Processing Sound Waves

Looking at this electromechanical system, several variables can be changed which may improve sound quality. For example:

• use 24 gauge wire with additional coil turns.  
• try different diaphragm materials and diameters. What vibrates the best?
• a stronger magnet may make a difference or a smaller diameter tube so the magnet is closer to the coils.

Can you think of others? Each or a combination of these may improve the transducer.

Another approach to improving sound quality is to process the signal.

Electrical Signal Processing

Now that you know about sending sound, can the electronic signal be processed? Yes, technologies, inventions and innovations, have been developed to optimize the quality of sound we hear.

There are many electronic components for signal processing. What does it mean to process the electronic signal? Like we do with materials, electrical flow can be changed. Signal processing involves varying the voltage, current or electromagnetic waves to meet targeted design goals.

As we experienced, Proto 1's sound is low and there is a lot of background noise. Let's see if we can find a solution to these problems. But first, we need to learn about some test instruments used for testing.

Bench Instruments

Test instruments help us see electricity. You learned about a tool used to generate waves. Oscilloscopes help us see waves. Your kit includes a hand-held oscilloscope. Learn how to set-up your oscilloscope for bench tests. Watch this video.

Video Notes:
1. [Ex] select [Ext Refn]  to remove the stored wave.
2. [Yn] Set [Y Offset] to move the wave up and down.
3. [Xn] Set [TimeBase] to fit the wave to the screen.
4. [Tr] Set trigger [Threshold]. Move to stabilize the wave.