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User avatar
By Kjata1013
#170085
Hello,
I tried searching the forums to see if my topic was already covered and I didn't come up with anything. If I missed something, I do apologize.

I'm looking for guidance on interfacing the VS1101e-l breakout board https://www.sparkfun.com/products/8819, the openlog https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9530, and an Arduino Uno. Should I use the SPI library or the SoftwareSerial library to get everyone "talking"? I was looking at trying to use the MP3 shield code, but it got convoluted real quick. I'm not looking for code, I'm just looking to see if I'm in the right direction.
User avatar
By TS-John
#170313
Hello.

I have not really combined these parts and used them like you are going to but I would bet on using serial to get everything talking considering the VS1101e-l has a serial control interface /serial data interface. The openlog also has a serial interface built into the firmware. I think it would be simpler to have these devices talk in this manner. The Uno can be in the same boat as the Openlog(both use an ATmega328).

Hope this helps.
-John-
User avatar
By Kjata1013
#170333
Hello,
Thanks for replying. I'll definitely use Serial. I think I'm going to scrap the OpenLog though and try something else. Level 1 Sparkfun support suggested that the OpenLog wasn't really meant for doing what I wanted. Basically, I want to make a variation of the Elevator Tardis and I wanted to save money and not burn an entire Arduino for one project. Knowing that I should use Serial helps a lot. I'm new at this and self-taught, having people like the mods, customer service, and forum people help out is a tremendous help. Thank you!
User avatar
By TS-John
#170348
Yeah, the Openlog is simply just a datalogger. Even though it has an Atmega328 on-board and in theory you can do so much more with the device it is designed for one task really.

If you are trying to play audio files off of a SD card and want tomething small and cheap I recommend checking out the Audio Sound Breakout: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11125

You can configure the device in a stand alone "key mode" or use it with an Arduino. Definitely check it out.

If you need anything else let us know.
-John-