DS18B20 Digital Temperature Sensor (to 92)
Precision 1Wire Digital Thermometer in TO92 Transistor Package
The DS18B20 is a popular digital temperature sensor that comes in a small, threepin package resembling a transistor [citation:1][citation:7][citation:9]. This form factor makes it easy to integrate into breadboards and PCBs, as it fits directly alongside components like the 2N2222 or 2N3904 . Despite its appearance, it is a complex integrated circuit containing a temperature sensor, control logic, and a unique 1Wire serial interface [citation:3][citation:7][citation:9].
TO92 Package Looks like a transistor, fits standard breadboards and PCBs.
Digital 1Wire Interface Uses only one data pin for communication [citation:1][citation:4][citation:11].
Operating voltage: 3.0V to 5.5V [citation:2][citation:4].
Temperature range: 55°C to 125°C, with ±0.5°C accuracy from 10°C to 85°C [citation:2][citation:4][citation:11].
A 4.7kΩ pull-up resistor is required between the data line and VCC for stable communication [citation:7][citation:10][citation:14].
Each DS18B20 has a unique 64-bit serial code, allowing multiple sensors on the same bus [citation:1][citation:4].
Pin Configuration (Flat Side Facing You, Leads Down)
| Pin | Name | Description |
|---|
| :- | :- | :- |
| 1 (Left) | GND | Ground (0V) |
| 2 (Middle) | DQ | Data line (1-Wire) |
| 3 (Right) | VDD | Power supply (3.0V to 5.5V) |
> The sensor can also be operated in "parasite power" mode, requiring only GND and DQ lines [citation:2][citation:4].
In parasitic mode, VDD is connected to GND, and the sensor draws power from the DQ line.
Key Features
+1Wire Interface Requires only one data pin and one pull-up resistor for communication [citation:1][citation:2].
High Accuracy ±0.5°C accuracy over the 10°C to 85°C range [citation:2][citation:4][citation:11].
+Programmable Resolution - 9 to 12 bits (0.5°C to 0.0625°C resolution) [citation:2][citation:4][citation:11].
+MultiDrop Capable Multiple sensors can share the same data bus [citation:1][citation:4][citation:11].
= Applications =
- Temperature monitoring for HVAC and environmental control [citation:4].
- Industrial automation and process monitoring [citation:4].
- Arduino and Raspberry Pi projects for weather stations, thermostats, and data logging [citation:7][citation:11].
- Distributed temperature sensing systems [citation:2][citation:4].
- Equipment and machinery temperature monitoring [citation:4].
Versatile and Reliable Digital output ensures noiseimmune readings, even over long cable runs [citation:11].
Easy to Use - Simple interface with extensive library support in Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other platforms.
√ Available in TO-92, SMD, and waterproof cable versions.
√ No calibration required - factory trimmed.