Introduction: Refrigerator Light-activated Open Door Alarm

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About: Music: my profession for over 40 years... Electronics: my beloved hobby always.

This audible / visual alarm circuit will start a short time after light hits the LDR(light dependant resistor) . If the alarm is inside the refrigerator, it will be triggered by external light (when door is open) and by the internal lamp. It is a very common habit to leave the refrigerator door open for more time than necessary, and this wastes energy (money) and can also negatively affect the food in it. Simply knowing that the alarm will sound, will remind you to close the door as soon as possible. This simple alarm circuit has other useful applications: Place one inside your room closet or your desk´s drawer to preserve privacy and your belongings. Battery drain in the dark is very low (2uA) and has practically no influence on battery life.

Step 1: Circuit Overview

Step 2: Circuit Diagram & Main Parts List

Main Components:

IC1: CD4011 (cmos quad nand gate)

Q1: BC338 (or any other general purpose NPN transistor)

LDR: Light dependant resistor (5mm)

BUZZER: 5volt buzzer

C1:10microfarad (tantalum electrolytic capacitor)

Battery: 9volt alkaline

Step 3: LDR (light Dependent Resistor)

Step 4: C1 Charges Through R2

Step 5: Delay Before Sound

For longer or shorter delay, use the formula Time(seconds)=0.7 x R x C(R in megohms, C in microfarads)

Step 6: Multivibrator

Step 7: Buzzer Driver Transistor

Led can be omitted if you don't need visual alert.

Step 8: C1 Discharges Through D1

Step 9: For More Details, Watch the Video. Thank You!