Multivibrators are a type of electronic circuit designed to generate a range of non-sinusoidal waveforms by integrated valves or transistors connected to the input connected to other’s output. These devices are widely employed in multiple applications due to their exceptional reliability, simple designs, and constant square and output waveform generation. Furthermore, these relaxation oscillator types can count pulses and store binary numbers with maintenance and synchronizing between arithmetic operations in various digital systems. In addition, multivibrators can generate waveforms as their output in rectangular, square, and triangular forms.
The Classifications of Multivibrators
These versatile integrated circuits come in the following three types with special applications.
- Astable Multivibrator- a square wave oscillator, also called free-running multivibrators, is switched between dual limits, and has no stable states. They switch without the external signal application.
Advantages of an Astable Multivibrator
Astable multi-vibrator offers several benefits, including:
- They are highly efficient and run continuously for a longer time.
- They are very economical, easy to use, and simple in design.
- They are highly reliable and durable.
- They are devoid of any external triggering.
Monostable Multivibrators- also referred to as single multivibrators, feature a single stable state only and a quasi-state. It is switched and returned to a stable state after a time delay.
Advantage of Monostable Multivibrator
These types of multivibrators can be started and operated using a single pulse and do not need an additional pulse. They are economical due to their simple design and easy construction.
- Bistable Multivibrators- flip-flops with two stable states that trigger switching from one stable state to another using external signals. The advantages of these multivibrators include their plain design and the storage of previous output data until the provision of input data.
What are the Typical Applications of Multivibrators?
Multivibrators with their types are widely used in a range of applications. For instance, the astable multivibrators are used in radio signal reception, timing circuits, and transmission. Furthermore, monostable multivibrators find their applications in analogue systems that control the signal’s frequency at the output. In contrast, bistable multivibrators are employed in:
- Counters
- Frequency dividers
- Memory storage units
- Latches
Multivibrators are commonly used in radars and tv circuits as well as function as:
- Frequency dividers
- Waw tooth, pulse, and wave generators
- Memory elements in a computer
- Standard frequency source
