Sensor breakouts

The very first place to check for information about components is the components themselves. Resistors, LEDs, and most other components look different enough that you will quickly learn how to identify them. Often, components will have a part number listed on them somewhere, which can help you find a supplier’s or manufacturer's website. When you order components or a kit, the store will also send along documentation or point you to a page on their website. Always check a part supplier's website first and save yourself a headache.

Sometimes though, the information provided on the supplier's website is not enough for the particular project we are attempting; the next thing to look for is the component's data sheet. You can find it by entering the part number, followed by "data sheet", in your favourite search engine online. Do not search for just the part name, since chances are there are many different versions of your part with different information.

Electronic data sheets document the behaviour, function, and limitations of electronic components. They have a tremendous amount of information, from operating temperature and behaviour and suggested wiring diagrams, to material make-up and industrial application.