Adafruit
Breadboard Friendly I2C Temperature Sensor - TC74A0
A simple I2C temperature sensor in a breadboard-friendly TO-220 package. The TC74A0 provides basic temperature readings with ±2°C accuracy — a straightforwar...
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A simple I2C temperature sensor in a breadboard-friendly TO-220 package. The TC74A0 provides basic temperature readings with ±2°C accuracy — a straightforward choice when you need easy temperature logging or monitoring without fussing over complex wiring.
Works with both 3.3 V and 5 V logic, making it compatible with virtually any microcontroller or single-board computer. Uses the LM75-compatible I2C protocol, so existing libraries work out of the box.
Key Features
- TO-220 Package – 5-pin, plugs directly into a breadboard
- I2C Interface – SDA (pin 2), GND (centre), SCL (pin 4), VDD (pin 5)
- ±2°C Accuracy – Suitable for general-purpose temperature monitoring
- 3.3 V or 5 V Compatible – Works with any logic level
- LM75-Compatible Protocol – Supported by widely available libraries
- Recommended I2C Speed – 100 kHz or 400 kHz
Ideal For
- Quick temperature logging and monitoring
- Breadboard prototyping with I2C sensors
- Learning I2C communication basics
Package Contents
- 1× TC74A0 I2C Temperature Sensor (through-hole, TO-220)
Resources
- Arduino PCT2075 Library (LM75-compatible)
- CircuitPython / Python PCT2075 Library
Jargon buster
Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.
- GND
- GND is the ground or reference connection (0 V) for a circuit. When connecting two devices together, their grounds must be joined so both agree on what counts as a low or high signal.
- I2C
- I2C is a two-wire communication bus used by many sensors and small modules. It matters because several I2C devices can share the same two wires, but each device needs a compatible address and your controller must support I2C.
- microcontroller
- A microcontroller is a small computer on a single chip that runs a stored program and controls connected inputs and outputs such as buttons, sensors, displays and communication interfaces. In a device built around one, it is the part that executes the code and coordinates the device's behaviour.
- single-board computer
- A complete computer built onto one circuit board, usually including the processor, memory, ports, and connectors. This matters because accessories like heatsinks must match the board’s layout and mounting holes to fit properly.
- through-hole
- A mounting style where the component leads pass through holes in a circuit board and are soldered on the other side. Through-hole parts are often easier to handle and solder by hand, which is useful for classroom and hobby projects.
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Prototyping & Wiring
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