The 555 timer IC is an integrated circuit (chip) used in a variety of timer, pulse generation, and oscillator applications. The 555 can be used to provide time delays, as an oscillator, and as a flip-flop element.
Introduced in 1971 by Signetics, the 555 is still in widespread use due to its ease of use, low price, and stability. It is now made by many companies in the original bipolar and also in low-power CMOS types.
Key Features:
- Operates from 4.5V to 16V (18V absolute maximum)
- Output can source or sink up to 200mA
- Timing from microseconds to hours
- Adjustable duty cycle
- TTL compatible output
Common Applications:
- Precision timing
- Pulse generation
- Sequential timing
- Time delay generation
- Pulse width modulation
- Pulse position modulation
