A simple buzzer is an electroacoustic transducer that converts an electrical signal into sound. It typically consists of a coil of wire (inductor), a diaphragm, and a permanent magnet. When an electrical current flows through the coil, it creates a magnetic field around the coil. This magnetic field interacts with the permanent magnet and causes the diaphragm (a thin, flexible piece of material) to vibrate.
The vibrating diaphragm creates pressure waves in the surrounding air, which we perceive as sound. The frequency and loudness of the sound produced by the buzzer depend on the frequency and amplitude of the electrical signal applied to the coil.
In a basic electrical circuit, a simple buzzer can be connected as follows:
Buzzer terminals: A buzzer typically has two terminals - positive (+) and negative (-).
Power source: Connect the positive terminal of the buzzer to the positive side of the power source (e.g., a battery or a power supply). Likewise, connect the negative terminal of the buzzer to the negative side of the power source.
Completing the circuit: When the circuit is closed (the electrical path is complete), current flows through the coil of the buzzer, generating the magnetic field and causing the diaphragm to vibrate, producing sound.
Opening the circuit: When you open the circuit (remove the connection between the buzzer and the power source), the current stops flowing, and the sound stops.
It's essential to consider the voltage and current requirements of the buzzer to avoid damaging it or causing undesirable effects. Simple buzzers are often used in electronic projects, alarms, and low-cost applications where basic sound output is required. More complex buzzers may include additional components like oscillators or sound generation circuits to create different types of sounds or melodies.