Arduino Tutorial (Photocell)

This tutorial shows how to use the Arduino Uno and a photo resistor (photocell) to control a LED light and a servo motor. Below you can find the links to the schematic and code, the photo resistor I used in the video and the servo motor I used in the video.

If you have any questions, Arduino or other tech related questions, Please feel free to ask. I will do my best to see to it that you get the answer and that you understand that answer.

Please don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

Schematic and code Link:

[Suncatcher]

Hi There. Thank you for the instructions, sharing your knowledge helps others. I'm just starting, ordered an Arduino for x-mas and still waiting for it. I was addicted to electronics when i was in school, 25 years ago, then we moved and i packed the whole stuff in wood boxes and now, after a severe accident at work, by which i broke a spine bone, i'm coming back to electronics. I'm so glad that stuff like the Arduino makes it a lot easier now-a-days. Great JOB and Greatings from Luxemburg-Europe

[PhilPerry]

This is a great video that demonstrates the use of photocells and servos for the beginner. Thanks!

[madhavdivya]

@1HandTech: Great video for a beginner like me. Absolutely loved it. The pace at which you explained was wonderful, leaving no scope of error in understanding. You have kindled me to build something.

[WinstonFord]

Just hooked it up, thx for taking the time to make very clear instructions.

[bpd]

Thanks so much for this tutorial, it was very helpful and easy to understand !

[HandTech]

No problem. I am glad you found it interesting. More tutorials to come.

[minxes]

Thank you for the tutorial.  It was well done and well explained

[MPElectronique]

you always need the arduino plugged in on the computer to use the project ???

thank you!
marC:)

[HandTech]

Thank you, try and make a video. I love to see these things like this and it helps others spark new ideas as well.

[miguelmoncada]

please, make more videos about arduino projects, you have an special way to explain, congratulations

[HandTech]

Are you using the actual arduino or a clone? Also make sure that you have the correct board selected in the software as well as the correct port selected.

[LN]

Hi, Can u tell me if i can do the same servo setup with a Arduino Nano ? Thanks for your Vid and help.

[HandTech]

Well in this tutorial there are two different resistors in the circuit. There is one that pulls the photocell down to ground and then one that drops the voltage done to a safe level for the led. To calculate the value of the resistor for the led you need to use Ohm's Law. If the led you are using is a 3V led and the Arduino is outputing a 5V signal then we can use these values to calculate the value that the resistor need to be by using the following formula: R = (Vs - Vled) / I. Hope this help

[HandTech]

yes, you could also make is to work off of time. Make the door open at a certain time just take out the temperature sensor.

[rhyspuncher]

question, how would i be able to edit the code so that when the cell hit a certain value it then powers the servo? plz reply back i would really love it if u could help

[richardlambert]

So a great use for this would be a solar tracker. I would love a setup that would track a solar aray east to west.

[rokasbedalis]

Hi, can you give code which you use in video?

[brizzx]

How to put it working with chargable battery operated and secondary hard wire, or, hard wired and battery back up.

[krakend]

Could you share the code with me I'm trying to control a servo via a light cell like this and could use some help with coding and wiring diagram. I did not see it in the description like you mentioned. Thank you in advance. PS im using a Trinket Pro for my Arduino controller.

[MrChickendog]

this would be great for an auto chicken coop door!  I got it all working, but the servo just keeps running. How can i have the servo stay idle until its triggered and only turn 2 revolutions?

thanks for all the great vids