How to Place an Audio Jack for Circuit Bending

Circuit bending is a popular hobby that includes "bending," or short circuiting, an electronic toy or instrument so you can utilize the circuit board to create new sounds controlled by additional switches that you can install. You can also install an audio jack to allow you to hook the toy up to an amp.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heat-resistant surface
• Electronic toy
• Jewelers screwdrivers
• Batteries
• Soldering iron
• Solder
• Alligator clips
• Switches
• Wire
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Tape
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Audio jack
• Amp

1. Decide on the electronic toy you are going to bend and set up your work station. This should include a heat-resistant surface. If you do not have a heat-resistant surface, purchase a heat-resistant mat from a hardware, home improvement or craft store.

2. Gather the other tools you will need. Obstacles may arise; if so, find a tool that works for you and add it to your process.

3. Consider installing an audio jack to enable you to plug the toy into an amplifier. First, find an open area on the toy big enough for the audio jack to fit not only in the casing, but also inside the toy where it will not interfere with other components.

4. Check to make sure you will be able to run one wire from the speaker to the circuit board and another wire from the speaker to the end of the audio jack. This is how the sounds made will transfer out to your amplifier. Once you have determined the place for the audio jack, you can start the installation process.