I need to build an instrument to make certain frequencies. Where can i find information on how to do that?

Question

Its for my physics class. I can build any instrument as long as it can make certain frequencies. Where is a website that i can find info on building instrument where i can choose the frequency the sound vibrates at,, orrr, how can i build one??
Thanks.

Answer 1

Buy a frequency generator, available at pearl.

Answer 2

If you are handy with a soldering iron and have access to basic components, I 100% recommend building a 555 timer/oscillator circuit.



I made my first of these when I was 13 or so, and it's dead easy.



Here are some links:

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/Bill_Bowden/page10.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/555_timer_IC



Or, simply find a way to stress a length of piano wire (or steel cable) and use that as a simple resonator.



Or find a bit of pipe, drill holes, and make a flute.



Or make a pendulum (rather low frequency 'sound' source I admit, but a signal generator all the same).



I'd build a 555 oscillator, personally.

Cheap (5 dollars or less), portable, covers 4 or 5 orders of magnitude of frequency, can drive an LED or a speaker, wins hands down.

Answer 3

Any kind of homemade musical instrument would fit that definition.



It could be something as simple as a glass container. Put different levels of water in it, then it hit it to generate different frequencies. Each note is a different frequency.