Waterproof SMD DS18B20 Digital Temperature Sensor

Jargon buster

Plain-language definitions for the technical terms used above.

1-Wire

1-Wire is a communication method where devices share a single data line, often with each device having its own address. It matters because several temperature modules can be connected to one microcontroller pin instead of needing a separate pin for each probe.

DS18B20

The DS18B20 is a common digital temperature sensor, often supplied in a waterproof stainless-steel probe, that sends its readings to a microcontroller over a 1-Wire connection. It is a typical choice for adding temperature data to environmental or water-monitoring projects.

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.

GPIO

General-purpose input/output pins are microcontroller pins you can set in software to read signals, switch devices on and off, or connect to peripherals. The number of GPIO pins matters because it limits how many buttons, LEDs, sensors, and other parts you can wire directly to the board.

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.

SMD

SMD means surface-mount device, a component style designed to be soldered directly onto the surface of a circuit board rather than through holes. SMD parts are compact and mounted flat on the board, which suits smaller and mass-produced designs.

VCC

VCC is the positive power-supply connection on a chip or module. Connecting it to the correct supply voltage is needed for the part to power on and helps avoid damaging the electronics.