Single chip(MAX 2606) based FM transmitter circuit

 

Here’s a single chip FM transmitter circuit using Maxim semiconductors IC MAX2606. The MAX2606 is a compact, high-performance intermediate frequency VCO specially designed for wireless communication circuits. They have monolithic construction with low-noise and a low-power operation in a compact 6-pin SOT23 packing .Th1s low-noise IC feature an on-chip varicap diode and feedback capacitances that avoid the need for external tuning components, making the MAX2606 perfect for portable systems. Only an external inductor is needed to set the oscillation frequency.In addition to this, an Integrated differential output buffer is also there for driving a mixer or prescaler.The MAX2606 can be operated from a single +2.8 V to +5.4V supply and consumes very less current .The chip can be operated from 45MHz to 650MHz .

In the circuit the nominal frequency is set to 100 Mhz by inductor L1, (390nH) . The left and right channel audio signals from your source are added by R3 and R4, and attenuated by the POT R2. R2 can be used as a volume control .POT R1 can be used to select a channel of transmission between 88Mhz and 108Mhz.Use 80 cm long wire as the antenna .

Notes

• Assemble the circuit on a good quality PCB or common board.
• Use a battery for powering the circuit.It will reduce noise.
• An FM antenna from a old radio is a better option than the wire antenna.

The output is between 88MHz and 108MHz, and allows transmitting audio signals to FM radios for remote listening. A schematic is provided with all component values to complete the project. Output power is ~ -21dBm, and the IC operates on 3V. IC1 is a voltage-controlled oscillator with integrated varactor. Its nominal frequency of oscillation is set by inductor L1, and a 390nH value places that frequency at 100MHz. Potentiometer R1 then lets you select a channel by tuning over the FM band of 88MHz to 108MHz. Output power is about -21dBm into 50 (most countries accept emissions below 10dBm in the FM band).

The audio unit's left and right audio signals are summed by R3 and R4, and attenuated by the (optional) potentiometer R2. R2's wiper signal serves as a volume control by modulating the RF frequency. Signals above 60mV introduce distortion, so the pot attenuates down from that level.

In the absence of a standard FM radio antenna, 75cm (30 inches) of wire will suffice as a transmitting antenna. For best reception, it should be mounted parallel with the receiving antenna. The IC operates on a single supply voltage in the range 3V to 5V, but one must regulate the applied voltage to minimize frequency drift and noise.