Audio Level Meter Circuit LM3915

This meter circuit utilizes a single integrated circuit (IC) and a minimal number of external components. It displays audio levels using ten light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The input voltage can range from 12V to 20V, with a recommended voltage of 12V. The LM3915 is a monolithic integrated circuit designed to sense analog voltage levels and control ten LEDs, providing a logarithmic display with a 3 dB per step. The LED current drive is regulated and programmable, which removes the need for current limiting resistors. The IC features an adjustable voltage reference and a precise ten-step voltage divider. Its high-impedance input buffer can accept signals from ground level up to within 1.5V of the positive supply, and it does not require protection against inputs of up to 35V. The input buffer drives ten individual comparators that are referenced to the precision divider, achieving an accuracy typically better than 1 dB.

The circuit employs the LM3915 LED bar graph/LED dot display driver, which is specifically optimized for audio level indication applications. The configuration of the LM3915 allows for a visual representation of audio levels in a logarithmic format, making it suitable for audio signal monitoring. The IC is designed to drive LEDs directly, which simplifies the circuit design by eliminating the need for external current limiting resistors. Instead, the current for the LEDs can be adjusted through an external resistor, providing flexibility in brightness control.

The adjustable voltage reference within the LM3915 allows for calibration of the display, ensuring that the audio levels are accurately represented. The internal ten-step voltage divider ensures that the audio input signal is divided into ten distinct levels, each corresponding to a specific LED. This enables a clear and precise indication of the audio level, which is particularly useful in audio mixing and sound engineering applications.

The high-impedance input buffer is a critical feature, as it allows the circuit to accept a wide range of input voltages without distortion. The ability to handle input voltages up to 35V without damage makes this circuit robust and versatile for various applications. The input buffer's design ensures that the signal integrity is maintained, allowing for accurate comparisons against the internal voltage reference.

In summary, this meter circuit is an efficient and effective solution for visualizing audio levels, leveraging the capabilities of the LM3915 to provide a reliable and accurate display with minimal external component requirements. Its design is particularly advantageous for use in audio equipment, where precise level monitoring is essential.This meter circuit uses just one IC and a very few number of external components. It displays the audio level in terms of 10 LEDs. The input voltage can vary from 12V to 20V, but suggested voltage is 12V. The LM3915 is a monolithic integrated circuit that senses analog voltage levels and drives ten LEDs providing a logarithmic 3 dB/step analog dis play. LED current drive is regulated and programmable, eliminating the need for current limiting resistors. The IC contains an adjustable voltage reference and an accurate ten-step voltage divider. The high-impedance input buffer accepts signals down to ground and up to within 1. 5V of the positive supply. Further, it needs no protection against inputs of 35V. The input buffer drives 10 individual comparators referenced to the precision divider. Accuracy is typically better than 1 dB. 🔗 External reference