RLC Circuit

Demo Number	386
Location	Shelf 36
Description	This is an RLC Circuit that can be either driven with an AC Source or a DC source.
Related Demos	385
Tips	The function generator on shelf 61 is a good AC source. DO NOT EXCEED 5V AND 0.5A. (If using the function generator, do not turn the “amplitude” knob more than halfway; the bulb may bust) There is a selector at the bottom left to put the speaker in the circuit or out of the circuit. Procedure: Get two banana cables. With the speaker switch in the “no current” position, connect the AC source and the board (connections top left) Turn on the AC source and double-check the current and voltage (0.5A and 5V, respectively). If using the function generator, set the amplitude to less than half. Using the throw switch, select either the loop with or without the speaker. If your AC Source can vary the frequency, start at low frequency and “scan” to higher frequencies. There is a resonance at low frequency (~15Hz) without the speaker and another at higher frequency (~110Hz) with the speaker. Note: you will need to increase the “amplitude to 3/4 momentarily around 100-120Hz to see the bulb and hear the speaker. Please decrease “amplitude” when going back down to low frequencies. At higher frequencies, the bulb and speaker will not operate due to the inductor in the circuit. The board has a prop on the back to hold the board up if desired (see the third picture).

Colorado State University