Engineering Clipping Detector Circuit Design

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The discussion focuses on designing a clipping detector circuit for an audio equalizer project that has a maximum output of 2 volts and uses a 3V input. The user seeks advice on implementing the detector with minimal components, specifically using a transistor or a comparator/op-amp. Suggestions include considering the definition of clipping in relation to power rails and using a voltage divider to manage potential signal exceedance. The conversation highlights the importance of setting the comparator or op-amp to trigger at a voltage slightly below the supply rail. Overall, the design aims to effectively detect clipping while maintaining simplicity in component usage.
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Homework Statement


I am building an audio equalizer as a project for class, consisting of a summing amplifier with variable gain for the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. I also have the option to include a clipping/overload detector, though I have already chosen parameters that will not allow the output to go over 2 volts, given a maximum 3V input.

[edit] To clarify, I've already built the equalizer; I'm just trying to implement the clipping detector.

Homework Equations


n/a

The Attempt at a Solution


Could I implement this with a transistor, and if so, how? One of the stipulations of the assignment is also to use as few and as simple components as possible, so is there a solution comprised of solely R(L)C components?

I'm not really sure how to calculate the values at which current in a transistor are switched, so if I could get some pointers that would be helpful. Thanks!
 
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Well, since this is homework, I'll just give you a hint: what is the definition of clipping (relative to your power rails) and how might you use, say, a comparator or op-amp to detect this?
 
Ah...wonder why I didn't see that before...

Thanks!
 
swuster said:
Ah...wonder why I didn't see that before...

Thanks!

Experience. Also, TA'ing a senior, build-yourself-some-electronics lab. Actually, I forgot a point. What's the likelihood that your signal will exceed your supply rails? How would you go about getting the comparator / op-amp to trigger at a voltage a little less (maybe a lot less, depending on your expected maximum output voltage) than your supply rail?
 
Since the output is never more than around 2V, very little chance, as my rails are set to 12 and -12 Vcc. If it did, I could just make a voltage divider by running a resistor with an appropriate value to ground, right?
 
swuster said:
Since the output is never more than around 2V, very little chance, as my rails are set to 12 and -12 Vcc. If it did, I could just make a voltage divider by running a resistor with an appropriate value to ground, right?

That's correct, and is basically how most of these circuits works. They get fancier by doing things like noise rejection, triggering only if it clips for a certain interval, dynamic threshold setting, etc.
 

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