Optimizing Sawtooth Wave Generator: Understanding Voltage and Amplitude

In summary, the conversation discusses a sawtooth wave generator with a given Vcc and voltage drop across Re. The question is whether the transistor will go into saturation when the capacitor is full, and if the maximum amplitude can be adjusted by changing the frequency of the impulses. The answer is yes, but this is not the typical use of the circuit. In order to use a different frequency, R1 can be adjusted to change the charging rate of the capacitor. The conversation ends with confirmation of the thoughts.
  • #1
Bassalisk
947
2
http://pokit.org/get/f118bc654187e429ec1bb489e1eb3a38.jpg

Suppose we have a sawtooth wave generator, like in the picture.

I have a fairly simple question:

If let's say Vcc is 15V, and let's say voltage drop across Re is 2.7V, and saturation point of Uce is 0,2 V. Provided that the period between impulses are long enough, what will happen when capacitor is full? Transistor will go into saturation right?

Or another way to put it, will my MAXIMUM(allowed) amplitude, or voltage across the capacitor be:

15-2.7-0.2=12.1 V?

And I can choose my amplitude by adjusting the frequency of those impulses?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes, that is right.

That is not how this circuit would normally be used, though.

Ideally, the lower transistor's base would get a new pulse to discharge the capacitor just before the sawtooth wave reached maximum amplitude.

If you wanted to use a different frequency, then you would adjust R1 to give a different charging rate for the capacitor.
 
  • #3
vk6kro said:
Yes, that is right.

That is not how this circuit would normally be used, though.

Ideally, the lower transistor's base would get a new pulse to discharge the capacitor just before the sawtooth wave reached maximum amplitude.

If you wanted to use a different frequency, then you would adjust R1 to give a different charging rate for the capacitor.

Understood. Thank you. Needed somebody to confirm my thoughts.
 

1. What is a Sawtooth Wave Generator?

A Sawtooth Wave Generator is an electronic circuit that produces a specific type of waveform known as a sawtooth wave. This waveform has a gradual rise in amplitude followed by a sudden drop, resembling the shape of a saw blade. It is commonly used in electronic devices such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and music synthesizers.

2. How does a Sawtooth Wave Generator work?

A Sawtooth Wave Generator works by charging a capacitor at a constant rate through a resistor. Once the capacitor reaches a certain voltage, it discharges rapidly, creating the sawtooth waveform. The frequency and amplitude of the waveform can be adjusted by altering the values of the resistor and capacitor.

3. What are the applications of a Sawtooth Wave Generator?

Sawtooth Wave Generators have a variety of applications in the field of electronics. They are commonly used as a reference signal in electronic testing and calibration, as well as in audio and video equipment for generating synchronization signals. They are also used in music synthesizers to create unique sounds and in power supplies to provide a stable voltage output.

4. What are the advantages of a Sawtooth Wave Generator?

One of the main advantages of a Sawtooth Wave Generator is its simplicity and low cost. It can be easily constructed using a few basic electronic components and does not require any complex circuitry. Additionally, it can produce a linear and continuous waveform, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

5. Are there any limitations to using a Sawtooth Wave Generator?

While Sawtooth Wave Generators have many advantages, they also have some limitations. One limitation is that the waveform can become distorted at higher frequencies due to the capacitor discharging too quickly. Additionally, the waveform may not be perfectly linear and may exhibit some ripple or noise, depending on the quality of the components used.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
4K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
29
Views
3K
Replies
15
Views
7K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
1K
Back
Top