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 Minimitter
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 Return to top of page · Post #: 1 · Written at 10:59:21 AM on 8 June 2026.
Robbbert's avatar
 Location: Hill Top, NSW
 Member since 18 September 2015
 Member #: 1801
 Postcount: 2271

This kit has been around for years, using a BA1404 single IC to produce a weak stereo FM signal. Just noticed that Jaycar still sell these with a revised PCB in a runout sale. So if you want one better get it now.

It doesn't have a PLL or any kind of crystal locking, so it tends to drift a little, especially if the antenna loading changes.

Originally it comes powered by a single AA battery, which produces poor modulation, poor battery life, and a very weak signal. Changing to a 5 Volt mains-powered source fixes all these issues.

I found amongst my junk an already-completed kit, but not attached to its box. So I drilled holes in the box for 2 RCA sockets for the audio, and a TV PAL connector for the FM signal output. Mounted the PCB in the box and soldered up the sockets.

Next was to construct a power supply. Again from the junk box I found a metal box with a power cord attached. Inside the box was a transformer, 2 diodes, and a 1000μF capacitor, producing 7.9 volts . I found a 7805A plastic-tab regulator, so wired this in together with a 470μF electro on the output. The meter couldn't decide if the output was 4.99 or 5.00 volts, close enough.

Wired the power supply to the transmitter, and now there is plenty of power in the house, and excellent modulation. Outside though the signal quickly drops away, not reaching any of the boundary fences.

It makes good stereo sound, which is the main thing. I would have liked proper frequency locking, but one can't have everything.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 2 · Written at 2:59:10 PM on 8 June 2026.
GTC's avatar
 GTC
 Location: Sydney, NSW
 Member since 28 January 2011
 Member #: 823
 Postcount: 6977

 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 3 · Written at 5:03:25 AM on 18 August 2026.
Wa2ise's avatar
 Location: Oradell, US
 Member since 2 April 2010
 Member #: 643
 Postcount: 842


I use this FM mini transmitter. It can do stereo. I also connected coax cable to the antenna output and ground that in turn feeds a dipole antenna cut for 89MHz )I selected 88.7MHz as it's an empty channel in my town, so I don't jam a neighbour wanting to receive a station on another frequency I might have selected. I can receive it all around my house, but not too far outside. I turn it off before I leave to go to the pub or a Burger King.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 4 · Written at 7:17:06 PM on 18 August 2026.
GTC's avatar
 GTC
 Location: Sydney, NSW
 Member since 28 January 2011
 Member #: 823
 Postcount: 6977

I use this FM mini transmitter.

BH1417F Stereo PLL FM Transmitter Module

https://pira.cz/pdf/bh1417f.pdf


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 5 · Written at 8:23:42 PM on 11 September 2026.
Robbbert's avatar
 Location: Hill Top, NSW
 Member since 18 September 2015
 Member #: 1801
 Postcount: 2271

Visited Jaycar at Campbelltown last week and bought the last minimitter kit. It doesn't come with a case, but I have a spare black one.

Not sure when I'll build it, no hurry.


 
 Return to top of page · Post #: 6 · Written at 1:57:21 PM on 12 September 2026.
Marcc's avatar
 Location: Wangaratta, VIC
 Member since 21 February 2009
 Member #: 438
 Postcount: 5746

I love the transparent cases on some cheap stuff. Cost cutting, can't afford the pigment?


 
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