Where & How to use NE556 IC?

The NE556 dual single-chip timing circuit is a highly stable controller that can generate accurate Time delay or oscillation. In delay mode Operation, time is precisely controlled An external resistor and capacitor. For stability Runs as an oscillator with accurate free-running frequency and duty cycle Controlled by two external resistors and one capacitor. The circuit may be triggered and reset on falling Waveform, the output structure can be source or The current can reach 200mA.

NE556 has total 14 pins, seven on right and seven on the left side of the base. 

NE556 Pinout is shown in the figure given below.

The NE556 Timer IC has the following features:

■ Low closing time

■ Maximum operating frequency greater than 500kHz

■ From microseconds to hour

■ In stable and monostable mode

■ High output current tank source or absorb 200mA

■ Adjustable duty cycle

■ TTL compatible

■ 0.005% temperature stability PER°C

STMicroelectronics NE556N technical specifications, attributes, parameters and parts with similar specifications to STMicroelectronics NE556N.

Having a look at its block diagram, we can better understand NE556's working principle.

The NE556 IC is the dual version of NE555 IC, meaning the NE556 has two timers inside it. As we know 555 ICs have been used for a long time now due to their reliable properties and applications. The NE556 can also be used for all those application additionally since this works with CMOS technology we can have two timers inside a single package with improved characteristics.

So if you are looking for a modern replacement for the 555 Timer IC then NE556 might be the right choice for you.

Application wise both NE555 and NE556 are one and the same, so if you want to know the basic of the Timer IC then read through the NE555 page. Since the NE556 is a 14-pin dual timer package there are two sets of all the timer pins (Threshold, Out, Trigger, Control Voltage, Discharge) and both the timer share the same Vcc and ground pins.

Timer IC’s are the most commonly used ICs for timing and Pulse generation applications. They can adopt itself into various applications due to its different operating modes. They are very simple to understand and if we take a look at the components present inside as shown below.

There are three resistors of value 5K, which gives this IC it’s iconic name “555 Timer”. It has dual comparators and flip-flop which will make this IC operated in three different modes such as Astable, Monostable and Bistable(Schimitt) Mode.  

Applications play an important role in a device. Ne556 has the following applications.

■  Pulse shaping circuit

■  Tone generator

■  Divider

■  Missing pixel

■  detectorIndustrial control

■  Touch toe encoder

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Download datasheets and manufacturer documentation for STMicroelectronics NE556N.