Thanks to Mark, you now know why our project needs to be done and Colin gave you some insights on how the same problem has been tackled in the past, as well as some of the technical issues we must deal with. Now, I hope to set forth our strategy on how we might handle this problem at the present time.

• Take extensive voltage and current measurements on existing plasma tweeter. This data will give us a benchmark with which we may compare new subsystems. Additionally, we will be able to obtain both qualitative and quantitative analyses of efficiency by comparing vacuum tube and solid state measurements.
• Look into modelling corona discharge in a simulation program similar to PSPICE or EWB. If this modelling is possible, the entire system could be examined without time-consuming hardware assembly.
• A new way to vary output voltage to the corona must be examined. In essence, this voltage is the volume control of the speaker.
• Design an FET circuit to replace the vacuum tube oscillator. As Colin said, FETs have never been used in this application. We hope that an FET used as a digital switch will provide greater efficiency than any other ion speaker built in the past.
• Test FET circuit. It is highly improbable that the circuit will work on the first try. Detailed troubleshooting and documentation of problems will be critical in narrowing down design specifications.
• After the FET circuit is operational, we will focus our attention on the processing of the audio signal as it enters and exits the system.
• If there is adequate time after the goal of a highly efficient ion tweeter is met, we will design a power supply specifically for use with the Corona-Phone.

Throughout the project, we will also need to research ion speakers, along with any and all other similar applications of corona discharge in order to obtain a better understanding of system operation and generate more ideas for the design process. Finally, we will need to monitor our progress and manage time carefully, especially with respect to project deadlines and time-critical situations such as ordering parts.

If we are able to follow this plan diligently, our goal is indeed reasonable and attainable.

We invite you to monitor our progress on our website found at the following address: http://ee.vill.edu/ion. I would now like to ask my teammates to join me in fielding any questions you may have.