Using your computer as a signal generator [closed]

Question

Closed. This question needs to be more focused. It is not currently accepting answers.

---

Want to improve this question? Update the question so it focuses on one problem only by editing this post.

Closed 8 years ago.

Improve this question

I'm not quite sure where to post this question, but I think Stack Overflow has a lot of smart people who could help.

I'm wondering if there is a way I can combine programming and electrical circuits. Can I somehow turn my computer into a signal generator to create AC waveforms which I could apply to an external circuit that I've created? Could I then program my computer with say C++ code to change the amplitude/frequency of the waveform (hopefully this if possible doesn't require assembly language which I know nothing about expect that its code that operates more directly with the CPU or something). Basically, I'm looking for a way to combine coding with electrical circuits. Anything will do. I just want to get better at both because they both interest me.

Answer 1

Yes, you can use your audio channel.

You have to consider its frequency response: (theoretical Maximum of 20kHz?)

You also have to buffer the audio output. Use an opamp as a buffer for that. You do not want to overload your audio jack.

You will run into challenges of how "Fast" you can send data to your audio channel. But I think it is possible.

Another way is to use a good old parallel port, IF you have one :). Those are nice to command some electronics.