Fast triggering Circuit

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Smit
Posts: 4
Joined: Fri Aug 30, 2024 2:13 pm

I've developed a trigger circuit that outputs a <3µs(can be lower) pulse in response to an input pulse, then turns off regardless of whether the input is still active. The input pulses have a duration of 1ms, but the output should consistently be on for only 3µs before turning off, resetting only when a new input pulse is received.

I initially implemented this on an Arduino Pro Mini, but I'm encountering signal loss when providing a series of 20,000 input pulses—some output signals are missing. I'm considering switching to a processor with a higher clock speed to improve performance and potentially integrating a logic level converter to replace the Arduino. What could be causing the signal loss, and would this change likely resolve the issue?.

Maybe a Teensy 4.1 microcontroller with a logic level coverter to convert o/p of 3.3v from teensy to a 5v o/p suitable for my recevier, adding Logic lvl converter is because my receiver supports 5v and my i/p to the teensy is also 5v but teensy doesnot support 5v o/p tolerant pins but can handle 5v i/p as the teensy is 3.3v microcontroller.

Is anyone has some other recommendations for my purpose.
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Shraddha
Posts: 61
Joined: Fri Jun 14, 2024 3:54 pm

It sounds like you’re working on a pretty cool project. The signal loss with your Arduino Pro Mini could be caused by a few things.
The Arduino pro mini runs at 16 MHz, which might not be fast enough for those super short 3µs pulses, especially when you’re dealing with a lot of them. If you’re using interrupts to handle the input pulses, the time it takes to start and stop the interrupt service routine ISR could be causing delays.
The Teensy 4.1 is a beast compared to the Arduino Pro Mini, running at 600 MHz. This should help a lot with the precise timing and handling of high-frequency input pulses. Plus, it has more advanced features for high-speed operations.
Since your receiver needs a 5V signal and the Teensy operates at 3.3V, using a logic level converter is a smart move. This will make sure your signals are compatible without frying the Teensy.
If you need even more precise timing, an FPGA could be a good option. They’re designed for high-speed and parallel processing, perfect for generating precise pulses.
There are specialized ICs for pulse generation that might be more efficient than a general purpose microcontroller.
Switching to the Teensy 4.1 combined with a logic level converter seems like a good plan that should help reduce signal loss. If you continue to experience issues, consider exploring FPGAs or dedicated pulse generator ICs as potential solutions.

I hope this information is helpful to you. *:)
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