Circuit Building 101: Create a Voltage-Controlled Oscillator
Participants will learn how to build and test a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) circuit using a breadboard—no soldering required! This beginner-friendly electronics workshop is perfect for anyone curious about circuitry but unsure where to start. Along the way, you’ll gain a solid foundation in electronics terminology, tools, and safety practices. Each participant will receive a kit with all the components needed for the class, plus a few extras to encourage future experimentation at home.
What to Expect
You’ll start with an introduction to breadboarding and basic electronic components, then move into building your own VCO circuit from scratch. We’ll walk through how to read datasheets, test circuits with LEDs, and safely use a multimeter and oscilloscope. The instructor will guide you step-by-step, and there will be time for hands-on experimentation, questions, and troubleshooting.
Skills You’ll Acquire
- How to use a breadboard for circuit prototyping
- Reading integrated circuit datasheets
- Identifying resistors, capacitors, and other components
- Using a multimeter to test voltage, resistance, and continuity
- Using an oscilloscope to visualize signal output
- Testing circuits with LEDs
- Practicing electronics safety
- Troubleshooting and experimenting with simple analog circuits
What’s Provided
- A complete electronics kit (yours to keep)
- Breadboard, ICs, resistors, capacitors, LEDs, and more
- Access to shared multimeters and oscilloscopes
- Instructional materials and guided practice time
Who Should Attend
This class is ideal for beginners with no prior electronics experience who want a fun, approachable way to dive into circuits and hardware tinkering. Great for curious minds, DIYers, and future synth builders!
Prerequisites/Safety Information
No prior experience necessary. This is a no-solder, low-voltage class focused on safe handling of beginner electronics equipment. All tools and materials will be provided.
Instructor: Andrei Jay
Workshop Ticket Fee:
Standard Public Ticket: $63.00
MakeHaven Members: $54.00
You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:
https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=469&reset=1&reset=1
Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org