Frequency question - 555 timer driving a transducer

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a 555 timer and JK flip flops to create an emergency braking system and trigger an audio-visual alarm system. The group has been able to use Multisim to achieve a frequency of 62.5 Hz, but they would prefer a higher pitch. They also discuss the use of a transducer to get a specific frequency and the possibility of using a second 555 timer to control the on and off switching. The output of the 555 timer is calculated to be 16 milliseconds, although the buzzer in Multisim appears to take longer to switch.
  • #1
JOEandSTEPH
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1. For a school project we're building an emergency braking system. In addition, we also want to trigger an audio-visual alarm system to alert a third party to the operation of the system. For the alarm system we are using a 555 timer to generate a squarewave output to alternate a buzzer between on and off [and possibly a light too]. We've placed in 4 JK flip flops to extend mark and space time to give a nice gap between sound and no sound. We've played around in Multisim to achieve this and after calculations we have 62.5 Hertz. Now this is quite low, we'd ideally like a shrill around 1kHz but by doing this mark and space time are too small.

Is it possible to maintain a high pitch output whilst still achieving a lengthy mark and space time? Or does it not matter what the frequency for your output is, only the voltage, when powering a buzzer?

Also, we are very confused because we're getting a final output of one complete cycle as around 16 milliseconds, however the buzzer in multisim isn't switching from on to off and then back to on in this time, it's taking much longer. Am I missing something?




2. The output of the 555 timer is:
T = time period in seconds (s)
T = 0.7 × (R1 + 2R2) × C1
T = 0.7 × (28.86k + (2 x 57.72k)) × 10n
T = 1.0101 milliseconds
We then have it going through 4 JK flip flops:
1.0101 ms x 16 = 16.1616 ms

The frequency output from the last JK is 62.5 Hz
 

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  • #2
Your 555 will be oscillating at about 1000 Hz.

You could take this to a transducer and get a 1000 Hz tone.
A transducer is like a speaker and just gives whatever frequency you feed into it.
A buzzer gives whatever frequency it is designed to give.

If you wanted to turn the 555 on and off, you could have another 555 operating at about 2 Hz and switching the 1000 Hz one on and off by alternately raising its reset pin to 5 volts or dropping it to zero.
 
  • #3



I would first like to commend you on your school project and the use of Multisim for testing and simulation. It is always important to thoroughly test and calculate before implementing a system, especially one that involves safety measures like an emergency braking system.

To address your first question, it is possible to maintain a high pitch output while still achieving a lengthy mark and space time. The frequency of the output is determined by the values of the resistors and capacitors used in the 555 timer circuit, while the voltage determines the loudness or intensity of the sound produced by the buzzer. Therefore, you can adjust the values of the resistors and capacitors to achieve a higher frequency output while still maintaining a suitable mark and space time for your needs.

Regarding your confusion about the output time of the buzzer in Multisim, it is important to keep in mind that the simulation is not always a perfect representation of real-life situations. There may be slight discrepancies in the timing, but as long as the overall functionality and output are within the desired range, it should not be a major concern.

In conclusion, it is important to carefully consider the values used in your 555 timer circuit to achieve the desired frequency and mark and space time for your emergency braking system. With proper calculations and adjustments, it is possible to maintain a high pitch output while still achieving a suitable mark and space time.
 

FAQ: Frequency question - 555 timer driving a transducer

How does a 555 timer drive a transducer?

A 555 timer is an integrated circuit that generates a square wave signal. This signal can be used to drive a transducer, which is a device that converts one form of energy to another. In the case of a 555 timer driving a transducer, the timer's output is connected to the transducer's input, causing it to vibrate or produce sound waves.

What is the purpose of using a 555 timer to drive a transducer?

The 555 timer is commonly used to drive transducers because it is a simple and cost-effective way to generate a signal with a specific frequency. This makes it useful in applications such as alarms, buzzers, and other electronic devices that require a sound or vibration output.

How do I calculate the frequency of a 555 timer driving a transducer?

The frequency of a 555 timer driving a transducer can be calculated using the formula: f = 1.44 / ((R1 + 2R2) * C), where R1 and R2 are the resistors connected to the timer's pins and C is the capacitor connected to the timer. The output frequency can be adjusted by changing the values of these components.

Can a 555 timer drive different types of transducers?

Yes, a 555 timer can drive various types of transducers, including piezoelectric, electromagnetic, and electrostatic transducers. The type of transducer used will depend on the specific application and desired output.

Are there any limitations to using a 555 timer to drive a transducer?

While a 555 timer is a versatile and widely used component, there are some limitations to consider when using it to drive a transducer. These include factors such as the maximum frequency and current capabilities of the timer, as well as the compatibility between the timer's output signal and the transducer's input requirements.

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