How to measure light intensity with photodiode, using nrf52832?

[Pooja Vernekar]

Im using PCA10040 nrf52832 to measure light intensity with photodiode,

im using SAADC and SPI  example to measure values but im not able to see any changes on UART as light intensity changes.

please suggest.

[awneil]

Pooja Vernekar said:

im using SAADC and SPI  example to measure values

What has SPI got to do with it?

Always start simple - so get rid of the added, unnecessary complication of SPI!

Start with the SAADC example:

https://infocenter.nordicsemi.com/topic/com.nordic.infocenter.sdk5.v15.3.0/nrf_dev_saadc_example.html

Pooja Vernekar said:

im not able to see any changes on UART as light intensity changes

Are there any changes in the voltage at the analogue input pin?

Pooja Vernekar said:

AN0 pin is used

Are you sure you have the correct pin?

See: https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/f/nordic-q-a/47914/saadc-example-problems/189911#189911

Which links to: https://devzone.nordicsemi.com/f/nordic-q-a/46819/problems-with-saadc/184714#184714

[Pooja Vernekar]

this what im getting values.

im using SPI because as whatever using amplifier supports SPI protocol, which is mainly used for ADC operation and then data sent to nrf52832 of AIN0 pin.

[awneil]

You never mentioned any amplifier - we are not mind readers!

But, again, start simple!

Start with the SAADC example, to learn to use the SAADC on its own.

Then use an SPI example, to learn to use the SPI on its own.

Then - once you have understood both parts and have them working well - bring the two together.

Note that a photo-transistor should give you a usable voltage without the need of an amplifier.

Digital light level sensor are also available

[Pooja Vernekar]

Still im getting same values i didnt make any changes in code just using AIN0 pin channel 0. Connected AIN0 (P0.02) to VDD.

[Pooja Vernekar]

Tried SAADC example only but still no changes.

[awneil]

Pooja Vernekar said:

Connected AIN0 (P0.02) to VDD.

You need to swap it between VDD and GND to see a change 

[Pooja Vernekar]

 thank you Awneil its working fine im getting output.

[awneil]

Jolly good!

For the benefit of others who may have similar problems, and find this, please explain what the actual problem was - and how, exactly, you solved it.

And verify the answer: