The piezoelectric ceramic buzzer features a simple structure where a piezoceramic element is bonded to a vibrating plate. This element will contract or expand diametrically when AC voltage is applied. This property is used to flex the vibrating plate, producing sound.
The methods for generating acoustic vibrations can be roughly categorized into internally and externally driven vibrating methods. The internally driven method has the lowest impedance and generates sound through the positive feedback of the oscillator, allowing SPL creation with a simple circuit. The external oscillator can generate sound if an oscillator circuit is present.