If you enjoy watching TV but are fed up listening to certain celebrity names or phrases being overused, a new Arduino device called the Enough Already, developed by Matt Richardson, might be able to help you recover control of your TV’s audio.
His new creation is Arduino-based and allows you to mute a TV’s audio based on certain keywords or phrases. The little device uses a Video Experimenter Shield, which is placed on top of the Arduino board, enabling it to then decode the closed-captioning text of the program currently showing on your TV. Watch the video after the jump to see the Enough Already, Arduino device in action.
How the Device Works
Richardson explains how his innovative device works:
“Closed captioning transcription is transmitted with the NTSC picture signal. The incoming text is processed for a set of keywords such as “KARDASHIAN” or “SNOOKI” and sends my television’s IR remote control mute command, muting the TV for 30 seconds and then unmuting it (as long as a keyword isn’t mentioned again).”
The device is particularly useful for those who find certain celebrity names or buzzwords to be a constant annoyance. By muting the TV for a brief period, viewers can enjoy their shows without the distraction of overexposed celebrities. This can be especially beneficial during news broadcasts, reality TV shows, or talk shows where certain names are frequently mentioned.
Building Your Own Enough Already Device
For those interested in building their own Enough Already device, Richardson has provided detailed instructions and a list of necessary components. The primary components include an Arduino board, a Video Experimenter Shield, and an IR LED. The Video Experimenter Shield is crucial as it allows the Arduino to read the closed-captioning data embedded in the TV signal.
Once the hardware is assembled, the next step involves programming the Arduino to recognize specific keywords. This is done by writing a simple script that processes the closed-captioning text and sends a mute command when a keyword is detected. The script can be customized to include any words or phrases that the user finds bothersome.
For more information on the device and how to build one, jump over to the MAKE website.
Potential Applications and Future Developments
The Enough Already device opens up a world of possibilities for personalized TV viewing experiences. Beyond muting celebrity names, the device could be adapted to filter out other types of content. For example, it could be programmed to mute offensive language, spoilers for TV shows or movies, or even political commentary that a viewer might find distressing.
Moreover, as technology advances, there is potential for integrating this functionality into smart TVs and streaming devices. This would allow for a more seamless and user-friendly experience, eliminating the need for additional hardware.
The Enough Already device by Matt Richardson is a clever and practical solution for those who wish to take control of their TV audio. By leveraging the power of Arduino and the Video Experimenter Shield, viewers can enjoy a more pleasant and personalized TV watching experience. For more detailed instructions and to start building your own device, visit the MAKE website.
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