Arduino Tutorial: KY-006 Passive Buzzer Module
Abstract
Learn how to generate sound tones using the KY-006 Passive Buzzer Module with an Arduino Uno. This tutorial introduces the concept of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) for audio generation and demonstrates how to use the built-in tone() function to create an audible alarm signal.
1. Introduction
Now that we know how to read input (KY-018), it’s time to move to an output device that provides audible feedback—a fundamental requirement for alarms, notifications, or simple musical projects.
The KY-006 is a Passive Piezo Buzzer module. Unlike an active buzzer, which produces a single tone when DC voltage is applied, a passive buzzer requires an external square wave (PWM) signal to vibrate and produce sound. This ability to accept variable frequencies allows it to generate a range of different tones and melodies.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The difference between active and passive buzzers.
- How to connect the KY-006 to a digital output pin.
- How to use the tone() and noTone() Arduino functions to generate specific sound frequencies.
- How to program a simple beeping alarm.
2. Prerequisites
Make sure you have:
- An Arduino Uno board (or similar Arduino board).
- A KY-006 Passive Buzzer Module.
- Jumper wires for connections.
- Arduino IDE
3. Wiring and Setup for Arduino
The KY-006 module is a simple circuit board featuring a piezoelectric disc.
- Type: Passive Piezoelectric Buzzer.
- Control Method: Requires a PWM Signal (square wave).
- Operating Voltage: 1.5V to 15V (Compatible with 5V Arduino logic).
- Tone Range: Optimized for 1.5 kHz to 2.5 kHz.
Step 1 – Identify Pins
The module typically has three pins: Signal (S), VCC (+), and Ground (− or GND).
Step 2 – Connect the Module
Wire the module to the Arduino as follows. The signal pin will be connected to a standard digital pin that the IRremote library will control.
- Connect the – / GND pin of the KY-006 to the GND pin on the Arduino.
- Connect the S / Signal pin of the KY-006 to Arduino Digital Pin 8.
- Leave VCC Unconnected (The signal pin often provides enough power)
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4. Writing the Alarm Beep Code
The Arduino environment provides the convenient tone() function, which automatically generates a square wave of a specified frequency on any digital pin, eliminating the need for manual PWM looping.
Open the Arduino IDE and copy the following sketch:
// KY-006 Passive Buzzer Module Example Code
// Generates a simple, repetitive alarm beep
const int BUZZER_PIN = 2; // Buzzer connected to Digital Pin 8
const int FREQUENCY = 1000; // Tone frequency in Hertz (Hz)
const int DURATION = 200; // Duration of the tone in milliseconds (ms)
void setup() {
// Pin mode declaration is optional when using tone(), but good practice.
pinMode(BUZZER_PIN, OUTPUT);
}
void loop() {
// 1. Play a tone (1000 Hz) for a set duration (200 ms)
tone(BUZZER_PIN, FREQUENCY, DURATION);
// 2. Wait for the tone to finish plus a small pause
delay(DURATION + 10);
// 3. Stop the tone (though tone() with duration does this automatically,
// it's good practice for variable tones)
noTone(BUZZER_PIN);
// 4. Pause before the next beep
delay(800);
}
Code Explanation
- const int BUZZER_PIN = 8;: Defines the digital pin the buzzer is connected to.
- tone(pin, frequency, duration);: This function generates a square wave.
- frequency: The pitch of the sound in Hertz (Hz). We use 1000 Hz for a loud beep.
- duration: The length of time the tone is played in milliseconds (ms).
- noTone(pin);: This function stops the square wave signal on the pin.
- delay(800);: Creates a silent pause between the beeps, establishing the rhythm of the alarm.
5. Compiling and Running the Project
Step 1 – Upload
- In the Arduino IDE, select the correct Board (e.g., Arduino Uno) and Port.
- Click the Upload button.
Step 2 – Test
- Once the code is uploaded, the buzzer should immediately begin producing a repetitive beeping sound.
- Experiment: Try changing the FREQUENCY value (e.g., to 500 Hz for a lower pitch or 2000 Hz for a higher one) and the DURATION or delay() values to change the tone and rhythm.
6. Hands-On Lab Recap
You’ve successfully learned:
- The distinction between Passive and Active
- How to configure a digital pin to drive an audio device.
- How to use the powerful tone() function to generate precise, custom-frequency square waves.
- How to create an audible output for your projects.
This adds a critical communication capability to your Arduino systems, preparing you for logic-based alarming.
7. Common Issues & Fixes
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Sound | Signal pin not connected to a Digital Pin. | Ensure the S pin is connected to a numbered Digital Pin and the - pin is connected to GND. |
| Buzzer makes a single click, then silence | The buzzer is Active, not Passive. | Active buzzers only need DC power (HIGH signal), not a specific frequency. Verify your module is KY-006 (Passive). |
| Very Low Volume or Distorted Sound | Frequency is outside optimal range. | Ensure your frequency is within the 1.5 kHz to 2.5 kHz range for best performance. |
