How to Use KY-037: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The KY-037 is a sound sensor module designed to detect sound levels and convert them into an analog voltage output. It features a high-sensitivity microphone and an onboard potentiometer for adjusting the sensitivity. This module is widely used in projects requiring sound detection, such as sound-activated switches, audio level monitoring, and voice-activated systems. Its ease of use and compatibility with microcontrollers like Arduino make it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

• Sound-activated lighting systems
• Audio level monitoring
• Voice-activated devices
• Security systems with sound detection
• Environmental noise monitoring

The KY-037 sound sensor module has the following key technical specifications:

The KY-037 module has four pins, as described in the table below:

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC pin to a 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Analog Output: Connect the AO pin to an analog input pin on your microcontroller to read the sound level as an analog voltage.
3. Digital Output: Connect the DO pin to a digital input pin on your microcontroller to detect sound events based on the threshold set by the potentiometer.
4. Adjust Sensitivity: Use the onboard potentiometer to adjust the sensitivity of the digital output.

Below is an example of how to use the KY-037 with an Arduino UNO to read both analog and digital outputs:

// KY-037 Sound Sensor Example with Arduino UNO
// Connect AO to A0, DO to D2, VCC to 5V, and GND to GND on the Arduino.

const int analogPin = A0;  // Pin connected to AO (Analog Output)
const int digitalPin = 2;  // Pin connected to DO (Digital Output)
int soundLevel;            // Variable to store analog sound level
int soundDetected;         // Variable to store digital sound detection

void setup() {
  pinMode(digitalPin, INPUT);  // Set digital pin as input
  Serial.begin(9600);         // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  // Read the analog sound level
  soundLevel = analogRead(analogPin);
  // Read the digital sound detection (HIGH or LOW)
  soundDetected = digitalRead(digitalPin);

  // Print the analog sound level to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Analog Sound Level: ");
  Serial.println(soundLevel);

  // Print the digital sound detection status
  if (soundDetected == HIGH) {
    Serial.println("Sound Detected!");
  } else {
    Serial.println("No Sound Detected.");
  }

  delay(500);  // Wait for 500ms before the next reading
}

• Power Supply: Ensure the module is powered with a voltage within the specified range (3.3V - 5V).
• Sensitivity Adjustment: Use the potentiometer to fine-tune the sensitivity for your specific application.
• Noise Interference: Avoid placing the module near sources of electrical noise or vibrations that could affect its performance.
• Analog vs. Digital Output: Use the analog output for precise sound level measurements and the digital output for simple sound detection.

1. No Output from the Module

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or insufficient power supply.
   • Solution: Double-check the connections and ensure the module is powered with 3.3V or 5V.

2. Digital Output Always HIGH or LOW

   • Cause: Sensitivity not properly adjusted.
   • Solution: Adjust the potentiometer to set the desired sound threshold.

3. Inconsistent Analog Readings

   • Cause: Electrical noise or unstable power supply.
   • Solution: Use a decoupling capacitor across the power supply pins to reduce noise.

4. Module Not Detecting Sound

   • Cause: Microphone damaged or sensitivity too low.
   • Solution: Inspect the microphone for damage and increase the sensitivity using the potentiometer.

Q: Can the KY-037 detect specific frequencies of sound?
A: No, the KY-037 is not frequency-selective. It detects overall sound levels and cannot differentiate between specific frequencies.

Q: Is the KY-037 compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers like ESP32?
A: Yes, the KY-037 can operate at 3.3V, making it compatible with 3.3V microcontrollers.

Q: How do I know if the module is working?
A: You can monitor the digital output pin (DO) with an LED or check the analog output pin (AO) using a multimeter or microcontroller.

Q: Can I use the KY-037 outdoors?
A: The KY-037 is not weatherproof. If used outdoors, it should be protected from moisture and extreme temperatures.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the KY-037 sound sensor module into your projects and troubleshoot common issues.