Snap Circuits SCP12 Snap FM Radio Kit, Build an Electronic Radio, Ages 8+

Build a working FM radio

The Snap Circuits Snap FM Radio kit (model SCP12) builds a real FM radio from 24 numbered electronic blocks. Each block snaps onto a clear plastic base grid, and the colors and numbers printed on the blocks make them easy to identify. It is an entry level kit in the Snap Circuits line from Elenco, for ages 8 and up.

The finished circuit has an FM module that scans stations, a power amplifier IC (U4) that drives the signal, and a speaker (SP) that plays the sound. The instructions walk you through the assembly, and building it shows how a radio picks up a station and creates sound.

How to tune a station

The build guide arranges the parts on the base grid in numbered layers, 1 through 4. It also points out a 3-snap wire between the FM module and the speaker that sits partly hidden in the finished circuit.

1. Install three AA batteries (not included) in the battery holder (B3).
2. Turn on the slide switch (S1).
3. Press the R button on the FM module. This resets the tuner to 88 MHz.
4. Press the T button. The module scans the band and locks onto the first station it finds, and you hear it through the speaker.
5. Turn the adjustable resistor (RV) to set the volume. It controls how much signal reaches the amplifier (U4).
6. Press T again for the next station. The scan stops at 108 MHz, the top of the FM band, and R starts it over at 88 MHz.

Specifications

Model

SCP12

Brand

Snap Circuits

Manufacturer

Elenco

Parts included

24

Recommended age

8 years and up

Batteries

3 AA, not included

Tuning range

88 to 108 MHz, automatic scan

Item weight

320 g

Dimensions

20.3 x 19.1 x 6.4 cm

UPC

0756619010229

Named parts in the circuit

The instructions label each part with a code, and the parts below appear in the build.

• FM module with R (reset) and T (tune) buttons
• Speaker (SP)
• Slide switch (S1)
• Adjustable resistor (RV)
• Power amplifier IC (U4)
• Battery holder (B3)
• Snap wires and the clear plastic base grid

Choking hazard: the kit has small parts and a cord, so it is not for children under 3 years. Three AA batteries are required and are not included.