GY-271 HMC5883L Triple Axis Compass Magnetometer Sensor Module

The GY-271 HMC5883L Triple Axis Compass Magnetometer Sensor Module is a high-precision digital compass designed to measure magnetic field strength in three dimensions — X, Y, and Z axes. Using the HMC5883L chip, it provides stable and accurate readings for heading, orientation, and position sensing in various embedded systems.

This sensor communicates with microcontrollers via the I2C interface, making it simple to integrate with Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi, and STM32 platforms. It’s widely used in navigation systems, autonomous drones, robotic vehicles, and geo-location tracking applications.

With built-in amplification and noise filtering, the GY-271 module ensures precise and stable operation, even in low magnetic field environments. Its compact design and low power consumption make it an excellent choice for mobile and battery-powered devices.

⚙️ Key Features:

✅ Triple-axis digital magnetometer for heading detection
✅ Uses HMC5883L magnetic sensor IC
✅ 12-bit ADC output with I2C digital interface
✅ Low noise, high accuracy, and low power consumption
✅ Fully compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP boards
✅ Compact design with standard 4-pin header
✅ Ideal for navigation, robotics, and orientation applications

🔧 Technical Specifications:

• Sensor IC: HMC5883L

• Operating Voltage: 3V – 5V DC

• Communication Interface: I2C (SDA, SCL)

• Measurement Range: ±8 Gauss

• Resolution: 12-bit (0.73 mG/LSB)

• Interface Pins: VCC, GND, SDA, SCL

• Output Data Rate: 15Hz (typical)

• Dimensions: 18mm × 13mm × 3mm

• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

⚙️ Working Principle:

The HMC5883L sensor detects magnetic field strength along three perpendicular axes (X, Y, and Z) using magnetoresistive sensors. It then converts this analog data into digital signals via its internal ADC. When connected to a microcontroller, the readings can be processed to determine the orientation or heading angle relative to the Earth’s magnetic field.

This principle makes it essential for compass-based navigation, attitude correction, and directional sensing in various robotic and drone systems.

⚙️ Applications:

• 3D compass and heading reference systems

• GPS navigation and drone stabilization

• Robotics and autonomous vehicles

• Augmented reality and motion tracking

• Orientation correction for wearable and handheld devices

• Educational and research-based Arduino projects

⚠️ Precautions:

• Keep the sensor away from strong magnetic or ferromagnetic materials to avoid distortion.

• Calibrate the sensor before use for accurate heading results.

• Use stable voltage input to ensure consistent data accuracy.

• Mount the sensor flat and level for best magnetic field detection.

🎥 Tutorial & Resources:

📺 Watch this YouTube tutorial on GY-271 HMC5883L Compass Sensor with Arduino to learn wiring, calibration, and heading calculation setup.

🔗 Internal Links:

• Explore more Sensors & Modules

• Buy Arduino Boards

• Check out more IMU and Orientation Sensors

🧩 Product Summary:

The GY-271 HMC5883L Triple Axis Magnetometer Compass Module provides accurate direction and heading information using the Earth’s magnetic field. It’s a must-have sensor for navigation, drone stabilization, and robotic guidance systems. Easy to interface, low-power, and highly reliable — perfect for both beginners and professionals building orientation and motion-aware projects.