How to Use Traffic Light module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Traffic Light Module by Sam (Part ID: Sam) is an electronic component designed to simulate the operation of real-world traffic lights. It features three LEDs—red, yellow, and green—arranged in a vertical layout to mimic standard traffic light behavior. This module is ideal for educational purposes, prototyping, and projects requiring traffic control simulation.

• Educational demonstrations of traffic light systems
• Traffic flow simulation in model cities or robotics
• Arduino-based projects and microcontroller experiments
• Prototyping for smart traffic management systems

The following table outlines the key technical details of the Traffic Light Module:

The module has a 4-pin header for easy interfacing. The pinout is as follows:

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Control the LEDs: Use a microcontroller (e.g., Arduino UNO) to control the Red, Yellow, and Green pins. Each pin can be connected to a digital output pin of the microcontroller.
3. Add Resistors (if needed): If the module does not include built-in resistors, connect a 220Ω resistor in series with each LED pin to limit current.

• Voltage Compatibility: Ensure the module is powered within its operating voltage range (3.3V - 5V).
• Current Limiting: Verify whether the module has built-in resistors. If not, external resistors are required to prevent LED damage.
• Pin Connections: Double-check the pin connections to avoid short circuits or incorrect operation.
• Code Logic: Implement proper timing logic in your code to simulate realistic traffic light behavior.

Below is an example Arduino sketch to control the Traffic Light Module:

// Pin definitions for the Traffic Light Module
const int redPin = 5;    // Connect the red LED pin to digital pin 5
const int yellowPin = 6; // Connect the yellow LED pin to digital pin 6
const int greenPin = 7;  // Connect the green LED pin to digital pin 7

void setup() {
  // Set the LED pins as outputs
  pinMode(redPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(yellowPin, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(greenPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Simulate traffic light sequence
  
  // Turn on the red LED for 5 seconds
  digitalWrite(redPin, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(yellowPin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(greenPin, LOW);
  delay(5000); // Wait for 5 seconds
  
  // Turn on the yellow LED for 2 seconds
  digitalWrite(redPin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(yellowPin, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(greenPin, LOW);
  delay(2000); // Wait for 2 seconds
  
  // Turn on the green LED for 5 seconds
  digitalWrite(redPin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(yellowPin, LOW);
  digitalWrite(greenPin, HIGH);
  delay(5000); // Wait for 5 seconds
}

1. LEDs Not Lighting Up

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Verify the connections and ensure the power supply is within the specified range (3.3V - 5V).

2. LEDs Are Dim

   • Cause: High resistance in the circuit or low power supply voltage.
   • Solution: Check for proper resistor values and ensure the power supply is stable.

3. Module Overheating

   • Cause: Excessive current due to missing or incorrect resistors.
   • Solution: Add appropriate resistors (e.g., 220Ω) in series with each LED pin.

4. Incorrect LED Behavior

   • Cause: Faulty code logic or incorrect pin connections.
   • Solution: Double-check the code and ensure the pins are connected as per the pinout table.

Q: Can I use this module with a 12V power supply?
A: No, the module is designed for 3.3V to 5V operation. Using a 12V supply may damage the LEDs.

Q: Does the module include built-in resistors?
A: This depends on the specific version of the module. Check the manufacturer's datasheet or test the module to confirm.

Q: Can I control the module without a microcontroller?
A: Yes, you can use simple switches or a 555 timer circuit to control the LEDs manually.

Q: Is the module compatible with Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the module can be controlled by a Raspberry Pi, but ensure you use appropriate GPIO voltage levels (3.3V).

This concludes the documentation for the Traffic Light Module by Sam.