Actually, I generally find the 555 to be unstable. I prefer the CMOS
version, which is quite a bit better. The astable circuit I use is to tie
pins 2 and 6 together with a capacitor to ground. Put a resistor from pin
3 to pins 2 and 6. The output is on 3 with an open drain output available
on 7. Remember to tie the reset pin high.
        For an astable, though, I'd probably go with the 74HC14 hex schmitt
trigger. Put a resistor across one section and a capacitor from the input
to ground, and you've got an RC oscillator! And you've got 5 more
sections available for other stuff. You can also use CMOS schmitt NAND
gates if NANDS are more useful in the remainder of your circuit.

Harold



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Lighting control for theatre and television at http://www.dovesystems.com

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