Fermion: BME688 AI Environmental Sensor (VOC, Temperature, Humidity, Pressure)

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

API

An API (application programming interface) is a defined set of commands or functions that lets one piece of software interact with another, such as a library, operating system, hardware driver or online service. When something offers API support, it means you can control or query it from your own code rather than only through its built-in menus or buttons.

BME680

The BME680 is a Bosch environmental sensor chip that measures temperature, humidity, air pressure and a gas signal used to gauge air quality. The part number tells you a device is built around that specific all-in-one sensor, so you can check its library support, accuracy and datasheet details.

DC

DC means direct current, where electricity flows in one constant direction, as supplied by batteries, USB ports and many plug-pack power supplies. When a product specifies DC, it runs from a DC supply rather than mains AC, so you need to provide the correct voltage and polarity.

ESP32

ESP32 is a family of low-cost microcontroller chips and modules from Espressif with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. They support programmable firmware and over-the-air updates, and are commonly programmed with toolchains such as the Arduino core and ESP-IDF.

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.

IoT

Short for Internet of Things, meaning physical devices that connect to networks or the internet to send data or be controlled remotely. It matters if you want projects such as connected sensors, remote controls or classroom data-logging activities.

PCB

A printed circuit board (PCB) is a board, usually rigid, with etched copper tracks that connect electronic components together without loose wiring. Components are mounted on the board and signals route between them through the copper layout.

SPI

A fast serial communication bus often used for displays, memory cards, and sensors. It matters because SPI devices need specific pins for clock and data, plus a separate chip-select line for each device.

Temperature compensation

Temperature compensation is when a sensor or instrument adjusts its readings to reduce errors caused by changes in temperature. This matters because a sensor's raw output often drifts as conditions warm or cool, so compensation keeps readings more consistent and accurate over time.

VOC

Volatile organic compounds are gases released from things like paints, cleaners, smoke, and some plastics. A VOC reading helps indicate indoor air quality, but it is usually an index or estimate rather than a direct identification of each chemical.