Circuit Building 101: Create a Voltage-Controlled Oscillator

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.