It is an open-source hardware device based on Arduino ESP-32 that allows us to amplify the electrical signals of living beings. By connecting its electrodes to plants or fungi, we can receive fluctuations in their electrical impulses and convert them into sounds, projections, changes in lighting, etc.
Biodata is a free project created by Sam Cusumano, from Electricity for Progress.
How does it work?
Small changes in electrical conductivity are measured between the electrodes and fed into a programmable microcontroller. The changes are detected by calculations of averages and standard deviations that turn on LEDs and produce MIDI notes and control changes. The circuit used to detect biological galvanic conductance is based on a 555 timer configured as an astable multivibrator, similar to a simple lie detector.
Exploring and practicing Biodata Sonification can enable a student, musician, scientist, or florist to hear the secret life of plants and understand how their tools work!
What does all this mean?
Ask a botanist, biologist, philosopher, or florist, or try it yourself. Although there are always interesting and exciting developments to be heard when interacting with a plant, we are interested in longer sets of raw data. We want to better understand how plants change over many days, cycles, and seasons, and how using this type of recorded data can help measure and track plants in nature, in the office, on the farm, and in the laboratory under study.
Would you like one?
With Sam's permission, we have had the plates manufactured and gathered all the components to make it easier for you. You have two options:
- If you know how to use a soldering iron and solder, we can send you a kit with all the components.
- If not, order a complete biodata from us and we will send it to you assembled and ready to use.
In both cases, you can fill out the contact form or write to us on social media.
Use cases
At MolinoLab, we have used this technology in numerous projects, some of which are listed below.
Further information:
Hello!
I am interested in purchasing a kit. Could you send me a quote for both options? (For soldering, or ready to use).
It is for an experimental art therapy project through music.
Hi Juan,
I'm so glad you want to have a biodata.
We are delighted that the community of people interested in understanding and creating with other organisms is growing.
I'll send you an email.
Best regards