DIY electronics

Build a digital frequency counter without a microcontroller. Convert waveforms to pulses via diodes. Use an MC14553B counter and CD4017 sequencer. Measure frequency by counting pulses over one second.

Maxon's OD808 (1979), developed by Susumu Tamura, became the Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer, based on the BOSS OD-1 with a tone control added. It inspired many overdrive pedals that enhance amp overdrive by emphasizing certain frequencies.

How to build a simple DIY guitar tremolo pedal using three transistors? Electronic tremolo is easy to create without altering amplifier bandwidth or signal delay. The design uses a low-frequency oscillator (LFO) and a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA), each on one transistor. Excellent results with a simple, thoughtful design (like the Univox U65RN and EA tremolo).

The DAC0832 is a precise digital-to-analog converter used with the LM317T for voltage control in power supplies. It features dual latches, requires an op-amp, and uses 74HC193 counters for digital input management.

Comparators compare voltages and are used in devices like microcontrollers. They resemble operational amplifiers and can be used in PWM circuits and thermometers. Comparators convert analog signals to digital logic, enabling automated control with hysteresis for stability. They can operate without microcontrollers, as shown in an electronic thermometer using LM324 chips.

Decoders and demultiplexers expand microcontroller ports and create effects like running lights. The CD4017 chip, clocked by a multivibrator, lights LEDs dynamically. Using the binary CD4060 with a 74HC138 decoder simplifies the circuit. The 74HC154 offers more outputs, enhancing digital functionality.

The CD4017 decimal counter and its simplicity, efficiency, and applications. Various practical uses for creating sequential lighting effects and controlling devices such as a wheel of fortune, electronic dice, and party lights with sound response controlled by the CD4017 and NE555 timer.

A cost-effective, compact amp using the NE5532 op-amp, providing clean, high-quality audio for headphones and as a buffer with gain in audio systems. It avoids the complexity of tube and transistor amps.

Many of us program microcontrollers and know that counters and timers are important parts of them. But not everyone remembers that they are also produced in the form of separate ICs, and once upon a time counters were assembled using flip-flops and logic elements.

Welcome to my guitar effects workshop! This scheme is already 46 years old. If you want tons of vintage mojo, you should consider assembling of this guitar pedal.