Build a TV Audio Video Transmitter with LM1889N – Wireless AV Broadcasting Made Simple

schema June 30, 2014

TV Audio Video Transmitter – Broadcast Your AV Signals Wirelessly on VHF

Want to wirelessly broadcast video and audio from your DVD player, camcorder, surveillance camera, or video game console? This simple yet powerful TV AV transmitter lets you send signals over a free VHF TV channel up to 500 meters away — ideal for urban environments where cabling isn’t an option.

What Can It Transmit?

🎥 Camcorder or CCTV camera footage
📼 VHS or DVD player output
🎮 Video game console signals
📡 Satellite receiver feeds

All of this can be transmitted to any standard VHF television receiver, using an ordinary antenna.

⚠️ Note: Always ensure you're using an unused frequency band and check your local radio transmission regulations. Avoid interfering with emergency services or licensed broadcasts.

Key Features of This Transmitter

Wireless range: up to 500 meters in open environments
Powered by: 12V to 15V DC
Color & monochrome video support
Minimal tuning required: Only two coils to adjust
Simple design: Great for beginners and hobbyists
Based on LM1889N: A robust video modulator IC from National Semiconductor

How It Works

At the heart of this transmitter is the LM1889N, a dedicated TV video modulator chip. This 18-pin IC takes your composite video and audio inputs and converts them into a modulated RF signal. The modulated signal is then transmitted over the VHF frequency band through a standard antenna.

This setup works exceptionally well for:

Home surveillance systems (wireless camera feeds)
Room-to-room AV transmission
DIY portable video broadcast projects

Even with simple construction, the signal quality is impressive — especially for analog video. And yes, it handles color video just fine!

Important Considerations

📡 Use a clear VHF channel to avoid interference
🚫 Never broadcast over licensed frequencies
🛠️ Ensure proper shielding and grounding
⚡ Use a regulated power supply to avoid signal distortion

Why You’ll Love It

Whether you’re setting up a retro home surveillance system, working on a custom vehicle camera setup, or just love vintage analog electronics, this transmitter is a simple and satisfying project. The minimal component count, strong performance, and real-world utility make it a must-try for any AV enthusiast.

Ready to go wireless with your AV setup?
This LM1889N-based TV transmitter is your gateway into the fascinating world of DIY RF broadcasting.