Oscillator using AVR on chip comparator ?

Jan 30, 2005 4 Replies

The AT90S2313 has two pins which can be used as the inputs of an analogue comparator.



I propose to create an LC oscillator by placing a parallel resonant tuned circuit across these pins and by supplying energy via a resistor from an output pin (which would normally be tristated) when the comparator switches state.



I am thinking of a 20kHz frequency with a capacitor between 10nF and 1 micro Farad with a 3V supply.



Do I need to protect the inputs from the stored energy in the tuned circuit when power is removed ? Would it be good (or bad) practice to include a resistor between the tuned circuit and a comparator input. The configuration I suggest leaves the comparator inputs floating - is this a bad idea and if so what should I do about it ?



I would like to achieve a stable frequency - as I would like to detect changes in the frequency when metal comes into the vicinity of the coil. Should I be employing a different oscillator configuration - for example a "centre tapped" capacitor like in a colpitts oscillator.



On a more theoretical note, presumably such an oscillator will generate electromagnetic radiation - which I suppose one could model by a resistor in series or across the tuned circuit. Is this a misunderstanding on my part - or is it so negligable that that is why one doesn't see it discussed in models of a tuned circuit.



Many thanks for your comments.



Or at the expense of software complexity driving L & C from the same pins configured temporarily as outputs.

A good quality L and C might take the AC swing in excess. Putting 2 zenerdiodes in antiseries over the LC combination will limit the AC voltage. Putting a resistor across will also lower the effect of metal.

Regards,

Gert Baars

richard mullens wrote:

No big deal. If the opamp has J-FET inputs there is no significant load that's why. You might check for absolute maximum ratings.

Regards,

Gert Baars

richard mullens wrote:

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