Atari Punk Console Fun DIY Electronic circuit bending Synthesizer Project Kit

Description

Atari Punk Console
Description
Early 2014 we sold a pre-built version of the well-known Forrest Mims III Atari punk console (APC) that incorporated some modifications and extras of our own devising. We discontinued this product in 2016 after making available an add-on LFO and a sequencer. Late in 2018 we decided to add more kits to our product line and to expand our audio offerings once more. To that end we are now offering this new version of the APC in kit form only. It incorporates the original 556 dual oscillator set up with an option to bring a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) into circuit to produce a simple optical ‘Theremin style’ effect.
We have discarded the external control voltage circuitry, so further expansion by us is not envisaged, however, some notes are included at the end of this document on how to build onto and expand the basic design. This easy to build kit is a great starter for newbies or those looking for a simple sound generator that has potential for expansion.
Design Notes or ‘the why of our design’
This version includes some features that we wish we had used in our previous design, for example the audio out connector is a full size ¼” jack. We learned the hard way that a 3.5mm jack does not have the stamina to work long term in this design. Power for the unit is provided by a 9 volt battery that is fixed to the PCB using a battery holder. Previous designs relied on the user providing power to a screw terminal jack that again was not an ideal solution. An on/off switch is included to allow the unit to be self-contained and reduces the chance of discharging the battery.
How does it work?
The APC design is simplicity itself, but the range of sound effects possible are wide and the scope for expansion of the design equally large.
The 556 timer chip is a dual 555 timer package, which means it has 2 x 555 timers built in to one package. This very versatile chip has many (many) applications and in this design the two timers are configured with one as an Astable multivibrator and the other as a Monostable multivibrator. The Astable unit is the main oscillator or noise maker, its output is used to trigger the monostable and the monostable acts as a pulse duration control or divider of the oscillator that means the resulting sounds are chopped or extended depending on the setting of the divider potentiometer, while the oscillator potentiometer defines the frequency of the Astable.
Whats included in the Sale?
1. A complete kit of all parts to make a working APC, this includes the PCB, battery holder, output jack, 556 IC and all passive components. The kit contents is shown in the photos.
2. The comprehensive user guide with loads of how to build photos is available from our web site as a download pdf
Please Note : No battery is included in this sale, in the photos this is for illustration only
Questions?
We always respond to questions, please ask before making your purchase if any details are unclear or need clarification. Remember the photos are also part of the sale description.
Other Details
1. Shipping is free within the USA. We ship in  one business day after receipt of full payment.
2. Please make sure your ship to address is correct with ebay, this reduces shipping delays and issues.
3. Returns - start a return by accessing ebay customer support on your ebay account page, we generally offer 60 day return windows.
4. We provide follow up technical support after sale if needed - we are only an email away.
About Feedback
We always leave positive feedback after shipping your item, no exceptions.
Our products and service are all designed to give you the customer a 5 Star experience, however, we understand that sometimes things can go wrong (we are only human), and occasionally we may not meet our high standards. Before leaving less than 5 Star feedback, or Neutral/Negative feedback
for us
, please give us an opportunity to resolve the situation to your satisfaction first. We are only an email away and will always respond.