ECE443-Sp26 Portable Theremin

C++
Python
3D Printing
Analog
System Design
System Testing
Arduino
Embedded Systems
PCB
Enclosure
Technical Writing
Hardware
Audio
Spring 2026

The Portable Theremin is a modern reimagining of the classical analog theremin. Built with portability in mind, it features modular antennas, a battery supplied power system, a built-in speaker, and a practical enclosure design. It features controls for pitch, volume, and waveform selection, complemented by a display that shows the current settings and a real-time audio visualizer. Like a traditional theremin, it produces sound without physical contact using two antennas, one for pitch and one for volume. As the player’s hands move near the antennas, they form a variable capacitor that alters frequency and amplitude, translating gestures into sounds. The Portable Theremin project exists to serve music lovers, theremin enthusiasts, and individuals interested in the intersection of art, science and technology. Currently, the team is preparing for the Engineering Expo. Our final system verification went well. We were able to verify all 8 of our engineering requirements. We are now making final tweaks to the theremin so that it is presentable for the expo. During verification there were issues with noise. At low volumes the theremin does not produce a clear sine wave. Our goal over the next few weeks will be to resolve this issue.

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Artifacts

Name Description
Project Poster Our Engineering Expo Poster.   Download
Executive Summary Project description, current status, achievements, challenges, next steps, future developments, and a whole-project-major-milestone visual.   Download
Project Document Final Project Document   Download
Project Summary Video A video that describes and demonstrates our project.   Link
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