This circuit enables the production and audible playback of musical melodies extending up to 10 metres. The system is separated into two distinct components: a wireless IR music transmitter and a corresponding receiver. The IR music transmitter is powered by a 9V battery, whilst the IR music receiver operates on a supply of regulated 9V to 12V. The initial schematic illustration portrays the configuration of the IR music transmitter. It incorporates a frequently used melody generation integrated circuit, UM66 (IC1), which is capable of continuously generating musical tones. This IC is a versatile device widely employed in audio applications due to its ability to produce a range of frequencies, making it ideal for generating musical sequences.
The output signal from IC1 is channeled through a driver stage, constructed using transistors T1 and T2, to achieve the greatest possible transmission range. During operation, a red LED (LED1) exhibits flickering behaviour in accordance with the musical tones produced by the UM66 IC (IC1), signifying modulation. Infrared LEDs, IR LED2 and LED3, serve as infrared transmitting diodes. These should be positioned to face the phototransistor L14F1 (T3) to optimise sound transmission. The integrated circuit UM66 (IC1) is a key element in this transmitter circuit, specifically designed to generate a continuous stream of musical tones. The selection of this IC ensures a consistent and reliable source of audio signals.
The melody generated by IC UM66 is transmitted via infrared LEDs, captured by the phototransistor T3, and then supplied to pin 2 of IC µA741 (IC2). The gain of this operational amplifier can be adjusted using a potentiometer, VR1. The output from IC µA741 (IC2) is subsequently connected to IC LM386 (IC3) through a capacitor, C5, and a potentiometer, VR2. The resulting melody is audible through the receiver’s loudspeaker. Potentiometer VR2 is used to control the volume of the loudspeaker LS1 (8-ohm, 1W). Termination of the power supply will halt melody generation.
Integrated circuits are fundamental building blocks within electronic systems, and their precise functioning is crucial for achieving desired performance. An integrated circuit, or IC, is essentially a miniaturized electronic circuit fabricated on a small piece of semiconductor material, most commonly silicon. These circuits contain a complex network of interconnected transistors, resistors, capacitors, and other electronic components, all precisely designed and manufactured to perform a specific function. The selection of ICs, such as UM66 (IC1) and µA741 (IC2), is a key factor in determining the overall characteristics of a circuit, including its speed, power consumption, and accuracy. The µA741 (IC2) is a popular operational amplifier (op-amp) that is widely used in analog circuit design. As an op-amp, it has the ability to amplify weak electrical signals and provide gain to other circuits. This characteristic makes it useful in various applications, including audio amplification, instrumentation, and control systems. The integrated circuit UM66 (IC1) is a widely used melody generator IC, known for its ability to consistently produce musical tones, making it an ideal component for generating melodies. The IC can be programmed to generate specific musical sequences, which is crucial for the transmitter circuit's functionality.