Bistable Flip Flop Circuit: Build Your Stable Electronic Switch

Description

The following illustrates two instances of dual-stable multivibrators, capable of alternating between their two stable configurations through a single push button actuation. Upon pressing the button, a capacitor linked to the emitter of the controlling transistor experiences an increase in its voltage level. Following the button’s release, the same capacitor depletes back to its original voltage, consequently switching the transistor into an off state. The elevated voltage at the collector of the deactivated transistor triggers the opposite transistor to activate, maintaining the circuit in a secure state until the next button press and release occur. In the LED circuit, the emitter current originating from the controlling transistor passes through the LED, which should be unlit, resulting in a faint illumination. This current is approximately 1 mA, and incorporating a 1K resistor in parallel with the LED will diminish the voltage to approximately 1 volt, ensuring the LED remains completely extinguished.

More about components

Integrated circuits, often referred to as ICs, play a crucial role in this circuit design. Specifically, the circuit utilizes a 555 timer IC, a versatile chip commonly employed for timing applications. This IC is a monolithic integrated circuit containing multiple electronic components, including transistors, resistors, and capacitors, all fabricated on a single silicon substrate. The 555 timer IC functions as a precision time delay circuit, enabling the control of the circuit's timing behavior. It is a very common component found in countless electronic devices, utilized for generating accurate time intervals or oscillations. The IC's internal circuitry allows for precise control of the circuit's timing by manipulating the capacitor charging and discharging rates. The 555 timer IC allows for accurate generation of pulses. Furthermore, the IC's construction provides stability and reliability, contributing to the overall performance of the circuit. The IC's operation relies on the characteristics of the internal components, enabling precise control over the circuit's timing characteristics. The IC is a very reliable component and will not likely cause issues.

Circuit diagram

Circuit diagram