How can I control sounds using a microcontroller?

Think About

• How do people design instruments to control sound?
• How do people control sound with instruments and interfaces?
• How can I control sounds using a microcontroller?

Get Started

Step 1: Play with the code 

One way to develop your instrument/interface is by playing around with the code to change what happens when you press the foil button by touching the two pieces of foil together.

1. See if you can figure out some of the following ways to develop your instrument/interface:

• Can you change the note that is played when the button is pressed?
• How can you program your instrument/interface to play a melody when you press the button?
• Can you make it so tones are played when the button is not pressed?

 

 

 

 

What else would you like to do with the code of your instrument/interface?

Step 2: Play with the button

Another way to develop your instrument/interface is by playing around with the button to try different ways to complete the circuit you made.

Try the following approach to pressing the button:

3. Wrap one piece of foil around your finger

4. Make sure the alligator clip is still attached to the foil and tap your foil finger on the other piece of foil

5. See if you can figure out some of the following ways to develop your instrument/interface:

• What other ways can you design the foil button?
• What other materials besides foil can you clip onto the alligator clips to make a button?
• How can you make the button more sturdy and durable?
• How can you make the button look more like an instrument?
• How can you make a button that could be triggered with your feet instead of your fingers?
• How can you make a really big button?
• How can you make a really small button?
• How can you use more than one button?

Share What you Learned

If you are using the LRNG platform:

• You do not need to submit anything for this XP
• You should be able to explain what you did to your code or interface
• If you want, you can then learn even more with the optional “Go Further!” activities below

If you are not using the LRNG platform:

• Continue below and share with your teacher or organization:

Sharing What You Learned

• Upload a video of you making a sound with your microcontroller
• Show your circuit, button, and code sketch in the video

Next Steps

Curious about learning more? 

Go Further! (optional) How can I develop my instrument/interface?

OR

Move On

Return to the XP How can I create instruments and interfaces with microcontrollers? (continue to the next XP in the mini-playlist)