MQ-4 Methane and Natural Gas Sensor Module
High-Sensitivity Semiconductor Gas Detector for Arduino
The MQ4 gas sensor module is a costeffective, low-power device optimized for detecting methane (CH4) and natural gas (CNG). It uses a tin dioxide (SnO2) semiconductor, making it ideal for gas leak detection in home and industrial safety systems, with minimal sensitivity to alcohol, smoke, and cooking fumes [citation:1][citation:5][citation:10].
Reliable Methane Detection - High sensitivity to CH4 from 300 to 10,000 ppm.
Dual Output Modes - Provides both analog (AO) and digital (DO) signals.
Operating voltage is 5V DC. The sensor requires a preheat time for optimal stabilization [citation:1].
Use the onboard potentiometer to set the digital threshold sensitivity [citation:1].
To estimate accurate ppm using the analog output, the sensor requires a calibration period in clean air [citation:9].
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Target Gas | Methane (CH4), Natural Gas [citation:1] |
| Detection Range | 300 to 10,000 ppm [citation:1][citation:2] |
| Operating Voltage | 5V DC [citation:1] |
| Heater Consumption | ~150 mA [citation:1] |
| Output Signal | Analog (AO) & Digital (DO) [citation:1] |
= Key Features =
High Sensitivity to CH4 - Excellent response to methane and natural gas.
Fast Response Time - Response time of <10 seconds [citation:1].
Adjustable Sensitivity Builtin potentiometer for setting the digital trigger threshold [citation:1].
Stable and Long Life - Reliable construction with stable characteristics.
Resistant to Interference - Low sensitivity to alcohol and cigarette smoke [citation:5][citation:10].
= Applications =
- Household and industrial gas leak detectors [citation:1][citation:10].
- Methane concentration monitoring [citation:1].
- Portable gas analyzers and safety devices.
- IoT and DIY environmental sensing.
Versatile Safety Component - Widely used for methane detection with Arduino.
Easy Arduino Integration - Simple wiring with analog and digital outputs.
√ On-board power and signal indicators.
√ 4 mounting holes for secure installation.
√ Compatible with Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi.
Troubleshooting
No output:
- Verify stable 5V power supply and connections [citation:3].
- Ensure sufficient preheat time.
- Check the wiring (VCC, GND, AO, DO) [citation:9].
Inconsistent readings:
- Adjust the sensitivity potentiometer [citation:1].
- Avoid exposing the sensor to contaminants.
- Calibrate R0 for the environment [citation:7][citation:12].
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