BMP180 Barometric Pressure Sensor
BMP180 is a next-generation sensor that performs a wide variety of functions, including working as an altimeter. It provides high-precision reading and runs with its proprietary firmware or software for a more convenient digital use.
What Is Barometric Pressure?
Another term for barometric pressure is atmospheric pressure. Its primary role is to determine and record changes in air pressure in the atmosphere. Although air is unseen, it has some weight, which can fluctuate depending on surrounding factors such as temperature and altitude.
When the temperature is high, like during summer, the air becomes lighter. The opposite happens when the temperature falls, especially during winter. The air is much heavier or denser. As for the effects of altitude, the higher it is, the thinner the air becomes as the number of its molecules decreases. Thus, the air near the sea level or ground is heavier.
How BMP180 Pressure Sensor Works
BMP180 comes with a sensor that is piezoresistive, which means it is equipped with a sensitive semiconductor, like silicon. The material’s resistance changes as the pressure in the air fluctuate.
Because of the way the barometric pressure sensor works, BMP180 can also “read” and is responsive to changes in temperature.
In fact, BMP180 may provide temperature data first, which users can then read or take note of. Then it proceeds to measure changes in air pressure. The information is uncompensated, which implies that the output has not been corrected for errors in resistance.
Meanwhile, the sensor may act as an altimeter that gives users a general idea of the altitude they are in and the quality of air present.
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The unit of measurement for barometric pressure is a Pascal, which is equivalent to 1 Newton of force per square meter. BPM180 gives its readings as Pascal but depending on the software used, the data may also be presented as hectoPascals (hPa). That is 1 millibar or 100 Pascals.
Applications of BMP180
BMP180 sensors can be useful in the following scenarios:
- Determine and forecast weather patterns
- Predict or plan the best time to grow particular crops
- Navigate indoors, especially places in higher altitudes
- Improve the performance of GPS and sports devices by equipping them with barometers and altimeters
- Indicate vertical velocity
- Guide aerial activity such as drone flying
- Enhance the productivity and efficiency of pressure-dependent machines or equipment