PROJECT 25: Design and Analysis of
Op-Amp Multivibrator by using Cadence
Virtuoso
A Comprehensive Study of Analog Circuits
By: Krishna Gupta
Chapters:
List of Figures…………………………...…………. 3
1. Introduction …………………………………….. 4
2. Brief Description………………………………… 5
3. Circuit Design……………………………………. 6-9
1. Schematic Design………………………….6-7
2. Simulation Setup...………………………….. 8
3. Circuit Diagram ..………………………….. 9
4. Simulation Results……………………………….10
5. Advantages and Disadvantages………………….11
1. Advantages…………………………………11
2. Disadvantages………………………………11
6. Conclusion……………………………………….. 12
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)…………….. 13
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1 Circuit of Op-Amp Multivibrator----------------------------9
Figure 4.1 Simulation Results of Op-Amp Multivibrator--------------10
1. INTRODUCTION
An op-amp based multivibrator is a versatile waveform-generating
circuit that utilizes the properties of an operational amplifier to
produce precise timing signals and digital pulses. Unlike transistor-
based multivibrators, op-amp versions offer better linearity, simpler
design, and improved control over output characteristics. These
circuits can be classified into three main types: astable, which
oscillates continuously without requiring any external input;
monostable, which generates a single pulse when triggered; and
bistable, which maintains one of two output states until externally
toggled. The behavior of the circuit depends on the feedback
arrangement and the charging/discharging cycle of the capacitor,
which determines the timing interval. In astable mode, the output
alternates between high and low, forming a free-running oscillator.
In monostable mode, a short-duration pulse is created in response to
a trigger, making it ideal for applications like timers and delay
circuits. In bistable mode, the circuit behaves like a latch or flip-
flop, useful in memory storage or logic systems. The use of op-
amps enables sharper transitions, more predictable operation, and
greater design flexibility. These circuits are commonly found in
applications such as LED flashers, pulse width modulation (PWM)
systems, digital clocks, tone generators, and signal conditioning
circuits in communication and instrumentation systems. With
minimal components and robust performance, op-amp
multivibrators continue to play a crucial role in both analog and
digital electronics.
2. BRIEF DESCRIPTION
An op-amp multivibrator is a timing and waveform generation
circuit built using an operational amplifier and a few passive
components like resistors and capacitors. It functions by rapidly
switching the output between defined voltage levels based on the
charging and discharging of a capacitor. Unlike the introductory
explanation that focused on types and applications, the brief
description emphasizes its working principle: the op-amp is driven
into saturation and cutoff regions, enabling it to act like a
comparator with positive feedback. Depending on how the
feedback and trigger circuits are configured, the multivibrator can
operate as an astable (generating a continuous square wave),
monostable (producing a single pulse upon triggering), or bistable
(acting as a flip-flop with two stable states).
These circuits are particularly useful for generating accurate time
delays, frequency signals, or digital transitions, and they serve as
fundamental building blocks in timers, oscillators, counters, and
control systems. Their ability to switch quickly, maintain stability,
and offer design flexibility makes op-amp multivibrators a popular
choice in both analog and digital circuit designs.
3. CIRCUIT DESIGN
1. Schematic Design
The schematic design of the Op-Amp Multivibrator consists of:
1) Op-Amp Configuration:
Non-inverting terminal (VP) is connected to a voltage divider
formed by resistors R1 and R2.
Inverting terminal (VN) receives feedback through capacitor
C1 and resistor R3.
2) Feedback Network:
Capacitor C1 (100nF) and resistor R3 (100kΩ) form the
timing component.
Provides the time-dependent voltage swing for oscillation.
3) Voltage Divider:
Resistors R1 and R2 (both 100kΩ) set the reference voltage at
the non-inverting terminal.
Helps control the threshold levels for switching.
4) Power Supply:
Dual DC supplies: +1.8V and -1.8V provided to the op-amp.
Ground reference connected properly to all components.
5) Output:
Output (VOUT) is fed back to the capacitor and also
connected to the voltage divider.
Oscillating square wave appears at VOUT.
4. SIMULATION SETUP.
1) Transient Analysis:
1) Time Range:
Simulation run for 100 ms to capture multiple oscillation
cycles.
2) Probed Output:
Output voltage at node VOUT is monitored.
3) Power Supply:
Dual DC supplies: +1.8V and -1.8V applied to the op-amp.
4) Initial Conditions:
Capacitor C1 given initial condition (ic = 100n) to initiate
oscillation.
5) Waveform Observed:
A stable square wave between +1.8V and -1.8V, confirming
astable multivibrator operation.
3.3 Circuit Diagram
Figure 3.1 Circuit of Op-Amp Multivibrator
4. SIMULATION RESULTS
Figure 4.1: Simulation results of Op-Amp Multivibrator
5. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
1) Advantages
Provides full output voltage swing close to supply limits
Improved timing accuracy due to high input impedance
Generates clean square waves with fast transitions
Requires fewer components for implementation
Frequency and duty cycle easily adjustable
Suitable for low power consumption designs
Stable operation across temperature and supply variations
2) Disadvantages
Not suitable for very high-frequency applications
Output speed limited by op-amp’s slew rate
Delay due to op-amp saturation can reduce precision
Needs dual power supplies for symmetric output
May need additional circuitry to interface with digital logic
systems
6. CONCLUSION
The op-amp based multivibrator serves as a fundamental and
reliable circuit in the field of electronics, offering flexible
configurations for generating oscillations, time delays, and
switching functions. Whether used in astable, monostable, or
bistable mode, this circuit delivers consistent and accurate
performance, making it ideal for a broad range of applications such
as waveform generators, timers, LED flashers, pulse width
modulation systems, and basic memory elements. The use of an
operational amplifier enhances the circuit’s functionality by
providing high input impedance, fast switching, and symmetrical
output levels with minimal component count.
Despite certain limitations—such as dependency on dual power
supplies and limited high-frequency performance—the advantages
like ease of design, adjustability of timing parameters, and clean
output waveforms make the op-amp multivibrator a preferred
choice in both academic and industrial circuits. Its role in
introducing students and engineers to timing and pulse generation
concepts further adds to its importance in electronics education.
Overall, the op-amp multivibrator remains an essential and
dependable building block for designing practical and efficient
electronic systems.
7. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
1) What is the main function of an op-amp based
multivibrator?
It generates square waves or timing pulses by switching the op-
amp between high and low output states, depending on the
configuration (astable, monostable, or bistable).
2) Why is an op-amp preferred over transistors in
multivibrator circuits?
Op-amps offer higher input impedance, better voltage swing,
cleaner output waveforms, and simpler design with fewer
components.
3) Can the frequency of an op-amp astable multivibrator be
adjusted?
Yes, the frequency can be adjusted by changing the values of the
timing resistor and capacitor in the feedback network.
4) What is the role of the capacitor in the multivibrator circuit?
The capacitor charges and discharges periodically, determining
the timing intervals that control the switching of the op-amp
output.
5) What are common applications of op-amp multivibrators?
They are used in waveform generators, timers, LED flashers,
clock circuits, pulse-width modulation systems, and digital logic
circuits.
