circuit bending

• Illustration — A circuit-bent Walkman • Illustration — A 1989 Kawasaki toy guitar used in a circuit bending project The process of circuit bending involves experimenting with inexpensive second-hand electronics that produce sounds, such as toys, keyboards, drum machines, and electronic learning products. Circuit bending is generally exploratory: modifications are made without a manufacturer's schematic or a predetermined design, and useful bends may be found by temporarily bridging points on an exposed circuit board and listening for changes in the output. A common modification involves the device's clock circuit. In many electronic toys, the clock controls the pitch of sounds as well as the speed of programmed sequences. Changing resistance in the timing circuit can therefore alter both pitch and speed. Useful circuit points may be connected to controls such as potentiometers, photoresistors, or touch contacts. Devices that use crystal-controlled clocks or highly integrated circuitry can be more difficult to modify because fewer timing components and connections are externally accessible. Circuit-bending guides recommend using battery-powered devices rather than equipment connected to mains electricity. • Illustration — A Yamaha PSR-6 used in a circuit bending project