Lab 1 - Our device as a Musical Instrument

The device we created does indeed function as a musical instrument as it outputs sound based on human input. However, the device left much to be desired. First, the variable resistor only had a fixed range and therefore only allowed a distinct range of sound to be produced by the circuit. Also, since the slider had a short stroke, it was very difficult to make very small changes in output pitch. Additionally, because the slider was continuous, it was difficult to arrive at the same location consistently. This made the output sound different every time.

Hearing the final device perform as it was intended was somewhat rewarding, though. Knowing that we made a circuit that worked as we desired provided positive re-enforcement towards our knowledge base. Additionally, it exposed some of the uses these types of circuits can have when they are integrated with each other.

We realize that in future work that the interface between the device and the human will be just as important as the circuit itself. This device showed this principle because it was an awkward device to manipulate and use. While it did perform its function well, its form was neglected. This will be an important part of the final project.