
PROJECTS Amateur Scientist / 1+2+3 Virtual Half-Pipe
cell inside an open box or oatmeal container to
block direct sunlight.
Figure
H
shows how the photophone is used.
For initial tests, use masking tape to attach the
open end of your photophone transmitter over the
speaker of a battery-powered radio. Ask a friend
to wear sunglasses and a reflective safety vest
and stand or sit in a shaded spot while holding
the receiver’s detector facing a sunny spot around
50 feet away. Walk to the sunny spot, turn on
the transmitter’s radio and shine reflected
sunlight toward your friend until you see the
safety reflectors brighten. Your friend should then ...