This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.
The Arduino UV Index Meter is a portable electronic device designed to measure invisible ultraviolet radiation from the sun and display the results. At the heart of the system is an Arduino Uno microcontroller, which acts as the central processing unit. Connected to the Arduino are specialized sensors—either the SENS-43UV analog ultraviolet light sensor module or the digital SI1145 sensor—which detect UV light intensity and convert it into electrical signals. The analog sensor varies its voltage output based on the strength of the UV rays, while the digital sensor communicates precise measurements using standard communication protocols. The Arduino reads these incoming signals, processes the raw data through programmed code in the Arduino IDE, and calculates the corresponding UV index level. Once the calculations are complete, the Arduino sends the output data to a connected display module to show the real-time readings to the user. The entire circuit is temporarily assembled on a breadboard using jumper wires to connect the power, ground, and data pins between the Arduino, the sensors, and the display. Additionally, UV LEDs are included for testing purposes, allowing you to simulate UV light sources in a controlled indoor environment. Through this combination of hardware and software, the project provides a clear, numerical representation of invisible environmental radiation, helping you understand how much ultraviolet energy is present in your surroundings.
Why Build This
Create a practical, portable gadget to check outdoor sunshine intensity before heading to the beach or park.
Learn how electronic sensors can detect invisible environmental factors like ultraviolet radiation to protect against sunburns.
Build a hands-on science project that combines microcontrollers, sensors, and displays for real-world health and safety applications.
Real-World Application
Used outdoors, at beaches, or by parents and health-conscious individuals to track UV levels and prevent sunburns or skin damage.
Skills You'll Learn
Analog sensor reading
digital sensor communication
microcontroller programming
display integration
circuit prototyping on a breadboard
Safety Precautions
Avoid staring directly into UV LEDs or high-intensity UV sources at close proximity. Minimize direct exposure to UV energy sources during experimentation.
Technology Tags
ARDUINO
UV SENSOR
SI1145
SENS-43UV
SENSORS
DISPLAY
C++
ELECTRONICS
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually, you only need to use one sensor type per build depending on which module you have available, as each requires different code and wiring configurations.
Libraries contain pre-written code that simplifies how the Arduino communicates with digital sensors, saving you from writing complex communication protocols from scratch.
Yes, you can use controlled UV light sources like specialized UV LEDs for testing, but remember to follow all safety guidelines regarding close-range exposure.
Gallery
This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.
Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.
LDR Light Sensor Module
Rs. 49.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm
Rs. 45.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi
Rs. 139.00
10pcs 5mm RED Diffused Light Emitting Diodes - LEDs Set
Rs. 39.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality
Rs. 89.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm
Rs. 45.00
