TEMT6000 Ambient Light Sensor Hookup Guide

Contributors: Michael Bartlett

Resources and Going Further

• The TEMT6000 only detects the amalgamated presence of light with wavelengths in the range of 390–700 nm, but we've got a plethora of different light sensing options:
  • Want a wearable version of the TEMT6000? You're in luck. Build a light-detecting garment, with the LilyPad Light Sensor.
  • The TSL2561 Luminosity Sensor Breakout is an integrated sensor that can detect both visible light and infrared light.
  • The ISL29125 RGB Light Sensor can detect light that is specifically red, green, blue, or any combination thereof.
  • The ML8511 UV Sensor Breakout works similarly to the TEMT6000, but responds to ultraviolet light instead of visible light.
  • The Mini Photocell is a very small alternative to the TEMT6000, however it is a photo resistor (a resistor that changes resistance based on the presence of light) instead of a phototransistor.
• If you plan on using the nightlight indefinitely, an energy-conscious suggestion would be to integrate a Wake on Shake. The Arduino will constantly be running and checking if its dark, which can use up a lot of energy over time. A Wake on Shake would make the current draw negligible until you bumped the circuit. This way you can easily activate the light in the dark if you need it, and would practically be off otherwise.
• Want a night light for outdoors? The Sunny Buddy makes keeping a battery charged with solar energy easy. Your night light could store energy during the day, and light the way for you at night! Of course you may want to also invest in a transparent plastic case to keep the elements out.

Or, you can check out these other great light-based tutorials.