refined...

Problem

The mic works fine with the code till the led is added- when the led is added the mic stops functioning properly.

Code

code taken from: http://forum.sparkfun.com/viewtopic.php?t=11430&highlight=sound
modified with Anders's help


int audioIn = 0;
int val = 0;
int ledPin1 = 2;

void setup() {
pinMode(ledPin1, OUTPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
val = analogRead(audioIn);
Serial.println(val);
if (val <=600){
digitalWrite(ledPin1, HIGH);
}
else{

digitalWrite(ledPin1, LOW);

}
}

work in progress

the led still doesn't work in sync with the mic

datasheet of electret microphone

Taken from the Spark Fun Electronics website:
http://focus.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/opa344.pdf

schematic diagram

Project Description

Where does the product live?
This product is on the side of a busy road.

What does it do?
It reflects the noise level on the road and stops people from honking aimlessly. Drivers can see the product and judge the decibel levels produced by them collectively.

How does it work?
Sound captured by a mic acts as an input and lights up the led within the product (output). The sound is proportional to the number of lights that shine- the higher the sound, the more the lights shine.

(the form and the material of the product is still being thought of)