Sensing Barometric Pressure | BMP085 + Arduino

Light, location, temperature… What’s next? Well, how about Barometric pressure? You know.. that thing that determines so much of our weather. Well the BMP085 Barometric Pressure sensor, available at SparkFun is a great little sensor capable of sensing such small changes in barometric pressure it can be used as a pretty precise altimeter as well. And, because no Barometric pressure sensor would be complete without a temperature reading, the BMP085 has an imbedded thermometer. It also looks cool!Sensing Barometric Pressure BMP085 + ArduinoFor this example, the way we will be calculating altitude is imprecise and does not compensate for temperature or many other things that can contribute to differences. But, if you use it as a comparison against itself during a hour long period (barometric pressure also fluctuates throughout the day), you can get a pretty accurate difference reading.

The reading differs from my weather report

Im not going to get into why this is, but to make comparisons easier, your weather report uses a sea-level compensated reading, not an actual reading. This is an actual reading.

Hooking it up

Hooking it up to your Arduino is pretty simple, the BMP085 is an I2C device. I2C is a 2-wire serial connection, so you just need to connect the BMP085 to power (3.3v) and ground, then the SDA (Data) and SCL (Clock) lines to your Arduino for communication. On your Arduino (everything but the mega) SDA is on analog pin 4, and SCL is on analog pin 5. On an Arduino Mega, SDA is digital 20, and SCL is digital 21.Schematic Sensing Barometric Pressure BMP085 + Arduino

For more detail: Sensing Barometric Pressure | BMP085 + Arduino


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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