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Interfacing Count Slot Sensor Module with Arduino

Count Slot Sensor Module

A Count Slot Sensor Module is used to detect the presence or passage of objects through a slot, commonly applied in rotary encoders, speed measurement, and object counting systems.

Working Principle of Count Slot Sensor Module

The Count Slot Sensor uses an infrared emitter and detector placed opposite each other in a U-shaped housing. When an object passes through the slot, it interrupts the IR beam, triggering a signal change that Arduino can detect.

Types of Count Slot Sensors

Reflective IR Slot Sensor

  • Emits IR light from one side of the slot.
  • Detects reflection changes as objects pass through.
  • Generates digital output based on presence detection.

Transmissive IR Slot Sensor

  • IR light passes continuously from emitter to detector.
  • Object interrupts the beam as it enters the slot.
  • Arduino detects the change in output signal.

Requirements

1. Arduino

2. Count Slot Sensor Module

3. Breadboard (optional)

4. Jumper wires

Pin Configuration of Count Slot Sensor Module

Count Slot Sensor Module

  • VCC: Connect to +5V on Arduino.
  • GND: Connect to GND on Arduino.
  • OUT: Outputs digital signal when slot is interrupted.

Wiring the Count Slot Sensor to Arduino

To connect the Count Slot Sensor Module to Arduino, connect the VCC and GND to +5V and GND respectively. The OUT pin should be connected to a digital input pin on the Arduino to read state changes when the slot is triggered.

Algorithm

  1. Initialize Components

    • Connect the VCC and GND pins of the sensor to +5V and GND on the Arduino.
    • Connect the OUT pin to a digital input pin.

  2. Write the Code

    • Set the sensor pin as INPUT in the setup() function.
    • Use digitalRead() in the loop() to monitor state changes.
    • Increment a counter variable on each detected interruption.

  3. Display Values or Control Devices

    • Print the count value to the serial monitor.
    • Trigger actions based on count thresholds.

  4. Test the Project

    • Upload the code to the Arduino.
    • Pass objects through the slot and observe count updates.

Arduino Code

1volatile int slotCount = 0;  // Counter for slot/object detection
2
3void setup() {
4  pinMode(2, INPUT);   // OUT pin of the sensor
5  attachInterrupt(digitalPinToInterrupt(2), countSlot, FALLING);  // Trigger on falling edge
6  Serial.begin(9600);
7  Serial.println("Count Slot Sensor Initialized");
8}
9
10void loop() {
11  // Display slot count on Serial Monitor
12  Serial.print("Slots Counted: ");
13  Serial.println(slotCount);
14  delay(1000);  // Update every second
15}
16
17void countSlot() {
18  slotCount++; // Increase count when an object passes the slot
19}
20

Applications of Count Slot Sensor Modules

  • Rotary encoder systems
  • Speed measurement
  • Object counting
  • Position detection
  • Automated sorting systems
  • Production line monitoring

Conclusion

Interfacing a Count Slot Sensor Module with Arduino enables accurate object counting and motion detection for automation and control systems. The setup is straightforward and adds efficiency to any smart project.