Introduction
The 555 timer IC can be configured to operate as a frequency divider. This circuit takes an input frequency and divides it by a predetermined factor, generating a lower frequency output. This is useful in applications like clock signal generation and pulse width modulation.
Objective
The objective of this experiment is to create a frequency divider circuit using a 555 timer IC in astable mode. The circuit will take a square wave input signal and output a square wave at half the frequency.
Components Needed
- 1 x 555 Timer IC
- 1 x Resistor (R1)
- 1 x Resistor (R2)
- 1 x Capacitor (C1)
- 1 x Input signal source (e.g., function generator)
- 1 x LED (for output indication)
- 1 x Breadboard
- Connecting Wires
- Power Supply (5V)
Circuit Diagram
Procedure
- Connect pin 1 (GND) of the 555 timer to the ground of the power supply.
- Connect pin 8 (VCC) to the positive voltage supply (5V).
- Connect the input signal to pin 2 (Trigger) of the 555 timer. This signal will be the frequency you wish to divide.
- Connect pin 2 to pin 6 (Threshold).
- Place resistor R1 between pin 7 (Discharge) and VCC, and connect resistor R2 between pin 7 and pin 6.
- Connect capacitor C1 between pin 6 and ground.
- Connect pin 3 (Output) to an LED with a current-limiting resistor to observe the output frequency.
- When the input signal is applied, the output at pin 3 will be a square wave at half the frequency of the input signal.
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Results
The 555 timer successfully divided the input frequency by a factor of two, generating a square wave output signal at pin 3. The LED blinked at the output frequency, demonstrating the frequency division.
Conclusion
This experiment illustrated how to use a 555 timer IC as a frequency divider. The circuit took an input square wave and produced a corresponding output square wave at half the frequency. This application can be beneficial in various digital circuits where frequency division is required.
