MQ-3 Alcohol Sensor Breath Gas Detector Module

Easy Alcohol Detection for Arduino and DIY Projects

The MQ-3 alcohol sensor module is a simple and affordable way to detect ethanol vapor in the air. It is commonly used in DIY breathalyzer projects, experiments, and learning applications where you want to measure the presence and relative concentration of alcohol gas using a microcontroller such as Arduino.

Designed for Breathalyzer and Ethanol Sensing Applications

This module is well suited for breath alcohol detection and other ethanol vapor monitoring tasks. It can be used for educational projects, demonstrations, field testing concepts, or adding alcohol detection features to custom electronics. The sensor responds quickly to changes in alcohol concentration and recovers fast after exposure.

Digital and Analog Outputs for Flexible Use

The MQ-3 module provides both a TTL digital output and an analog output. The digital output switches when alcohol concentration exceeds a user-adjustable threshold, making it easy to trigger indicators, relays, or alarms. The analog output provides a variable voltage that increases as alcohol concentration rises, allowing more detailed measurement and calibration in software.

High Sensitivity with Stable Performance

Using an MQ-3 semiconductor gas sensor with an SnO2 sensing element, this module offers high sensitivity to alcohol while maintaining good resistance to interference from smoke, vapor, and gasoline. It features reliable long-term stability, making it suitable for repeated testing and experimentation.

Simple Wiring and Easy Integration

The module is designed for quick integration into microcontroller projects. Clearly labeled pins make wiring straightforward, and mounting holes allow easy installation into enclosures or project frames. After power-up, the sensor requires a short warm-up period before readings stabilize, which is normal operation.

Electrical and Technical Specifications

• Sensor type: MQ-3 alcohol gas sensor
• Detectable alcohol concentration range: approximately 0.05 mg/L to 10 mg/L
• Input voltage: DC 5 V
• Power consumption: approximately 150 mA
• Digital output (DO): TTL level, low-level active (approximately 0.1 V to 5 V)
• Analog output (AO): approximately 0.1 V to 4 V depending on alcohol concentration
• Sensing material: SnO2 semiconductor
• Warm-up time: approximately 20 seconds for stable readings
• Response and recovery: fast response and recovery characteristics
• Module dimensions: 32 mm x 20 mm x 22 mm

Pin Connections

• VCC: +5 V power supply
• GND: Ground
• DO: TTL digital output
• AO: Analog voltage output

Reliable Alcohol Detection for Learning and Prototyping

This MQ-3 alcohol sensor module is a popular choice for students, hobbyists, and makers who want to experiment with gas sensing and breath alcohol detection. It combines ease of use, flexible outputs, and dependable performance in a compact module suitable for a wide range of electronics projects.