This project involves the design, simulation, and prototyping of a 8-segment LED VU (Volume Unit) Meter for audio level indication. Developed as part of a university exam project at Politechnika Łódzka (Lodz University of Technology) within the MSc Double Degree in Electronic Engineering.
- Based on LM3914 LED driver for linear analog signal indication
- Audio signal input via 3.5mm jack (J1), with amplification and conditioning
- Dual Op-Amp LM358 for pre-processing the signal
- Adjustable luminous intensity via potentiometer TS53YL502
- 8 LED outputs (D1–D8) showing amplitude levels in real time
- Designed with KiCad 9.0, validated with LTspice simulations
- KiCad 9.0 – Schematic & PCB Layout
- LTspice – Signal conditioning and stage simulation
- Excel – Bill of Materials (BOM)
- 3D Rendering – KiCad native viewer
Schematic_VUMeter_258703.pdf– Full circuit schematicBOM_VUMeter.xlsx– Complete list of componentsPCB_VUMeter_Top_Bottom.pdf– Layer views
- Multi-stage analog design and filtering
- Signal visualization using driver ICs
- PCB layout design with grounding and routing considerations
- BOM management for real-world prototyping
The VU Meter project has been successfully completed through all design and testing phases.
- PCB printed and assembled using Sn96.5/Ag3.0/Cu0.5 solder paste and a hot air rework station (BST-863)
- Full component soldering completed manually
- Output visualised through 8-segment LED scale driven by LM3914
Download the complete final project report here:
📥 VU_Meter_Project_Report_STROCCHIA.pdf
Raffaele Strocchia – MSc Electronic Engineering
Double Degree: Università di Napoli Federico II / Politechnika Łódzka
Year: 2025