Sound Activated Relay Page 1 of 1

Parts List:
Rx = 10K C1,C2,Cbias = 0.1uF, ceramic Q1 = 2N2222,2N3904, etc.
R1 = 1K C3 = 1uF, electrolytic IC1 = 741 op-amp
R2 = 100K C4,Cx = 10uF, electrolytic MIC = Electret Mike, 2-wire
R3 = 100K Ry = Relay
R4 = 25K D1,D2 = 1N914,1N4148,NTE519
R5 = 2K7 D3 = 1N4001

This relay remains dormant until the op-amp activates upon sound via the electret-microphone. I
only tested the 2-wire type.
The input stage is a regular off-the-shelf 741 operational amplifier and connected as a non-inverting
follower audio amplifier.
Gain is approximately 100 which you can raise by increasing the value of R2.
The amplified signal is rectified and filtered via C3, D1/D2, and R3 to an acceptable DC level. D1
and D2 can be any signal diode like 1N914, 1N4148, or the NTE519.
Cx can be anything with a value of 6.8 to 22uF. Adjust if necessary. Cbias is to DC-couple the mic to
the input of the 741.
Q1, the 2N2222 or 2N3904, is a general purpost NPN transistor and is not critical. The NTE123A
will work too.
Potentiometer R4 is used to set the audio level to a desired sensitivity value to activate the relay via
transistor Q1.
Diode D3 is mounted over the relay coil to absorb sparks when the relay opens. Cathode goes to '+'.
The op-amp configuration in this particular drawing needs a dual voltage powersupply which can be
made from two 9 volt alkaline batteries.

Copyright © 2003 - Tony van Roon

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.uoguelph.ca/~antoon/circ/relay4.html 2005-03-10