Scribd
Upload
421 views

Metal Detector Circuit Using Two Transistors

This document describes the design and implementation of a basic metal detector circuit using two transistors. The circuit uses the principle of beat frequency oscillation, where two oscillators with slightly different frequencies produce a pulsating tone when their outputs are combined. When a metal object is brought near the search coil, it alters the coil's electromagnetic field and changes the beat frequency, indicating the presence of metal. The circuit components, construction, operation, performance and limitations are discussed in detail. While simple, this project helps explain the underlying concepts of metal detection technology.

Uploaded by

Ahmad Mohid
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
421 views

Metal Detector Circuit Using Two Transistors

This document describes the design and implementation of a basic metal detector circuit using two transistors. The circuit uses the principle of beat frequency oscillation, where two oscillators with slightly different frequencies produce a pulsating tone when their outputs are combined. When a metal object is brought near the search coil, it alters the coil's electromagnetic field and changes the beat frequency, indicating the presence of metal. The circuit components, construction, operation, performance and limitations are discussed in detail. While simple, this project helps explain the underlying concepts of metal detection technology.

Uploaded by

Ahmad Mohid
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 9

Electronic devices and circuits

Complex Engineering Problem

Metal Detector Circuit using Two


Transistors(differential Amplifier)
Name Ahmad Mohid Ullah
Zeeshan Ahmad
Ahmad Hassan

Roll No. 201186


201112
221740

Date: 15/12/2023

Submitted To: Dr Neelum Yousaf


Problem Statement :
Loosing valuable objects like gold or other metal objects in the
beach is quite frustrating because to find them requires us to buy expensive metal
detectors

Objective:
To make an economical device to detect metal objects which is easy to build
and is compact for easy carry

1. Introduction:

This project delves into the construction and exploration of a basic metal detector circuit
using readily available components. Built around two transistors, this detector operates
on the principles of beat-frequency oscillation, making it a perfect educational tool and a
stepping stone towards understanding more complex detection technologies.

2. Theoretical Underpinnings:
Two key concepts fuel this circuit's functionality:

● Beat-frequency Oscillation: The circuit comprises two separate oscillator circuits,


each tuned to slightly different frequencies using capacitors and resistors. When
their outputs combine, a pulsating tone arises at the difference of their individual
frequencies - the beat frequency.
● Metal Object Interaction: Introducing metal objects within the vicinity of the
search coil disrupts its electromagnetic field. This alters the coil's inductance,
impacting the oscillation frequencies and consequently, the beat frequency. The
change in tone acts as the indicator of metal presence.

3. Circuit Design Deep Dive:

a) Oscillator Circuits:

● Transistors: The circuit employs two general-purpose bipolar transistors like


BC547s. They act as amplifiers, boosting the weak signals generated by the
capacitors and resistors.
● Capacitors: These components determine the oscillation frequency in each
circuit. Smaller values like 104pF result in higher frequencies.
● Resistors: These elements control the biasing conditions of the transistors and
fine-tune the oscillation frequency. A variable resistor allows for adjusting the
overall beat frequency.

b) Search Coil:

● This crucial component generates the electromagnetic field responsible for metal
detection. Made by winding insulated wire (preferably enamelled) around a
non-metallic form, its size and number of turns dictate sensitivity. More turns
enhance deep object detection, while larger coils increase overall range.

c) Output Stage:

● Buzzer: Once the beat frequency changes due to metal interaction, a simple
buzzer or speaker converts the electrical signal into an audible tone, signifying
the detection.

4. Construction and Operation:

1. Wind the search coil and assemble the circuit on a breadboard or printed circuit
board.
2. Connect a 9V battery to power the circuit.
3. Adjust the variable resistor until a consistent tone emanates from the speaker.
This sets the base operating frequency.
4. Sweep the search coil in the air and near suspected metal objects. A noticeable
change in tone indicates their presence, with the degree of change and depth
depending on the metal's size and type.

Components

● Two BC547 transistors


● Search coil (approximately 200 turns of insulated wire)
● 104pF capacitors (2)
● 22nF capacitor
● 2.2kΩ resistor
● Variable resistor (10kΩ)
● Buzzer
● 9V battery
Simulation and PCB Design
Hardware:
5. Performance and Limitations:

While this circuit showcases the fundamental principles of metal detection, its sensitivity
has limitations. Smaller metal objects or deeper deposits might go undetected. Larger
search coils improve detection range but increase susceptibility to environmental noise
and nearby electronics.

6. Advanced Considerations:

● Discrimination Circuit: Adding circuitry to differentiate between ferrous


(iron-containing) and non-ferrous metals provides valuable information about the
detected object.
● Microcontroller Integration: Incorporating a microcontroller can introduce features
like digital tone generation, signal processing, and display outputs for enhanced
user experience and data analysis.

Cost Analysis

Two BC547 transistors Rs.60/-

Search coil (approximately 200 turns of Rs.550/-


insulated wire)

104pF capacitors (2) Rs.20/-

22nF capacitor Rs.15/-

Variable resistor (10kΩ) Rs.50/-

Buzzer Rs.20/-

9V battery Rs.100/-

2.2K Resistor Rs.10/-

Copper Board Rs.400/-

Iron Trichloride Rs.100/-

7. Conclusion:

This two-transistor metal detector demonstrates the fascinating interplay of electronics


and electromagnetism. By building and experimenting with this project, you gain insights
into the working principles of metal detection technology. While its limitations require
consideration, the circuit serves as a solid foundation for exploring more advanced
designs and applications. So, grab your soldering iron, dive into the world of metal
detection, and discover the hidden treasures under your feet!

You might also like