FM Transmitter

Simple FM transmitter Circuit

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 Simple FM Transmitter Circuit

This is a small-power FM transmitter circuit capable of transmitting audio signals wirelessly over short distances. It consists of a microphone preamplifier stage, an oscillator stage, and an RF transmission stage, which together generate and transmit a frequency-modulated (FM) signal.
Use 9 or 12V DC regulated power supply. A  Regulated power supply is needed because oscillation affects the frequency at the output as power variation occurs in supply.
This circuit construction is so easy and very portable to operate. The use of this transmitter is only for educational purposes.

 Features of This FM Transmitter Circuit

Simple and cost-effective design – Uses common components like 2N2222A transistors.
Decent transmission range – It covers a few hundred meters with a proper antenna.
Clear audio transmission – Good frequency stability for FM signal transmission.
Operates on low voltage – Can run on 9V to 12V DC power supply.
Suitable for DIY projects – Ideal for beginners and electronics enthusiasts.

Circuit diagram of small FM Transmitter

FM transmitter circuit diagram

Components and Their Functions

The circuit comprises three main sections:

1️⃣ Audio Input & Amplification Section

  • MIC1 (Microphone): Captures audio signals (voice or music).
  • R1 (1KΩ) & R2 (15KΩ): Provide the necessary biasing to the microphone for proper operation.
  • C1 (10µF): Blocks DC components and allows only the AC audio signal to pass.
  • Q1 (2N2222A Transistor): Acts as a preamplifier, amplifying the weak microphone signal.
  • R3 (10KΩ), R4 (6.8KΩ), and R5 (4.7KΩ): Set the operating point (biasing) of Q1.
  • C2 (2.2µF) & C3 (10µF): Coupling capacitors that smooth the amplified signal.

2️⃣ Oscillator & Modulation Section

  • Q2 (2N2222A Transistor): Functions as an oscillator that generates the RF carrier wave.
  • C5 (50pF) & L1 (Inductor): Work together to determine the oscillation frequency in the FM band (88-108MHz).
  • C6 (0.1µF): Filters out unwanted noise and stabilizes the signal.
  • R7 (1KΩ) & R8 (2.2KΩ): Provide biasing for the oscillator stage.
  • C4 (0.1µF): Helps in stabilizing the oscillator circuit.

3️⃣ RF Transmission Section

  • C7 (4.7pF): Couples the RF signal to the antenna for transmission.
  • C8 (0.1µF): Further filters out any unwanted high-frequency noise.
  • Antenna: Transmits the FM signal over the air. A simple wire or telescopic antenna can be used.

⚙️ How the Circuit Works

Step 1: Audio Signal Processing

  • The microphone (MIC1) captures sound waves and converts them into electrical signals.
  • This weak audio signal is amplified by Q1 (2N2222A transistor).
  • The amplified signal is coupled via C2 (2.2µF) and C3 (10µF) into the next stage.

Step 2: Frequency Generation & Modulation

  • Q2 (2N2222A) acts as an RF oscillator and generates a high-frequency carrier signal in the FM band.
  • The amplified audio signal modulates the oscillator, varying the frequency of the carrier wave based on the audio input (FM modulation).

Step 3: Transmission via Antenna

  • The frequency-modulated signal is passed through C7 (4.7pF) to the antenna.
  • The antenna transmits the FM signal over the air, where it can be received by an FM radio.

🔧 Optimization Tips for Better Performance

✔️ Increase Transmission Range

  • Use a longer antenna (e.g., 1/4 wavelength dipole antenna).
  • Improve power supply stability (use a regulated 9V-12V power source).
  • Shield the circuit to reduce interference and unwanted noise.

✔️ Improve Audio Quality

  • Use a high-quality microphone for clear sound capture.
  • Adjust the biasing resistors (R1, R2, R3) to fine-tune amplification levels.

✔️ Stabilize Frequency

  • Choose high-precision capacitors (C5, C7) and an inductor (L1) to avoid frequency drift.
  • Place the circuit in a metal enclosure to prevent external RF interference.

📡 Applications of This FM Transmitter

Wireless Microphone – Can be used for wireless audio transmission.
Personal FM Radio Station – Useful for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.
Remote Audio Monitoring – Can work as a small surveillance device.
Wireless Music Transmission – Plays audio from MP3 players or other sources.


💡 Final Thoughts

This simple FM transmitter circuit is an effective, low-cost way to wirelessly transmit audio signals. With proper tuning and optimization, it can provide clear, stable FM transmission over a decent range.

components

  • Resistors ¼ watt (220Ω-1;  1kΩ -2; 2.2kΩ; 10kΩ-1;  15kΩ; 6.8kΩ;  4.7kΩ -2)
  • Electrolytic capacitors 16V (2.2µF; 10µF x 2)
  • Capacitors ceramic (0.1µF x 2; 4.7pF)
  • Variable capacitor (50pF)
  • Inductor (0.1µH)
  • Transistors (2N2222 x 2)
  • Condenser mic

Working

 Resistor R4 is connected to control the input RF signal to the oscillatory section. you can use a variable resistor for this.

Value of inductor design for FM transmitters

By using the following formula inductor can be designed
L = (d²n²) / (18d+40l)
where,
l – Inductance of the coil in µH
d – Coil diameter in Inches
S – Coil length in Inches and
n – Number of turns
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