Microcontroller is a small and self-contained computer on-chip which can be used to build several low-cost and less-complex projects. As the microcontroller based mini projects are of low cost and can be implemented in less span of time, most of the students prefer this controller based mini projects to improve their knowledge with innovative ideas.
A Microcontroller is built internally with some special functional features and is programmed by using Embedded C language. This controller projects are implemented in different categories such as embedded electronics, robotics, electrical and instrumentation. This article presents some microcontroller-based mini projects with or without circuit diagrams for a wide variety of applications.
Microcontroller based Mini Projects with Circuit Diagrams
Password Based Digital Locking System Using Microcontroller
This project demonstrates a password-based locking system using a microcontroller. In this password-based locking system, if a wrong password is entered, then the microcontroller doesn’t allow the user to access the appliance or any other system.
The power supply circuit provides the power to the whole circuit by rectifying, filtering and regulating the mains AC supply to the circuit operating range. The microcontroller is programmed with a predefined password in the Keil software using embedded C language. A Matrix keypad and LCD are interfaced to the microcontroller for entering password and for displaying the authentication information, respectively.
When a user enters the password from the keypad, it sends that code to the microcontroller wherein the code is compared with the predefined one. If the password matches, then the LED by giving indications displays the information as “Password Matched” on the LCD, or else it shows “Password Mismatched”. This password can also be modified by changing the code of the microcontroller.
This is one of the microcontroller based mini projects useful for third year students, and this project can be further implemented by using RFID technology as an extension for fourth year.
Traffic Light System Controller using Microcontroller
Traffic congestion is a major problem in cities. Due to this heavy traffic, routine commuters often get delayed for their day-today activities, and as a result the productivity of the workers, their timings and routine work schedules get affected. Particularly for the travelers and tourists travelling thus become a menace, and thus affects their activities as well. To overcome this traffic related congestion, the implementation of a microcontroller based mini project on traffic signal light system controller is being discussed here. This particular system is designed to reduce the demand for a vehicle use and to improve the mobility and safety.
The project is developed to meet the requirements of a solid state traffic light controller by using a microcontroller as the main controlling element, and LEDs for indication purpose. The microcontroller is programmed such that the time and phrase are adjusted and displayed using seven-segment LED display.
In the above circuit, a seven-segment display is used as a counter display, and three LEDs are used for traffic light operation. A Microcontroller is the brain of this entire project and is used to initiate the traffic signal at the junction. This circuit makes use of a crystal oscillator for generating clock frequency pulses. The LEDs are connected to the Port zero of the microcontroller and are powered with 5v battery supply. Seven-segment display is connected to the port2 of the microcontroller with a common anode configuration.
The LEDs get automatically switched on and off by making the corresponding port pin of the microcontroller high, which is set while programming the microcontroller. At a particular instant of time, only the green light holds and the other lights remain off, and after sometime, the changeover from green to red takes place succeeding the yellow LED to glow. This process continues as a cycle and the timing for changing the LEDs can be displayed with the help of a seven-segment LED display.
This project can also be further implemented as a final-year project by developing a traffic light controller system in four ways of the road.
These are the two simple mini projects with circuits. You can also get further ideas about the mini projects from the below 8051 based mini projects’ list.
For more detail: Top Microcontroller based Mini Projects for 3rd and 4th Year Engineering Students
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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