Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I'm doing the low power AM transmitter that is on the science buddies website. I'm trying to find the supplies and I don't know where to get the crystal oscillators. Also is the low power AM transmitter project easier than the Crystal Radio Project? Is building the low power AM transmitter hard for a beginner?

acalinz - Either project, the crystal radio or AM transmitter are relatively easy. The crystal radio is probably the easiest and parts relatively available at a local Radio Shack or computer/electronics components store. The critical part of the crystal radio is the care required to wind the coil and to use a long antenna and suitable ground. For the AM transmitter, Radio Shack doesn't seem to list any part number, but the oscillator may be found in a local components store as I suggested above. They are also available on eBay, Amazon and companies like DigiKey and Jameco Electronics. A typical part from Jameco is shown in the file attached. Good luck in your selection and project.

Rick Marz