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How to Connect Load Cell to Arduino – Step-by-Step Guide

Unlock DIY Weighing Projects with Load Cell + Arduino

A Load Cell is a powerful sensor that measures weight or force. Pairing it with an Arduino board allows you to build DIY weighing scales, force measurement systems, or smart IoT-based monitoring tools. In this guide, we’ll explain how to connect a load cell to Arduino and get accurate readings using a signal amplifier module.

👉 Need a reliable load cell? Buy Load Cells Online from Sensors and Gauges

Why You Can’t Connect a Load Cell Directly to Arduino

Load cells work on the principle of strain gauges that produce very small voltage changes. Arduino can’t read these tiny signals directly — which is why you need an amplifier module such as the HX711, a popular 24-bit ADC designed for load cells.

Components You Need

To set up your weighing system, gather:

  • 🟢 Load Cell (e.g., 10kg, 20kg, or 50kg depending on your project)

  • 🟢 HX711 Amplifier Module

  • 🟢 Arduino Board (Uno, Nano, or Mega)

  • 🟢 Breadboard & Jumper Wires

  • 🟢 Power Source (USB/5V)

👉 Looking for a 10kg Load Cell? Check Here.

Wiring Diagram – Connecting Load Cell to Arduino

  1. Load Cell to HX711 Module

    • Red Wire (Excitation+) → E+

    • Black Wire (Excitation–) → E–

    • White Wire (Signal–) → A–

    • Green Wire (Signal+) → A+

  2. HX711 to Arduino

    • VCC → 5V (Arduino)

    • GND → GND (Arduino)

    • DT → Digital Pin 3 (Arduino)

    • SCK → Digital Pin 2 (Arduino)

Arduino Code Example (HX711 Library)


#include "HX711.h" #define DT 3 #define SCK 2 HX711 scale; void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); scale.begin(DT, SCK); } void loop() { if (scale.is_ready()) { long reading = scale.read(); Serial.print("Raw Reading: "); Serial.println(reading); } else { Serial.println("HX711 not found."); } delay(500); }

👉 Download the HX711 Arduino Library from GitHub or the Arduino IDE Library Manager.

Calibrating Your Load Cell

To make your readings accurate:

  1. Place the load cell without weight → record baseline (zero value).

  2. Place a known weight (e.g., 500g) → adjust calibration factor in code.

  3. Fine-tune until serial readings match actual weight.

For calibration help, check our blog: How to Calibrate a Load Cell at Home.

Applications of Load Cell + Arduino Projects

  • DIY Kitchen & Postal Scales

  • Smart IoT Weighing Systems

  • Luggage Scales

  • Industrial Prototypes

  • Robotics & Automation

Why Buy from Sensors and Gauges?

At Sensors and Gauges, we’re more than just an online store. As a leading supplier, distributor, and manufacturer of load cells in Australia, we offer:

  • Competitive prices on Arduino-compatible load cells

  • Local stock in Smithfield, NSW

  • Expert support for DIY and industrial projects

👉 Request a Quote | 📞 0477 123 699 | ✉️ sales@sandsindustries.com.au

Additional Resources

Both provide excellent insights into weighing technology.

💡 Smart Tip: If your load cell isn’t giving stable readings, ensure shielded cables and avoid electrical noise around your Arduino setup.

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