How to make Arduino VU Meter using Sound Sensor

Introduction

In this project, we will explore How to make Arduino VU Meter using Sound Sensor. The idea behind this project is to use the sound sensor to detect the volume of the surrounding sound and light up a series of LEDs on the base gradually based on the sound level. This can be a fun and interactive way to visualize and measure the intensity of sound using the Arduino platform.

Hardware Required

Circuit Connection

The minimum value varies every time the system is activated for which a value called “base” has been defined (which can vary from 180 to 400) which must be detected and entered into the system each time.
The excursions are highlighted on a row of 6 LEDs which light up in sequence, according to the measured value:
0 LED = measured value lower than the base
1 LED = measured value between the base value and the base value + 15 points
2 led = value detected between the base value + 11 and + 30 points
3 led = value detected between the base value + 31 and + 45 points
4 led = value detected between the base value + 46 and + 60 points
5 led = detected value between the base value + 61 and + 75 points
6 led = detected value higher than the base value + 75 points
 the led must be connected from Pin 7 to Pin 12

Circuit Diagram

Working Explanations

The Arduino VU meter works by using the sound sensor to detect the volume of the surrounding sound. The sound sensor converts the sound signals into electrical signals, which are then fed into the Arduino Uno for processing.

The Arduino reads the analog input from the sound sensor and maps the incoming values to a range suitable for controlling the LEDs. As the volume of the sound increases, the Arduino will gradually increase the brightness of the LEDs.

The LED indicators are divided into three groups: green, yellow, and red. The green LEDs will light up when the sound volume is low, the yellow LEDs will gradually light up as the volume increases, and the red LED will light up when the sound volume reaches its maximum level.

The Arduino continuously monitors the sound input and adjusts the LED brightness based on the detected sound volume. This creates a visual representation of the sound intensity, allowing you to

Installing Arduino IDE Software

First, you will require to Download the updated version of Arduino IDE Software and Install it on your PC or laptop. if you Learn How to install the Arduino step-by-step guide then click on how to install Arduino Button given Blow

Code

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int soundvalue = 0; // soundvalue variable, which contains the detected value
// on port 0 (the output signal from the microphone)
int i = 0; // index used for the led management routines
base int = 360; // base value, used to define the minimum switch-on threshold
// of the leds, which varies unpredictably (from 180 to 400) at each
// new use of the system.
void setup()
{
 for (i = 7; i <= 12; i++) // for loop to define ports 7 to 12 as output ports
 pinMode(i, OUTPUT);
 Serial.begin(9600); //initialize serial monitor, for exposing debug trace
}
void loop()
{
 soundvalue = analogRead(A0); // detect the value (the volume) of the sound
 Serial.println (soundvalue); // debug trace
 for (i = 7; i <= 12; i++)
 digitalWrite(i, LOW); // turn off all the LEDs in advance
 if (soundvalue >= base) // If the sound exceeds the base value
 digitalWrite(12, HIGH); // turn on the first LED from the left
 if (soundvalue >= base + 16) // If the sound exceeds the base value + 15
 digitalWrite(11, HIGH); //turn on the second LED from the left
 if (soundvalue >= base + 31) // If the sound exceeds the base value + 30
 digitalWrite(10, HIGH); // turn on the third led from the left
 if (soundvalue >= base + 46) // If the sound exceeds the base value + 45
 digitalWrite(9, HIGH); // turn on the fourth LED from the left
 if (soundvalue >= base + 61) // If the sound exceeds the base value + 60
 digitalWrite(8, HIGH); // turn on the fifth led from the left
 if (soundvalue >= base + 76) // If the sound exceeds the base value + 75
 digitalWrite(7, HIGH); //turn on the sixth LED from the left
}

Applications

1. Sound level monitoring: The VU meter can be used to measure and monitor the sound levels in different environments, such as classrooms, offices, or public places.
2. Music visualization: The Arduino VU meter can be used to create visual effects that respond to music or other audio sources, enhancing the visual experience.
3. Home automation: By integrating the VU meter with other home automation systems, you can trigger specific actions based on sound levels, such as adjusting lighting or activating alarms.
4. Noise pollution monitoring: The VU meter can be deployed in areas where noise pollution is a concern to gather data and monitor noise levels over time.
5. Interactive installations: Artists and designers can use the VU meter as part of interactive installations to create engaging and dynamic visual displays based on sound.

Conclusion

By building an Arduino VU meter using a sound sensor, we can effectively visualize sound levels using LEDs. This project has various practical applications ranging from sound monitoring to interactive installations. It provides a foundation for further exploration and customization based on specific requirements and creative ideas.