You can build an Arduino monitor around the Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F by powering the sensor, routing its analog output to an ADC input, and switching its internal infrared LED on and off at precisely timed intervals. The result is useful for observing relative dust changes, but it is not a validated PM2.5 instrument or a basis for health decisions.
What the GP2Y1010AU0F measures
The GP2Y1010AU0F uses an infrared emitter and phototransistor to detect light reflected by airborne dust. It produces an analog voltage response; it does not count individual particles or report a digital PM2.5 concentration. Sharp says the sensor is especially effective for fine particles such as cigarette smoke and that smoke can be distinguished from house dust by the output pulse pattern. Those are manufacturer descriptions, not independent performance validation. See Sharp’s datasheet.
Sharp’s current product specification lists a 4.5–5.5 V operating supply, typical current of 11 mA, sensitivity of 0.5±0.15 V per 0.1 mg/m³, and precision of ±30%. Its stated reference detection concentration is 0–1,500 µg/m³, based on the TSI 8530. These figures describe the sensor specification, not the accuracy of a complete DIY monitor. See Sharp’s product specifications.
Parts and compatibility
- Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F sensor and its matching connector or breakout, if applicable.
- Arduino UNO or a compatible board with an analog input.
- 150 Ω resistor and 220 µF capacitor for the manufacturer’s application circuit.
- Jumper wires and a stable way to hold the sensor with its air openings unobstructed.
Sharp’s datasheet illustrates the 150 Ω and 220 µF components in the sensor drive circuit; follow that circuit for the revision you have. The UNO example below uses a 5 V supply. A different controller may have a lower ADC input limit, so check its documentation and scale the analog signal if necessary.
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#1 Best Overall
- Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F onboard, detecting fine particle larger than 0.8?m in diameter, even like the cigarette smoke
- Low power consumption, analog voltage output, the output level is linear with dust density
- Embedded voltage boost circuit to support wide range of power supply
- A simple Air Monitor
- Sensitivity : 0.5V/(100μg/m3)
Wire the sensor to an Arduino UNO
DFRobot’s UNO example uses this connection scheme. Consult the sensor’s matching circuit diagram before powering your particular revision.
| Sensor connection | UNO connection | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vcc | 5 V | Sensor supply |
| Vled | 5 V through a 150 Ω resistor | LED supply in the example circuit |
| LED | Digital pin 2 | Controls the timed LED pulse |
| Vo | A0 | Analog sensor output |
| LED-GND and S-GND | GND | Shared ground connections |
| 220 µF capacitor | As shown in the Sharp application circuit | Part of the recommended drive network |
DFRobot’s documented example is available at Dust Detection Code for Arduino. Do not treat a vendor wiring example as a substitute for checking the pinout and application circuit supplied for your sensor.
Rank #2
- GP2Y1014AU0F Compact Optical Dust Sensor Compatible GP2Y1010AU0F GP2Y1010AUOF Smoke Particle Sensor With Cable
Read the output using the required timing
The sensor’s output depends on sampling during a short LED-on interval. Sharp specifies a 10±1 ms pulse cycle, a 0.32±0.02 ms pulse width, and a sample point 0.28 ms after the LED turns on. Its datasheet is dated 2006-12-01 and advises users to obtain the latest specification sheet where needed.
- Set the control pin as an output and the analog pin as an input.
- Turn the sensor LED on.
- Wait 280 µs, then read the analog output. DFRobot’s example waits an additional 40 µs around its sampling operation.
- Turn the LED off.
- Wait 9,680 µs before the next cycle, following the DFRobot example’s timing.
These timings are drawn from Sharp’s specified sampling window and DFRobot’s Arduino example. See the Sharp datasheet and DFRobot’s code and wiring guide.
Rank #3
- 1PCS GP2Y1014AU0F Compact Optical Sensor Compatible GP2Y1010AU0F GP2Y1010AUOF Particle Sensor With Cable
Convert readings carefully
Convert the ADC count to voltage using the actual reference voltage of your Arduino board and its ADC resolution. Then interpret changes using a calibration appropriate to the sensor and assembled device. A sample sketch’s voltage-to-dust formula does not establish traceable PM2.5 accuracy: the available documentation does not validate a complete DIY build against a reference method.
- For an unvalidated build, label output as a dust reading or dust trend.
- Use consistent placement and operating conditions when comparing readings over time.
- Do not present the output as a regulatory PM2.5 result or rely on it for health decisions.
Placement and care
Keep the sensor’s openings clear so air can reach the sensing area. Sharp cautions that cleaning may leave the device unable to meet its specified characteristics; avoid cleaning the sensing components. If dust accumulates or readings become unreliable, consult the sensor documentation rather than trying to clean the optical chamber.
Rank #4
- Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F onboard, detecting fine particle larger than 0.8μm in diameter, even like the cigarette smoke
- Low power consumption, analog voltage output, the output level is linear with dust density
- Embedded voltage boost circuit to support wide range of power supply
- Sensitivity : 0.5V/(100μg/m3) Measurement range : 500μg/m3 Power : 2.5V~5.5V Operating current : 20mA(max) Operating temperature : -10℃~65℃
How this sensor differs from other PM sensors
Sharp’s catalog includes other sensor families, including a UART model whose feature description says PM2.5 or larger can be discriminated. That is a different interface and product capability from the GP2Y1010AU0F’s analog dust response. Compare the interface, stated size discrimination, precision, calibration or validation evidence, and total build complexity before choosing a sensor. The catalog does not make the GP2Y1010AU0F a validated PM2.5 monitor.
Sharp’s current catalog is at Dust sensor / PM sensor unit. For the GP2Y1010AU0F itself, use Sharp’s specification and datasheet as the primary references; third-party product listings may differ in stated values.
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