
Louis T
I started testing some alternative MP3 Sound Modules, my goal to get similar functions but at 50% less than the cost of MP3 Trigger ($50 + s/h). This could help people with low budget that want to get into robotics or just wanted to build a low cost robot. I choose these two modules in theory from reading their data sheet should work with EZ-B thru very simple sendserial command already built into ARC:
This MP3 module im testing and is working very well with EZ-B, it supports 40 MP3 files, 6 outputs:
This MP3 module supports 199 MP3 files and 8 outputs but I can't get it to work because it required baud rate of 4800 which ARC doesn't support but i would like to have it working because it supports 199 MP3 files and have better features than the above module:
However both modules needs an audio amplifier but for the price you can't beat for small to large robot projects that don't need a lot of sound files.
I have already got it working well with my Wall-E project, there is just one problem because the volume reset once power is disconnected so i found a way around that by using a init script at connection to change to max volume and a start up sound. All costs less than half price of MP3 Trigger.
Here is a rough wired pic using Wall-E own speaker, MP3 module, and a dual 3W amplifier. I will post more details soon but still i would like to be able to use the 199 mp3 module, nice thing is both module output stereo sound and you are not limited to small speakers, just use bigger amp for bigger speakers and blue color matching EZ-B board
More details on wiring and custom scripting coming soon...might make a demo video if i have some free time.
I2C is for me little bit difficult and I would rather use MP3 trigger. I know it is expensive, but for that easier.
@robotmaker Can you post example of how to play different track using i2c command? perhaps it will make it easier for all of us with trouble understanding the data sheet.
Why would you need high speed for MP3 Trigger? you can use any of the other 19 digital ports.
higher speed is always better faster loading and more
plus on my design all I/0 PORTS are used up,i/o ports are for sonars,servo's and controlling led or relays and mp3 or others and after using them ,pretty soon none left over, i do see its great for small robots like WALL-E and few others but what i look at is using very little digital ports as you can thats the best thing about I2C ,i think KKEAST is using I2C MP3 or looking in to it since he using I2C port for other modules on his rad robot
@ Louis T - This looks like just what I need for my B9 hack. Being on a tight budget, every dime counts, and he doesn't have that many phrases I want to use so 40 would be great. Am I right that you can select the phrase you want him to speak? When you want him to speak it? So it appears he is responding to you?
Yes Bret, just use the sendserial command when ever you want him to speak, very easy and simple, you can also turn LEDs on/off synchronize with the track you want to play using the 6 input/output command, those are like digital switches, but you need separate power for multiple LEDs since the board can only handle 1 LED per output. Also check out the EZB example file i posted, it might help. I like budget and simple too! Your B9 is looking great, can't wait to see him completed
I've got (3) more of the 40 MP3 modules on the way, plus a replacement for the one that crapped out.
I received this response and picture when I was inquiring about the replacement module.
"We recommend that you connect a resistor between the audio output and the amplifier input. This may prevent the amplifier from damaging the module."
Can someone translate? How would adding a potentiometer help/work?
@Lumpy That's odd, i don't why you need the pot, may be someone else will have a better idea. Was there anything burnt on that broken one? Are you combining all these into one robot or use for separate robots?
No magic blue smoke or anything. It would light up and go through the motions of playing an MP3 but nothing would come out. Just started doing that out of the blue.
I confirmed with my other MP3 module, it wasn't the MP3's on the memory card, amplifier, speaker or cabling. Just kinda gave out on me.
So ya I'm kinda curious how adding resistors to the picture would help?
These are all for separate robots (2-Omnibots, 1-Wall E) for now.