A solar-powered synthesizer that creates experimental sounds, rhythmic patterns, and beats using minimal energy from the sun! This project embodies the spirit of solarpunk by combining sustainable energy with creative expression.
https://sgmkcloud.ocloud.de/index.php/apps/forms/65qHgGpafZMqBaDL
The SolarpunkSynth is an ultra-low power consumption synthesizer that can be powered by:
- Silicon solar cells
- DIY DSSC (Dye-sensitized solar cells)
- Alternative power sources (mud batteries, potato power, coconut energy)
- Nearly depleted batteries (due to extremely low power requirements)
This repository contains two versions of the SolarpunkSynth:
Located in /SolarPunkSynth
- The original version of the solar-powered synthesizer
- Simple and elegant design
- Perfect for beginners and workshops
- Includes complete documentation and assembly instructions
Located in /SolarSynth_digilog
- Enhanced version with digital-inspired aesthetics
- Developed for the Digilog exhibition in Taipei, Taiwan
- Features artistic PCB design with custom graphics
- Same core functionality with a unique visual style
The synthesizer is built around these key features:
- Based on hex-inverter chip (74HC14)
- Three interdependent oscillators coupled through piezo discs
- Ultra-low energy consumption (<0.5mA)
- Audio output via 3.5mm jack
- Organic, variable rhythms through unstable circuit states
- KiCad PCB design files included
- Simple and robust circuit design
- Direct audio output from oscillator circuit
- Basic component selection for easy assembly
- Standard PCB layout optimized for functionality
- Ideal for workshops and educational purposes
- Added MCP6002 dual op-amp for improved audio output buffering
- Enhanced signal conditioning with additional filtering capacitors
- Modified component values for better stability
- Custom footprint library optimized for artistic PCB layout
- Artistic PCB design with custom traces and visual elements
- ENIG finish recommended for superior aesthetic presentation
- Optional acrylic cover design for finished look and protection
You can also view the minimal schematic as PDF.
For the original SolarpunkSynth version:
- Detailed Soldering Guide (PDF)
- Soldering Guide (SVG)
- Complete step-by-step assembly instructions are included in the SolarPunkSynth README.md
Instruction photos are available:
For the Digilog edition, additional documentation is available:
-
/SolarPunkSynth- Original version KiCad files and documentation/002_SolarPunkSynth_footprints.pretty- Custom footprints for the PCB/MASK- PCB mask files and design assets/instructions- Assembly guides and schematics/svg2shenzhen- SVG files for PCB artwork
-
/SolarSynth_digilog- Digilog edition KiCad files/3d_models- 3D models of components/DIY_pcb- DIY PCB patterns and masks for custom fabrication/acrylicCover_digilog- Design files for the optional acrylic protective cover/gerber- Manufacturing files/instructions- Enhanced assembly guides in multiple formats/svg2shenzhen- Custom PCB artwork filesBOM.ods- Detailed bill of materials in OpenDocument Spreadsheet format
-
/photos- Project photos and workshop documentation
For those interested in creating their own PCBs at home or in makerspaces, the Digilog edition includes DIY PCB files:
SolarSynth_MASK.png- Printable mask pattern for toner transfer or photolithographySolarSynth_digilog_MASK.svg- Vector version of the mask for scaling and modifications
These files can be used with common DIY PCB fabrication methods like toner transfer, photolithography, or CNC milling.
The Digilog edition offers an optional aesthetic acrylic cover:
acrylCover_digilog.dxf- CAD file for laser cuttingdrawing.svg- Vector drawing for preview and modifications
The acrylic cover enhances the visual appeal while providing protection to the electronics.
A solar-powered synthesizer that creates experimental sounds, rhythmic patterns, and beats using minimal energy from the sun! This project embodies the spirit of solarpunk by combining sustainable energy with creative expression.
This project is designed to be beginner-friendly and has been successfully taught in workshops across various locations including:
- Taipei, Taiwan (Digilog)
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Tokyo, Japan (FabCafe)
No prior electronics knowledge is required - just enthusiasm for experimental sounds and solar-powered creativity!
This circuit is a modified version of the StarvationSynth originally developed by Ralf Schreiber and Uwe Schüler. The current version was specifically developed by Marc Dusseiller (dusjagr) to support the exhibition "1,540,000nm DSSC" by Shih Wei-Chieh at FabCafe Tokyo.
- svg2shenzhen - An Inkscape extension that converts SVG drawings to KiCad PCB layouts, allowing for artistic and unrestricted PCB designs with support for any kind of shapes, drill pads, and edge cuts. Special thanks to Budi Prakosa (@badgeek) for creating this amazing tool!
- KiCad - PCB design software
This project is open hardware - feel free to modify and share!
This project is licensed under the CERN Open Hardware License Version 2 - Permissive (CERN-OHL-P v2). This means you are free to:
- Study
- Modify
- Make
- Distribute
without any obligation to share your changes or modifications.
For more details, see the LICENSE file.