My Sparki buzzer works, but is very soft. Any way to make it louder?
I have looked through some of the code and don’t find any volume setting with beep() or tome().
Nothing is blocking the buzzer output. Batteries are fresh.
There’s no way to do that with the current generation of Sparki unless you’re willing to get out a soldering iron. We made it that volume because we didn’t want to annoy parents too much. Different tones are louder than others, though (the buzzer responds better to some frequencies than others).
For the next batch, we’re making it capable of being louder, but setting it quiet by default, with the option of making it louder in software as you suggest.
I’m willing to do some soldering…
I’m an “old fart” with failing hearing; as it stands, the supplied buzzer is barely audible and essentially useless.
What is the part number (and source) for the buzzer that you recommend for the updated Sparki?
Otherwise, can ArcBotics provide said new buzzer at my cost?
Thanks
Sorry, it doesn’t have to do with replacing the buzzer. It has to do with the switching circuitry. Right now its feed off of a microcontroller pin. We’re updating it do be driven by a transistor, which will provide it more current.
Nice to hear that another “old fart” is playing with sparki 
bob
What does this mean for the current owners? Do we have an upgrade path to the new board when it comes out? Or do we have to buy another Sparki? May be for those who are inclined to perform the mod on the existing board themselves, ArcBotics should post instructions, if the board will not be replaced.
This buzzer is a serious issue for use in a classroom.
I took my Sparki for a test drive with only 7 students, and we could not hear the buzzer at all. Imagine a full class?!?!
What does this mean for the current owners? Do we have an upgrade path to the new board when it comes out? Or do we have to buy another Sparki? May be for those who are inclined to perform the mod on the existing board themselves, ArcBotics should post instructions, if the board will not be replaced.[/quote]
When can we expect a replacement or at least instructions on how to upgrade the audio volume on our existing boards?
Try looking at the sketch I put on the thread, Using the Expansion Slot.
[url]USING THE EXPANSION PORT]
This works, it will be louder than the onboard buzzer, and the pieso buzzer is dirt cheap. I did a hack and took one from a 2 dollar door alarm I purchased from Harbor Freight, but you can get them anywhere. it sounds good.