September 12, 2012

DIY Swept-frequency capacitive sensing

 Although many people have created their own touch sensor with aluminium foil, doorknobs and so on - they can only detect touch/no-touch situations. However by using a new system based on swept-frequency capacitive sensing - you can not only detect a touch, but the strength of touch. Using an Arduino that generates a sweeping frequency while measuring the sensor, values are returned that relate to the strength of the touch. See the video below for an explanation and demonstration:

To get started with your own sensor, click here for detailed instructions. And we're on twitter and Google+, so follow us for news and product updates as well.

If a project like this intrigues you, and you don't have an Arduino - join in with our range of Arduino-compatible hardwareprototyping shields and module range. A good start is the Freetronics Eleven, the Arduino Uno-compatible board with onboard prototyping space:



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