MitchElectronics

Transistor Flasher

£3.99
20 items in stock
This kit will let you build a two-transistor flasher that flashes two LEDs similar to train crossing lights. This kit is RoHS and REACH compliant, and is an excellent project for beginners and learners alike!
Product Code
TRANSFLASH
Manufacturer
MitchElectronics
Manufacturer Part Number
TRANSFLASH
Category
Blue Kits
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
RoHS: YesREACH: YesCE: YesUKCA: Yes
Overview

Product Description

In electronics, it is sometimes required to have a signal that consistently creates a continuous pulse (like the second hand on a clock that ticks every second). Examples of where this would be useful would include: Digital clock (to track time) Computers (the CPU needs to be triggered by pulses) Most digital systems (usually require a central clock that synchronises all parts) A circuit that produces a pulse every so often is called an oscillator. Once powered, the output of an oscillator will turn on and then turn off. Once this cycle has been completed it repeats itself indefinitely (so long as there is power). But how is an oscillator made? How do you get some components to keep on pulsing? In this kit, you will be creating a two-transistor oscillator that uses two transistors and a few other components to create an oscillator that generates a few pulses every second so that it flashes (that is why it is called a flasher).
Resources

Instructions & Documentation

Technical

Product Specifications

Assembly
Kit form
Prebuilt

No

Battery Type
9V PP3
PCB Dimensions
30mm x 26mm
Mounting Holes

No

Output Current
N/A
Output Voltage
N/A
Battery Powered

Yes

Component Count
12
Battery Included

No

Operating Voltage
3V to 16V
Operating Frequency
Approx 2Hz
In the box

Included With This Product

NameQuantityReference
2N39042Q1, Q2
100uF Capacitors2C1, C2
680R Resistors2R1, R4
5K6 Resistors2R2, R3
Green LED2D1, D2
PP3 Connector1VDD, GND
PCB1
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Applications

  • The Transistor Flasher is an ideal kit for beginners who want to practice soldering electronic components to a PCB. While the component count is very low, the variety of components gives a builder the opportunity to read PCB drawings, learn how to solder resistors, capacitors, transistors, and LEDs, and learn how transistor oscillators work. Furthermore, the kit is ideal for use in the classroom as it can be constructed in under an hour, and has an entertaining visual output.
  • Education and training – Useful for teaching BJT transistor switching, astable multivibrators and RC timing, while providing practical experience with through-hole soldering, component identification and PCB assembly.
  • Project integration – Suitable for projects such as Clock Source, Model Railway, Classroom Demonstrator, and other designs where the following function is useful: Two-transistor astable flasher that alternately drives a pair of LEDs without using an integrated timer
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Notes

  • Electrical specifications are nominal and may vary with component tolerances, supply voltage, load and operating conditions.
  • The product is supplied in kit form and requires soldering and assembly before use.
  • Check component values and observe the polarity or orientation of ICs, diodes, LEDs, transistors and electrolytic capacitors before applying power.
  • A 9V PP3 battery is not included.