This project creates a metal detector using an Adafruit CLUE with a few common components and an easy-to-make coil.
The program is written in CircuitPython for version 5.1.0 or later. The code also runs on the Circuit Playground Bluefruit (CPB) with the TFT Gizmo screen. The program can be used without a screen on the CPB in audio/light mode only.
Alligator clips to male jumpers can be used with or without the Adafruit Dragontail to connect the CLUE and the coil to the breadboard. The pictures feature alternate products.
This project was inspired by an old Ray Marston book featuring a metal detector project and the Detectorists BBC TV series.
An Adafruit CLUE with a simple circuit on a breadboard detecting a metallised sticker with a coil.
CLUE version
1 x
Adafruit DragonTail
Adafruit DragonTail for micro:bit - Fully Assembled (or use 3 Alligator Clip to Male Jumper Wires)
Circuit Playground Bluefruit with TFT Gizmo version
1 x
Circuit Playground TFT Gizmo (LCD Screen)
Circuit Playground TFT Gizmo - Bolt-on Display + Audio Amplifier
Circuit Playground Bluefruit only version
Common
1 x
Alligator Clip to Male Jumper Wires
Small Alligator Clip to Male Jumper Wire Bundle - 6 Pieces (2 needed for coil)
1 x
36ft (11m) Wire
Enameled Copper Magnet Wire – 11 meters / 0.1mm diameter (5-8m of most insulated wire will work fine)
1 x
3 x AAA Switched Battery Holder
3 x AAA Battery Holder with On/Off Switch and 2-Pin JST (if you want to be mobile!)
