Buzzers: Explained.

 

Buzzer

Introduction:

            A buzzer is a small yet efficient component that adds sound features like buzzing or beeping sound to various projects which are implemented. It is a very small and compact two-pin structure and can be easily used on breadboards. It also acts as an indicator that makes this widely used component. It is actually an audio signaling device that is integrated with electronic transducers.

Structure:

            Internally, the buzzer consists of a Piezo Element which we will discuss later. Let’s discuss the pin configuration of a buzzer. A buzzer is a two-pin sensor. It has only two terminals that are a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The positive terminal is actually a longer terminal and is powered to the input voltage and the negative terminal is the short terminal and which is typically connected to the ground of the system.

Types:

            Let's discuss the types of Buzzers. There are two types of Buzzers. One is an active buzzer and the other is a passive buzzer. Active buzzer consists of an internal oscillator that helps the Buzzer to make the beep sound and it requires only DC voltage as input.

Passive buzzer acts like electromagnetic speakers where whenever there is a change in input, it produces sound. It requires an AC signal to produce a sound.

Working of a Buzzer:

            Let's just understand the construction and working of a buzzer. At the heart of all Piezo-type buzzers, is a piezoelectric element. This piezoelectric element is composed of a piezoelectric ceramic and a metal plate which is held together with adhesive, this metal plate is also known as a vibration plate. Both sides of the ceramic plate contain an electrode which is used for electrical conduction purpose. The piezoelectric materials exhibit a specific phenomenon, known as the piezoelectric effect and reverse piezoelectric effect. When this is exposed to the mechanical strain, it will cause the material to develop an electric field and vice-versa, where these piezoelectric plates are in turn connected to the positive and negative terminals of the Buzzer. When an alternating voltage is applied to Piezo ceramic element, the element expands and contracts diametrically. This characteristic of piezoelectric material is utilized to make the ceramic plate vibrate rapidly, which generates sound waves.

Applications:

            We hear buzzers in our daily life like alarm system, then calling Bell, then washing machine where washing machine finishes its operation and the buzzer beeps. Next is the timer cycle has completed so whenever a timer cycle will complete, the buzzer beeps and indicates the operation.

 

Stay tuned.

BYE.