Astable
From ArticleWorld
An astable multivibrator refers to the electronic circuit which involves two states of operation, neither of which is stable. The circuit when operated in this mode behaves as an oscillator. The time period which is spent in a particular state can be controlled with the help of a capacitor and a resistor. The charging and discharging of the capacitor and the appropriate dissipation of energy through the resistor decide the duration of the state.
Numerous varieties of astable circuits can be realized. They can be implemented in different ways. It may be possible to make an astable multivibrator with the help of NOR gates. However, the most popular device in use is the timer, which is a highly versatile device crucial in several electronic applications.
Applications of the astable multivibrator
The astable multivibrator is commonly used to implement the following applications:
- LED and lamp flashing devices.
- Pulse generators.
- Logic clocks.
- Tone generators.
- Security alarms.