How to Build a DIY Electronic Secret Safe with Fingerprint Scanner

Introduction

Building your own secret safe with a fingerprint scanner is a fun electronics project that allows you to create a secure place to store valuables. In this guide, I will walk you through the full process of assembling a DIY electronic safe from start to finish.

Gather the Necessary Materials

To build the safe, you will need:

A storage container - This will form the body of the safe. Look for a plastic storage bin, tool box, or even a hollow book. The container should be large enough to hold the items you want to store.
A fingerprint sensor module - This device scans fingerprints and matches them against authorized prints stored in its memory. Purchase one with enrollment and matching capabilities.
An arduino microcontroller - The brain that controls the safe's functions. An Uno or Nano works well.
A servo motor - Powers the locking mechanism. Standard sized servos are easiest to integrate.
Jumper wires - For connecting the components together. Get both male-to-male and male-to-female wires.
A power supply - An arduino power adapter or a battery pack with at least 500mA output.
A slide bolt or latch - The locking hardware that secures the safe door.
Screws, nuts and bolts - For mounting the components inside the storage container.
Soldering iron and solder - For soldering wires and connections.

Optional items like a display screen, buzzer, and backup battery can add extra functionality. Having these parts on hand will make building the safe much easier.

Assembly Steps

With the materials ready, we can now start the assembly process:

Step 1 - Prepare the Storage Container

First, we need to modify the storage container to house the safe's electronics.

Mark spots for mounting the arduino, fingerprint sensor, and other parts.
Drill holes to allow wires to pass through.
Cut out space for buttons, screens, or scanners if needed.

Make sure to leave room for the valuables that the safe will hold.

Step 2 - Install the Locking Mechanism

Now we can add the locking hardware to the container door or lid.

Mount a slide bolt or latch on the inner side of the door.
Position the servo so it can move the bolt/latch.
Secure the servo in place with screws/adhesive.
Connect the servo horn to the locking hardware.

Test that the servo can slide the bolt/latch smoothly to lock and unlock the door.

Step 3 - Set Up the Electronics

It's time to wire up the fingerprint sensor, arduino, and other electronic components.

Upload code to the arduino to operate the safe.
Connect the servo to arduino digital pins.
Connect fingerprint sensor communication wires to arduino.
Power the arduino and components with the power supply.

Step 4 - Enroll Fingerprints

With everything connected, you can now enroll authorized fingerprints into the sensor memory.

Follow the sensor instructions to add and store print samples.
Enroll at least two fingers per user for backup access.
Test scanning enrolled prints to unlock the safe.

Step 5 - Install and Secure the Safe

To complete the project:

Mount the arduino, wires and components neatly inside the container.
Close up the safe housing so nothing is exposed.
Install the safe in its hidden location. Use screws if needed.
Test unlocking the safe with registered fingerprints.
Add valuables inside and close the door to keep them secure.

The DIY fingerprint safe is now ready to help protect your important items!

Usage Tips

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your new electronic safe:

Use thick screws or anchors if mounting the safe on a wall or furniture. This prevents easy removal.
Change the default pin code on the fingerprint sensor. This adds extra security.
Consider connecting an arduino sound module to make an alert noise when the safe unlocks.
Keep the safe in an inconspicuous place like under furniture or behind a bookcase.
Securing the safe to the floor or wall is recommended to prevent theft.
Re-enroll user fingerprints every few months since prints can change over time.
Use a touchscreen stylus when scanning your print to prevent smudges on the sensor.

Conclusion

Building your own fingerprint safe provides a fun electronics challenge while also giving you a highly secure place for storing valuables. Just follow the assembly steps carefully and soon you will have a personal safe that only you can access. Customize the safe's looks or features to match your needs. And have fun showing off your DIY secure storage device!