An Arduino-based experiment for studying resonance in an RLC circuit

In this paper, we present the construction of an experiment using the Arduino platform to demonstrate, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the effect of resonance in an RLC circuit. The construction proposal focuses on low cost and simplicity, employing an alternative sensor to handle alternating currents at frequencies in the kilohertz range. We programmed an Arduino Nano to generate PWM pulses over a wide range of frequencies, exciting an RLC circuit that functions as a notch filter. In the resistive part of the circuit, an incandescent lamp and an LDR sensor are used to measure the RMS current and thus determine the resonant frequency based on the filament’s brightness. Measurement data are obtained via serial output, and the observation of the lamp’s brightness as a function of frequency presents the qualitative behavior of the system.

Keywords:
Arduino; RLC circuit; resonance