555 Timer, 556 Timer

The 555 is an integrated circuit (chip) implementing a variety of timer and

multivibrator applications. The IC was designed and invented by Hans R. Camenzind.
It was designed in 1970 and introduced in 1971 by Signetics
(lateracquired by Philips). The original name was the
SE555/NE555 and was called "The IC Time Machine". It is still in
wide use, thanks to its ease of use, low price and good stability.
As of 2003, 1 billion units are manufactured every year.
(wikipedia)
The 556 is the dual version of the chip.

555, 556 Pinouts

(for LM555C version)

555 Basic Specifications

Supply Voltage: 4.5v min, 16v max

Current Draw: 3-6ma @ 5vDC, 10-15ma @ 15 vDC

555 Oscillator Schematic

A minimal parts-count oscillator that
will go from LFO to tone oscillator.
Change C1 and VR1 values to change
range.
Coarse + Fine Tempo/Rate: Add a
small value (ie. B1K) pot in series with
the standard rate pot for fine tuning the
rate.

555 Toy Organ

Build a fun little music maker.

Astable and monostable operations

Basic Astable Oscillator Configuration

Basic Monostable Oscillator Configuration

Stepped Tone Generator

from the classic Forrest Mimms circuit. This was re-published a while ago as the Atari Punk Console.
Output options are shown for both speaker and line level.

Tips and Tricks

Use the low-power CMOS version of the chip to help reduce LFO clicks and noise. Consider the 556 dual
timer where you need more than one.

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