By Graham Smith September 1, 2022
The Concept
This project is an upgraded version of a basic music-synced light I built in high school using a couple solid state relays in a jar.
Custom PCB
Designed a PCB around a Particle.io wifi-enabled dev board. The board takes audio input via aux from a split output off a Bluetooth module, samples volume across different frequency bands using an MSGEQ7 chip, and outputs control signals to addressable LED strips. The sampling happens many times per second to keep the visuals tightly synced to the music.
Enclosure
Designed a simple enclosure using an extruded aluminum case with 3D printed end covers. The end caps mount the PCB and provide cutouts for power, audio input, and LED strip connectors. Used XLR audio cables for the connections - functional, but more tedious to work with than expected.
Remote Control App
Built a quick React Native app to control the device over the internet. The app allows changing colors, switching between display modes, and adjusting sensitivity.
The Result
The strips blend in with the window frames when not in use, but can be turned on for a light show!
