Description
Design your own docking station. This board presents a fantastic and highly motivating opportunity for pupils from KS3 through to post-16 to design and make their own sound systems. This low cost stereo amplifier can run from either batteries or an inexpensive PSU. The project provides an angle for all interests:
- Product design (1) – use conventional resistant materials for the loudspeaker enclosures – just treat the amplifier as a simple plug-in black box;
- Product design (2) – use any one of the vast range of new materials available – concrete, ceramics, plaster, textiles …….
- Graphic design (1) – transform the external look of speaker enclosures by using printed materials
- Graphic design (2) – fabricate the loudspeaker enclosures using folded card methods – e.g., flat pack speakers
- Electronics – build the amplifier using the kit option or design and build one to a different specification
- Science/acoustics – design the enclosure with particular reference to acoustic criteria
Application notes: Any music source that drives a small earpiece is suitable for this project. The amplifier is fitted with a 3.5mm socket so that a standard lead from MP3 player etc. can simply be plugged in. An external socket can be soldered to the board. Volume is controlled at the player end itself.
Power requirements: The amplifier can be used with a wide range of batteries – e.g., small PP3 (9v) or 4D cells (6v). Batteries capable of supplying higher currents give better sound and less distortion at high volumes: a four AA battery pack is ideal. Any PSU designed for audio applications is also ideal. Board includes battery snap.
Loudspeaker requirements: The amplifier can be used with any size loudspeaker in the 4 – 8 ohm range. The use of lower impedance speakers accentuates base sound – but these are less common. If more base sound is required, one method is to use two 8 ohm loudspeakers connected in parallel for each channel.
Available as a kit of parts that require soldering or as a complete assembled board. Board size: 66 x 35mm
Please note:
It is worth either installing an ON/OFF switch or making sure your batteries are disconnected when not in use as this circuit will continue to draw current.
