Circuit Diary

Video Wireless Transmitter

2011-07-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

To design and build a wireless transmitter that works over the FM frequency and allows the transfer of a video/audio signal over a certain distance to an FM tuner.

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In this fast-paced world, there is little time for inconveniences and a greater need for portability and adaptability. The idea for an Audio/Video transmitter stems from this need. There may have been times when you've wanted to hook up your VCR from one room to another television set in another room. But that would have entailed that you first unhook all kinds of wires and plugs from the primary TV set; carry the VCR to the next TV set; and then finally re-wire everything together. An Audio/Video transmitter will let you do just about the same thing. But it would offer other conveniences as well. For example, it would allow you to set up security cameras around your home which would send video signals directly to a TV or VCR. And, there are no cumbersome wires and cables to line throughout the intended area.

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Tube Li Amplifier

2011-07-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

The unit is powered directly from the 120 volt AC line, with no power transformers. Filaments are wired in series, with the total adding up to 117 volts (35 + 35 + 35 + 12). The 35W4 forms a half-wave rectifier, which is filtered by a three-stage RC network. The B+ for the output stage plates and screens are taken from the second capacitor, and the B+ for the preamp and phase inverter from the third capacitor in the filter.

The input signal to the amplifier is applied directly to the volume control pot, from whence it passes through a variable high-pass filter (the "Treble" control). When the wiper is set to minimum, response is approximately flat (though actual frequency response will depend somewhat on volume control setting). When it's turned to maximum, higher frequencies are favored, with the lower 3 dB corner at around 1500 Hz. and the higher pole (plateau) around 4000 Hz. For testing purposes, the volume control was set to maximum and the treble control to minimum, to minimise the effect of this control.

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The output of the volume/treble control circuit is applied directly to the grid of the first section of a 12AX7 twin triode. A partially bypassed cathode resistor supplies grid bias, while providing a modest amount of local negative feedback to help linearise the stage's response. A 100k resistor provides the plate load for the preamp stage. The cathode also has a 10k resistor to the "Bass" control connected to it; we'll discuss the function of these components a little later, as they are part of the global feedback network.

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Rain Detector Using Transistor

2011-07-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

This rain detector will give you a heads-up the instant it starts to rain, hopefully giving you time to close windows and bring in possessions.

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The battery-powered circuit draws virtually no current when the sensor is dry and the current consumption is low when the buzzer is activated so a couple of AA cells will last a long time. Alternately, a molded power supply with a simple voltage regulator to drop the voltage to 3 volts could be used.

The circuit is basically a handy flasher circuit that operates well on only 3 volts using ordinary silicon transistors. When the circuit is triggered, the buzzer is pulsed about once per second for a very short time, giving it a "dripping water" sound which seems appropriate. A slower, longer beep may be had by increasing the 1 uF capacitor. The 10 k resistor may be increased for a longer beep time without decreasing the beep rate but at some point the circuit will cease to function properly, depending on the gain of the transistors.

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New Models Simulate RF Circuits

2011-06-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Its no news to those who simulate that the accuracy of SPICE is directly related to the accuracy of the models. What may be news is that simulation of high frequency circuits well into the gigahertz range is now possible due to the introduction of some new RF SPICE models.

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To illustrate the improved simulation accuracy, the RF models were used to analyze a 500 MHz oscillator (Figure 1). The oscillator generates a relatively high power output with a very distorted output waveform (typical at power levels over the 1- 2mW range). The simulation goals were to study the start-up characteristics, oscillating frequency and amplitude, and the resulting harmonic distortion. Two simulations were run. The first using the standard Gummel-Poon BJT model and simple inductor chokes and a second using an mproved 2N5109 model along with a new Intusoft RF bead model from the RF Device Library.

Above pproximately 100-200 MHz, the built-in SPICE BJT model, based on the Gummel Poon model, fails to accurately predict the real device performance. The BJT must be remodeled as a subcircuit (Table 1) in order to accurately model the package and bond wire parasitics which are of greater significance at higher frequencies. The improved model includes the package parasitics and matches the s-parameters up to 2 GHz. The RF library was created by Analog & RF Models, specialists in the creation of RF models, for Intusoft [1].

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Smoke Detector Circuit

2011-06-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

The A5347CA is a low-current, CMOS circuit providing all of the required features for an ionization-type smoke detector. A networking capability allows as many as 125 units to be interconnected so that if any unit senses smoke, all units will sound an alarm. In addition, special features are incorporated to facilitate alignment and test of the finished smoke detector. This device is designed to comply with Underwriters Laboratories Specification UL217.

The internal oscillator and timing circuitry keeps standby power to a minimum by powering down the device for 1.66 seconds and sensing smoke for only 10 ms. Every 24 on/off cycles, a check is made for low battery condition. By substituting other types of sensors, or a switch for the ionization detector, this very-low power device can be used in numerous other battery-operated safety/security applications.

The A5347CA is supplied in a low-cost, 16-pin dual in-line plastic package. It is rated for continuous operation over the temperature range of 0°C to +50°C.

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The A5347CA is a low-current CMOS circuit providing all of the required features for an ionization-type smoke detector.

Oscillator. An internal oscillator operates with a period of 1.67 seconds during no-smoke conditions. Every 1.67 seconds, internal power is applied to the entire circuit and a check is made for smoke. Every 24 clock cycles (40 seconds), the LED is pulsed and a check is made for low battery by comparing VDD to an internal reference. Since very-low currents are used in the device, the oscillator capacitor at pin 12 should be a low-leakage type (PTFE, polystyrene, or polypropylene).

Detector Circuitry. When smoke is detected, the resistor divider network that sets the sensitivity (smoke trip point) is altered to increase the sensitivity set voltage (pin 13) by typically 130 mV with no external

connections to pins 3 or 13. This provides hysteresis and reduces false triggering. An active guard is provided on both pins adjacent to the detector input (pin 15). The voltage at pins 14 and 16 will be within

100 mV of the input. This will keep surface leakage currents to a minimum and provide a method of measuring the input voltage without loading the ionization chamber. The active guard amplifier is not

power strobed and thus provides constant protection from surface leakage currents. The detector input has internal diode protection against static damage.

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FINGERPRINT BASED VOTING MACHINE

2011-06-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

The complete Voting machine consists mainly of two units - (a) Control Unit and (b) Balloting Unit with cable for connecting it with Control unit. A Balloting Unit caters upto 3 candidates. Four Balloting Units linked together catering in all to 64 candidates can be used with one control unit. The control unit is kept with the Presiding Officer and the Balloting Unit is used by the voter for polling. The Balloting Unit of EVM is a small Box-like device, on top of which each candidate and his/her election symbol is listed like a big ballot paper. Against each candidate's name, a button is provided. The voter polls his vote by pressing the button against the name of his desired candidate.

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These utilize fingerprint recognition technology to allow access to only those whose fingerprints

you choose. It contains all the necessary electronics to allow you to store, delete, and verify fingerprints with just the touch of a button. Stored fingerprints are retained even in the event of complete power failure or battery drain. These eliminates the need for keeping track of keys or remembering a combination password, or PIN. It can only be opened when an authorized user is present, since there are no keys or combinations to be copied or stolen, or locks that can be picked. The main aim in designing this product is to provide the concept of the personal identity for each individual. This is extended to a special case of electronic voting machine concept. The summary of the design can be briefly explained diagrammatically as follows. As a pre-poll procedure the finger prints of all the voters are collected and stored in a database initially at time of distributing cards. At the time of voting, the option of the voter is taken along with the finger print.

The finger print taken by the scanner is sent to the pc through an in-built A/D converter. The processed image is transferred to hard disk. The option entered by the voter is transferred to chip through DEMUX and is stored in the memory. If the transferred image is matched with any of the records in the data base, then the interrupt is given by the HARD DISK to pc. Then the option is considered in the count.

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Voice Switching Circuit

2011-06-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

This circuit uses an MC2830 to form a voice activated switch ( VOX ).

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A traditional VOX circuit is unable to distinguish between voice and noise in the incoming signal. In a noisy environment, the switch is often triggered by noise, or the activation sensitivity must be turned down. This circuit overcomes this weakness. The switch is activated by voice level above the noise and not activated by background noise. This is done by utilizing the differences in voice and noise waveforms. Voice waveforms generally have a wide range of variation in amplitude, whereas noise waveforms are more stable. The sensitivity of the voice activation depends on the value of R6. The voice activation sensitivity is reduced from 3.0dB to 8.0dB above the noise if R6 changes from 14k to 7.0k .

High 800Watts Amplifier-using MOSFET

2011-06-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

The 800 Watt AV amplifier is based on My 1kw Amplifier and shares the same topology and basic PCB layout. The only real difference is the number of Output devices that the unit uses. The 1kw design has 20 O/P devices, while the AV amplifier has 14 O/P devices. This amplifier can be used for practically any application that requires High power, low noise, distortion and excellent sound. Examples would be Sub-woofer amp, FOH stage amplifier, One channel of a very high-powered surround sound amplifier etc. The AV amplifier has four main stages of amplification. We will begin by looking at each stage in reasonable detail.


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circuit of 800w MOSFET amplifier

The Error Amp Stage

The first stage is what I call an asymmetrical balance input error amplifier. It is a design, which allows only one single differential stage and yet has the ability to accept a balanced I/P source. An unbalanced source can be used if either the inverting or noninverting I/P is tied to signal ground.

Now I will explain how each device in this stage works together. Q20, Q21, R51- R54, form the main differential error amplifier, which then has its collectors connected to a cascode load. Q18, Q19, R49 and ZD2 form the cascode stage which provides a constant 14.4 volts on the collectors of Q20, 21. Q17, R48, R50, ZD1 and C12 form a constant current source, which supplies 1.5milliamps to the first differential stage. These modules form the first stage of the amplifier and basically set up how the whole amplifier is biased from front to back.

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Current Sensor

2011-06-29T08:35:00.000-07:00

High-wattage appliances like electric irons, ovens and heaters result in unnecessary power loss if left ‘on’ for hours unnoticed. Here is a circuit that senses the flow of current through the Appliances and gives audible beeps every fifteen minutes to remind you of power-’on’ status.

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This is a non-contact version of current monitor and can sense the flow of current in high-current appliances from a distance of up to 30 cm . It uses a standard step-down transformer (0- 9V, 500mA) as the current sensor. Its secondary winding is left open, while the primary winding ends are used to detect the current. The primary ends of the transformer are connected to a full-wave bridge rectifier comprising diodes D1 through D4. The rectified output is connected to the non-inverting input of IC CA3140 (IC1).

IC CA3140 is a 4.5MHz BIMOS operational amplifier with MOSFET input and bipolar transistor output. It has gate-protected MOSFET (PMOS) transistors in the input to provide very high input impedance (1.5 T-ohms), very low input current (10 pA) and high-speed switching performance.

The inverting input of IC1 is preset with VR1. In the standby mode, the primary of the transformer accepts e.m.f. from the instrument or surrounding atmosphere, which results in low-voltage input to IC1. This low voltage at the non-inverting input keeps the output of IC1 low. Thus transistor T1 doesn’t conduct and pin 12 of IC2 goes high to disable IC2. As a result, the remaining part of the circuit gets inactivated.

When a high-current appliance is switched on, there will be a current drain in the primary of the transformer to the negative rail due to an increase in the e.m.f. caused by the flow of current through the appliance. This results in voltage rise at the non-inverting input and the output of IC1 becomes high. This high output drives transistor T1 into conduction and the reset pin of IC2 becomes low, which enables IC2.

IC CD4060 (IC2) is a 14-stage ripple counter. It is used as a 15-minute timer by feeding Q9 output to the piezobuzzer for aural alarm through the intermediate circuitry. Resistors R5 and R6 along with capacitor C1 maintain the oscillations in IC2 as indicated by blinking LED1. The high output from IC2 is used to activate a simple oscillator comprising transistors T2 and T3, resistors R8 and R10, and capacitor C2.

When the Q9 output of IC2 becomes high, zener diode ZD1 provides 3.1 volts to the base of transitor T2. Since transistor T2 is biased by a highvalue resistor (R8), it will not conduct immediately. Capacitor C2 slowly charges and when the voltage at the base of T2 increases above 0.6 volt, it conducts. When T2 conducts, the base of T3 turns low and it also conducts. The piezobuzzer connected to the collector of T3 gives a short beep as capacitor C2 discharges. This sequence of IC2 output at Q9 becoming high and conduction of transistors T2 and T3 resulting in beep sound repeats at short intervals.

Locker Security System

2011-06-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

The project locker security system is aimed at protecting the offering box from robbery. The project is based on micro-controller AT89C51 and some associated components. The major advantage of this security system other than the available security system is that this sounds and alarm and calls to a predefined mobile number when an attempt of robbery is detected.

The mobile number can be of any persons managing the offering box and there is an option for a second mobile number to which the controller makes a second call at the time of robbery. The second mobile number can be the number of police station, so police will get notified and they can do the necessary actions immediately.

As soon as the mobile calling section is finished by the controller it will generate an alarm. This alarm can only be disabled by using a secure password. So this security system has 3 levels of protection, password protection, call to predefined mobile number and an alarm.

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The heart of the circuit is the micro-controller AT89c51.

The power supply unit supplies regulated 5volt to the controller using lm7805. The transformer steps down the ac voltage to 12volt and rectifier diodes are used to convert 12volt ac to 12volt DC. This 12volt DC is then regulated to 5volt using LM7805.

The controller on power up initializes the whole system. There is a power on reset circuit connected to the reset pin of the controller. So whenever power is switched on the controller resets.

As per the program logic the controller first configures the LCD for displaying initializing data on the screen. Then the controller goes for controlling and monitoring other hardware peripherals.

A keypad is connected to the circuit for entering the password. The controller then checks this password correct or not. If it’s correct code the controller then actuates the relay for opening the door. When the controller opens the door it disables the tampering circuit sensors for eliminating false triggering. For closing the door a door close key is provided. When the door is closed the controller immediately enables the tamper circuitry.

If a wrong password is entered more than 3 times the controller calls to the predefined number and sounds an alarm.

The tamper is detected using a special custom made vibration sensor which works on Newton’s 3^rd law of motion. The vibration sensors give an interrupt to the controller to indicate a tamper.

The LCD display displays the name of the security system and gives direction to the user to enter password and also notifies the user if the password is wrong and also gives indication about the calls during tamper.

The door of the offering box is made using an electronic sliding mechanism. On entering the correct password the correct password the controller actuates relay1 and relay 2. The relay outputs are connected to the motor of the sliding door mechanism. To open the door the motor is given a polarity at which it rotates in clockwise direction and to close the door the polarity of the motor is reversed.

The crystal used is 12 MHz; this gives clock to the micro-controller.

Transistor logic is used to actuate switches on the mobile phone for making calls. The transistor BC-547 is used as a switch mode. When the controller gives negative to the respective transistor base that transistor gets switched on and the corresponding key on the mobile phone is actuated.

A backup battery is provided to work when power loss occurs. So this will ensure the proper working of the circuit in all conditions.

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Low-Cost Transistorised Inverter

2011-06-27T09:31:00.001-07:00

This is an inexpensive fully transistorised inverter capable of driving medium loads of the order of 40 to 60 watts using battery of 12V, 15 Ah or higher capacity. Transistors T1 and T2 (BC548) form a 50Hz multivibrator.

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For obtaining correct frequency, the values of resistors R3 and R4 may have to be changed after testing. The complementary outputs from collectors of transistors T1 and T2 are given to PNP darlington driver stages formed by transistor pairs T3-T4 and T6-T7 (utilising transistors BD140 and 2N6107). The outputs from the drivers are fed to transistors T5 and T8 (2N3055) connected for push-pull operation.

Somewhat higher wattage can be achieved by increasing the drive to 2N3055 transistors (by lowering the value of resistors R7 and R8 while increasing their wattage). Suitable heatsinks may be used for the output stage transistors. Transformer X1 is a 230V primary to 9V-0-9V, 10A secondary used in reverse.

Universal IR Remote Control

2011-06-27T09:30:00.001-07:00

Here is a circuit which can switch on and switch off any appliance with the help of a common type of infra-red remote control (transmitter).

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This circuit senses the IR pulse and then controls the appliance accordingly. The circuit functions such that a short pulse from the remote tran- smitter switches on the triac (and the load) while a longer pulse switches off the triac as also the load. The circuit is built around hex inverter IC CD 4049. When the infra-red pulse is received by the sensor, its output (Note: Here VR1 denotes the in-circuit resistance of preset VR1.) The output of multivibrator is fed to the base of current amplifier 2N3055 via resistor R2 (1kilo-ohm). The brakelight bulb is connected in series with the collector of 2N3055. The flashing rate of this bulb is adjusted by 100k preset (VR1).

Transistor 2N3055 may get heated due to high current switching action; hence a small heatsink, similar to the type used in television power supply, is recommended. The category of 2-wheelers which do not have a battery, can use the bridge rectifier circuit shown here. Several designs of round, square and rectangular reflectors are available which may be used in conjunction with any suitable 12V bulb with proper rating (around 20 watts). However, if flashing of the brake- light affects intensity of headlight bulb, reduce the rating of brakelight bulb to 10 watts.

Audio Perimeter Monitor

2011-06-27T09:25:00.001-07:00

This circuit is intended for audio surveillance of an unattended area, examples being a back garden or open space. It can be used to listen for wildlife or just as an extra pair of ears.

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Using a single cable such as speaker wire or doorbell cable, this circuit can be remotely positioned, for example, at the bottom of a garden or garage, and used to detect all sound in that area. The cable can be buried in a hosepipe or duct and is concealed out of sight. The mic is an ordinary dynamic mic insert and should be housed in a waterproof enclosure with the rest of the circuit. The mic output is amplified by the two transistors, the output is fed down the cable via the 220u capacitor. Here, it has a dual purpose of preventing the DC supply from upsetting the bias of the circuit, and also allowing the smaller ac audio output to pass down the line. At the power supply, the audio is recovered by the 10k preset and 220u capacitor. It is used to feed a small audio amplifier (such as the 2watt design) shown earlier on this site.

security Alarm circuit

2011-06-27T09:20:00.001-07:00

As you can clearly see from the schematics, the circuit is utterly primitive and consists of two identical transistor switches. Each has its own alarm LED and they're coupled to a neat 82dB buzzer.

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The two 1N4148 diodes are used to prevent a signal from one sensor from triggering both LEDs. The sensors used are either wire loops or normally closed reed switches or even a combination of both. You could, for example, tie a wire loop to your suitcase and place a reed switch to the door of your hotel room.

Since this little alarm is intended to be kept in arms reach at all times, there aren't any provisions for automatic shutdown after a certain period of time. The buzzer will sound until you turn the whole circuit off or connect the wire loop back to the jumpers. The same goes for the two LEDs, each indicating its own zone.

Construction is not critical and there aren't any traps for the novice. The two 100n capacitors aren't really necessary, I just included them to make sure that there is no noise interference coming from the long wire loops. For transistors, you can use any NPN general-purpose audio amplifiers/switches (BC 107/108/109, BC 237/238, 2N2222, 2N3904...). Assemble the circuit on perf board. Together with the buzzer and a 9V battery, it should easily fit in a pocket-sized plastic box smaller than a pack of cigarettes. A fresh battery should suffice for weeks of continuous operation.

Phone Amplifier

2011-06-27T09:19:00.001-07:00

While talking to a distant sub- scriber on telephone, quite often we feel frustrated when the voice of the distant subscriber is so faint that it is barely intelligible.

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To overcome the problem, circuit of an inexpensive amplifier is presented here. It can be assembled and tested easily. There is no extra power source needed to power up the circuit, as it draws power from the telephone line itself. The amplifier will provide fairly good volume for the telephone conversation to be properly heard in a living room. A volume control is included to adjust the volume as desired. The circuit is built around IC LM386. Diodes D6 and D7 are used to limit the input signal strength. Transformer X1 is a transistor radio’s output transformer used in reverse. As original secondary (output) winding is connected in series with the telephone lines, the speech signals passing through the lines cause change in the magnetic flux in the core of transformer and thereby induce signal voltage across the primary winding. This audio signal is used as input for IC LM386. Diodes D2 through D5 connected in bridge configuration constitute a polarity guard so that the amplifier is powered with correct polarity, irrespective of the line polarity, Zener diode D1 may have any breakdown voltage between 6 and 12 volts range. There is no need of a separate power switch as the circuit energises (via the normally open contacts of the cradle switch) when one lifts the handset. The circuit may be wired on a general-purpose PCB or by etching a PCB for this circuit. The circuit can be easily tested by connecting a 6 volts supply to line terminals 1 and 2. A hissing sound will be heard from the loudspeaker. Now connect 6V AC from a transformer to terminals 1 and 2 and observe hum in the loudspeaker. The volume of the hum can be changed through potentiometer VR1. Diodes D6 and D7 limit the input below ± 700 mV. The circuit is to be connected to the telephone lines in series with the telephone instrument, as shown in the figure.

Object Counter Circuit

2011-06-27T09:13:00.001-07:00

Presented here is the cheapest 8-digit programmable object or event counter. It is a fail-proof, fool-proof, power failure-proof, one evening project. A general-purpose (arithmetic) calculator has some inherent shortcomings which can, however, be used in many ways by proper programming sequences.

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For example, there is no squaring key in a general-purpose calculator, but it can not only square it has even the inherent capability of a single touch successive multiplication, thus giving us a choice of making a geometric progression (G.P.) or successive addition or forming an arithmetic progression (A.P.). For example, operating the keys 5,x,=,=,... you obtain the G.P. 5,25,125,625,... or by operating keys 5,x,4,=,=,=,..., you get the G.P.: 4,20, 100,500,... Next, operate keys: 5,+, 2,=,=,... to get the A.P.: 5,7,9,11,13,... The latter facility (A.P.) has been used here to count the objects by programming the calculator keys 1,+,=,=,... When you open the calculator (such as ‘Casio’), you will find that the conductive silicon key pads bridge the two terminals of a key, when depressed. Locate the switch terminals for (=) key and check the polarity of the terminals with respect to the battery negative. The terminal which is found to be positive is to be connected to the junction of R2 and VR1, and the other terminal is to be connected to switch S1 as shown in the figure. The negative battery terminal is to be connected to emitters of photo-transistor and transistor T1. (There may be slight difference in the use of key terminals in different brands of calculators.) The optical sensor used here is BPX25, a very sensitive photo-transistor which has a built-in lens to focus the incident light on to the chip. Only two leads, emitter and collector, have been used. When light falls on the sensor, it conducts as if it had got forward biased. A variable resistor of 220k in series with another fixed resistor of 1 M (selected by trial) has been used at the base of transistor T1 (BC149C/BC 549C) to set the threshold level for its conduction, depending upon the intensity of light used. When light is obstructed, BPX goes to cut-off, transistor T1 conducts and the terminal of (=) key which is connected via switch S1 (assuming closed), goes low. This is equivalent to depression of the (=) key. When light again falls on the sensor, it conducts and the base of transistor T1 goes low, throwing it to cut-off, so that its collector and hence the (=) key gets connected to the positive bus via 1 M resistor R2. A pulse is passed on and the calculator advances by 1. Current drain from the battery is less than 50 µA, which a button cell can easily provide. The counter is slow but there is no switch debouncing effect present, which makes the counter highly reliable and ideal as a slow event counter in applications such as visitor counter. Further, the circuit is auto-locked, since any resetting is possible only when BPX is in the cut-off position, i.e., in darkness. To program, cover the phototran- sistor and operate keys : 1,+,=. In case of a deadlock in programming, miniature switch S1 may be used to enable isolation of the (=) key. Set the 220k preset according to the ambient and the incident light, so that the calculator counts when light is cut-off and again allowed to fall when obstruction is removed. If it is used to count visitors in a well day-lighted environment, only a white washed wall or a white paper pasted on the opposite door panel is sufficient. For indoor applications, a specific source of light is required. Both the source of light as well as the BPX should then be mounted in opaque (preferably black) tubes and a lens be fitted in the light-source tube to focus the light on to the photo-transistor. BC149C/549C is preferred due to its large current gain of the order of 300 at 10 µA, compared to 150 that of BC548B, so that the instrument becomes more sensitive.

Water Tank Overflow Preventer

2011-06-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

There is practically no house without an overhead tank (OHT). People who use electrically-operated water pumps for filling the OHT find it very inconvenient to switch off the pump when their overhead tank starts overflowing, specially when they are busy. So there is plenty of water wastage as well as wastage of power (consumed by the pump). However, there is a solution to get rid of this headache.

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The circuit given here will switch off the pump and also generate a melodious tune when the overhead tank gets filled up to the maximum desired level. All you have to do is switch off the power supply to the circuit when you are relatively free. The heart of the circuit is the CMOS latch CD4001. Usually the latch can be operated in two modes, namely, set and reset mode, i.e. the latch output can be set to logic 1 or reset to logic 0 by applying appropriate active low level input signal to pins 1 and 13, respectively. Here, in the given circuit, the set point is pin 1 and the reset point is pin 13. The inverted output of the latches are obtained at pins 3 and 11, respectively. When the circuit is powered there is a voltage drop at pin 1 due to the resistor-capacitor R1-C1 combination. The values of resistor R1 and C1 are chosen in such a way that pin 1 is low for about two seconds which is sufficient to energise the relay through transistor T1 and thus the pump starts running. When sufficient water gets filled in the overhead tank, switch S1 in the sensing unit, in the overhead tank as shown in Fig. 2, sends an active low signal to pin 13 which resets latch gate N1 output to logic 0. This causes transistor T1 to stop conducting, thereby de-energising the relay and shutting down the pump. At the same time, the output at pin 11 of gate N2 will be logic 1. This results in conduction of transistor T2 and melodious buzzer sounds. The green LED also lights up while the red LED, which remains on as long as the relay remains energised, gets switched off when water reaches the specified level in the overhead tank. The circuit possesses the following advantages:

1. Special sensing mechanism (easy to build) is used to sense the water level in the overhead tank.

2. One can replace CD4011 with IC 7400. In that case, a 5.1V zener may be connected additionally between pin 14 of IC1 and the ground.

The circuit can be easily fabricated on a general-purpose PCB.

Audio amplifier output relay delay

2011-06-27T09:04:00.001-07:00

Component list

C1 100 uF 40V electrolytic

C2 100 uF 40V electrolytic

D1 1N4007

D2 1N4148

Q1 BC547

R1 33 kohm 0.25W

R2 2.2 kohm 0.25W

RELAY 24V DC relay, coil resistance >300 ohm

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Circuit operation

Then power is applied to the power input of the circuit, the positive phase of AC voltage charges C1. Then C2 starts to charge slowly through R1. When the voltage in C2 rises, the emitter output voltage of Q1 rises tigether with voltage on C2. When the output voltage of Q2 is high enough (typically around 16..20V) the relay goes to on state and the relay witches connect the speakers to the amplifier output. It takes typically around 5 seconds after power up until the relay starts to condict (at absolute time depends on the size of C2, relay voltage and circuit input voltage).

When the power is switched off, C1 will loose it's energu quite quicly. Also C2 will be charged quite quicly through R2. In less than 0.5 seconds the speakers are disconnected from the amplifier output.

Notes on the circuit

This circuit is not the most accurate and elegant design, but it has worked nicely in my small homebuilt PA amplifier. This circuit can be also used in many other applications where a turn on delay of few seconds is needed. The delay time can be increased by using bigger C2 and decreased by using a smaller C2 value. Note that the delay is not very accurate because of simplicity of this circuit and large tolerance of typical electrolytic capacitors (can be -20%..+50% in some capcitors).

Motor Speed controler

2011-06-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

The circuits shown below are a few of many suggested circuits as published by SCR and TRIAC manufacturers and cannot be construed as beeing the exact application for your requirements and I cannot be held responsible for their use and end results .

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It is suggested that the subject of TRIAC and SCR as well as motor drive control systems be researched before making a final decision as to the application of these control circuits .
For satisfactory and safe results, knowing the exact type of motor you wish to control is of prime importance and all data available should be obtained before you contemplate to add any drive control circuits . Mount all SCR's and Triac on heatsink . Use current rated stranded wiring as required .

If you cannot find the SCR's and TRIAC's suggested in the circuits you may be able to find a substitute following this link Cross References

Some links to SCR's,TRiac's and motor control application notes:

Thyristors
Application Notes
Triac Data
NTE Triac Selection
NTE SCR Selection

You can use a transformer with up to 12 amps output current with corresponding fuse value . Use No.12-14 stranded wiring to battery connection with heavy duty clips .
Mount Rectifiers and SCR's on heatsink . You can use a mA meter with a shunt resistor . See Metering a power supply .

Note The rectifiers and SCR's value as quoted can be changed to lesser values as required for lower current output .

Night Rider Light For Bikes

2011-06-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Always looking for ways to be seen at night. So wanted something that was a novelty and would catch the motorists eye. So looking around at fellow cyclists rear lights, Its is a Hobby circuit for bikes,'NITE-RIDER'. NINE extra bright LED's running from left to right and right to left continuously. It could be constructed with red LEDs for use on the rear of the bike or white LED's for an extra eye catcher on the front of the bike.

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All IC's are CMOS devices so that a 9V PP3 battery can be used, and the current drawn is very low so that it will last as long as possible.

The circuit comprises of ...

1 555 timer IC4.
1 4027 flip flop IC1.
2 4017 Decade Counter IC2 and IC3.
3 4071 OR gate IC5, IC6 and IC7.
1 470 Ohm resistor 1/4 watt R3.
2 10K resistors 1/4 watt R1 and R2.
1 6.8UF Capasitor 16V C1.
9 Super brght LED's 1 to 9.
1 9V PP3 Battery.
1 single pole switch SW1.
1 Box.

How The Circuit Works.

IC4, C1, R1 and R2 are used for the clock pulse which is fed to both the counters IC2 and IC3 Pin 14.

IC1 is a Flip Flop and is used as a switch to enable ether IC2 or IC3 at pin 13.

IC7a detects when ether IC2 or IC3 has reached Q9 of the counter pin 11.

IC5, IC6 and IC7a protects the outputs of the counters IC2 and IC3 using OR gates which is then fed to the Anodes of the
LED's 1 to 9

LEDs Display

2011-06-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

The circuit presented here uses bicolour LEDs to generate a display in three colours, namely, red,green, and yellowish green. Transistors T1 through T20 form a grid to which common-cathode bicolour LEDs (LED1 through LED10) are connected.

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Transistors T1 through T10 have their collector terminals connected to the emitter of transistor T21. Similarly, transistors T11 through T20 have their collector terminals connected to the emitter of transistor T22. The bases of each pair of transistors (i.e. T1 and T11, T2 and T12,…, T10 and T20) are tied to outputs Q0, Q1,…, Q9, respectively, of IC1 (CD4017) through 10-kiloohm resistors as shown in the figure. Positive supply to collectors of transistors T1 through T10 is controlled by transistor T21. Similarly, positive supply to collectors of transistors T11 through T20 is controlled by transistor T22.

IC1 and IC2 are decade counters. Clock pulse to IC1 is provided by the oscillator circuit comprising NOR gates N1 and N2. The outputs of IC1 advance sequentially with each clock. (Any other source of squarewave pulses also serves the purpose.)IC2 is used to select the mode of display. Clock input pin 14 of IC2 is connected to Q9 output of IC1. Thus IC2 receives one pulse after every ten pulses received by IC1.

When the circuit is switched on, Q0 output of IC2 is active high. Thus transistor T21 gets forward biased via diode D3 and it conducts to extend positive supply to transistors T1 through T10. Transistors T1 through T10 are forward biased sequentially by Q0 through Q9 outputs of IC1, i.e. at a time only one of these ten transistors is forward biased (on). Thus only red LED parts of bicolour LEDs light up sequentially. Transistor T22 is not conducting at this moment.) When red LED part of LED10 glows, IC2 receives a clock pulse and its Q1 output goes high. Transistor T21 still conducts, as it is forward biased through diode D6, and next again via diode D5. Thus red LEDs complete two more glowing sequences.

After completion of the third glowing sequence of red LEDs, when Q3 output of IC2 goes high, transistor T21 stops conducting and T22 starts conducting with the next three sequences of green LEDs of bicolour LEDs (LED1 through LED10) glowing sequentially. After completion of three sequences of green LEDs, output Q6 of IC2 goes high.

Now both transistors T21 and T22 conduct due to diodes D1 and D2. Thus both red and green LEDs in bicolour LEDs (LED1 through LED10) glow sequentially. The effect of red and green LEDs glowing together is a distinct yellowish orange colour. This sequence repeats four times.

Thereafter, the whole sequence repeats, starting with red LEDs. Thus the bicolour LED display shows three colours—red, green, and yellowish green—one after the other. The speed of display can be controlled by preset VR1. One can omit automatic selection of different colours by omitting IC2 and replacing connections to pins 3, 5, and 7 of IC2 with SPDT switches. (Thus diodes D3-D12 are also omitted.)

IR Headphone

2011-06-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

Using this low-cost project one can reproduce audio from TV without disturbing others. It does not use any wire connection between TV and headphones. In place of a pair of wires, it uses invisible infrared light to transmit audio signals from TV to headphones. Without using any lens, a range of up to 6 metres is possible. Range can be extended by using lenses and reflectors with IR sensors comprising transmitters and receivers.

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IR transmitter uses two-stage transistor amplifier to drive two series-connected IR LEDs. An audio output transformer is used (in reverse) to couple audio output from TV to the IR transmitter. Transistors T1 and T2 amplify the audio signals received from TV through the audio transformer. Lowimpedance output windings (lower gauge or thicker wires) are used for connection to TV side while high-impedance windings are connected to IR transmitter.

This IR transmitter can be powered from a 9-volt mains adapter or battery. Red LED1 in transmitter circuit functions as a zener diode (0.65V) as well as supply-on indicator. IR receiver uses 3-stage transistor amplifier. The first two transistors (T4 and T5) form audio signal amplifier while the third transistor T6 is used to drive a headphone. Adjust potmeter VR2 for max. clarity.

Direct photo-transistor towards IR LEDs of transmitter for max. range. A 9-volt battery can be used with receiver for portable operation.

Mains Manager

2011-06-27T08:10:00.000-07:00

Very often we forget to switch off the peripherals like monitor, scanner, and printer while witching off our PC. The problem is that there are separate power switches to turn the peripherals off. Normally, the peripherals are connected to a single of those four-way trailing sockets that are plugged into a single wall socket. If that socket is accessible, all the devices could be switched off from there and none of the equipment used will require any modification.

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Here is a mains manager circuit that allows you to turn all the equipment on or off by just operating the switch on any one of the devices; for example, when you switch off your PC, the monitor as well as other equipment will get powered down automatically. You may choose the main equipment to control other gadgets.

The main equipment is to be directly plugged into the master socket, while all other equipment are to be connected via the slave socket. The mains supply from the wall socket is to be connected to the input of the mains manager circuit. The unit operates by sensing the current drawn by the control equipment/load from the master socket. On sensing that the control equipment is on, it powers up the other (slave) sockets. The load on the master socket can be anywhere between 20 VA and 500 VA, while the load on the slave sockets can be 60 VA to 1200 VA.

During the positive half cycle of the mains AC supply, diodes D4, D5, and D6 have a voltage drop of about 1.8 volts when current is drawn from the master socket. Diode D7 carries the current during negative half cycles. Capacitor C3, in series with diode D3, is connected across the diode combination of D4 through D6, in addition to diode D7 as well as resistor R10. Thus current pulses during positive half-cycles, charge up the capacitor to 1.8 volts via diode D3. This voltage is sufficient to hold transistor T2 in forward biased condition for about 200 ms even after the controlling load on the master socket is switched off.

When transistor T2 is ‘on’, transistor T1 gets forward biased and is switched on. This, in turn, triggers Triac 1, which then powers the slave loads. Capacitor C4 and resistor R9 form a snubber network to ensure that the triac turns off cleanly with an inductive load.

LED1 indicates that the unit is operating. Capacitor C1 and zener ZD1 are effectively in series across the mains. The resulting 15V pulses across ZD1 are rectified by diode D2 and smoothened by capacitor C2 to provide the necessary DC supply for the circuit around transistors T1 and T2. Resistor R3 is used to limit the switching-on surge current, while resistor R1 serves as a bleeder for rapidly discharging capacitor C1 when the unit is unplugged. LED1 glows whenever the unit is plugged into the mains. Diode D1, in anti-parallel to LED1, carries the current during the opposite half cycles.

Don’t plug anything into the master or slave sockets without testing the unit. If possible, plug the unit into the mains via an earth leakage circuit breaker. The mains LED1 should glow and the slave LED2 should remain off. Now connect a table lamp to the master socket and switch it ‘on’. The lamp should operate as usual. The slave LED should turn ‘on’ whenever the lamp plugged into slave socket is switched on. Both lamps should be at full brightness without any flicker. If so, the unit is working correctly and can be put into use.

Note. 1. The device connected to the master socket must have its power switch on the primary side of the internal transformer. Some electronic equipment have the power switch on the secondary side and hence these devices continue to draw a small current from the mains even when switched off. Thus such devices, if connected as the master, will not control the

slave units correctly.

2. Though this unit removes the power from the equipment being controlled, it doesn’t provide isolation from the mains. So, before working inside any equipment connected to this unit, it must be unplugged from the socket.

Heat Detector

2011-06-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

This circuit uses a complementary pair comprising npn metallic transistor T1 (BC109) and pnp germanium transistor T2 (AC188) to detect heat (due to outbreak of fire, etc) in the vicinity and energise a siren. The collector of transistor T1 is connected to the base of transistor T2, while the collector of transistor T2 is connected to relay RL1.

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The second part of the circuit comprises popular IC UM3561 (a siren and machine-gun sound generator IC), which can produce the sound of a fire-brigade siren. Pin numbers 5 and 6 of the IC are connected to the +3V supply when the relay is in energised state, whereas pin 2 is grounded. A resistor (R2) connected across pins 7 and 8 is used to fix the frequency of the inbuilt oscillator. The output is available from pin 3.

Two transistors BC147 (T3) and BEL187 (T4) are connected in Darlington configuration to amplify the sound from UM3561. Resistor R4 in series with a 3V zener is used to provide the 3V supply to UM3561 when the relay is in energised state. LED1, connected in series with 68-ohm resistor R1 across resistor R4, glows when the siren is on.

To test the working of the circuit, bring a burning matchstick close to transistor T1 (BC109), which causes the resistance of its emitter-collector junction to go low due to a rise in temperature and it starts conducting. Simultaneously, transistor T2 also conducts because its base is connected to the collector of transistor T1. As a result, relay RL1 energises and switches on the siren circuit to produce loud sound of a firebrigade siren.

Lab note. We have added a table to enable readers to obtain all possiblesound effects by returning pins 1 and 2 as suggested in the table.

Automatic Blown fuse Indicator

2011-06-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Generally, when an equipment indicates no power, the cause may be just a blown fuse. Here is a circuit that shows the condition of fuse through LEDs. This compact circuit is very useful and reliable. It uses very few components, which makes it inexpensive too.

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Under normal conditions (when fuse is alright), voltage drop in first arm is 2V + (2 x 0.7V) = 3.4V, whereas in second arm it is only 2V. So current flows through the second arm, i.e. through the green LED, causing it to glow; whereas the red LED remains off.

When the fuse blows off, the supply to green LED gets blocked, and because only one LED is in the circuit, the red LED glows. In case of power failure, both LEDs remain ‘off’.

This circuit can be easily modified to produce a siren in fuse-blown condition (see Fig. 2). An optocoupler is used to trigger the siren. When the fuse blows, red LED glows. Simultaneously it switches ‘on’ the siren.

In place of a bicolour LED, two LEDs of red and green colour can be used. Similarly, only one diode in place of D1 and D2 may be used. Two diodes are used to increase the voltage drop, since the two LEDs may produce different voltage drops.