Simple Telephone Tapping Indicator

This simple circuit can indicate a misuse or tapping of Telephone line through a loud alarm. The circuit is too simple and can be easily assembled on a common PCB. Line voltage of Telephone lines is around 48 volts DC in the On hook state. When the handset is lifted, this voltage reduces to 12 volt DC. This change in voltage level is used to activate the circuit.When the switch S1 is closed, circuit becomes active and the telephone enters into the armed state.

The high volt DC from the telephone line passes through R1 and VR1 and bias T1 into conduction. As a result, the collector of T1 goes to ground potential to inhibit T2 from conduction. Buzzer and LED thus remain off. When the handset is lifted, the DC voltage from the telephone lines drops to 12 volts. This turns off T1 and T2 conducts. Buzzer beeps and LED lights indicating that the telephone is using.

Setting
Connect the circuit to Telephone lines using a telephone plug. The free socket of the telephone or Caller ID can be used. Close S1 and adjust VR1 till buzzer stops beeping. Lift the handset. Buzzer should sound. Otherwise, just adjust VR1 till buzzer beeps.

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