations: This sensor is the top choice for continuous, high-precision monitoring in harsh or industrial settings. It's designed for longevity and reliability, which justifies its higher cost.

Features:

• Application: Direct insertion into semisolid materials like soil or food.
• Durability: Stainless steel shield with a sharp tip for protective insertion.
• Calibration: Manual calibration required.

Considerations: Unique in its ability to measure pH in soft, semisolid substances. It's a specialized sensor for soil or food testing, ensuring minimal damage to the probe during measurement.

Choosing the Right Sensor

• For short-term Testing: Gravity: Lab Grade Analog pH Sensor Kit for Arduino or Gravity: Lab Grade Analog pH Sensor Kit for Arduino / Raspberry Pi (With Calibration Solutions) are suitable for short-term experiments or testing where precision and ease of use are key.

• For Long-Term Monitoring: Gravity: 7/24 Industrial Analog pH Meter Kit for Arduino or Gravity: 7/24 Industrial Analog pH Meter Kit (Arduino, Raspberry Pi) are designed for durability and longevity, making them ideal for continuous monitoring in aquaponics, aquaculture, environmental water monitoring, or industrial applications.

• For Soil or Food Testing: Gravity: Analog Spear Tip pH Sensor / Meter Kit excels in measuring pH in semisolid substances without damaging the probe.

Here is a comparative table of the DFRobot pH sensors to help you understand the differences and choose the best one for your needs:

Additional Insights:

• Calibration: Calibration is a crucial step for all sensors to ensure accurate readings. Most sensors support two-point calibration, which allows for adjustments using standard buffer solutions.

• Storage: All sensors require storage in KCL3N solution to maintain their functionality and accuracy. The presence of white crystals or particles on the protection foam during shipping is normal and does not affect the probe's performance.

• Installation: Users should ensure the signal conversion board remains dry and clean to prevent inaccuracies in measurements.

• Compatibility: All sensors are compatible with Arduino, and some also support Raspberry Pi, ESP32, and LattePanda, broadening their application in IoT projects.

• Project Ideas: These sensors can be integrated into various projects like water quality monitoring, soil testing, or even food quality assessment, enhancing their application in IoT or educational settings.

By considering the specific requirements of your project or application, you can select the DFRobot pH sensor that aligns best with your needs for accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Remember to follow the guidelines for calibration, storage, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance.