[sci.electronics] electronic circuit for flashing indicator?

dalal@topaz.rutgers.edu (Mukesh Dalal) (08/28/87)

I am looking for an electronic circuit diagram for flashing
indicators, like those used in automobiles to indicate turns.
Any help (pointers, etc.) would be appreciated.
Thanx.
-- 

Mukesh Dalal				Voice: (201)-878-1763
Dept. of Computer Sc. (Rutgers)		Net: dalal@topaz.rutgers.edu

gene@cooper.UUCP (08/31/87)

in article <14297@topaz.rutgers.edu>, dalal@topaz.rutgers.edu (Mukesh Dalal) says:
> I am looking for an electronic circuit diagram for flashing
> indicators, like those used in automobiles to indicate turns.

How about just taking a 555 in conjunction with a power relay?
555s are pretty insensitive to power supply fluctuations, VERY stable,
and can sink/source up to 100 (200?) mA. The relay could be used as a switch
for the indicator lights.

Points to remember:
	* if the 555 output can't sink/source enough current, a power
		transistor with appropriate ratings can be used as a buffer.
		ALWAYS heatsink the thing, even if it just gets warm on your
		workbench; in a confined space, such as in a car nook or
		cranny, heat could build up to a dangerous (for the xstr)
		level.
	* remember to install a freewheeling diode across the relay coil to
		kill off inductive spikes.
	* use the formulae
		D = ( Ra + Rb ) / ( Ra + 2 Rb )         /* duty cycle */

		f ~= 1.4 / ( Ra + 2 Rb ) C              /* frequency */

		from the "schematic"

			+V	 O	pins
				 |-----	(8)
			Ra	 Z
				 |----- (7)
			Rb	 Z		<555 connections>
				 |----- (2,6)
			C	===
				 |----- (1)
				---
				///


> Any help (pointers, etc.) would be appreciated.

	char		*s;
	struct foo	*fooptr;
	float		*f;

(I couldn't resist!  ;^) )

					Gene

					...!ihnp4!philabs!phri!cooper!gene


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