SparkFun gator:microphone - micro:bit Accessory Board

The SparkFun gator:microphone is a remarkable micro:bit Accessory Board, designed to integrate an electret microphone into SparkFun's gator:bit series of gator-clippable accessories. This board can be easily interfaced with the micro:bit or other microcontrollers. It provides a binary indication of the presence of sound and an analog representation of its amplitude, making it ideal for a wide range of sound-related projects.

The gator:microphone is equipped with four pads for power and data. It also features a switch on the board that allows users to select different audio amplification levels. The board includes an LMV324 operational amplifier (op-amp) for processing the audio signals from the microphone. The operating voltage for the VEML6070 ranges between 2.7V-5.5V. When using the gator:bit (v2) and micro:bit, it is recommended to provide 3.3V through the 3V3 and GND pads to maintain consistent logic levels.

The micro:bit is a compact and versatile computer that opens up a world of creativity with digital technology. When combined with SparkFun's shield-like bit boards, the possibilities for coding, customizing, and controlling your micro:bit are virtually limitless. From building robots to crafting musical instruments, the micro:bit offers vast potential for unique creations. Despite being half the size of a credit card, this board is packed with features and capabilities.

The gator:microphone board is compatible with gator:bit and boasts an ADS1015 with an operating voltage (VDD) of 2.0V-5.5V, operating temperature of -40°C to 125°C, and various operation modes. It also has a resolution of 12-bit (Differential) or 11-bit (Single-Ended) and a sample rate of 128 Hz to 3.3 kHz. The electret microphone operates at 1.5V (Max 10V) and has an omnidirectional directivity with a frequency response of 20-16,000Hz. The LMV324 Op-amp operates at 2.7V-5.5V and has a supply current of ~300-720µA.

The SparkFun gator:microphone comes with a range of supporting documents, including a schematic, Eagle Files, a Hookup Guide, datasheets for the Electret Microphone, LVM324, and ADS1015, a gator:microphone PXT Package, a micro:bit Information Page, and a GitHub Hardware Repo.