Amplifier or oscillator for a vibration generator

  • #1
arosinblum
2
2
I purchased this vibration generator to construct a Chladni plate. I was hoping to use it with my existing oscilloscope (which appears to be very old). It seems the oscilloscope is not giving me a signal strong enough to drive the generator. Any suggestions for a different amplifier or power signal generator that wont break the bank but will be powerful enough to drive the vibration generator?
 
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  • #2
Oscilloscope? Maybe you mean audio oscillator.

The vibration generator is basically a loudspeaker.
Use the audio oscillator as the signal source.
Use an audio power amplifier to amplify the oscillator, and to drive the vibration generator.
 
  • #3
arosinblum said:
It seems the oscilloscope is not giving me a signal strong enough to drive the generator.
A normal oscilloscope doesn't produce signals. It analyses them. A suitable audio oscillator needs to be fairly powerful to get a decent displacement of that transducer at sub-audio frequencies. The type of oscillator needs to have a suitable frequency range so it needs to be like the one mentioned on the link. A general purpose audio oscillator may not do the job so be careful of the spec of anything you may need to buy second hand.
A DIY version of a LF vibration generator can be made with a model electric motor with an eccentric load and a variable voltage power supply. You can measure the frequency with your oscilloscope. Not the best but quite a bit cheaper and a good base for future experiments.
 
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  • #4
I think you need, say, 2 watts or more of audio power to drive one of these. I have used a Chladni plate with the very same vibration generator as you describe.
 
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1. What is the difference between an amplifier and an oscillator for a vibration generator?

An amplifier is used to increase the amplitude of a signal, while an oscillator is used to generate a periodic waveform at a specific frequency. In the context of a vibration generator, an amplifier would increase the magnitude of the vibration signal, while an oscillator would produce the specific vibration frequency.

2. Which is more important for a vibration generator, an amplifier or an oscillator?

Both components are essential for a vibration generator. An amplifier ensures that the vibration signal is strong enough to produce the desired effect, while an oscillator ensures that the vibration is generated at the correct frequency for the intended application.

3. Can an amplifier be used as an oscillator for a vibration generator?

While an amplifier can produce some oscillation in the signal, it is not designed to generate a specific frequency like an oscillator. It is best to use both components together to ensure accurate and controlled vibration generation.

4. How do I choose the right amplifier or oscillator for my vibration generator?

When selecting an amplifier or oscillator for a vibration generator, consider factors such as the required vibration frequency, amplitude, power output, and compatibility with other components in the system. Consulting with a specialist in vibration generation equipment can help you make the best choice.

5. Can I use a general-purpose amplifier or oscillator for a vibration generator?

While a general-purpose amplifier or oscillator may work for simple applications, it is recommended to use specialized components designed for vibration generation to ensure optimal performance and reliability. These components are specifically tailored to meet the requirements of vibration testing and control applications.

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