Date
Semester 1, 2025
Goal
To build a fully functional clap-activated LED light using a microphone, amplifier, and microcontroller, on a breadboard, with the option to transfer the final circuit to a custom PCB.
Background
Over the Christmas holidays, the EESS team continued to work on projects and create workshops for the upcoming semester ahead. One of these was a retro inspired “Clapper” device. The project blended analogue audio processing with digital microcontroller programming and needed someone to test build it. Originally aimed at second year students with some basic electronics know how I thought it would be a great chance for me to dive into electronics in my first semester and help troubleshoot the workshop.
Tools & Skills
– Electronics & Breadboarding
– Audio Processing
– Microcontrollers
– Circuit Design
Challenges
– Debugging signal noise from the microphone
– Timing issues with clap detection
– Troubleshooting USB port recognition during programming
Outcome
– Successfully got a LEDs responding to clap activation
– Had a working prototype ready for display at Orientation Week
– Built confidence in electronics before taking EGB120 in the coming semester
Key Takeaways
– Working with electronics is lots of fun, even when troubleshooting problems
– Instructions that may seem clear to you may not be to someone else
Field Notes from an Engineering Student
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