Bare bones assembly instructions for LM380 audio amp

There is a minimal number of parts necessary to enable the audio amp on this PCB.

  1. Install U2, the LM380
  2. Install electrolytic capacitor C3. I used a 100uF here. You can use a bigger/smaller value if you want (changes) the frequency response.
  3. Install resistor R1. This can be anywhere between 2.2 and 30 ohms. This resistor should be rated for at least a half watt.
  4. Install filtering capacitors C1 and C2.
  5. If you want on board volume control, install potentiometer R15. The footprint is for a Bourns PTV09A-4020F-A103 available at Mouser for $0.70. If you use R15, then jumper pins 1 and 3 of J3.
  6. You can use an external potentiometer by using header J3 and pins 1 (GND), 3 (U2 input), and 4 (SIG). Feed the audio input into pin 3 of J1.
  7. The board has four mounting holes for 4-40 screws. There should be enough space to use R15 and mount the hold board against a panel if the headers are solder on the back of the board.

LM380 pcb

LM380 pcb arrived

Within two weeks of placing my order with Seeed Studio, the boards arrived. They were shipped from a California address. If they are now manufacturing locally, then very cool. Mostly because it’s still cheap. Ten boards cost me $18 shipped. Friends may ask for one 🙂

LM380 pcb