Can you imagine waking up in the morning and with just a couple of claps the light turns on without even having to touch the switch? Sounds great, don’t you think? Well, we tell you that all this is possible thanks to the technological advances that we have today.
And it is that thousands of people look for more comfortable options in the hands of computer programs that simplify their lives. So, today we will teach you the correct way to carry out this electronics project that, believe it or not, is very simple to implement.
Although there are currently other similar systems, for example the control of lights with Alexa , this one works great. With which, you can go to sleep after reading a good book without worrying about having to get up late at night. Since the system will do all the work for you.
Index( )
- What does it take to be able to make my spotlights turn on and off with claps?
- Arduino Uno board
- Relay 220v
- Sound Sensor Module (Microphone)
- Foco 220v
- Cable with plug and lamp holder
- How to establish the connection of my sensitive audio focus?
What does it take to be able to make my spotlights turn on and off with claps?
If you want to be very successful in carrying out the next project, it is very important that you have certain materials that are actually very easy to find.
You will see that with a sensor, low consumption LED bulbs and other elements, you get a switch circuit that will allow you to turn the light on or off as soon as you clap your hands. You can control it from anywhere if you are inside the room.
Arduino Uno board
First of all, you need to know that this project uses a sound sensor that has direct communication with an Arduino . When the connection is made, the lights may turn on or off as required, which is why their role is so important. Also, the board contains a very simple user interface that is where codes are usually created.
If you have never seen an Arduino before, we will tell you that it has several input and output pins. Some even feature specialized USB ports and connectors. So, pay attention to such aspects when going to your local store to buy it. The essential thing is that its operation is optimal.
Of course, it is very important that you know that when you buy the Arduino board, you will have to download the IDE. This consists of a software that will help you record a code . With which, you will make your Arduino work correctly and according to the commands you have in mind. In this case, activate the lights with the clapping sound.
That said, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the Arduino IDE and its various functions . You will find tools that will allow you to write, edit or record according to your immediate needs in a very simple way. In case of any errors, the check button will help you to compile the information.
Relay 220v
On the other hand, you will have to get a relay. It is an object that serves as a switch because it is responsible for generating the passage of electric current . If you do not get it with that name in the store, we recommend asking for relays. You will notice that it has 1, 2 or even 3 contacts where the current passes through the coil.
It should be noted that the relays come in various shapes and powers , but make sure you get the 220v one, which is one of the simplest. It will be very useful for this kind of work because it does not require such a high state of tension.
Sound Sensor Module (Microphone)
In order for the lights to turn on and off with applause, it is essential that you buy a sound sensor that is the one that will capture the waves. It consists of a small microphone installed in its internal structure and that will detect the claps you give. Since, its conformation is very sensitive and will be activated by any movement in which there is sound.
Remember that the sensor integrates perfectly with the Arduino when processing the signals so that they listen to your orders. This is a great option for home automation that is becoming more and more popular.
Foco 220v
Now, you wouldn’t be able to turn the lights on and off to your liking with claps if you didn’t have a spotlight to do most of the work. That is why we recommend you get this particular model because it is characterized by its significant energy savings of up to 70% . Best of all, its duration is longer than that of traditional light bulbs.
Cable with plug and lamp holder
Finally, you require both elements to generate the passage of electricity to the light bulb . You can appeal for the models that are cheaper for you, there are some that have an integrated switch, but they could be a bit more expensive.
The most important thing is that the lamp holder and the cable with plug fulfill the function of transmitting the current in an appropriate way . In addition, they work without problem with all incandescent type bulbs. In this case, with the LED system that we previously recommended.
How to establish the connection of my sensitive audio focus?
As you well know, within the world of computing and electronics, codes are essential not only to optimize mobile phones, but also in this type of project. That is why you must install the IDE program of your Arduino on the computer in order to load those numbers that will help you establish a secure connection that will send information to the sound sensor.
Do not forget that the Arduino board is the one that will receive the signal of your applause so that the LED spotlight turns off and on once it is connected to the lamp holder.
Then you need to compile the code according to the IDE instructions and connect the Arduino board to the computer via the USB cable. Once the program is operational in the system , it is time for you to carry out the connection of all the elements.
You will achieve this by removing the Arduino from the PC and adding the wires to the corresponding pins . Make sure everything connects to the sound sensor and adjust the sensitivity of the LED bulb by moving it with the screws. While the Arduino board is connected to the computer, contact with the outlet must be generated with the help of the plug or relay.
By doing so, you will notice that the room lights up and it will be time to check the sensitivity of the lighting system. All this, approaching the microphone and clapping until the LED reacts when you make noise.
Now, you can use your responsive audio focus whenever you want. Every time you activate the switch, it will restart its operation , which will make it more sensitive to external noise.
