Rectronx Circuits
Components

TDS Sensor Module

Total dissolved solids sensor for water quality and aquaculture demos.

Water Quality SensorRM25-RM70Intermediate
Arduino ✓ESP32 ✓
TDS Sensor Module electronics module illustration

AI Ready Overview

Quick Summary

TDS Sensor is a water quality sensor commonly used in FYP and embedded projects. It is best for aquaculture monitoring and water quality dashboard, with wiring and testing planned around Arduino, ESP32.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Time Required

1-2 weeks for wiring, basic code, platform integration and repeated test readings

Cost

RM25-RM70 module range in Malaysia; full project cost depends on scope.

Components

TDS Sensor, Arduino, ESP32

Overview

What is TDS Sensor?

TDS sensors estimate dissolved solids in water. They are useful in aquaculture and water quality FYP projects, but readings depend on calibration and temperature.

Engineering Reference

Quick Specs

Operating Voltage3.3V / 5V
InterfaceAnalog
DifficultyIntermediate
Typical Malaysia PriceRM25-RM70
Best ForAquaculture monitoring, Water quality dashboard

Real Usage Notes

Suitable / Not Suitable

Suitable for

  • ✓ Aquaculture monitoring
  • ✓ Water quality dashboard
  • ✓ Hydroponic nutrient trend

Not suitable for

  • ✕ Exact chemical analysis
  • ✕ No calibration
  • ✕ Dirty probes

Build Planning

Difficulty

TDS Sensor is rated Intermediate. Plan around 1-2 weeks for wiring, basic code, platform integration and repeated test readingsdepending on wiring, libraries, calibration, dashboard/app integration and testing evidence.

Build Planning

Time Required

1-2 weeks for wiring, basic code, platform integration and repeated test readings

Malaysia Price Guidance

Cost

Typical module price range: RM25-RM70. This is component guidance only; a complete FYP cost depends on controller, sensors, casing, display, app/dashboard, documentation and timeline.

Connections

Connection overview

Module revisions can use different connector names and electrical limits. Treat this as a planning overview and verify the exact board marking, manufacturer datasheet and seller documentation before wiring.

Power

Use only a supply supported by the exact board or module variant. Common listings for this part mention 3.3V or 5V.

Ground

Connect a common ground between the controller, module and any external supply.

Primary interface

Plan for Analog; confirm the exact terminal names in the manufacturer documentation.

Variant-specific connections

Connector names and optional pins can differ between breakout-board revisions.

Platform Notes

Wiring Guides

TDS Sensor with Arduino / ESP32

This is a planning overview, not a board-specific pin map. Confirm the exact module revision, supply limits and Analog terminals in its datasheet before wiring. Use suitable level shifting when logic voltages differ.

PowerConfirm against the exact board; listed variants commonly use 3.3V / 5V
GroundCommon ground with the controller
InterfaceAnalog (exact pins vary by module)

Fix Common Problems

Troubleshooting

Check wiring against the pinout before debugging code.
Use a stable power supply and common ground between modules.
Test the component with a simple example sketch before adding dashboard, app or database features.
Calibrate probes and protect electronics from wet-area splashes before final demo.

Troubleshooting

Common Mistakes

Confusing TDS with pH
No temperature compensation
No calibration solution

FYP Ideas Using TDS Sensor

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Student Questions

FAQ

Is TDS Sensor good for FYP projects?

Yes, TDS Sensor is suitable for FYP work when the project matches its limits: Aquaculture monitoring and Water quality dashboard.

What is the most common TDS Sensor mistake?

Confusing TDS with pH