Detecting system for a string instrument

A method for detecting a musical note played on a string instrument having a fretboard provided with a plurality of conductive frets each of which being coupled to a conductor, and at least one conductive string extending along the length of the fretboard, the method comprising:

• generating an electric signal through the conductive string, that can be transmitted through one of the frets when the conductive string is pressed against the fret;
• logically inverting the signal by an inverter having a first terminal coupled to the conductor and a second terminal coupled to the conductive string, such that when the conductive string is pressed against one of said frets allowing thereby said signal to be transmitted through the conductor, said signal sequentially inverted between two logical states at a frequency dependent on the distance between said inverter and said fret;
• detecting said frequency by a frequency detector;
• calculating the location of the fret along the fretboard in accordance with said frequency;
• and,
• determining the musical note played on the instrument in accordance with said location.

A fretboard of a string instrument in combination with a detecting system, said fretboard having a plurality of conductive frets disposed at various locations along its length and at least one conductive string extending over and spaced apart from the frets along the length of the fretboard;

• said detecting system comprising:
• a conductor disposed along the length of the fretboard coupled to each of said frets;
• an inverter having a first terminal coupled to said conductor and a second terminal coupled to said at least one conductive string and being configured to logically invert a signal transmitted therethrough such that when said at least one conductive string is pressed against one of said frets allowing thereby a signal to be transmitted therethrough, said signal is sequentially inverted between two logical states at a frequency dependent on the distance between said inverter and said fret;
• a frequency detector for measuring said frequency;
• and,
• a controller for determining the location of said fret along the fretboard in accordance with said frequency.