THE ARDUINO PIANO

Tran Quang Minh -s4020220

This extension involves the creation of an Arduino-based piano using a constrained number
of push buttons due to limitations on button quality and available wires. The piano employs
push buttons as input devices and a buzzer for sound output, allowing users to play musical
notes. Despite the restrictions in button quality and available wires, the project provides an
engaging and educational experience for learning basic musical concepts and Arduino
programming.

1. Introduction:

The Arduino piano project is crafted under constraints on button quality and available wires,
presenting unique challenges to overcome in creating a functional electronic musical
instrument. The project aims to showcase the possibility of building a piano with a reduced
number of push buttons, ensuring accessibility for users with limited resources.

2. Hardware Components:

Arduino Board (e.g., Arduino Uno)

Limited number of Push Buttons (due to constraints)
Buzzer
Resistors (for button pull-down configuration)
Jumper wires (restricted due to limitations)
Breadboard

3. Wiring:

Connect the limited number of push buttons to the digital pins of the Arduino using a pull-
down resistor configuration. Connect the buzzer to a digital pin for sound output. Due to
constraints, optimize the use of available wires and ensure a stable power supply to the
Arduino.

4. Arduino Code:
The Arduino code is tailored to accommodate the reduced number of push buttons, ensuring
a playable and enjoyable experience within the limitations. The code structure remains user-
friendly, allowing for easy modification and expansion if more resources become available in
the future.

5. Code Structure:

The code includes setup and loop functions. The setup initializes the pin modes and sets up
the initial conditions, taking into account the limited number of buttons. The loop
continuously monitors the state of the push buttons and triggers the buzzer to produce the
corresponding sound when a button is pressed.
6. User Interaction:

Users engage with the Arduino piano by pressing the available push buttons, each
corresponding to a specific musical note. Despite the limitations in button quality and
available wires, the system provides immediate auditory feedback, enabling users to
experiment with creating simple tunes.

7. Educational Value:

The project retains its educational value by introducing users to basic electronics, Arduino
programming, and musical concepts, even with constraints. It serves as a practical example
of adapting projects to limited resources, promoting resourcefulness and problem-solving
skills.

8. Future Enhancements:

Future enhancements to the project may include the addition of more push buttons and
wires as resources become available. This step-wise approach allows users to incrementally
expand the piano's capabilities and complexity.

9. Conclusion:

The Arduino piano with push buttons and buzzer, constrained by button quality and available
wires, demonstrates the adaptability of electronic projects to resource limitations. Despite
these constraints, the project remains an engaging and educational tool, providing a
foundation for further exploration into Arduino-based projects with improved resources.

10. Acknowledgments:

The project acknowledges the challenges posed by limited resources and appreciates the
learning opportunities they provide. It recognizes the supportive Arduino community and
educational platforms that contribute to the development of projects under various
constraints.

11.Reflection

Working within constraints to create the Arduino piano was a pleasant challenge.
Restrictions on available cables and button quality led to inventive problem-solving. Crucial
components were tweaking the Arduino programming and improving the wire design.

Notwithstanding the limitations, the project effectively taught users the basics of music,
electronics, and Arduino programming. The buzzer's instantaneous feedback made
participatory learning possible.

Future improvements are possible because to the modular design, which may accommodate
the installation of extra buttons and cables if funding becomes available. This project
demonstrated how important flexibility and original thought are when facing obstacles. My
approach to upcoming initiatives will be shaped by the experience I've gathered, with a focus
on resilience and innovation.

12. References:

Arduino Documentation: https://www.arduino.cc/

Online tutorials and forums: Various online sources contributing to Arduino and electronics
education.