CGS Serge triple comparator
CGS96 the CGS Serge triple comparator consists of three independent functions which are useful in the production of square waves and variable pulse waves. The Comparator reference level can be a time-varying control voltage, a complex audio signal, or a fixed preset voltage. Additionally, the comparators are useful for level detection and for logic decisions based on amplitude. The module also contains a single, non-adjustable, Schmitt trigger.
When running from +12 volts, the output of the Schmitt trigger will rise to about 5 volts when the input falls below approximately 0.6 volts and will fall to approximately 0 volts when the input rises over approximately 4.3 volts. This section of the module is frequently left off panels.
It will work on either +12 volts, or +15 volts. No negative power rail is used.
A little on how it works:
Note: On the VER1.0 PCB, do not use the 0V pad. Instead use either the CCW end pad of the pots or the spare pad at the edge of the PCB next to R3.
| Pad ID | Function |
|---|---|
| A | Comp 1 Input 2 (+) |
| B | Comp 1 Input 1 (-) |
| C | Comp 1 Output |
| CL | Comp 1 LED anode |
| D | Comp 3 Input 2 (+) |
| E | Comp 3 Input 1 (-) |
| F | Comp 3 Output |
| FL | Comp 3 LED anode |
| G | Comp 2 Input 2 (+) |
| H | Comp 2 Input 1 (+) |
| I | Comp 2 Output |
| IL | Comp 2 LED anode |
| B POT | Comp 1 pot CCW (0V), Wiper, CW (+6V) |
| E POT | Comp 2 pot CCW (0V), Wiper, CW (+6V) |
| H POT | Comp 3 pot CCW (0V), Wiper, CW (+6V) |
| 0V | Not used on VER1.0 PCB |
| +6V | Local +6V (Not used) |
| Part | Identification |
|---|---|
| R2 | 5k6 for +12 V power supply,6k8 for +15 volt power supply |
| R3 | 6k8 for +12 V power supply,5k6 for +15 volt power supply |
Construction
Before you start assembly, check the board for etching faults. Look for any shorts between tracks, or open circuits due to over etching. Take this opportunity to sand the edges of the board if needed, removing any splinters or rough edges.
When you are happy with the printed circuit board, construction can proceed as normal, starting with low profile components such as resistors and diodes first, followed by successively taller components. It is better to use metal film resistors throughout this PCB in order to keep resistor generated noise to a minimum.
Take particular care with the orientation of the polarized components, such as ICs, electrolytics, diodes, and transistors.
When inserting the ICs in their sockets, if used, take care not to accidentally bend any of the pins under the chip. Also, make sure the notch on the chip is aligned with the notch marked on the PCB overlay.
Setup
Connect a bipolar triangle wave (i.e. AC coupled, or having equal swing above and below 0V) into the B input. Set the top (B) pot fully counterclockwise. Adjust the trimmer for a 50% duty cycle output. Use a scope, if you have one, or set the speed of the triangle wave low enough that you can use the LED to monitor the output.
Parts list
This is a guide only. Parts needed will vary with individual constructor's needs.
| Part | Quantity |
| Resistors (1% metal film) | |
|---|---|
| 330R | 4 |
| 5k6 | 1 |
| 6k8 | 1 |
| 25k trimmer | 1 |
| 100k | 6 |
| 220k | 3 |
| 470k | 3 |
| 820k | 4 |
| 1M | 7 |
| 22M | 3 |
| RLED resistor for LED | 4 |
| 25k/50k/100k lin pot | 3 |
| Capacitors | |
| 220pF | 3 |
| 0.1 uF 1206 SMT | 3 |
| 10uF electrolytic | 2 |
| Semi's | |
| BC547 | 1 |
| MC3401 or LM3900 | 1 |
| Misc. | |
| Ferrite bead | 1 |
| 4 pin MTA-156 connector | 1 |
| CGS96 PCB | 1 |
Notes
- 330R refers to 330 Ohms. 100nF = 0.1 uF
- PCB is 6" x 1" with 3mm mounting holes 0.15" in from the edges.
- There is a typo in the schematic. The text 'INPUT' and the symbol for the ramp-wave should be swapped.
CC-BY-NC
Readers are permitted to construct these circuits for their own personal use only. Ken Stone retains all rights to his work. Serge Tcherepnin retains all rights to his work.
See also
References
- Serge Triple Comparator for music synthesizers. by Ken Stone, 2013, with permission of the author - archived
External links
- CGS Synth discussion group, for discussion of locating parts, modifications and corrections etc.
- CGS96 BOM at BOMpiler
Suppliers
- CGS96 Triple Comparator, revision 1, Elby Designs