AC - DC Current Monitoring Project with ACS712 and LCD Display

Advanced ACS712 AC/DC Current Monitoring System with Alarm & LCD

This AC/DC Current Monitoring System is a complete, ready-to-use electronics project designed for accurate current measurement and automated over-current protection. Built around the reliable ACS712 5A Current Sensor and powered by the Arduino Nano R3 (ATmega328), this system combines real-time monitoring, adjustable current limit control, and automatic alarm functionality. The project visually displays both the user-defined current limit and live load current through a 16x2 White-on-Blue LCD using an I2C adapter, making the interface clean and easy to read.

A 10KΩ potentiometer allows users to set the desired maximum current threshold. When the load exceeds the defined limit, the display instantly warns the user and triggers a 5V Active Buzzer for audible alert. The unit is powered through a compact TP4056 1A Li-Ion charging module, making it suitable for portable setups, demonstrations, and classroom experiments.

This DIY monitoring project is ideal for students, makers, and hobbyists looking to learn current measurement, sensor interfacing, system automation, and Arduino programming. As a featured STEM product from Bigyan Project (বিজ্ঞান প্রজেক্ট), it’s crafted for learning, experimentation, and practical usability.

Product Specifications

Features

• Accurate AC/DC current measurement using ACS712
• Adjustable current limit via 10KΩ potentiometer
• Real-time load current and limit display on 16x2 I2C LCD
• Automatic alarm activation when load exceeds the limit
• Portable design powered by TP4056 Li-Ion charging module
• Efficient wiring using slim flexible project cables
• Arduino Nano-based system for easy customization
• Ideal for STEM experiments and demonstration purposes

Applications / Use Cases

• Electronics lab experiments
• DIY learning projects
• Small equipment current monitoring
• Safety demo for over-current conditions
• Classroom education on sensors and microcontrollers
• Battery-powered portable monitoring systems

User Guide / How to Use

• Connect the load through the ACS712 input terminals
• Power the project using a Li-Ion battery or USB via TP4056
• Turn the 10KΩ potentiometer to set your desired current limit
• Watch real-time load current on the LCD display
• If current exceeds the set limit, the buzzer will sound
• Adjust the limit as needed for different experiments
• Use the Arduino Nano if you want to modify or expand functionality

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Can it measure both AC and DC current?
  A: Yes. The ACS712 5A module supports both AC and DC measurement.
• Q: Can I increase the current range beyond 5A?
  A: Not with this sensor model. You would need a different ACS712 version.
• Q: How is the current limit adjusted?
  A: Using the 10KΩ potentiometer connected to the Arduino.
• Q: Will it work without a battery?
  A: Yes, you may power it via USB or external 5V supply.
• Q: Is programming required?
  A: The unit comes programmed, but you may modify the Arduino code if desired.

Challenges and Considerations

• ACS712 sensors may show slight noise; filtering may be needed
• Requires careful wiring for accurate readings
• Not suitable for high-current industrial loads
• LCD contrast may need adjustment depending on ambient light

Compatibility

• Compatible with Arduino ecosystem (Nano, Uno, Mega)
• Works with 5V-powered embedded systems
• Li-Ion battery power supported via TP4056 module
• I2C LCD compatible with standard Arduino libraries

Future Enhancement Options

• Add relay protection for automatic load cutoff
• Include data logging via SD card module
• Use OLED display for enhanced readability
• Add wireless monitoring (Bluetooth or WiFi)
• Upgrade with higher-current sensors (ACS758, INA219, etc.)

Benefits

• Easy-to-understand system for beginners
• Portable and lightweight monitoring tool
• High educational value for STEM learning
• Durable components sourced for reliability
• Built with popular parts available from Bigyan Project (বিজ্ঞান প্রজেক্ট)

Conclusion

This AC/DC Current Monitoring System with ACS712, LCD display, adjustable limit control, and alarm functionality is an excellent hands-on learning tool and a practical monitoring solution. Its clean design, reliable components, and ease of customization make it a strong choice for students, makers, and DIY enthusiasts exploring electronics measurement systems. Developed with user-friendly features, it represents a solid educational product from Bigyan Project (বিজ্ঞান প্রজেক্ট).

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