With the SparkFun Thermocouple Breakout, the thermocouple's hot junction can be read from -200°C to +700°C with an accuracy of ±2°C while the cold junction, inside the MAX31855K, can only range from -20°C to +85°C while maintaining ±2°C accuracy. The MAX31855K constantly measures the temperature of the cold junction using an internal temperature-sensing diode. The MAX31855K requires a power source from +3.0V to +3.6V (+3.0V nominal) and only draws 1.5mA maximum.

The Thermocouple Breakout is designed to accept a standard thermocouple connector, for convenience and compatibility with probes you may already own. These connectors aren't necessary, and you could solder a thermocouple directly into the through holes labeled '+' and '-'. If you decide to solder the thermocouple directly to the breakout board, it is recommended that the thermocouple be mounted for strain relief to avoid breaking the thin wires. Notches for a zip-tie or wire wrapping have been provided in the PCB opposite the header for this purpose.