Wireless current detector circuit diagram
🔌 Wireless Current Detector Circuit Diagram
In this post, we’ll discuss a simple wireless current detector circuit that can detect the presence of current without any direct electrical connection. This circuit is quite useful for household or industrial electronic applications and DIY projects.
⚙️ Circuit Overview
This circuit uses three BC547 NPN transistors (Q1, Q2, and Q3).
Together, these transistors form a high-gain detection system that senses the surrounding electric or magnetic field created by a live wire. When current flows through a wire, it generates a weak electromagnetic field around it — this circuit captures that field and lights up an LED indicator, showing that current is present.
🧩 Components Used
| Component | Value / Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Q1, Q2, Q3 | BC547 NPN Transistor | Used for signal amplification |
| R1 | 1 MΩ | High resistance for input sensitivity |
| R2 | 100 kΩ | Signal boosting resistor |
| R3 | 220 Ω | LED current-limiting resistor |
| D1 | LED | Indicates current detection |
| V1 | 9V Battery | Power supply |
| S1 | Switch | Turns the circuit ON/OFF |
🔍 How the Circuit Works
-
Input Sensing:
The base of transistor Q1 is connected to a small antenna or probe that picks up the electric field generated near a current-carrying wire. -
Signal Amplification:
The three transistors (Q1, Q2, Q3) are connected in a cascaded amplifier configuration.- Q1 receives a very weak signal and slightly amplifies it.
- Q2 boosts the signal further.
- Q3 drives enough current to light up the LED when detection occurs.
-
Indication Output:
When a nearby wire carries current, the circuit senses the field, activates Q3, and allows current to flow through LED D1, turning it ON.
The glowing LED indicates that current is present.
🔋 Power Supply
This circuit runs on a simple 9V battery. Power consumption is extremely low, allowing the battery to last a long time.
🛠️ Applications
- Detecting live wires in household wiring
- Use in electrical maintenance and testing
- Educational or DIY electronic projects
- Contactless current sensing demonstration
⚠️ Safety Note
This circuit is designed only for low-voltage or field detection purposes.
Do not connect it directly to mains electricity (230V AC) — it can be dangerous. Always follow safety precautions during testing.
🧠 Conclusion
This wireless current detector circuit is not just an interesting electronic project but also a great learning tool to understand how three simple BC547 transistors can be combined to make a sensitive current detector.
It’s a perfect beginner-friendly project for anyone exploring electronics.
Would you like me to create a PCB layout or breadboard wiring diagram for this same circuit so you can easily build it in real life?

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