An RC Time Constant Multiplying Circuit

摘要

A circuit capable of multiplying the RC time constant of a relaxation oscillator has been designed to achieve long periods with small values of R and C. The circuitry required to perform the time multiplication can be packaged in a small volume. In many applications, the extra space required for the circuitry is much smaller than that required for higher value RC combinations of a standard circuit for an equivalent time. The multiplication operation is realized by adding a simple circuit to the basic RC oscillator, using small and stable components. This circuit is an electronic switch that interrupts the capacitorcharging current of the basic RC oscillator in a fixed manner. This fixed interruption, controlled by a few stable components, determines the multiplying factor applied to the basic RC oscillator. (Author)