I recently had to build an infrared close proximity sensor that could tell if something was dropped in a parcel delivery drop box. After some searching, I ended up using a microcontroller and a piece ...

In the microcontroller era today, Arduino is more than just a tool to accomplish hobby tasks. There is actually a close relationship between microcontroller technology and home security, since you can ...

[Klaus] wanted some sort of aid for parking his car, and after running across a $4 ultrasonic sensor, decided to build his own speaking distance sensor (.de, Google Translation). Inside [Klaus]’ ...

Vishay’s VCNL4100 is an IR proximity sensor that works up to 1m, and includes an ambient light sensor. Inside, it combines an infra-red (940nm) emitter, photo detectors for proximity and ambient light ...

Over the last decade or so, we’ve been inundated with appliances with wireless or “smart” technology that is often of dubious utility. No one really needs a tablet in their refrigerator or Wi-Fi on ...